National Pharmacy Awards - Western Australia Winners
The Western Australia branch honoured the state’s standout contributors to community pharmacy at a cocktail event on February 4 at Perth’s ANZAC Club on St Georges Terrace.
PGA’s Western Australia Branch celebrated the state’s leading contributors to community pharmacy on February 4 at what guests described as a special and intimate cocktail event overlooking Perth’s CBD.
The event recognised the sector’s strong commitment to patient care and the expanding responsibilities community pharmacies carry in supporting the health of Australians.
PGA’s Western Australia Branch President Andrew Ngeow said the awards highlighted the dedication and professionalism which underpin community pharmacy across the state.
“The pharmacy owners and staff demonstrate the dedication, commitment, and professionalism that are the essential qualities of community pharmacy in the state,” Andrew said.
He also acknowledged Western Australia’s long-standing leadership in community pharmacy practice.
“Western Australian community pharmacies have a long and proud tradition of leading excellence in community pharmacy practice. “I have no doubt that this year’s Western Australian representatives will continue that legacy and make a strong impact on the national stage.”
Community Pharmacy of the Year
Pharmacy 777 East Perth was named Western Australia’s Community Pharmacy of the Year. The pharmacy team was recognised for its strong commitment to patient-centred healthcare and its proactive response to local health needs.
Pharmacy 777's team was recognised for it's strong commitment to patient-centred healthcare.
The team works closely with nearby health professionals to address gaps in mental health support, addiction care and access to primary healthcare. Their collaborative approach and focus on tailored patient support have positioned the pharmacy as a trusted health hub for the East Perth community.
Community Pharmacist of the Year
Nam Vuong, from TerryWhite Chemmart in the Perth suburb of Kingsley, was awarded Western Australia’s Community Pharmacist of the Year. Nam was recognised for his demonstrated leadership, clinical excellence and strong commitment to advancing community pharmacy practice.
With some 10 years of experience under hid belt, Nam (left) has mentored students and interns.
With some 10 years of experience under his belt, he has mentored students and interns, participated in national leadership programs and developed one of Perth’s most trusted sleep apnoea services.
He also provides both in-pharmacy and outreach vaccination services supporting vulnerable groups, and continues to expand his clinical skills through ongoing professional development.
On winning the award, Nam said he was very, very surprised.
“It was such an honour to be recognised, for a start — but to take the award was — and is still unbelievable for me.”
Nam’s words of advice for others wanting to join the pharmacy profession are simple.
“It’s advice I like to give my students: just be yourself,” he said.
“It’s easier for our patients to speak to a human – not a knowledgeable robot. So just be human.
“I think I do that well and that’s why people who come into our chemist connect with me.”
Regarding his future, Nam said he feels he is already on his way.
“But what I do want to ensure is that I continue maintaining a love for my community and the work we all do. And I want to spread that feeling of commitment to all my staff and my peers.”
Student Pharmacist of the Year
Kaitlyn Campbell, of Perth’s Curtin University, was named Western Australia’s Student Pharmacist of the Year. Kaitlyn was recognised for her demonstrated academic excellence, leadership and dedication to community health.
As the 2025 President of the Western Australian Pharmacy Students’ Association, she led long-term strategic planning and advocated for improved student wellbeing.
Her collaboration with Curtin University and involvement in community health initiatives highlight her professionalism, communication skills and commitment to the future of community pharmacy.
Kaitlyn also said she felt genuinely humbled to receive the state award.
“The evening was really nice, and so intimate,” she said.
“We all know each other in our pharmacy community in Perth – so seeing colleagues and mentors was lovely.
“Winning this award felt like a huge honour and something I wasn’t expecting – it felt really nice to get that recognition.
“Fourth year is really hard – and being president of the students’ association was a lot – so it was just really lovely to be recognised.”
For anyone interested in joining the pharmacy profession, Kate’s advice was also quite simple.
“I suggest just getting your foot in the door and meeting people,” she said.
“One of the most important things when you’re studying is having some help – so our community is really important.”
“There are great people everywhere.”
