Capital Chemist Bathurst: community care at scale
Capital Chemist Bathurst, named Community Pharmacy of the Year, is a reminder of how powerful a community‑centred model can be. The team’s approach is built on partnerships — with GPs, local hospitals, NDIS providers, aged‑care services and community organisations — and underpinned by a philosophy of “if it helps patients, we want to find a way to deliver it”. Their service mix reflects this, spanning vaccinations, chronic disease support, home‑based care, outreach to veterans and rural groups, and innovative digital tools that support continuity of care.
The recognition acknowledges a pharmacy that has become an anchor in its region. Patients — including those with disability, older people and families navigating chronic conditions — rely on the Bathurst team not just for medicines, but for connection, coordination and confidence. Their model is now influencing practice elsewhere, particularly in homecare and NDIS‑aligned services.
Molly McGuire: championing patient‑centred practice in regional Queensland
As Community Pharmacist of the Year, Molly McGuire embodies the momentum behind expanded scope and regional health capability. Based at TerryWhite Chemmart Wilsonton, she was recognised for advanced clinical practice, regional leadership and a very clear focus on patient experience.
Her work includes becoming one of Queensland’s first Full Scope Pharmacist Prescribers — a milestone that has enabled her to provide assessment, diagnosis and treatment for common and chronic conditions. She has also introduced practical supports for patients with disability, strengthened professional collaboration through the Darling Downs Pharmacist Network, and contributed to community health initiatives such as Toowoomba Hospice.
For many regional patients, Molly represents a trusted health professional who knows their story and can offer timely care close to home. Her leadership underscores the growing impact of pharmacist prescribers in regions where access to primary care can be uneven.
Mia Shinkfield: a student pharmacist already shaping the profession
This year’s Student Pharmacist of the Year, Mia Shinkfield, reflects the strength of the next generation entering the profession. Recognised for her academic excellence, leadership and commitment to culturally safe care, Mia has already contributed to research, student advocacy and community‑focused practice.
Her work spans leadership roles within TAPS and NAPSA, clinical placements in low‑socioeconomic settings, and Honours research on benzodiazepine tapering. She also carries a strong interest in culturally safe care, supported through the Yindymarra Scholarship. For Mia, pharmacy is about meeting people where they are — ensuring every patient feels respected, heard and supported.
Her recognition signals the importance of a workforce pipeline that is clinically skilled, culturally responsive and ready to deliver an expanded scope of services across diverse settings.
A snapshot of a sector evolving through its people
Across all three awards, a clear theme emerges: the profession is evolving through people who blend clinical capability with deep community engagement. Whether it’s a regional pharmacy building integrated service models, a pharmacist leading prescribing and community health initiatives, or a student shaping the future through advocacy and evidence‑informed practice, the Awards highlight a workforce leaning confidently into expanded roles.
These stories also reflect the diversity of practice settings and community needs across Australia — and the importance of supporting teams, leaders and students as they carry the sector into its next phase.
