Maddison Waide – 2024

Now at: Lucy Walker TerryWhite Chemmart Goondiwindi and Pharmaceutical Society of Australia, QLD

When Maddison Waide was named Pharmacy Assistant of the Year in 2024, she could not have anticipated just how significantly her career would evolve.

At the time of her win, Maddison was already making a meaningful impact at Lucy Walker TerryWhite Chemmart Goondiwindi, QLD.

However, national recognition gave her the confidence to pursue opportunities she may not previously have considered.

New role

Since then, Maddison has transitioned into a role as a trainer and assessor with the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA), allowing her to share her knowledge and passion with the next generation of pharmacy professionals while maintaining strong ties to community pharmacy.

Her journey highlights one of the lasting impacts of the award program – empowering pharmacy assistants to step into leadership, education and advocacy roles.

Future focus

Importantly, Maddison believes the future of community pharmacy will rely heavily on the continued growth and recognition of pharmacy assistants and technicians, particularly as pharmacists continue to deliver an increasing range of clinical services.

“I believe pharmacy technicians will become more important than ever as the scope of community pharmacy continues to expand,” she says.

“As pharmacists take on more clinical and patient facing responsibilities, technicians will increasingly be relied upon to manage the core functions of dispensing, medication management and workflow efficiency.

“We are often the first point of support for pharmacists, helping to ensure safe, accurate and timely patient care.”

She says the evolving role of pharmacy assistants and technicians will be critical in enabling pharmacists to practise to their full potential and continue delivering exceptional healthcare services to their communities.

Reflections

Away from work, life has also become wonderfully busy and rewarding.

Maddison and her husband, Lachlan, are raising their young family, balancing parenthood with an expanding and fulfilling professional career.

Reflecting on her journey, Maddison says the award not only recognised her achievements but fundamentally changed how she viewed her own potential.