Delegates immersed themselves in the future of pharmacy, exploring a rapidly evolving landscape shaped by changing customer and patient expectations, innovative store design, and an expanding scope of practice, with the brand reaffirming its commitment to empowering its network with cutting-edge solutions to drive efficiency, growth, and patient care.

Key announcements set to redefine the pharmacy experience for both businesses and customers included –
– major enhancements to the myTWC health app, and the eCommerce experience,
– a refreshed store design optimised for full scope,
– the rollout of electronic shelf labels,
– and the implementation of a new clinical governance platform

Executive General Manager Nick Munroe remarked, “The past three days have been incredibly productive and inspiring. It has been a year full of change, and we remain steadfast in our direction. TerryWhite Chemmart continues to drive excellence across retail, dispensary, and the continued expansion of pharmacist’s scope and delivering health services to our communities. This conference has further reinforced our dedication to this mission.”

The culmination of significant efforts from the past year was celebrated at the HEART Awards Gala dinner, which recognised excellence across the TerryWhite Chemmart community. Awards were presented to outstanding pharmacies from each state, acknowledging their commitment to delivering exceptional service and care to their communities.

The TerryWhite Chemmart National Pharmacy of the Year was awarded to TerryWhite Chemmart Noraville in NSW. Pharmacy owners Lachlan Walters and Robert King commented that joining TerryWhite Chemmart showed them what a health focused community pharmacy brand could deliver for their community.

Mr Walters added, “The support from TerryWhite Chemmart over these past 18 months has been truly incredible. They’ve been there every step of the way as we’ve brought a more sophisticated retail offer and health services to the community of Noraville.”

In addition to recognising pharmacies across the network and supplier partners, individual team members and pharmacy owners were recognised across several categories, including the prestigious Rhonda White Leadership Award.

Karen Brown, this year’s award recipient, reflected on the impact of being a pharmacist and the privilege of leading her team.

“Being a pharmacist is incredibly rewarding because every day brings something new. You never know what challenges or opportunities will come through the door, but by the time you leave, you know you’ve made a difference in someone’s life. That’s a privilege not many professions offer,” she said.

“I’m also incredibly grateful for my team—leadership isn’t about me, but about supporting them in the way they need, which can change from moment to moment. At the heart of it all, we have a responsibility to be there for our community, and I’m so proud to stand alongside my team in that role.”

As the TerryWhite Chemmart IMPACT Conference in Melbourne comes to an end, the Pharmacy Network is committed to solidifying their role as leaders in care, adopting cutting-edge digital technology, providing patient-centric care, and promoting best practices to shape a better future for Australian pharmacy.

The winners of the TerryWhite Chemmart HEART Awards are:

• Rhonda White Leadership Award
o Karen Brown, Arana Hills (QLD)

• National Winner – Pharmacy of the Year
o TerryWhite Chemmart Noraville (NSW)

• Pharmacy of the Year – State Award Winners
o QLD – TerryWhite Chemmart Manly
o NSW – TerryWhite Chemmart Noraville
o VIC – TerryWhite Chemmart Drouin
o ACT – TerryWhite Chemmart Ainslie Compounding
o TAS – TerryWhite Chemmart Sorell
o SA – TerryWhite Chemmart Playford
o WA – TerryWhite Chemmart Eaton

• Retail Leadership Award
o Lucy Ramm, Bunbury Plaza (WA)

• Pharmacy Engagement Award
o TerryWhite Chemmart Seacliff Park (SA)

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It is estimated that, by the age of 40, more than 97% of Australians carry the inactive virus (varicella zoster virus) that causes shingles from a previous chickenpox infection.^1-3

Research commissioned by GSK Australia* reveals over a quarter (26 per cent) of Australians aged 50-79 do not recall previously having chickenpox and are at risk of developing shingles without being aware of this risk.4 It also showed that almost a quarter (24 pesr cent) of Australians don’t believe or understand that they can develop shingles if they’ve had chickenpox.⁴

The risk of developing shingles increases with age.⁵ As the immune system naturally weakens, and this can allow the usually inactive virus that causes shingles to reactivate.⁶ If Australians have a weakened immune system due to illness, treatments or medications, you may also be at increased risk.^1,2,5

Shingles Awareness Week aims to increase understanding of the impact of shingles and address common misconceptions surrounding shingles. Journalist Shelly Horton and AFL-legend Robert ‘Dipper’ DiPierdomenico join news presenter Deborah Knight as Shingles Awareness Week ambassadors, having experienced first-hand the pain and impact of shingles.

“I experienced shingles during a very stressful time of my life. A huge spread of tiny blisters appeared on my right inner thigh, which left me in excruciating pain, and I felt completely debilitated,” shared Shelly Horton, who is an advocate for talking about taboo health topics.

“Since my experience, many people close to me have been affected by this condition. My mum had shingles, which caused a rash across her torso. It was so painful she couldn’t even drive or sit on the couch to watch TV. She almost went to hospital because she thought it was kidney stones.

“I now know that shingles is common in people 50 and over. One of mum’s friends got shingles in her eye, which could have affected her sight. My father-in-law also had shingles at my wedding in Mexico, with a rash across his back,” recalled Ms Horton. “He was in a lot of pain and afraid of the rash being aggravated, especially during our dance. While everyone else continued celebrating, he became bed bound in the hotel room.”

Recognised as one of Hawthorn Football Club’s most prominent players, Robert ‘Dipper’ DiPierdomenico, has also experienced the painful and debilitating impact of shingles, and has cared for his partner during her shingles diagnosis.

“Compared to the pain of many of my sporting injuries, shingles was relentless. It put me out of action for nine days,” said Dipper. “I had a large, itchy, red rash suddenly appear on the left side of my body. It was so uncomfortable, I slept on a mattress in the lounge room with the air conditioning running to try and find some relief. It was horrible to experience personally, and I know some of my loved ones, like my partner and my mum, have also experienced the pain and discomfort of shingles.”

Monika Boogs, Chief Executive Officer, Painaustralia, says that the pain of shingles is often described by people as some the worst they have ever experienced.

“Shingles is often more than just a rash. The pain from shingles can disrupt sleep, mood, work and daily activities and impact quality of life. For some people, it can cause long-term issues with eyesight or chronic nerve pain leading to long-term discomfort,” said Ms Boogs.

Leading expert, Professor Tony Cunningham, Director of the Centre for Virus Research (WIMR) and Vaccine Theme Leader at Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute (SydneyID), The University of Sydney, suggests that Australians aged 50 and over should not underestimate their shingles risk even if they don’t recall having had chickenpox.

  “If you’ve had chickenpox, the virus can remain dormant in your body. Almost all Australians have had chickenpox, even if they don’t remember having it or were asymptomatic, and so are at risk of shingles as they carry the inactive virus. As you get older, there is a decline in your immune system that can leave you susceptible to the reactivation of this virus, which causes shingles,” said Professor Cunningham.

“Shingles Awareness Week is an important reminder to understand the symptoms and your risk, especially if you are aged 50 and over. Speak to your doctor to understand your risk of shingles and encourage loved ones who are older to do the same.”

To help reduce the impact on people’s lives and the disruption to everyday activities that shingles can cause, Australians aged 50 years and over should learn more about the signs, symptoms and risk factors for shingles. For more information about shingles, speak to a healthcare professional and visit knowshingles.com.au

On behalf of GSK Australia, Ipsos Healthcare conducted an online survey among 600 Australian-based consumer participants (aged 50-79 years old from the general population) who chose to take part in the survey between 17 July and 1 August 2024. Participants were all screened to match national proportions based on region, gender and working situation. Majority of respondents had one or more comorbidities, while one in three did not. The sample is not nationally representative, only indicative.

References

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Available now for public access through both AdPha and RACGP, the Resource Kit
comprises three resources to support clear, accurate and timely communication as
patients transition through care providers:

1. Practice Update: Medication Management at Transitions of Care clearly defines
the role of the hospital pharmacist, general practice pharmacist (GPP), and the
general practitioner (GP) in delivering safe and quality medication management
services to their patients transitioning between acute and primary care.

2. Resource for healthcare professionals: Safe Medication Management at
Transitions of Care supports healthcare professionals in ensuring safe and
effective medication management during patient transitions between care
settings.

3. Resources for consumers: Medication safety when moving between the
community and hospital helps consumers manage their medicines safely when
moving between home and hospital.

The Transitions of Care resources are now available at the following:
– Medication Management at Transitions of Care Resource Kit (AdPha)
– Medication Management at Transitions of Care Resource Kit (RACGP)

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This year’s Street Party theme, ‘Country Hoedown’ promises a lively celebration, with APP2025 Conference Chairman Kos Sclavos AM encouraging attendees to join in the fun.

“The APP Street Party is the perfect chance to unwind, network, and celebrate with industry friends after a busy few days of learning,” says Mr Sclavos.

“The ‘Country Hoedown’ theme has generated a lot of excitement, and we expect tickets to sell out quickly.”

Something for everyone

Held at The Star Gold Coast, the party will span two venues.

The Ballroom will feature live music, line dancing, and a headline performance from Furnace & Fundamentals.

Meanwhile, the Marquee will offer a more relaxed atmosphere with acoustic tunes interactive games, and a photo booth.

Tickets include a buffet dinner, a signature cocktail on arrival, and a 5-hour drinks package.

For more information and to secure tickets, visit appconference.com.

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‘Exceptional initiative in pharmacy delivery’

A pharmacist at the Royal Hobart Hospital and a recently graduated PSA intern, Ms Dowling has demonstrated exceptional initiative in pharmacy delivery.

Her work in medicines governance and access included vaccine prescribing and distribution, leading to updates in the Tasmanian Medication Formulary and guiding pharmacy supply decisions.

Ms Dowling has also played a key role in improving vancomycin level monitoring in the neurosurgery ward, identifying administration errors, and developing targeted education for nursing staff to enhance patient safety.

Beyond her clinical contributions, Ms Dowling has been a leader among her peers — mentoring new pharmacy interns, supervising University of Tasmania pharmacy students, and facilitating education sessions for fellow interns.

‘An incredible example of what it means to be a pharmacist’

PSA Tasmania President Mark Kirschbaum FPS praised Ms Dowling for her dedication to advancing pharmacy practice.

“Lucinda has set an incredible example of what it means to be a pharmacist — demonstrating leadership, initiative, and a dedication to medicines safety that will serve her well throughout her career,” he said.

‘On behalf of PSA, I congratulate Lucinda on this well-deserved recognition and look forward to continuing to support her throughout her undoubtedly bright pharmacy career ahead.”

The award was presented at the PSA Intern of the Year and Welcome to the Profession event on 21 February 2025 at T42 Hobart.

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This year’s conference, themed IMPACT, highlights the growing role of pharmacists and their teams in delivering exceptional healthcare and strengthening community well-being.

Opening the event, TWC Executive General Manager Nick Munroe acknowledged both the network’s strong performance over the past 12 months, along with the opportunities that lay ahead through the evolving community pharmacy landscape,

“While the community pharmacy sector continues to shift, our focus remains on elevating the customer experience and providing the support the TWC network requires to succeed.” Mr. Munroe said.

“The evolution of community pharmacy over the next few years will be a defining moment, and pharmacists have a critical role in supporting the delivery of primary healthcare for Australians,” he continued.

In the first half of FY25, TWC has continued to grow, expanding its network to 616 pharmacies, adding 52 new stores in the past year. Network sales increased by 11.0 per cent, with like-for-like sales up 9.3 per cent. This growth was fuelled by the success of the TWC offer including CareClinic programs, the myTWC app, and Rewards Plus.

The conference continues with strategic updates, key announcements, and insights from the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, the PSA, and industry leaders, alongside valuable knowledge-sharing sessions from across the TWC network.

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Announced yesterday, this is the largest investment in Medicare since its inception 40
years ago. By expanding the bulk billing incentive to all Australians, the reform will
significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs for GP visits.

AdPha President Tom Simpson says the investment will help limit unnecessary emergency
department visits but urges further action to improve medicine affordability.

‘Seeing a GP is a crucial first step in any patient’s healthcare journey.

‘When that step is skipped, patients often end up in emergency departments
unnecessarily, straining hospital resources and limiting access for those who need
urgent care.

‘Each year, 400,000 Australians visit emergency departments for conditions that could
often be prevented through regular GP visits and proper medication management.

‘Expanding bulk billing is a great step forward, but if we don’t also address the cost of
medicines, more Australians will continue to end up in hospitals unnecessarily.

‘Currently, 250,000 Australians are admitted to hospitals each year due to
medication-related issues, some of which can be linked to the cost of medicines.

‘We applaud the government for making it easier for Australians to visit their GP
without relying on their credit card. But if we truly want to reduce hospital admissions,people shouldn’t also have to worry about their bank balance when purchasing
essential medicines.’ says Mr Simpson

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Nicolette Senserrick joins as General Manager of Medical Relations, and Craig Thompson steps in as General Manager of Medical Sales.

The new hires follow significant developments for the company, including the introduction of same-day pharmacy delivery in Sydney through its Leafio brand and a new strategic distribution partnership with the IPA network.

Rhys Staley, Executive Director and Vice President at Montu, says he is excited about the new appointments.

“These new appointments reflect our intention to continue leading from the front throughout 2025.

“Moreover, they further our dedication to shaping the future of medical cannabis in Australia,” he says.

GM of Medical Sales, Mr Thompson, who brings 7 years’ experience working within the medicinal cannabis industry, says he is looking forward to being part of a dynamic and innovative home-grown business.

“Montu has consistently stood out to me as a key player in driving growth and change within the medicinal cannabis industry,” says Mr Thompson.

He aims to ensure the field team is well-equipped for success in their healthcare practitioner relationships.

GM Medical Relations, Ms Senserrick joins from WooliesX B2B and Woolworths at Work where she led dynamic teams to push powerful products to market.

At Montu, Ms Senserrick will be responsible for engaging with practitioners who may be unfamiliar with treating patients with medicinal cannabis.

“I am beyond excited to join Montu to help Australian health practitioners better navigate the medicinal cannabis landscape and prescribe with greater confidence,” she says.

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“Patients are suffering unnecessarily, enduring heightened pain and distress, because the medications that typically control their symptoms are either unavailable or prohibitively expensive,” says Dr Peter Allcroft, Chair, Palliative Care Australia.

Despite repeated calls for action from the palliative care sector, Palliative Care Australia (PCA) says there has been little progress toward ensuring a stable supply of these life-changing drugs.

“A collective of 7 organisations wrote to parliamentarians in early December [2024] trying to escalate this issue after months and months of slow or no progress, people, including children are dying without adequate pain relief,” says Dr Allcroft.

‘Supply becoming increasingly uncertain’

Most of the affected medicines are vital opioid analgesics that have been used for decades to manage severe pain and other symptoms in palliative care patients.

With their supply becoming increasingly uncertain, clinicians are forced to prescribe less effective alternatives, resulting in less reliable pain relief and risking unwanted side effects.

Adding to the distress is cost, with many of the alternative medications not subsidised through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).

One of the most startling examples is hydromorphone SR, which costs the public $182 for 32mg, which a non-PBS-listed alternative is $4209 for 100 tablets.

PCA campaign to resolve the ongoing issue

As part of the ‘better access to palliative care’ campaign leading up to the federal election, PCA has launched an 11 point plan to resolve this ongoing issue.

“Our recommendations centre on establishing a national stockpile of critical medicines, fostering domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing, strengthening the PBS, and empowering the TGA,” says Dr Allcroft.

“Four hundred people die every day of a terminal illness — limited or no access to these critical medications has a ripple effect through families and communities.”

With nearly 20,000 signatures already on the campaign’s petition, advocates hope the issue will be addressed ahead of the federal election, ensuring better quality of life for those in palliative care.

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The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has granted approval for semaglutide 2.4mg (Wegovy) as an adjunct therapy to reduce major adverse CVD events, including cardiovascular death, non-fatal heart attacks, and non-fatal strokes.

The approval follows findings from the SELECT trial, a global study involving more than 17,000 participants across 41 countries, including Australia.

Results published in late 2023 showed that Wegovy reduced cardiovascular events by 20% in people with pre-existing heart disease who were overweight or obese but did not have diabetes.

Professor Stephen Nicholls, lead of the Australian arm of the SELECT trial and Director of the Victorian Heart Institute at Monash University, emphasises the significance of the approval.

“This approval highlights the critical role of overweight and obesity as major drivers of heart disease — on par with cholesterol, blood pressure, diabetes and smoking,” he says.

“It reinforces that these risks can be actively reduced with targeted therapies.

“The SELECT trial demonstrated that the cardiovascular benefits of semaglutide extend beyond weight loss.

“This drug also positively impacts inflammation, blood lipids and blood pressure, which are all crucial in preventing heart attacks and strokes.

“What this tells us is that if you have heart disease and are overweight or obese, not only are you at a higher risk of another cardiovascular event, but that risk can now be significantly reduced.

“This is a groundbreaking result for patients.”

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