FIVE pharmacists have been recognised for their outstanding commitment to excellence in pharmacy practice, exceptional leadership and championing patient care at the 2025 Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) Victorian Pharmacy Awards.
The awards were presented by the outgoing PSA Victoria President Dr Amy Page on Saturday night as part of the Victoria and Tasmania Annual Therapeutic Update (ATU) in Melbourne.
PSA Victorian Pharmacist of the Year was awarded to Sara Murdock, who was recognised for her outstanding leadership in community pharmacy, with over 20 years of service.
Her implementation of accessible vaccination clinics, wellness programs, and interprofessional education initiatives has significantly contributed to public health.
Murdock is also a dedicated mentor, supporting pharmacists and students through practical guidance and leadership, while she also advocates for health equity and supports vulnerable populations though her long-standing involvement with Rotary.
The PSA Victorian Early Career Pharmacist of the Year went to Dr Wedjan Shahin, who was recognised for her significant contributions to medication safety, pharmacist education, and digital health innovation.
As a PSA-credentialed pharmacist, Shahin has delivered Residential Medication Management Reviews supporting safe and effective medicine use for older Australians.
Awarded to the "quiet achievers" within the pharmacy profession, the PSA Victorian Pharmacist Medal went to Linda Ha for her work as an aged care pharmacist, where she has delivered meaningful improvements to the health and wellbeing of some of Victoria's most vulnerable residents.
Intern Katelyn Beattie has demonstrated exceptional initiative, clinical insight, and leadership early in her pharmacy career, and was awarded PSA Victorian Intern Pharmacist of the Year.
Finally, the Lifetime Achievement Award went to Joe Demarte who, since qualifying as a pharmacist in 1973, has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to improving pharmacy services and advancing the profession in Victoria and nationally. KB
Pictured: Dr Wedjan Shahin, Linda Ha, Sara Murdock and Katelyn Beattie.
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