Five outstanding Queensland pharmacists were recognised at the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) Queensland Excellence Awards in Brisbane last week. The state awards were presented to Jacqueline Meyer (pictured), Pharmacist of the Year; Swapna Chaudhary, Early Career Pharmacist of the Year; Zain Langah, Intern Pharmacist of the Year; Lynette Dupuy, Lifetime Achievement Awards; and George Kotzas, Lifetime Achievement Awards. In addition, James Oh from James Cook University was awarded the Prof James Dare Graduate of the Year award. LiveLife Pharmacy Cooroy owner and top winner, Meyer embodies what it means to be a pharmacist. She is the founder and host of the Hinterland Health Expo, now in its second year, uniting health providers, building positive relationships, and facilitating collaborations between practitioners and the community. Meyer provides nurse education, antibiotic stewardship, and patient education, reinforcing the support pharmacists provide. She has also trained as a lactation consultant to fill the gap in local services, enhancing support available to mothers and increasing breastfeeding rates in the region. More than 10 interns from the PSA have also been trained under Meyer, who heavily invested in their development. PSA Qld President Shane MacDonald congratulated all the award winners. “We are lucky to be home to many pharmacists who go above and beyond for their communities and patients,” MacDonald said. “Queensland has led the way with many pharmacy programs, including UTI prescribing and vaccination, which is only possible with the skill and dedication of our pharmacists. “Each of the award winners exemplify everything it means to be a pharmacist.” “On behalf of PSA and all Queensland pharmacists, congratulations to all the award winners on your achievements,” MacDonald concluded. JG