The Pharmacy Guild of Australia Tasmania Branch proudly celebrated the state's most outstanding contributors to community pharmacy at the 2026 Tasmania Community Pharmacy Awards, held in Hobart.
This year's awards shine a spotlight on the individuals and teams who are redefining pharmacy practice through leadership, innovation, and deep community connection. The winners will go on to represent Tasmania as national finalists at APP on the Gold Coast in March 2026.
This year's Tasmania winners are:
- Student Pharmacist of the Year: Mia Shinkfield
- Community Pharmacist of the Year: Monique Licht
- Community Pharmacy of the Year: Terrywhite Chemmart, Sorell
The refreshed awards format replaces the former Community Pharmacy of the Year Awards, expanding recognition to include individual pharmacists and students at key stages of their professional journey. Pharmacy Guild of Australia Tasmania Branch President Joe O'Malley said the awards reflect the strength and diversity of pharmacy practice across the state.
'These winners exemplify the heart of community pharmacy in Tasmaniaâ€"innovative, compassionate, and deeply committed to improving patient outcomes,' Mr O'Malley said.
'From student leadership and research to advanced clinical services and community outreach, they are setting new benchmarks for what pharmacy can achieve.'
Mr O'Malley also acknowledged the high calibre of all finalists.
'Every finalist has made a meaningful impactâ€"whether through inclusive care, health advocacy, or professional excellence. Their work continues to elevate the role of pharmacy in Tasmania's health system.'
'Tasmania proudly claimed Australia's Community Pharmacy of the Year in 2025, and I'm optimistic we can do it again. Our pharmacists and pharmacies continue to set the standard nationally â€" and I want the mainland to see just how exceptional Tassie talent really is.'
About the Winners
Student Pharmacist of the Year - Mia Shinkfield
Mia has demonstrated resilience, leadership, and compassion throughout her pharmacy journey. Completing a Bachelor of Pharmacy with Applied Honours while navigating a newly diagnosed learning disorder, Mia has shown extraordinary perseverance. Her clinical placements in low socioeconomic areas and leadership roles with TAPS and NAPSA highlight her commitment to culturally safe, patient-centred care. Her honours research on benzodiazepine tapering and national advocacy efforts reflect a future leader in pharmacy.
Community Pharmacist of the Year - Monique Licht
Monique exemplifies innovation and dedication to holistic care. With advanced training in compounding and medicinal cannabis, she has expanded services to meet complex patient needs. Her leadership spans education, mentorship, and national speaking engagements. Through initiatives like Thrive Under Five and Veterans Week, Monique has built strong community connections and championed inclusive care for vulnerable populations.
Community Pharmacy of the Year - Terrywhite Chemmart, Sorell
Terrywhite Chemmart, Sorell has set a new standard for integrated, patient-centred pharmacy care. The team raised $3,299 for Ovarian Cancer Australia and supported local initiatives like Coats for Kids. Their preventative health efforts included free screenings and off-site flu clinics. With four authorised pharmacist immunisers, they lead Tasmania in extended-scope services. Their 30-member team embraces innovation, training, and technology to deliver compassionate, high-quality care.
