Unforgettable moments from PSA24

Industry
By
Chloe Hava
-

A record number of attendees flocked to PSA24 over the weekend in Sydney to partake in cutting-edge education sessions, networking events and a world-class exhibition.

This was PSA’s biggest national conference to date, with 3,000 attendees converging on the International Convention Centre (ICC) over the 3-day event.

Panels, sessions and workshops on scope of practice, innovations such as artificial intelligence and health conditions growing in prevalence, including ADHD, helped to ensure attending pharmacists broadened their knowledge on the most up-to-date technologies and practices.

Reflecting on the conference at yesterday’s closing plenary (4 August), PSA National President Associate Professor Fei Sim FPS said she was filled with ‘excitement for the future’.

‘Over the last three days we have heard from Ministers and Shadow Ministers, influential department officials, and leading pharmacists across areas of practice and researchers from both Australia and abroad,’ she said. 

‘We were proud to have the Minister for Health and Aged Care the Honourable Mark Butler MP officially launch Pharmacists in 2030 in a room full of engaged, passionate pharmacists, highlighting our growing roles in addressing the healthcare needs of the future. 

‘I am lucky to have connected with many members across the weekend and strongly feel that as a profession we will continue meeting and exceeding the challenges before us.’

Here’s a taste of what went down at the profession’s premier pharmacy conference.

PSOTY winner announced

As is tradition at PSA national conferences, the 2024 PSA Viatris Pharmacy Student of the Year (PSOTY) award was announced at the Gala Dinner on Saturday night (3 August).

Shylee-Jade Hadar-Pagliari from James Cook University clinched this year’s PSOTY award after demonstrating her outstanding pharmacy knowledge and counselling techniques at the Grand Final Competition, held on Friday afternoon.

A/Prof Sim congratulated Ms Hadar-Pagliari and Hayden Scott from the University of Canberra who took out the People’s Choice Award – as well as all the exceptional talent displayed by all 2024 finalists.

‘This competition provides students the opportunity to demonstrate important skills such as gaining patient insights and patient understanding, active listening and skills that support positive patient outcomes,’ she said.

‘Each of the students who participated in the PSOTY competition has demonstrated impressive professionalism, skill, and dedication. On behalf of PSA, I wish them the best in what I’m sure will be successful careers as pharmacists.’

Read all about this year’s award winners in the Australian Pharmacist articles below:

Going for gold at the Gala Dinner

The social highlight of PSA24 was the glittering Gala Dinner, held at the ICC’s swish Grand Ballroom. Pharmacists were dressed to the nines in gold attire and were quick to hit the dance floor after enjoying the indulgent three course meal.

See if you can spot your friends and colleagues in the gallery below, and make sure to get in early to grab a spot at next year’s event.

Read AP’s earlier article to catch up on all the social happenings at PSA24.

Jam-packed exhibition

The exhibition at PSA24 was a resounding success, thanks in part to the new venue, which offered an excellent opportunity for a revamped trade show experience. 

Exhibitors presented an impressive array of products, devices, and innovations, capturing the interest of all attendees. The trade show was a significant hit, showcasing the latest advancements and trends in the industry. If you missed out this year, make sure to join us at PSA25 for another remarkable event.

PSA25 announced

For pharmacists keen to plan ahead for next year, A/Prof Sim announced the dates and venue for the 2025 conference.

‘I am pleased to announce that PSA25 will again take place at the beautiful ICC Sydney, from 1–3 August 2025,’ she said.

‘The PSA National Conference is always a highlight on the pharmacy calendar, so make sure you save the date and join us for an even bigger event in 2025.’

In a parting message, A/Prof Sim told attendees that the months ahead will be critical to setting the profession up for the future and ensuring pharmacists have the tools to deliver for patients. 

‘PSA is fully committed to supporting pharmacists – whether it is workforce development or advocacy, members of the profession can be sure that PSA’s commitment will never fade,’ she said. ‘My message to the entire profession is that PSA is in your corner, supporting you every step of the way.’