Mr Banks was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division “for service to the pharmacy profession”.
“Today’s recognition acknowledges the enormous contribution Si made to the Guild and the profession of community pharmacy,” National President, Professor Trent Twomey said.
Mr Banks also served as a Director and Vice Chairman of Guild Group Holdings Ltd and a Director of Guild Insurance from 1993-2002.
Other long-term community pharmacy owners acknowledged in this year’s King’s Birthday Honours include:
- Ian Russell Shanks, a pharmacy owner in Victoria for more than 35 years. Mr Shanks was awarded the OAM “for service to the community through charitable organisations”
- Phillip John Ledger, a community pharmacy owner in Western Australia. Mr Ledger was awarded the OAM “for service to the pharmaceutical industry, and to the community”.
- Gary Robert Pollard, a community pharmacy owner in regional Victoria for more than 40 years. Mr Pollard was awarded the OAM “for service to the community of Yea”.
“This significant recognition is well deserved – these gentlemen have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to our profession, patients and community,” Professor Twomey said.
“All winners have been recognised for their contributions not only to community pharmacy, but their wider community, in fields such as sports, arts and culture and community service organisations. They exemplify the very best of Australia.”