Each year, the King’s Birthday Honours recognise the outstanding contributions and achievements of incredible Australians. This year, a former Pharmacy Guild Branch President was among those honoured, along with other inspiring pharmacists from across the country.
This year, of the 413 people awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM), four were long-term pharmacists and pharmacy owners from across Australia.
Silas “Si” Banks, who previously served as Pharmacy Guild of Australia’s NSW Branch President and National Vice President, was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia for service to the pharmacy profession.
Other long-term community pharmacy owners acknowledged in this year’s King’s Birthday Honours are:
- 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 the ACT. 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.”
