CDU pharmacy student honoured in annual awards

A pharmacy student from Charles Darwin University (CDU) has been honoured with two prestigious awards, one from the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia, the other from the Pharmacy Guild of Australia.

Darwin local and CDU pharmacy student Courtney Stanwix, 23, received the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia’s Academic Achievement Award as well as the Ian Marshall Award for Outstanding Commitment to Pharmacy Practice and Community Service.

Ms Stanwix said she was delighted by her wins and dedicated to continuing her studies so she could make a positive impact in people’s lives.

“I want to provide health care for those who need it most,” Ms Stanwix said.

“I’ve secured my intern year for 2022 at Royal Darwin Hospital pharmacy, where I already work as a technician. I know the team and I’m ready for the challenges of studying while working full-time.”

Senior Lecturer Pharmacy with CDU’s College of Health and Human Sciences, Heather Volk, said Ms Stanwix decided on a career in pharmacy due to her passion and commitment to the profession.

“Pharmacists need a beautiful blend of the science and people skills. Courtney excels at both,” Ms Volk said.

“There’s a recognised shortage of pharmacists in the Territory and they need to adapt to ever-changing circumstances.

“There’s an expanding scope of practice doing vaccinations and playing a health literacy role to educate and be a conduit for patients to other medical professions.”

The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia’s Academic Achievement Award recognises a student in their final year of CDU’s Bachelor of Pharmacy course who has consistently demonstrated the highest grade point average during their degree.

The Ian Marshall Award for Outstanding Commitment to Pharmacy Practice and Community Service was presented by the late Mr Marshall’s daughter, Lexie Innes, and is supported by the Pharmacy Guild of Australia.

Ian Marshall was a Territory pharmacist remembered for being instrumental in establishing a branch of the Pharmacy Guild in the Northern Territory, promoting pharmacy and supporting students and the delivery of quality pharmacy services to NT communities. The award was presented through the Pharmacy Guild of Australia.