Emerald Village Pharmacy’s own Jessica Brown is preparing to step onto the national stage, after being named the Victorian winner of the 2025 Pharmacy Guild of Australia/Maxigesic Pharmacy Assistant of the Year Award (PATY).
Now in its 19th year, PATY is Australia’s leading award for pharmacy assistants, recognising individuals who go above and beyond in their work to improve patient outcomes and support their communities.
Ms Brown who will represent Victoria at the national finals in Sydney this September, said the recognition came as a complete surprise and a proud moment.
“It was so exciting, to be recognised as the Victorian winner felt amazing,” Ms Brown said.
“It’s not every day you get recognition for doing your job, but to be awarded the state title is such a great achievement that I am so proud of.”
Ms Brown’s pharmacy career began during high school through a VCAL program, where she completed an “Introductory to Pharmacy” course with The Pharmacy Guild of Australia. This led to a traineeship at Emerald Village Pharmacy, where her passion for the profession began to flourish.
“I would have to say the best part about pharmacy is the team you work with and the customers you help,” Ms Brown said.
“Being the manager, you set the goals, see the team achieve them, and help improve our customers’ health outcomes.”
Ms Brown’s career has spanned both community and hospital pharmacy, with over a decade spent at Emerald Village Pharmacy, including time in both public and private hospital settings to broaden her expertise.
She returned to EVP three years ago and continues to thrive in the dynamic community pharmacy environment.
The Pharmacy Guild of Australia’s Victoria Branch President, George Tambassis, congratulated Ms Brown on her selection.
“Jessica has shown exceptional dedication to her role and to the pharmacy industry, which perfectly embodies the spirit of this award,” Mr Tambassis said.
“I applaud Jessica for being recognised as Victoria’s leading pharmacy assistant.”
Ms Brown’s approach to her role is defined by compassion and commitment.
When asked what “going above and beyond” means to her, she reflected on the everyday actions that make a difference.
“It means consistently striving to make a positive difference, not just doing what’s expected, but taking that extra step,” she said.
“Whether it’s helping an elderly customer with their phone or spending time with someone who just needs a chat, it’s about showing up with heart and making someone’s day just a little easier.”
Award judges Artie Kalogeropoulos and Daniel Shalhoub, from AFT Pharmaceuticals also praised Ms Brown’s selection.
“We congratulate Jessica on being chosen as the winner and representative for Victoria at the National Finals,” they said.
In Sydney, the Emerald resident will join other state winners at the National Judging Workshop on 3 September, followed by the winner announcement at the Pharmacy Connect conference Cocktail Party on 4 September, this year set to take place aboard the Starship Sydney during a special harbour cruise.
Ms Brown is looking forward to the experience.
“Being able to meet the other state winners, share ideas, and hear how they’re making a difference in their communities – that’s what I’m most excited about,” she said.
“I’m also keen to hear more about the future of pharmacy and all the innovative ideas coming through.”
The shift to hosting PATY activities as part of Pharmacy Connect 2025 marks a new chapter for the award. The conference will feature a dedicated pharmacy assistant stream, bringing professionals from all areas of the industry closer together, while offering targeted development opportunities.
Ms Brown, who is passionate about helping others grow in their pharmacy careers, also had some advice for pharmacy assistants early in their journey.
“Take the initiative to learn all about pharmacy and pharmacy products, every action you take supports patient safety and care,” she said. “Stay accurate, communicate clearly, and set career goals. It’s a role that can grow with you.”
If Ms Brown takes home the national title in September, she’ll receive a $5000 cash prize and national recognition but for her, the real reward runs deeper.
“It would be a huge milestone,” she said.
“It’s not just about the trophy, it’s about the passion I’ve poured into this and the voice that being the winner could give me within the pharmacy assistant stream. It would be a moment of pride to share with my team, my community, and everyone who’s supported me.”
