Local veterans and war widows will now be able to access fully funded prescriptions and a select range of non-prescription medicines, thanks to the generous donation and support of local pharmacy TerryWhite Chemmart Broadford.
A discussion between RSL Victoria State President Rob Webster, State Senior Vice President and Vietnam veteran Des Callaghan, and Terry White Broadford pharmacist Paul Halabi on how to best support veterans in the community led to the project’s launch.
“We came up with a few ideas, and Paul … came up with an idea that I’d like to share with the veteran community,” Mr Callaghan said.
“It’s Paul’s baby, as I call it.”
A humble man, Mr Halabi stated it was a privilege to offer the service to veterans and widowed partners in the area.
“I feel a duty to Des, honestly,” he said.
“He’s done so much for the community, he doesn’t stop.
“I’ve been in Broadford for 18 years … and it’s such a small, tight knit community, you can’t help but be enamoured with his achievements.
“I’ve got about 30 Department of Veterans’ Affairs patients at the moment that … unfortunately, have got reason to come into the pharmacy and see doctors.
“So, it’s just a small thing with the cost of living and the lack of support, I feel they deserve it.
“And [the war widows] they’ve been there for their partners … so they’re just as [deserving].”
Alongside offering fully funded medication, the chemist also offers free deliveries and medication packs, with no out-of-pocket costs incurred by the patient for either service.
“[Medication packs] are usually charged $10 per week, but we don’t charge for that,” Mr Halabi said.
“It’s a big relief for the family, for the sons and daughters, knowing that mum and dad have got a professional helping ensure they take the right medicine, dose, strength, and at the right time of the day .
“[The service] is really to respect and provide recognition for the amazing service [veterans] have done.”
To access the service, veterans and war widows simply need to show pharmacists and staff at TerryWhite Chemmart Broadford their veteran card, with all tiers of the card accepted.
Deliveries are available Monday to Friday, with any orders placed before 2pm entitled to same day delivery.
Donations to continue funding the service are always welcome. For more information, call 5784 1545.
Locals are also encouraged to purchase a Returned and Services League (RSL) pin or poppy this Remembrance Day, with all proceeds supporting essential veteran services across the country.
TerryWhite Chemmart Broadford is located at 77 High St, Broadford, and is open Monday to Friday 9am–5.30pm, Saturday 9am–1pm, and closed Sunday.
