Victorian Chemists Golf raises $8000 to support the work of PSS

The Pharmacists’ Support Service (PSS) is delighted to receive $8000, raised by the Victorian Chemists Golf Club (VCGC), at their recent Charity Day at Spring Valley Golf Club in Clayton South. Funds were raised on the day with live and silent auctions plus a raffle with all prizes donated by members and sponsors. On the day Allfin Financial also added their hole in one prize, which was not claimed, to the fundraising efforts. The VCGC Charity Day also raised funds for Melba Support Services, a charity assisting people living with a disability.

PSS Executive Officer, Kay Dunkley, was able to join the golfers for dinner in the club house and talk about the work of PSS, the benefits of peer support and what a difference the donation will make to enable PSS programs to continue and expand. On hearing of the successful outcome of the Charity Day, Curtis Ruhnau, PSS President, said “PSS values the support of VCGC, over several years, through their annual Charity Days. Their fundraising efforts are a further example of peer support, with members of the pharmacy profession providing funds which are used to support callers to PSS who need a listening ear from a pharmacy colleague, on what may be the worst day of their life.” Curtis also noted that although he is not a golfer, he can see how beneficial the VCGC is in bringing colleagues from pharmacy together for exercise and social connection in a pleasant outdoor environment. He said “All pharmacists need to include a relaxing and enjoyable activity such as golf in their lives to enhance wellbeing.”

The Pharmacists’ Support Service (PSS) is available to provide a listening ear from 8am to 11pm AEDT every day of the year. Call 1300 244 910 for anonymous and confidential support from a pharmacist colleague over the phone.
More information about PSS and some useful resources for pharmacists can be found on the PSS website at www.supportforpharmacists.org.au.
PSS relies on the generosity of the profession to continue its work. Donations to PSS can be made via the online portal which is linked to our website. Just click on the Donate Now button (www.givenow.com.au/pharmacistssupportservice). All donations over $2 are tax deductible and a receipt will be issued.

The Pharmacists’ Support Service is governed by representatives from the following organisations
 Australian Friendly Societies Pharmacies Association
 Australian Pharmacy Council
 Pharmaceutical Defence Ltd
 Pharmacy Guild of Australia
 Pharmaceutical Society of Australia
 Pharmaceutical Society of Victoria Ltd
 Professional Pharmacists Australia
 Society of Hospital Pharmacists of Australia
 National Australian Pharmacy Students’ Association.