APP2021 in Queensland good to go for Greater Sydney and Victorian community pharmacy industry

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk’s announcement that borders will open to Victorian visitors on 1 December was met with great jubilation by community pharmacies and the pharmacy industry as a whole today. The news comes one day after the Premier announced that people in Greater Sydney would be able to visit Queensland from the same date.

Kos Sclavos AM, APP Convenor and former Guild National President, said that after a long year, domestic borders reopening was a positive step forward.

“Community pharmacy staff have worked tirelessly and given so much to support Australian patients this year.” “I call for our interstate Guild members, community pharmacy colleagues and industry to book APP2021 in early and enjoy a well-earned break on the Gold Coast.”

“You’ve more than earnt it. Take a break for your mental health and to connect, share and celebrate together at APP2021,” Mr Sclavos said.

Previous APP delegates and pharmacy owners have also shared their excitement about APP2021.

“For APP2021 we will all just get together and go wow – how did we get through last year,” said Susie Pagano, TerryWhite Chemmart.

“We’ve just really missed that link of networking. It’s good to feel you’re all in the same boat,” Susie added.

“APP will be quite a celebration,” said Keith Rand, Healthsave Pharmacy.

“It’ll be a great almost ‘let your hair down’ moment to get back on track and de-brief,” said Kathy Myers, Priceline Pharmacy.

“There will be a lot of ‘what did we learn’ [during COVID] and what can we do better. Sharing will be one of the highlights of APP2021,” said Michael Knynenburg, The Gap Day & Night Pharmacy.

Mr Sclavos said that the safety and well-being of all attendees will be the number one priority at next year’s event. He said that the APP2021 team is working closely with the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre (GCCEC) to integrate best practice protocols across all areas of the conference to ensure that the APP2021 experience is COVID safe.

With 60+ sessions, 100+ speakers and 400+ trade stands lined up for APP2021, delegates are encouraged to register early and save over $200 with a Super Early Bird registration. Delegates can visit appconference.com for further details and to register at Super Early Bird rates.

APP2021 and the GCCEC are constantly reviewing the COVID Safe Plan, which was developed in consultation with the GCCEC COVID Safe Task Force, industry bodies, government and health authorities. The plan covers all essential areas of operation including cleaning and hygiene, social distancing, food and beverage service, training and record keeping.