Carmen Drive Community Pharmacy

16/10/2025

👀 Have you noticed something a little different in our pharmacy lately?

There’s been a little reshuffling, with some sections moved around to make certain items more accessible.

We’ll admit, for the first few days even we kept walking to the old spots out of habit… a bit of a dazed wander until we remembered where everything’s gone! 😅 But don’t worry, we’ve got the hang of it now (or ask for some help)!

A big thank you to Carlos, our amazing Neat Feat representative, who’s always so helpful when it comes to all things footcare 👣 and now has even helped us with our new footcare sign. Thanks Carlos!

Now it’s your turn! Can you tell us which section used to be here before? 👇

13/10/2025

ADHD Awareness Month 💛

Last week, Susan was invited to attend a Roundtable, hosted by The ADHD Lifespan Clinic. This event brought together professionals and advocates from across sectors, all united by one mission: to improve ADHD support across every stage of life.

Led by Catherine Hinwood, who heads a national ADHD initiative in the UK, the discussion highlighted the need for care that goes beyond diagnosis. It’s about early intervention, community support, reducing stigma, and empowering people with ADHD to thrive.

The presence of Dr Kerry Chant was especially encouraging, showing us that our state is ready to move forward and embrace progress in this space.

Some of the key messages from the day:
🧠 ADHD support should begin before diagnosis, not after
👥 Support isn’t just clinical, it starts in schools, communities and workplaces
📊 Data and digital tools will be key in improving access and equity
💬 Stigma remains a huge barrier but we can change this, together
🤝 A generalist, collaborative model of care is the future

Catherine Hinwood’s work is truly inspiring. Her passion and leadership in transforming ADHD care and challenging the system to better support people across the lifespan is admirable.

We left the Roundhouse feeling hopeful. The conversations weren’t just informative, they were powerful. They reminded us why collaboration across healthcare, education and community matters so much.

A big thank you to Dr Geoff Kewley and Amy Cheung from the ADHD Lifespan Clinic for creating this space and to everyone attending who is driving change.

Our pharmacy is looking forward to doing more in providing ADHD care. For an ADHD medication review, speak to our team and our ADHD support pharmacist, Susan, for more information.

10/10/2025

🎃 Fun Friday

Nabil’s in the Halloween spirit and ready to bring spooky fun wherever he rolls! And since pumpkins are the ultimate symbol of Halloween, let’s give them the spotlight (and respect) they deserve.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, pumpkins are nutritional powerhouses.

Here are reasons why pumpkins aren’t just Halloween decor, it’s good for you:

🎃Vision & immune support : One cup of pumpkin gives over 200% of your daily vitamin A requirement. It also contains lutein and zeaxanthin, which protect the eyes from age-related damage. 

🎃Heart health: Pumpkin is rich in potassium, fiber, and antioxidants, which help support healthy blood pressure and cardiovascular function. 

🎃Immune boost: It offers Vitamin C, vitamin E, and carotenoids that help fight free radicals and support immune defences. 

🎃Cancer-fighting antioxidants: Pumpkin’s carotenoids help neutralise free radicals, which might help reduce cancer risk. 

🎃Satiety & digestion: At just ~50 calories per cup and with ~3 g of fiber, pumpkin helps you feel full and supports digestive health. 

🎃Pumpkin seeds = nutritional gold: The seeds (pepitas) pack protein, healthy fats, zinc, magnesium, and more. 

Please be careful when cutting pumpkins.

So this Fun Friday, let Nabil lead the spooky adventures and let your pumpkins shine safely and nutritiously. 🎃

06/10/2025

Susan and Yvonne attended the official opening of Rosedale Medical Practice in their beautiful new location, a purpose-built space focused on patients’ health journeys across their lifespan.

It was inspiring to see what Dr Jas Saini and his team have created a welcoming, patient-centred practice that truly reflects their vision for collaborative care.

We’re honoured to be part of this community and look forward to working together! 💙

And a special shout-out to Sandy from Coonara Pharmacy, always lovely seeing fellow pharmacy owners who support one another!





Music: Building A Treehouse
Musician: As Tall As Pine (from Audiio)

03/10/2025

🗓️ Long Weekend Opening Hours

Just a quick note to let you know we’ll be closed this Monday 6th October for the Labour Day public holiday.

But don’t worry, we’re here tomorrow
from 8:30 am to 1:00 pm, if you need anything before the long weekend kicks in.

If we miss you then, we’ll see you Tuesday, ready to welcome you (and daylight saving too!).

Wishing you a safe and relaxing long weekend! 🌞💙

02/10/2025

🌟 Supporting people with ADHD starts with understanding it properly.

Did you know that ADHD is not so much a “lack of focus” condition, it is much more complex with health implications just like diabetes, cardiovascular or musculoskeletal conditions. Myths and stereotypes can hold people back but the right knowledge helps build real support.

The Global ADHD Conference is taking place online and it’s completely FREE (you just need to subscribe to ADHD Australia).
👉 Register here

https://www.adhdaustralia.org.au/adhd-global-conference-2025/

The time may seem unusual but this is because it’s hosted based on UK time 🇬🇧

Whether you’re living with ADHD, supporting a loved one, or simply want to understand more, this conference is a valuable step towards building a more healthier, compassionate and informed community.

ADHD Australia

01/10/2025

🌟 October is ADHD Awareness Month 🌟

October is a month that holds deep meaning, a chance to shine a light on one of the most misunderstood conditions: ADHD.

Too often, people with ADHD go through life being misunderstood. This month reminds us to raise awareness, share facts and listen to real experiences.

💡 This year’s theme is “The Many Faces of ADHD”, a powerful reminder that no two people with ADHD present in the same way. Medication management and care plans must be as individual as the person, and these plans may evolve over time depending on their environment and support.

With the new GP ADHD reforms improving access to care, our pharmacists understand we have an important role in supporting patients with their ADHD medication management while feeling safe.

Happy ADHD Awareness Month!

This year, we are excited to announce that we are partnering with the ADHD Awareness Month Coalition to unite our efforts.

The theme for 2025 is ‘The Many Faces of ADHD’. It is a reminder that every individual has a different experience with ADHD.

Whether you are an ADHDer, a parent or caregiver, or a teacher, we want everyone to share their experiences and join us in building understanding.

Learn how you can get involved, including our social media kit: www.adhdaustralia.org.au/adhd-awareness-month-2025/

25/09/2025

🌍💊 Happy World Pharmacists Day! 💊🌍

Today we celebrate a profession we truly love, one that goes far beyond just dispensing medicines. 💙

Being a pharmacist is about being accessible to our community every single day, whether that’s giving health advice, helping with medicines management or supporting people through the ups and downs of their health journey.

It’s also about working together with doctors and other health professionals to make sure our patients get the very best health outcomes possible.

We’re grateful to be here for our community, answering your questions, offering guidance, and being a trusted part of your health care team.

✨ Here’s to pharmacists everywhere who are making a positive difference in people’s lives: one conversation, one medicine and one act of care at a time.

24/09/2025

💜 September is World Alzheimer’s Month

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia and it’s a growing health challenge in Australia.

📊 The numbers at a glance:
• Over 433,000 Australians are living with dementia in 2025, with Alzheimer’s being the leading type.
• Without action, this number will double by 2054.
• Dementia is the leading cause of death for women and the second leading cause overall.
• Each week, around 1,800 Australians are newly diagnosed.
• In 2023, dementia (including Alzheimer’s) contributed to 17,400 deaths : about 1 in 10 of all deaths.

The good news? Up to 40% of cases may be preventable by addressing lifestyle risk factors like staying active, eating well, managing heart health and staying socially and mentally engaged. Early detection through regular health checks also helps people access care and support sooner.

This World Alzheimer’s Month, let’s commit to awareness, prevention and support for those living with Alzheimer’s and their families.

References: Dementia Australia, AIHW

23/09/2025

Paracetamol in Pregnancy – Let’s Focus on Facts and Care

There’s been a lot of noise about paracetamol in pregnancy and autism. The strongest evidence, including the large Swedish study, shows no link and the TGA continues to recommend paracetamol as a safe option when used as directed.

💙 Autism is complex and not caused by one simple factor. Instead of focusing on fear or myths, let’s show our support by listening, learning and creating an inclusive community where autistic people feel understood and valued which leads to better health outcomes.

👉 If you’re pregnant or supporting someone who is, the best step is to talk to your pharmacist, GP, or obstetrician about any concerns. They can help you navigate medicines safely and provide trusted, evidence-based advice.

📲 Swipe through our carousel for a clear summary of the facts.

22/09/2025

👋 Meet Avi

If you’ve popped in on a Thursday, chances are you’ve already seen him around! Avi officially joined our team back in July, but now that his uniform has arrived (and he’s wearing it proudly!) we thought it’s the perfect time to introduce him properly.

Avi is a 1st year pharmacy student, eager to build his skills. We’ve started him off not just learning about medicines, but the most important part of pharmacy: connecting with people and helping the community.

🌟 Here’s a little “Get to Know Avi”:

1️⃣ What inspired you to choose pharmacy?
“I have a passion for science and want to provide patient-centred care in a safe and welcoming environment.”

2️⃣ What superpower do you bring to the team?
“Cooperating well with the team and helping wherever I can.”

3️⃣ One meal you’d eat forever?
Nachos 🧀🌮 (we approve!)

4️⃣ Dream holiday destination?
Japan, to experience the amazing culture and scenery.

5️⃣ Favourite singer?
Bruno Mars

We’re so excited to have Avi on board and can’t wait for you to get to know him too.

19/09/2025

🙏 Friday gratitude 💛

We’re ending the week feeling extra grateful. A sweet thank you to our lovely patient Margaret G for surprising us with the most delicious apple tea cake, freshly delivered from our neighbours at Jenny’s Bakery.

It was exactly what we needed to refuel during a week of being busy bees 🐝 in the pharmacy!

And while today’s spotlight is on Margaret, she’s certainly not the only one who brightens our day. This is a big shout-out to all of you who have spoilt us with sweet treats, kind gestures, a smile, a laugh and all the little things that make our days brighter.

We’re so lucky to be surrounded by such thoughtful patients and wonderful local businesses. Here’s to kindness, cake, and community ✨