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Community care through generations

Community Pharmacy WantirnaWantirna 

 

Friendly Society Pharmacy organisations arose out of necessity in times when medicines were prohibitively expensive for working class people. These groups established their own dispensaries on a not for profit, cooperative basis to ensure their members received quality medicines at affordable prices. Founded by community groups who saw a pressing need, the model thrived, focusing on the welfare of their members. 

  

A legacy of care - From 1915 to present 

 Originally started in 1915, the Community Pharmacy Friendly Society began as the Elsternwick District United Friendly Societies Dispensary and Medical Institute. Over the years, the organisation expanded its footprint, acquiring and selling pharmacies, including the  Community Pharmacy Wantirna.  Acquired in the 1980s, this pharmacy has been a stalwart in Wantirna Mall for over 40 years, offering a legacy of trusted care and support. 

  

Mutual ownership - Empowering members 

The mutual organisation structure ensures that customers are not just patrons but also owners. By signing up as members, they co-own the pharmacy, sharing in the assets and profits, which are reinvested to benefit the community.

This structure ensures that the focus remains on delivering valued care and health solutions tailored to the local community's needs.

  

A model of community trust 

 The Community Pharmacy Wantirna model is built on delivering valued care from a trusted team. The focus on team retention translates to exceptional customer retention, with many team members knowing multiple generations of families by name. This deep-rooted connection is a testament to the strong bond between the team and the community. 

  

Reinvesting in the community 

One of the unique aspects of the Community Pharmacy Wantirna is its 'We Care For' program. This initiative involves teaming up with local organisations like Lions Club, Knox Infolink, and Community Hub to raise funds and collect products for those in need. Additionally, the 'Pay It Forward' program offers financial assistance to those unable to afford medical necessities, further reinforcing the pharmacy's commitment to the community. 

 

Reviving Wantirna Mall

Community Pharmacy Wantirna is actively working with other traders to revive the Wantirna Mall Traders Association. The goal is to bring more events to the mall and improve the upkeep of the site, ensuring that the mall remains a vibrant community hub. 

  

Professional services and urgent care 

Looking ahead, the goals at Community Pharmacy Wantirna are centred around building and expanding professional services. By addressing long waiting times at emergency rooms and general practitioners, the pharmacy aims to be at the forefront of providing urgent care solutions, ensuring that the community receives timely and efficient medical attention. 

  

A model of mutual benefit and community focus 

Community Pharmacy Wantirna continues to be a model of mutual benefit and community focus. By reinvesting profits back into the community and maintaining strong, personal connections with their customers, the pharmacy embodies the true spirit of a Friendly Society, ensuring that everyone benefits from their services. 



 

Contact

03 9720 2872

Wantirna Mall, Shop 3&4/348 Mountain Hwy, Wantirna


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