WHEN the local grocery store closed down in Yolla last year following the closures of the post office and cafe, the Yolla Pharmacy stepped in to fill the gap.
The Tasmanian pharmacy, operated for the past four years by pharmacist Lynne Pilcher, started managing the mail, then added pantry staples to its shelves alongside the painkillers and first-aid supplies.
"We just need to adapt, I guess, to what the community needs," Pilcher told ABC Northern Tasmania.
"And that was one of the things we adapted to ... [and] when the shop shut, there was nowhere for the mail to go to.
"So, we also adapted into that role, as well as the pharmacy.
"So now, we have a post office."
Jacky Harman-Holness, who runs the Yolla Community Bakery once a month, brings bread and groceries to the town's residents.
"But operating it monthly isn't enough to supply the town, which is why Yolla Pharmacy volunteered to help out, and now residents can get their grocery needs throughout the whole month.
"Yolla doesn't have a lot of support other than their wonderful pharmacy who's trying ever so hard," Harman-Holness said.
Pilcher says there's a level of pride in seeking help, especially in a small town, where everyone knows everyone.
"There's a stigma associated with going to an organisation and being seen going there," she said.
"People don't want to be seen to be taking charity or letting people know that they are doing it tough.
"That's really hard for people.
"I guess, coming to a pharmacy, you've got that coverage of coming in to get something else."
While the Yolla Pharmacy hasn't had to employ extra staff just yet, playing provider of all the town's needs is not sustainable, Pilcher explained.
"I have two wonderful staff who help out a lot, but hiring more people will be something in the future that we'll have to look at."
The above article was sent to subscribers in Pharmacy Daily's issue from 02 Jun 23
To see the full newsletter, see the embedded issue below or CLICK HERE to download Pharmacy Daily from 02 Jun 23
