HEALTH IN GOOD HANDS

FOR the past 16 years, Ocean Grove’s Direct Chemist Outlet has been providing competitively priced products and general health advice to locals, as well as the many holidaymakers who visit the beautiful town. Now, owner/manager Matt Pittwood wants to give a big shout out to his much-valued staff, who work with the motto of “Live healthier! Live longer!”

“I thank them for all their hard work and willingness to help our customers,” Matt begins. “It’s particularly amazing to see how many people they know, their connection with the local area.

“There’s Carole, our retail manager who’s been here from the beginning and knows the pharmacy inside out. We have Shannon and Maree who specialise in cosmetics, fragrance and skin care; and Kerri and Bernie, our specialists in vitamins and general health.

“Then there’s Di, Jen, Marg, Haylee and Liana who cover all pharmacy medicines and products; and Tania, Stacey, Eliza and Steph who are involved in running the dispensary.

“All of them add invaluable expertise to the store,” Matt continues. “They are a fantastic asset and resource for the business, performing their roles for a long time - and I feel sure customers will continue to see their friendly faces and benefit from their knowledge for a long time to come.

“It’s also wonderful to employ at least a dozen high school and uni students throughout the year. And where would we be without the professional clinical services of our pharmacists Tino, Tapas, Rob and Andrew?

“One of our longstanding team members, Ann Rantall, retires in February next year after nearly 50 years’ work in pharmacies. Ann is wished all the best, and we hope to be able to see her off in style.”

Pharmacist Matt, who is a pharmacist immuniser and consultant, also does home medication reviews, and volunteers for cardiac medication talks for Bellarine Community Health’s cardiac rehabilitation course. A local, Matt lives in Wallington with wife Jo and three sons, Will, Sam and George. His dynamic store offers a wide variety of products and services for health and beauty needs, and prescription medicine – at a fraction of the usual prices.

Direct Chemist Outlet, Shop 1, Marketplace Shopping Centre, 2-20 Kingston Downs Drive, Ocean Grove. Opens 8.45am-8pm MondayFriday; 9am-5pm Saturday; and 10am-5pm Sunday and public holidays. Inquiries: 5256 2322 or email oceangrove@directchemistoutlet.com.au