The local doctor's clinic is usually the first place to go when someone feels sick.
But in regional Australia where people can face long drives to the nearest GP, the local pharmacy is often the main line of defence.
Calling time after three decades
Since 1989, Bruce Warland has been a familiar and friendly face at the local pharmacy in Kojonup, about 90 minutes north of Albany.
But after 32 years of service to the community Mr Warland is ready for retirement.
The Kojonup pharmacy started in 1925 and Mr Warland's departure is significant moment in the small town's history.
Memorable moment
Mr Warland remembers the importance of his work being highlighted about eight years ago when a young mother needed advice about her one-year-old daughter.
"She [the daughter] had specific symptoms that my pharmacist recognised as being very serious," he said.
The pair eventually went to hospital with the child later diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.
Big shoes to fill
Kojonup local Denise Egerton-Warburton thinks Mr Warland is leaving a strong legacy.
"Bruce has meant the world to us ... he knows everyone personally," she said.
Mr Warland helped care for Ms Egerton-Warburton's 94-year-old father.
"When he had a face cancer removed and radiation, Bruce was there to help me out with anything I was worried about," she said.
Apart from help for humans, local vet Kate Clayton will remember Mr Warland for aiding animals.
"I needed medication for a cat that had protracted vomiting and Bruce was able to dispense them after-hours for me," Ms Clayton said.
Pharmacy's future
Ms Clayton told of how the pharmacy had helped support the community during COVID-19.
"Having the vaccination; easy walk in, get the jab done ... awesome," she said.
Likewise, Mr Warland said he felt comfortable to leave the pharmacy despite the challenges of the pandemic.
"I've really enjoyed it and it's one of the reasons I've been here for 32 years."
