Recently, alongside Pasture Genetics general manager Rob Damin, managing director Ann Damin snipped the ribbon to officially open the Benito Damin Laboratory and Education Centre at Penfield Research Station, Virginia, South Australia. 

The laboratory and centre was constructed throughout the first half of 2019 and is a vital addition to the Penfield Research Station facility that supports Pasture Genetics’ plant breeding programmes, and staff and industry education. Pasture Genetics provide workshops and certification courses, as well as educational field days, specific to forage pasture species, to Australian agronomists and industry representatives.

“Over more than a decade, Penfield Research Station has become the hub for technical services and expertise in the Australian forage seed industry,” Rob said.
Pasture Genetics has invested over $1 million bringing this world-class facility to fruition.

“As part of the ongoing investment in research and development this laboratory and education centre was built earlier in 2019 and is dedicated to the memory of Benito Damin.

“His passion for science and technology influenced all around him. He was the cornerstone of the establishment of this research farm and facility, actively participating in its construction and continued improvement from 2006 until his death in 2014.

“Let us dedicate this building to the important task of advancing knowledge in agriculture and science for the next generation,” Rob thoughtfully said at the official opening.

Ann and Rob were joined by their children Tom and Lucy, whom both work in the business, as well as a group of Pasture Genetics agronomists and territory managers, for this special dedication ceremony.