Unique training ground for young scientists

Agpath Laboratories at Garfield is a unique science learning ground for aspiring scientists.

The laboratories provide an independent laboratory experience for science students and hosts workshops for people interested in biological agriculture, compost making, and soil health.

Director and principal scientist, microbiologist Mary Cole said by assisting students with their agricultural studies she is able to pass on her knowledge and expertise and give back to the next generation of young scientists.

In her 40 years of introducing a biological approach to agricultural systems in Australia and around the world, Dr Cole is still passionate that factory farming cannot be long-term sustainable and philosophical enough to know that she may not see the changes necessary to save our ecological systems in her lifetime.

Agpath has third and fourth year agricultural students coming for a semester to undertake work placement.

Agpath was established in 1980 and over the past ten years has hosted students from Melbourne and Latrobe Universities.

Kathleen Robinson, 20, of Pakenham Upper is a third year Latrobe University student and spends every Friday at Agpath.

She said applying her theoretical studies into practical knowledge under the guidance of Dr Cole had been a great benefit.

“I have watched farmers interact with the laboratory in solving their problems and seen the gratitude shown when those problems have been resolved. Dr Cole’s passion for people to understand and preserve our planet is infectious,” she said.

Recently, St Paul’s Anglican Grammar School year 10 student Ruby Hansen completed work experience at Agpath.

She said it allowed her to see the things she is studying at school from a practical perspective - “it’s brought my studies to life.”