The Australian thoroughbred industry is mourning the death of long-time participant Ben Lawrence who on Friday sadly lost his almost two-year battle with cancer. He was 40.
During his career, Lawrence worked for Patinack Farm as stud manager, staying with the Nathan Tinkler-owned business throughout its turbulent history, while he also enjoyed stints with Collingrove Stud in NSW and Chatswood Stud in Victoria. He worked for International Animal Health up until his death.
Late on Friday, Hannah Penfold wrote a glowing tribute to Lawrence, who was raised at Wagga Wagga in southern NSW.
“During this entire time, from when we met, I only saw this beautiful man cry four times,” Penfold wrote. “He is the toughest person I have ever come across. Even in his dying days, he was loving, strong, humorous and stubborn! It’s been an enormous, life-changing journey for us and he has left an enormous hole in my heart, but in turn, I’ve gained another family – his family.
“He never judged me, he was my rock, my biggest fan and my absolute soulmate.”
