Generations of generosity

Celebrating the Detmold family’s extraordinary support for SAHMRI.

For more than a decade, the Detmold family has made a profound impact on South Australia’s health and medical research landscape through their support of SAHMRI. Renowned for their leadership in sustainable packaging solutions, the Detmold Group—an iconic family-owned business—has extended its legacy beyond industry by embracing philanthropy across several generations.

The Detmold family first became involved with SAHMRI when Executive Chairman Rodney Detmold’s brother was diagnosed with cancer. His treatment was overseen by Professor Tim Hughes, then head of Precision Cancer Medicine research at SAHMRI and Consultant Haematologist at the Royal Adelaide Hospital.

“Rodney’s brother Phil was also a successful businessman, who unfortunately succumbed to a very aggressive lymphoma,” said Professor Hughes.

“When I spoke with the extended family after Phil’s death, we talked about the urgent need for more research into aggressive blood cancers and my hope that Adelaide could become a centre of excellence in blood cancer research, as well as a centre of cutting-edge clinical care. Rodney was keen to support this aim and asked me how he could help.”

Since then, support from the Detmold family has enabled SAHMRI to be at the forefront of technological advances in blood cancer research, playing a critical role in discoveries that have benefitted many across the globe.

“The Detmold Group has supported SAHMRI in the hope that it may help researchers make breakthroughs and advance medical science, to the benefit of everyone,” said Rodney.

The Detmold family’s contributions have funded powerful pieces of research equipment at SAHMRI. Their latest support was instrumental in acquiring South Australia’s first spectral analyser, a state-of-the-art tool revolutionising medical research including cancer, haematology and blood disorders, heart health, immunology, infectious diseases, metabolic and endocrine disorders and neuroscience.

Flow Cytometry Facility Manager and McMahon Family Fellow, Dr Randall Grose, hailed the technology as “a game changer”, explaining it allows researchers to explore up to 50 parameters per cell, compared to the previous limit of 20.

“This technology is unlocking new insights across these complex diseases, paving the way for groundbreaking discoveries and improved healthcare outcomes,” he added.

Founded in 1948, the Detmold Group exemplifies excellence in both corporate and social responsibility. Under the leadership of CEO Sascha Detmold Cox, the group continues to champion sustainability and inclusivity. In 2023, the company achieved gender parity on its board and exceeded industry standards with a 37% female workforce.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Detmold Group established Detmold Medical, producing 145 million face masks for frontline workers. This initiative not only safeguarded healthcare professionals but also showcased the company’s dedication to addressing urgent societal needs.

In December 2024, the Detmold Group launched ambitious global sustainability goals, including commitments to net-zero emissions, increased use of recyclable materials, and sourcing renewable energy.

These initiatives underscore the family’s vision for a better future – one that harmonises business success with environmental stewardship.

Through their generosity, leadership and commitment to innovation, the Detmold family have cemented their place as champions of both industry and community.

As we celebrate their enduring partnership with SAHMRI, we are reminded of the profound difference one family can make in shaping a healthier, more equitable world.

If you'd like to learn more about corporate giving please contact Carly Hocking on 0400 176 137 or at carly.hocking@sahmri.com.