Research to practice - a case study in relationship building for successful extension

This paper argues for more explicit reference to relationship building as the foundation for successful extension. We tell the story of one scientist's ongoing journal with extension. Retrospective reflections of scientific endeavour in the cherry industry and efforts to work with, learn from and communicate result to growers demonstrated the fundamental need for relationship building in order to achieve successful extension. Relationships take time and investments in agriculture need to properly acknowledge and support longer-term project timeframes and careers if the vital collaboration between scientists and growers is to continue to build Australia's agricultural industries.