This project funded the appointment of a Field Extension Officer to support growers in Western Australia from September 2012 to September 2015. The officer assisted growers to implement changes to their businesses that became necessary in the face of significant challenges, including an overall downturn in domestic vegetable markets.

The Field Extension Officer role acted as a knowledge broker to become a trusted source of information for growers. The officer demonstrated R&D outcomes through extension activities, which allowed growers to see more easily how they could be adopted. The officer also brought growers together with other stakeholders in the vegetable supply chain to expand networks and create opportunities.

Outreach was through various channels. Around 300 participants took part in 16 Good Practice Workshops and a Young Growers Tour. Articles were also written for the WA Grower magazine on topics including national R&D projects, good practice, agronomic information and technology as well as stories of local relevance.

Materials including online tools, apps, worksheets and case studies were passed onto growers and publicised in the WA Grower magazine. These past editions of the magazine can be found at www.vegetableswa.com.au/wa-growers-magazine.

The officer also provided a way of providing feedback from WA growers to the broader industry. The role also liaised with research providers, ensuring that R&D activities are aimed at the challenges these growers face.

Overall, the work of the officer provided growers with the knowledge and networks they needed to make the industry more resilient.

This project has been funded by Hort Innovation, using the research and development levies listed below and contributions from the Australian Government. Hort Innovation is the grower-owned, not-for-profit research and development corporation for Australian horticulture.

• Vegetable Fund