This case study describes the development and implementation of an innovative integrated primary–secondary model of care for people with complex diabetes. The aim of the paper is to present the experiences of clinicians and researchers involved in implementing the ‘Beacon’ model by providing a discussion of the contextual factors, including lessons learned, challenges and solutions. Beacon-type models of community care for people with chronic disease are well placed to deliver on Australia’s health care reform agenda, and this commentary provides rich contextual information relevant to the translation of such models into policy and practice. What is known about the topic? Better integrated clinical models of care with close cooperation between hospital-based specialists and general practitioners (GPs) is fundamental to chronic disease management. What does this paper add? A real world example of the challenges faced in implementing models of integrated care across diverse settings and business models. What are the implications for clinicians? Practice, organisational and external factors including energy clinician leadership and resourcing are critical for translation of evidence into ongoing practice.