A Country Practice: episode guide

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Friends for Life

Episodes 357-358

Produced by Forrest Redlich and Bruce Best
Written by Serge Lazareff (357) and Judith Colquhoun (358)
Directed by Peter Maxwell

A friend of Kelly's from the city comes to stay. Cookie and Kelly must think up a fundraising idea for the club and decide on a darts tournament. Shirley asks Ben to hypnotise her, but it backfires and he hypnotises Esme instead! Matron Sloan and Shirley are set to challenge each other in the darts tournament. Kelly is worried about her friend when she appears to be giving up on life.

Guest Cast: Debra Lawrance as Anna Harris, Tim Elston as Warwick Richards, Paul Mason as Barry Young, Jessica Lofgren as Katy Young, Lynn Porteous as Jan Young, Warren Kermond as Taxi Client; Bernadette Hayes as Sister Sue Daley

Illusions

Episodes 359-360
Written by Bob Herbert and Patrea Smallacombe (359) and Hugh Stuckey (360)
Directed by Robert Meillon

Terence is surprised when his son Christopher — or "CK" as he prefers to be called — arrives earlier than expected. A young couple struggling to make a living have trouble coping when tragedy strikes their family. Simon worries that Shirley may be getting too involved in other people's problems. It appears that Kelly has a young admirer who is prone to writing her poetry. Bob wonders why Matron Sloan is being so forgetful.

Guest Cast: Scott McGregor as Paul Higgins, Kim Deacon as Sally Bishop, Emma Nicholls as Rachel Higgins, Nicholas Riggs as C.K. Elliott, Jean Calver as Sybil Walker, Rosey Jones as Sister Morton, Don McSporran as Mr Skinner; Paul Langley as Truck Driver

The Luck of the Game

Episodes 361-362
Written by Ray Harding (361) and David Allen (362)
Directed by Riccardo Pellizzeri

Terence has the Valley wondering why he's making frequent visits to Burrigan. Judy plans to do some match-making — for herself when she sets her sights on the Valley's new vet, Ben Green. Bob helps coach a young footballer with a promising future. Kelly arranges for a journalist friend from Sydney to come and write a review for the club. CK mistakenly believes that Terence is going out with Kelly Shanahan.

Guest Cast: Nicholas Riggs as C.K. Elliott, Paul Smith as Marty Warren, Alexander Broun as Phil Davidson, Eddie Williams as Fred; Peter Kay as Club Gourmet, Eddie Hyde as Footballer No. 1, Phillip Hogan as Footballer No. 2

The Time of Your Life

Episodes 363-364
Written by Sheila Sibley (363) and Dave Worthington (364)
Directed by Vince Martin

Matron Sloan has the hospital staff and her friends worried when she becomes forgetful and doesn't turn up for work. Judy tries to arrange a romantic dinner for herself with Ben. Terence is concerned that CK's attitude towards life is a bit mature for his age and so decides to take him on a fishing trip. Matron Sloan has a hard time coming to terms with the changes in her life.

Guest Cast: Nicholas Riggs as C.K. Elliott, Haydon Samuels as Steven Moore, Ben Gabriel as Doctor Wood, Jaye Paul as Shifty Pearce, Anne Ryan as Mrs Moore; Tony Partridge as Mr Moore, Christine Hill as Mother, Troy Williams as Child 1, Carlie Lawrynow as Child 2

Good Mates

Episodes 365-366
Written by Terry Larsen (365) and Judith Colquhoun (366)
Directed by Peter Maxwell

Kelly is surprised to hear that Judy believes that she and Ben are going out together. Muldoon throws the hospital staff into turmoil when he alerts them of the impending arrival of the hospital inspectors. Simon gets depressed when he thinks that no one will miss him after he leaves Wandin Valley. A simple boy runs away when he thinks his friends are making fun of him. Simon's friends gather to farewell him.

Guest Cast: Arky Michael as Ken Mitchell, Brian McDermott as Alan Mitchell, Nicholas Riggs as C.K. Elliott, Max Meldrum as Arnie Hodgekiss, Joanne Aarts as Pamela, Emanuel Portelli as Tony, Rod Zuanic as Trevor, Cassandra Moore as Sandra, Anton Brooks as Pete, Bernadette Hayes as Sue Daley; Marie O'Donnell as Matron Hawker, Deidre Lassau as Matron Cuthbert

Note: Grant Dodwell departs

Out of the Blue

Episodes 367-368
Written by Patricia Johnson (367) and Roger Dunn (368)
Directed by Greg Shears

Kelly is shocked when her old boyfriend, Trent, arrives back on the scene and makes her an offer that's too good to refuse. Frank is suspicious of Shirley when she's never at home and he then sees her with another man. Bob and Cookie invent a mechanical scarecrow which they believe will make them a fortune. Kelly has to make a major decision on whether to stay in the Valley or go back to the city. Brendan comes up with an idea to help Frank and Shirley get their marriage back on track.

Guest Cast: [not available]; David Whitney as Trent Robinson, John Clayton as Milt Fisher, Fiona Stewart as Sue Fisher, Gordon Poole as Charlie McCarthy, Michael Kozuki as Japanese Rep.

The Will to Win

Episodes 369-370
Written by Helen Boyd (369) and Anne Brooksbank (370)
Directed by Leigh Spence

A young boy with cerebral palsy has trouble relating to his foster parents. Ben has chicken pox and is admitted to hospital, leaving Kelly to look after all his animals. Bob and Cookie are desperately trying to gather votes to be elected onto the Rotex Committee. Judy enjoys her nursing duties when the patient under her care is Ben Green. The hospital staff are thrown into disarray every time the fire alarm goes off accidentally.

Guest Cast: Brian Moll as Alf Muldoon, Colin Taylor as Des CLifton, Lois Ramsey as Irene Sinclair, Lisa Green as Sarah Anderson, Felicity Gordon as Betty Hastings, Andre Eikmeier as Gary King, Tony Lyttle as Machanic, Neil Powll as Lyle; Roger Cox as Drunk

Fighting Back

Episodes 371-372
Written by Shane Brennan (371) and David Allen (372)
Directed by Steve Mann

Tensions between Bob and Cookie have reached a boiling point, resulting in Cookie moving out. A woman with only six months to live decides to keep the truth from her husband. Kelly is thrilled when she receives an order for fifty three litres of home-made ice cream. Cookie is furious when Bob crashes into Esme's taxi and refuses to pay for the damages. Shirley is delighted when she is accepted for Help Line duty.

Guest Cast: Ray Meagher as Wally Stanley, Elaine Cusick as Barbara Stanley, Danny Simmonds as Sam Walsh, Ben Gabriel as Dr Wood, Terry Brady as Skeeter, Rob Thomas as Lizard, Dora Batt as Miss Emily Parker, Jesse Faen as Ryan, Leon Twells as Bully No. 1, Sonny Klein as Bully No. 2

Note: the first episode to be written by Shane Brennan who would go on to have success in the US writing and producing series including CSI: Miami and NCIS as well as creating the spin-off NCIS: Los Angeles.

Calm Before the Storm

Episodes 373-374
Written by Dave Worthington (373) and Forrest Redlich (374)
Directed by Peter Maxwell

Ben thinks he's a failure when the farmer's of the district fall asleep during his speech. Brendan gets caught in a storm while he is out on a fishing trip with a group of hospital patients and school children.

Cookie has a horrific accident and the doctors battle to save his life. Judy is worried when she receives a strange phone call and hears noises outside her flat. Everything that could go wrong, does go wrong for Brendan on his fishing trip.

Guest Cast: Ken Fraser as Major Clarrie Duggan, Lisa Green as Sarah Anderson, Sara Wallace as Maud Stewart, Leon Twells as Brandley Mason, Felicity Jurd as Jane Turner, Paul Hunt as Farmer No. 1, Doug Wiggins as Farmer No. 2; Ben Gabriel as Dr. Wood, Jonathaon Biggins as Graham, Shane Brooker as Ambulanceman

Sink or Swim

Episodes 375-376
Written by Howard Griffiths (375) and Hugh Stuckey (376)
Directed by Leigh Spence

Bob thinks of a fundraising idea to help Cookie with his monetary problems. A diary farmer is persuaded that there is an easier way to make a living. It's Wandin Valley against Burrigan in the local dance competition, with Frank and Shirley desperate to win. Brendan is frustrated when Chloe reacts badly to his new friend, Sarah Anderson. It's touch and go to save a little boy's life when he almost drowns.

Guest Cast: Lionel Long as Duncan Allen, Annie Byron as June Allen, Liz Harris as Sandra Allen, Scott Bartle as Mathew Allen, Lisa Green as Sarah Anderson, John Fielder as Ambulance Man; Pamela French as Maureen Appleby

Covering Up

Episodes 377-378
Written by Judith Colquhoun (377) and Sheila Sibley (378)
Directed by Greg Shears

Shirley has a nervous first night on Help Line duty when a ten-year-old boy who is afraid of being alone calls in. Bob plays nursemaid to Cookie when he is released from hospital. Sarah gives one of her pupils a book on sex education which lands her in trouble with the parents. Ben and Kelly are a bit worried when their new loo is going to look a bit outrageous. Bob plays a trick on Cookie to show him that he is not quite the fool Cookie thinks he is.

Guest Cast: Lisa Green as Sarah Anderson, Liz Crosby as Claire Henderson, Michael Travers as Tim Henderson, Philip Dodd as Damien Pugh, Ken Wayne as Gordon, Phillip De Carle as Ron Murray, Leigh Luxmore as Ron's Mate, Zac Gillett as Brett Murray, Felicity Ward as Jane Turner, Elizabeth Dilger as Samantha

A Matter of Conscience

Episodes 379-380
Written by Helen Boyd (379) and Bevan Lee (380)
Directed by Peter Maxwell

Muldoon tries to blackmail Kelly into a partnership in her ice cream business. Esme, Bob, and Cookie go to a holiday resort which was recommended by Esme. Chloe is put into hospital for observation but the staff are worried when she seems too far withdrawn. A young man has to make a decision on whether he lets someone he loves live or die. Kelly's relationship with Muldoon worsens when Ben takes it upon himself to speak to him on her behalf. Esme gets a shock when she reaches the resort and discovers that it is far from what she expected.

Guest Cast: Brian Moll as Alf Muldoon, Alyson Best as Gail Francis, Steven Vidler as Rod Francis, Lyn James as Marge Kent, Lisa Green as Sarah Anderson, Reg Gorman as Fisherman, Johnny Craig as Mr Adonis

Note: the first episode written by Bevan Lee who would go on to create the series Packed to the Rafters and Winners & Losers, and A Place to Call Home

Barriers

Episodes 381-382
Written by Carol WIlliams (381) and Bill Searle (382)
Directed by Riccardo Pellizzeri

Kelly writes a light-hearted article about the residents of Wandin Valley. Judy becomes disillusioned with nursing which concerns Terence and Matron Sloan. When Esme collects a box of items to sell at the hospital fete, she unwittingly handles stolen property. Brendan is upset when he hears that Sarah is leaving the Valley to take on a full-time teaching position elsewhere. Kelly gets a job offer as a reporter for the Burrigan Examiner.

Guest Cast: Lisa Green as Sarah Anderson, Roger Ward as Bill Hammond, Judi Farr as Norma Hammond, Belinda Shepard as Lauren O'Connell, Phillipa Baker as Joycie Gleeson; Jaye Paul as Shifty Pearce

One For the Road

Episodes 383-384
Written by Steven Measday (383) and Patricia Johnson (384)
Directed by Chris Adshead

Judy is put in an embarrassing situation when she forgets the combination of the hospital safe. Dr. Wood and Kelly find a young boy on the side of the road who's been hit by a car. Brendan decides to go to Albury to see Sarah. Kelly's negative article on Dr. Wood causes him to resign and leaves Kelly very unpopular with the locals. Brendan and Sarah return to the Valley with some good news for their friends.

Guest Cast: Ben Gabriel as Dr. Wood, Jeff Truman as Howard Ford, Julie Godfrey as Merle Ford, Bernadette Hayes as Nurse Daley; Lisa Green as Sarah Anderson, Leone Martin-Smith as Helen Anderson, Doug Ramsay as Gordon Anderson, Barry Rugless as Harold, Michael Jay as Tow Truck Driver

Note: the final episode for Shane Withington and Emily Nicol

Track Record

Episodes 385-386
Written by Suzanne Hawley (385) and Terry Larsen (386)
Directed by Robert Meillon

Judy advertises for a new flatmate and finds Mr. Perfect. Kelly is assigned to do a behind-the-scenes story on the Burrigan Cup. A blind girl is told that she will need a new guide dog but she refuses to give up her old dog. Cookie relies on Esme's dreams to pick the winner of the Cup. Terence and Ben help a blind girl adjust to her new dog. Kelly finds that her friends will not forget about the article she wrote on Dr. Wood as they continue to ignore her.

Guest Cast: Liz Newman as Karen Jackson, Fay Kelton as Denise Jackson, Walter Sullivan as Austin Matthews, Jim Glen as Sid, Nick Enright as Terry, Toby Messiter as Steven; Robert Cooper as Father

Note: Josephine Mitchell (Jo Loveday) is added to the opening credits

Race Greed and Colour

Episodes 387-388
Written by Shane Brennan (387) and Judith Colquhoun (388)
Directed by Peter Maxwell

When a horse trainer is suspended of drugging her horse, Kelly sets out to prove the woman's innocence. Bob has a visit from an English solicitor who inforp ms him that he has inherited an estate in England. A Vietnamese woman is shocked when the husband she thought was dead arrives in the Valley. A young boy disappears when he believes he is going to be taken away from his family. Kelly receives a threatening warning.

Guest Cast: Margaret Wilson as Pam McCormick, Jim Glen as Sid, Walter Sullivan as Austin Matthews, Robert Hughes as Andrew Baxter, Pauline Chan as Mai Baxter, David Chiem as David Baxter, Joe Tran as Nguyen An Tuan, Walter Brown as Randal Finchley, Pamela Nicholson as Lea Baxter, Travis Latter as Alec; Jack Nicholas as Mr. Lawson, David Bookalil as Driver

Note: Bob's age is revealed as 54

Glue Factory

Episodes 389-390
Written by Sheila Sibley (389) and Tony Morphett (390)
Directed by Vince Martin

Jo gets a job with Bob Hatfield so she can help Judy save money for the house she wants to buy. The local drunk accuses an experienced nursing sister of mistreating the men under her care at a boarding house for homeless men. Kelly uncovers some interesting facts about the boarding house which prompt Terence and Frank to investigate. Bob and Jo help save an old horse's life.

Guest Cast: Betty Bobbitt as Ellen Dainty, Kevin Leslie as Ralph Pickering, Ron Haddrick as Stan Kopek, Davis Slingsby as Trevor Ryder, Gordon Poole as Charlie McCarthy, Richard Meikle as Mr. Hansen, Harry Lawrence as Reg, Allan Penney as Pete, Arthur Trotter as Hec, Danny Simmonds as Sam Walsh; Walter Sullivan as Austin Matthews

Note: Allan Penney makes another early guest appearance (277-278 previously) prior to his regular role as Perce Hudson (1990-1993)

Fighting Chance

Episodes 391-392
Written by Hugh Stuckey (391) and Ray Harding (392)
Directed by Leigh Spence

Ben takes the law into his own hands when he discovers that missing dogs are being used for illegal dog fighting. Terence is thrilled when he finally finds a doctor to replace Simon. Ben is saddened when he says goodbye to two of his closest friends. Dr. Alex Fraser is amused by the attention she receives at the clinic when word gets out that she's a woman. Jo makes a decision to stay in Wandin Valley for good.

Guest Cast: Gordon McDougall as Shaun Barnes Snr, Dean Fitzpatrick as Shaun Barnes Jnr, Roger Cox as Leon Bartlett, Sandi Garrett as Helen Barnes, Sachiko Verne as Mrs Takahashi, Kodo Shimada as Mr Takahashi; Derani Scarr as Edna, Jonathan Biggins as Graham, Steve Rackman as Keith, Toby Messiter as Steven, Travis Latter as Alec

Note: Diane Smith joins the cast as Dr. Alex Fraser but goes uncredited in this episode. Annie Davies (Kelly Shanahan) departs

In Love and War

Episodes 393-394
Written by Carol Williams (393) and Dave Worthingtonn (394)
Directed by Robert Meillon

Ben is confused by all the attention he is receiving from the town's single women. A mother who hasn't seen her children for four years arrives to take possession of her kids. Esme shows off a new cleaning product at Judy's flat, but the demonstration doesn't go quite as planned. Frank is forced to shoot a man in order to protect a mother and her children. Ben tells wealthy businessman Howard Wellbourne that his horse hasn't been getting the right treatment, which impresses his sophisticated daughter Kate.

Guest Cast: Stuart McCreery as Tom North, Maureen Green as Lorraine Southwell, Leigh Nicholls as Alison North, Pixie Klein as Kylie North, Yvonne Hellmers as Roxanne Wilkins, Patti Crocker as Mrs Wilkins, Barbara Phillips as Raelene Jeffries, Saturday Brander as Sharon Jeffries, Larry Larkin as Mr Hogarth, John Parker as Richard Skead, Barbara Morton as Mrs Knight, Paris Burnett as Leanne Knight, Larissa Burnett as Dianne Knight; John Ewart as Howard Welbourne, Tracey Callander as Kate Welbourne, Shane Brooker as Ambulanceman

Note: Diane Smith is added to the opening credits

Duty Bound

Episodes 395-396
Written by Patricia Johnson (395) and David Allen (396)
Directed by Peter Maxwell

Shirley's concern for Frank grows when he refuses to talk about the shooting. Ben's relationship with the beautiful Kate Wellbourne blossoms, despite her father's obvious disapproval. Judy worries that the shooting has had a bad effect on Jo when she becomes withdrawn. Alex Fraser becomes involved with a woman who doesn't realise she suffers from rheumatoid arthritis. Frank is unsure of his future in the police service when he has to go to Police Headquarters in Sydney for an enquiry into the shooting.

Guest Cast: John Ewart as Howard Welbourne, Tracey Callander as Kate Welbourne, Louise Cogan as Fiona McKenzie, Leigh Morgan as Carol Thomas, John Doyle as Neal Thomas, Rachel Wiggins as Rachel Thomas, Jon Darling as Les Pearson, Peter Rowley as Martin Morrison, Bernadette Hughson as Jan Morrison, Robert Carlton as Pete; John Faassen as Insp. Sergeant, Anthony Ingersent as Roger, Ardilah Hayes as Anna

Black Sheep

Episodes 397-398
Written by Howard Griffiths (397) and Terry Larsen (398)
Directed by Riccardo Pellizzeri

Judy goes to her first parent-teacher meeting and encounters an old friend. Shirley asks Terence for advice when her relationship with Frank worsens. Jo becomes suspicious of one of her teachers when he takes an interest in one of her friends. Frank gets a visit from the police psychologist when he finally admits he needs help. New teacher Peter Manning is disgusted when he hears of a colleagues's fascination with one of his pupils.

Guest Cast: Peter Sumner as Max Wellings, Tracey Callander as Kate Welbourne, James Porter as Const. Ian Hawkins, Jim Kemp as Dan Richards, Emily Leiding as Penny Richards, Louise Cogan as Fiona McKenzie, Sarah Lamber as Sandy Crosby, Samantha Van de Geest as Marcia, Paul Daniel as School Boy; Kevin Healy as Dr. Morris, Conor Fitzpatrick as Con

Note: Mark Owen-Taylor's first appearance as Peter Manning

Fire

Episodes 399-400
Written by Hugh Stuckey (399) and Forrest Redlich (400)
Directed by Leigh Spence

Bob is angered by the lack of enthusiasm amongst the men of the Valley when he asks for volunteers to come forward to act as firefighters. Ben hears some disturbing news about Kate and confronts her for an explanation.

A bushfire threatens Wandin Valley and Frank fears for the safety of Ben and Kate who could both be trapped by the fire. The town pulls together to save the Valley's existence.

Guest Cast: Brian Moll as Alf Muldoon, Terry Willesee as Terry Willesee, John Ewart as Haward Welbourne, Tracey Callander as Kate Welbourne, Danny Simmonds as Sam Walsh, Louise Cogan as Fiona McKenzie, Alan McQueen as Wally Pope, Frank McNamara as Security Guard as ATN 7; Jeff Brown as Fire Chief, Gerry Skilton as Ron, Tony Lyttle as Gary, Guy Shoesmith as Fred

From the Ashes

Episodes 401-402
Written by Stephen Measday (401) and Tim Pye (402)
Directed by Chris Adshead

Ben and Jo have a busy time caring for the animals that were caught in the bushfire. Shirley phones Vicky and Simon to tell them that Fatso has gone missing. Maggie Sloan finds she's on the receiving end of a young man's anger when he blames her for his father's death. The Valley regulars join forces to put on a benefit concert for the district's fire victims. Fatso finally makes his way back home.

Guest Cast: Arky Michael as Ken Mitchell, Brian McDermott as Mr Mitchell, Rosey Jones as Susie Morton, David Lynch as Keith Morton, Nicholas Lidstone as Farmer, Krystie Seifert as Sara Morton, Rhodri Dunne as Jamie Morton; James Porter as Constable Ian Hawkins, Pauline Brockett as Nurse

Unsung Lullaby

Episodes 403-404
Written by Bill Searle (403) and Shane Brennan and Jenny Sharp (404)
Directed by Peter Andrikidis

Bob is shocked to find that his young niece is pregnant. Shirley and Frank receive an unexpected visit from Vicky and the twins. Peter Manning takes a keen interest in Dr. Alex Fraser. Jealousy raises it's ugly head when Jo Loveday vies for Peter's affections. Vicky is put in a terrifying situation when baby Charlotte is abducted by a distressed young woman.

Guest Cast: Penny Cook as Vicky Bowen, Julie Mullins as Kathy Hatfield, Tina Bursill as Cecily Day, Bernadette Hayes as Sue Daley, Lara Whalan as Charlotte Bowen, Brett Whalan as Tom Bowen; Lauri Moran as Joe Melrose

The Deep End

Episodes 405-406
Written by Dave Worthington (405) and Patrea Smallacombe (406)
Directed by Robert Meillon

Peter Manning's sister Donna applies for the vacant nursing position at the hospital. Alex impress hospital staff when she performs her first operation. Judy and Sue Daley enter a television dating competition. Jo gets some advice from Alex on contraception. Judy makes a second appearance on "Dream Date" and wins a trip to the Gold Coast.

Guest Cast: Tina Bursill as Cecily Day, Bernadette Hayes as Sue Daley, Christopher Dibb as Randolph Muldoon, Paul Robertson as Glen Horton, Sarah Lambert as Sandy Crosby, Sally McLennan as Heather; Eric Oldfield as Michael Thomas, John Farndale as Norman Krupp, Morgan Janson as Bruce

Note: Donna Manning (Caroline Johannson) arrives

Playing the Game

Episodes 407-408
Written by Patrea Smallacombe (407) and Judith Colquhoun (408)
Directed by Leigh Spence

Judy tries to impress her partner on the Gold Coast but makes a mess of things. Donna Manning shows great concern for the elderly patients at the hospital when they accuse a relief nurse of using bullying tactics. Judy returns from the Gold Coast with thoughts of travelling overseas. Ben and Peter get obsessed with playing war games. Shirley confirms Donna's doubts about the relief nurse.

Guest Cast: Olivia Hemnett as Jessie Kershaw, Eric Oldfield as Michael Thomas, Diana Davidson as Cynthia Day, Sueyan Cox as Estelle, Ken Fraser as Major Clarrie Duggan, Sara Wallace as Maudie Stewart

Caterpillars & Butterflies

Episodes 409-410
Written by David Allen (409) and David Boutland (410)
Directed by Robert Meillon

Ben agrees to go to a rock concert with Donna, but mysterious things happen on the way. Dr. Wood has a car accident and is admitted to hospital for observation. A young boy who misses his mother uses Alex as a substitute. Jo convinces Judy that she should travel and see the world. Ben and Donna give Bob and Cookie a taste of their own medicine. Dr. Wood's tests come back and the news is all bad, but Judy cheers him up when she agrees to be his nurse as they travel the world together.

Guest Cast: Ben Gabriel as Dr. Wood, Peter Turnbull as Jack Reynolds, Toby Blanchard as Danny Reynolds; Ailsa Piper as Pat Reynolds, Tony Doyle as Warren Simmons

Note: Wendy Strehlow departs

Listen to the Children

Episodes 411-412
Written by Stephen Measday (411) and Leon Saunders (412)
Directed by Peter Maxwell

Shirley organises a petition against an impending army base planned for Wandin Valley. Peter is very concerned about one of his pupils after he smashes up the classroom for no apparent reason. Peter's students are angry that the elders of the Valley haven't asked their opinions on the proposed army base as it is their futures that will be affected. Prime Minister Bob Hawke makes a special appearance at a rock concert to show his support to the kids of Burrigan High on their stand against nuclear bases in Wandin Valley.

Guest Cast: Ken Fraser as Major Clarrie Duggan, Paul Robertson as Glen Horton, Louise Cogan as Fiona McKenzie, Sarah Lambert as Sandy Crosby, Harold Fraser as George, David Chiem as David Baxter; Hon. R.J. Hawke, The PRime Minister of Australia, Brian Moll as Alf Muldoon, Raymond Duparc as Deputy Headmaster, Hamish North as Young Boy

Ghosts

Episodes 413-414
Written by Judith Colquhoun (413) and Patrea Smallacombe (414)
Directed by Chris Adshead

Peter tries to help Alex find a new house, but she misses out on a golden opportunity when she refuses to return his phone calls. Jo feels that Frank is becoming too overprotective when he questions her every move. Donna plays "Ghost Busters" to help a young patient overcome his fear of monsters. Alex gets scared when her furniture appears to move and she hears strange noises in her home. Shirley plays referee when Frank and Jo have a stand-up fight. Peter offers to stay with Alex until she gets settled.

Guest Cast: Louise Pajo as Jenet Arnold, Natalie McCurry as Celia Arnold, Nicholas Flanagan as Trevor Wilkins, Andrew Shephard as Adam Wilkins, Ian Crow as Mr. Thorpe; Anton Brooks as David Campbell, Brett Partridge as Malcolm Arnold, Greg Parke as Jeff, Michael Stone as Barry

Let the Sun Shine In

Episodes 415-416
Written by Bill Searle (415) and Forrest Redlich (416)
Directed by Leigh Spence

Jo gets her wires crossed when she tells everyone that Shirley is pregnant. Terence goes on a fishing weekend and finds an abused little girl living in the bush. Frank brings a surprise visitor home to Shirley — little Chloe Jones. Friends caution Terence on his involvement with Bethany and suggest she should be placed in an institution rather than under his care. Doris fights for her life as Ben gives her round-the-clock medical attention.

Guest Cast: Lisa Rhodes as Bethany Hughes, Rob Steele as Keith Hughes, Robyn Gurney as Vera Hughes, Roslyn Gentle as Amy Carter, Bernadette Hayes as Sue Daley, Emily Nicol as Chloe Jones; Adam Garnett as Shane Hughes

Let the Sun Shine In (II)

Episodes 417-418
Written by Carol WIlliams (417) and Shane Brennan (418)
Directed by Peter Maxwell

Terence sees his son CK while in Sydney with Bethany, but their relationship is strained. Cookie bets Bob he can't go without a drink for one week. Alex takes charge of the clinic while Terence is away. Terence's devotion to Bethany has Shirley and Matron Sloan very concerned when he considers leaving the Valley to be with her permanently. Alex agrees to have a house-warming party under the agreement that Donna organises it.

Guest Cast: Lisa Rhodes as Bethany Hughes, John Hamblin as Barry Rankin, Nicholas Riggs as C.K. Elliott, Emily Nicol as Chloe Jones, Rob Sampson as Geoff Summers, Lisa Kelly as Sally Mitchell, Martin Johannessen as George Kingsbury, David Attrill as Mr. Abbott;

Let the Sun Shine In (III)

Episodes 419-420
Written by Dave Worthington (419) and Forrest Redlich (420)
Directed by Robert Meillon

Terence is in the firing line when town gossips question his motives towards Bethany. Peter is furious when Bill tells him that Alex is escorting him to the hospital ball. Bethany runs away and relives the horrors of her past. Alex considers her future in the valley. Terence comes to terms with losing Bethany by turning to the bottle. Alex is jealous when Peter arrives at the ball with an ex-girlfriend.

Guest Cast: Lisa Rhodes as Bethany Hughes, Roslyn Gentle as Amy Carter, Beth Child as Rhonda Stevens, Dylan Howarth as Craig Stevens; Rob Steele as Keith Hughes, Robyn Gurney as Vera Hughes

Past Imperfect

Episodes 421-422
Written by Margaret Mitchell (421) and Forrest Redlich (422)
Directed by Greg Shears

Donna sets out to save the Town Hall when she hears the council are planning to build a shopping centre. Frank has to explain to Chloe what it means to lose a friend. Alex decides to stay in the Valley and becomes Terence's partner at the clinic. Bob, Esme, Donna, and Jo put themselves in jail, much to Frank's astonishment. Peter tries to blackmail Alf Muldoon.

Guest Cast: Brian Moll as Alf Muldoon, Emily Nicol as Chloe Jones; Wallas Eaton as Ernie Woodridge, Freesia Mooney as Young Esme, Peter Laughton as Young Bob, Matthew Hampton as Young Muldoon

Day After Day

Episodes 423-424
Written by Judith Colquhoun (423 and 424)
Directed by Leigh Spence

Peter and Alex try to have a romantic dinner at the club. Jo interviews the residents of the Muldoon Wing for a school movie project. An elderly woman feels she's a nuisance while living with her daughter and son-in-law. Peter gets quite a surprise when Alex takes him on a date.

Guest Cast: Queenie Ashton as Mrs Coote, Ken Fraser as Major Clarrie Duggan, May Lloyd as Laura Monti, Lani John Tupu as Richard Monti, Adam Spendlove as Tony Monti, Sara Wallace as Maudie Stewart, Harry Lawrence as Reg

Trouble Spots

Episodes 425-426
Written by Margaret Mitchell (425) and David Allen (426)
Directed by Robert Meillon

Alex embarrasses Peter when she uses him as a medical guinea pig for her training nurses. One of Peter's students threatens to jump off the top a building. Shirley tries to find out what Muldoon is being so smug about. A young boy who feels he's an outcast from his school mates tries to kill himself. Arnie Hodgekiss surprises the Valley when he takes a stand against Councillor Muldoon.

Guest Cast: Max Meldrum as Arnie Hidgekiss, Morgan Lewis as Johnnie Hodgekiss, Bernadette Hayes as Sue Daley, Sarah Lambert as Sandy Crosby, Louise Cogan as Fiona McKenzie, Darren Percival as Darren Greenway, Trenton Tsoa-Lee as Tommy Greenway; Brian Moll as Alf Muldoon

It Isn't Catching Is It?

Episodes 427-428
Written by Tony Morphett (427) and David Boutland (428)
Directed by Chris Adshead

Shirley is furious at Frank's attitude towards her turning fifty. Peter is worried that Donna is becoming involved with a con-artist. A shy man with facial deformities is admitted to hospital. Frank can't understand Shirley's negative reaction to her surprise birthday party. Terence worries that Alex is forgetting one of her patients' feelings when she asks to do further studies on his condition. Shirley moves out.

Guest Cast: Peter Phelps as Hector Guinness, Doug Mealing as Dennis Hardy; Matthew Nicholls as George McElroy, Gerry Skilton as Barman

Note: Peter Phelps appeared previously in episodes 11 and 12. He will later play Terence's son Christopher in several 1993 episodes

The Price You Pay

Episodes 429-430
Written by Dave Worthington and Patrea Smallacombe (429) and Shane Brennan and Forrest Redlich (430)
Directed by Greg Shears

Shirley refuses to move back home and accepts an offer to live with Maggie Sloan. A woman unable to conceive decides to find a surrogate mother. Donna takes a horse near death as a result of starvation under her care. The practical realities of using a surrogate mother cause nightmares for the people involved. Donna is left semi-conscious with only Jo to help her after she is kicked in the head by a horse.

Guest Cast: Roslyn Gentle as Amy Carter, William Zappa as Paul Carter, Kim Trengove as Rosanne Kay, Ian Mortimer as Mr Davis

A Question of Attitude

Episodes 431-432
Written by Bill Searle (431) and Carol WIlliams (432)
Directed by Mike Smith

Terence is lost for words when his ex-wife Rowena and son CK arrive at the clinic without warning. A drunk driver causes a car accident involving one of the hospital staff. Matron Sloan reprimands Donna for avoiding her nursing duties with one of her patients. CK tries devious means to bring Terence and Rowena together. Donna learns the hard way that when it comes to animals, you sometimes have to be cruel to be kind. Shirley decides it's time to move back home.

Guest Cast: Carmen Duncan as Rowena Elliott, Nicholas Riggs as C.K. Eiiliott, Bernadette Hayes as Sue Daley, Paul Gleeson as Tony Gray, Pauline Brockett as Nurse, D.J. Foster as Worker No. 1, Keith Holloway as Worker No. 2, Steve Shaw as Worker No. 3; John Fitzgerald as John Shaw

Notes: Paul Gleeson returns in a starring role from 1993-94 as Ian McIntyre (from episode 1051). Carmen Duncan last appeared as Rowena Elliott in episodes 33-34

The Things You Learn

Episodes 433-434
Written by Margaret Mitchell (433) and Leon Saunders (434)
Directed by Robert Meillon

When Rowena declares that she is broke, CK decides to quit school and join the work force. Peter becomes disillusioned when Alex pays no attention to his advances. Terence causes an argument with Rowena when he blames her for CK wanting to quit school. Alex and Peter help a man come to terms with being illiterate and prove it is never to late to learn to read and write. Matron Sloan devises a plan to show CK that being a member of the work force isn't as glamorous as he believes.

Guest Cast: Brian Moll as Alf Muldoon, Carmen Duncan as Rowena Elliott, Susan Leith as Ellen Nicholson, Warren Jones as John Nicholson, Nicholas Riggs as C.K. Eiiliott, Mark Fairall as Foreman, Dene Kermond as John Nicholson Jnr.

Playing House

Episodes 435-436
Written by Patricia Johnston and Patrea Smallacombe (435) and Patrea Smallacombe (436)
Directed by Peter Maxwell

Alex worries about a young couple's ability to cope with parenthood. When Bob states that city people can't find their way in the bush, Ben decides to take up the challenge. Terence is confused by the emotions he's feeling towards Rowena. The strain of nursing a new baby takes its toll on a young mother. Romance blossoms in the Elliott household when Terence and Rowena realise the attraction for each other is still very much alive.

Guest Cast: Carmen Duncan as Rowena Elliott, Nicholas Riggs as C.K. Eiiliott, Maureen Elkner as Liz Bryant, Joanne Aarts as Pam Marshall, Jeremy Shadlow as Trevor Marshall, Mark Stockley as Davo, Rhiannon Coulton as Megan Marshall

Early Stages

Episodes 437-438
Written by Betty Quin (437) and Stephen Measday (438)
Directed by Chris Adshead

Esme is excited about the prospect of meeting an old friend. A man has to decide whether to give up his daughter because of ailing health. The locals decide to perform a play for the benefit of the school kids. The Valley residents put on a hilarious performance of "A Midsummer Night's Dream" as you've never seen it before. Ben assists the medical profession when he diagnoses the illness of one of the hospital's patients.

Guest Cast: Carmen Duncan as Rowena Elliott, Nicholas Riggs as C.K. Eiiliott, Elaine Lee as Lillian Saunders, Jim Kemp as Dan Richards, Emily Leiding as Penny Richards, Shauna Eggins as Ballet Teacher; [not available]

Note: Betty Quin is the aunt of fellow scriptwriter Patrea Smallacombe

Growing Pains

Episodes 439-440
Written by Dave Worthington (439) and Graeme Koetsveld (440)
Directed by Leigh Spence

Rowena applies for a job at the local television station. A woman who lives for her daughter's success pays the price when she is admitted to hospital suffering from exhaustion and malnutrition. Bob and Cookie venture into the perfume business. Donna and Ben's curiosity gets the better of them when a mysterious parcel arrives for Peter. Terence and Rowena make a decision about their relationship.

Guest Cast: Carmen Duncan as Rowena Elliott, Nicholas Riggs as C.K. Eiiliott, Judi Connelli as Janice Stewart, Nadine Garner as Bonnie Stewart, David Downer as Ian Hunt, Alan Light as Elderly Man, Hendrika Koster as Girl in Club, Trisha Starrs as Directors Assistant, Clayton Buffoni as Floor Manager; Johnathan Biggins as Graham

Out of Proportion

Episodes 441-442
Written by Carol Williams (441) and David Allen (442)
Directed by Robert Meillon

A student teacher, conscious of her size, becomes the recipient of some cruel jokes by Peter's pupils. Tensions surround the Elliott house when Rowena prepares to leave. Burrigan High prepares for a school debate against their arch rivals at Foxwood. Ben advises Terence to give CK some breathing space. Alex decides it's time to confront Peter, but things don't go as planned.

Guest Cast: Fiona Press as Kathy Webster, Carmen Duncan as Rowena Elliott, Nicholas Riggs as C.K. Eiiliott, Louise Cogan as Fiona McKenzie, Darren Percival as Darren Greenway, Kristen Mann as Truckie, Kylie Clare as Louise Williams, Vanessa Lee Johnson as Claire Summerton; Vincent Ball as Ted Campbell, Sally McLennan as Heather

Hidden Extras

Episodes 443-444
Written by Bill Searle (443) and Tim Pye (444)
Directed by Peter Maxwell

A young couple move into a house on a new estate and find they are in over their heads. Bob collapses after working at the housing estate and Alex is unable to determine the cause. There is tension between Alex and Matron Sloan as they battle against time to save Bob and Alex has to make a quick decision, one that Matron Sloan doesn't agree with. The locals battle against Muldoon to save the young couple's house.

Guest Cast: Bernadette Hayes as Sue Daley, Ruth Caro as Jill Coleman, Christopher Cummins as Brett Coleman, Guy Le Claire as Ralph Douglas, Morna Seres as Mrs Jackson; Ric Carter as Turfcutter