Heartbreak High: episode guide


Episode 6.01 (131)

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Written by Peter Kinloch
Directed by Geoff Bennett

Tension are running high as the Hartley High kids start at their new school, Hartley Heights. None seems to suffer more than Anita who, after having a cruel prank played on her, is elected to the Student Representative Council at Principal Di Barnett's suggestion. Anita's intention is to give the Hartley High students a voice at their new school but the others on council have no interest in listening to her concerns.

Frustrated by the abuse she and her friends are being subjected too, Mai takes matters into her own hands but a costly prank results in a suspension. Les Bailey is also adjusting to the new school and a new job as the science and maths teacher. He clashes with Principal Barnett as the two side with their own students on a number of issues. When a student is injured prior to the annual Hartley Heights Blade Run (a race around the main quad), Di Barnett cancels the event, telling the students that the race is not to be held under any circumstances. Drazic reads this as a challenge and is determined that the race will happen. Drazic sets a new record time, but more importantly, he earns some acceptance for the Hartley High "rejects". Ryan wastes little time in zeroing in on the best looking girl at the Heights, Nikki. However, the path of true love is never a smooth one as the resident jock, Kurt, also has an interest in Nikki.

Starring: Callan Mulvey as Drazic, Rel Hunt as Ryan, Fleur Beaupert as Nikki, Jeremy Lindsay Taylor as Kurt, Rebecca Smart as Melanie, Lara Cox as Anita, Andrea Moor as Di Barnett, Tina Bursill as Hilary, Peter Sumner as Les, Nina Liu as Mai

Guest Cast: Jim Holt as Tony Black, Putu Winchester as Dennis, Lillian Nassour as Yvette, Scott Crawford as Manolo

Note: Fleur Beaupert, Jeremy Lindsay Taylor, and Andrea Moor (who also serves as the drama coach ) join the cast

Episode 6.02 (132)

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Written by Serge Lazareff
Directed by Geoff Bennett

Kurt doesn't seem to have too many problems — he is popular, good looking and good at sport. But he has a secret — Kurt is mortally embarrassed by his alcoholic father, Barry. When Di Barnett approaches Kurt's retired football star dad to coach the school touch football team, Kurt is angry that she didn't consult him first. Les is horrified when Di Barnett suggests Anita as "the face of science" for a Department of Education promotion to encourage girls to take up science. Di loves the idea but Les feels Di is exploiting Anita, who has no actual interest in science and has even approached him to drop the class causing Melanie to call her a hypocrite. Anita is stuck in the middle. With Leo Fine on the run from the law, Melanie's dad has become the new owner of the Shark Pool. To Mai and Drazic's delight, Tony Black seems content be a hands-off manager, but Melanie has other ideas. She thinks the Shark Pool needs to be managed properly for a change, and sets out to protect her father's investment.

Guest Cast: Andy Anderson as Barry Petersen, Jim Holt as Tony Black, Putu Winchester as Dennis, Veronica Porcaro as Roxy, Elvis Taoiul as Elvis, Gandi Agus as Paolo

Episode 6.03 (133)

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Written by Sally Webb
Directed by Lyn Hegarty

The newest addition to the staff at Hartley Heights High School, Humanities teacher Gerard Albers, is an eccentric and flamboyant bohemian from Spain who is just as at home on the touch football field as he is in the classroom. However, Albers makes himself unpopular in his very first class when it looks like he will be favouring students from non-English speaking backgrounds. After becoming aware of the resentment in the yard, Albers decides to teach the kids a lesson about prejudice. Hilary has finally graduated with her postgraduate psychology degree but the moment is bittersweet as she is faced with a life-altering decision: should she move to Melbourne to pursue a job offer or stay with her children? With the prospect of having the house to themselves, Anita and Ryan offer their mother all the encouragement they can. Ryan encourages Nikki to enter a talent quest at a local pub. Everything goes well and Nikki wins her heat but the evening is marred when Ryan is brought home by the police after geting in a scuffle with another patron. Ryan is unable to attend the finals the next evening so Kurt steps in to support Nikki. Has Ryan lost his chance?

Guest Cast: Frederick Miragliotta as Albers, Nick Jasprizza as Pat, Stephen Younie as Drunk, Satoshi Orino as Satoshi, Nancy Terdix as Spoon Player, Daryl Shaw as Country & Western Singer, Janine Penfold as Hysterical Mother, Mark Kounnas as Constable Perugio

Note: Tina Bursill's last episode and Frederick Miragliotta's first. He appeared in guest role way back in episode 1.14 and starts here as a guest before being elevated into the main cast in the next episode

Episode 6.04 (134)

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Written by Lisa Hoppe
Directed by Malcolm McDonald

When Les confiscates a Penthouse magazine from Drazic in class, he has no idea what the consequences will be. Drazic takes revenge by sticking a centrefold on one of Les' Biology teaching aids. However, Drazic's prank gets out of hand after Les refuses to react and is subsequently made the subject of an official sexual harassment complaint by Melanie and Nikki and is suspended. Furious about this over-reaction, Les quits leaving Drazic to ponder the consequences of his actions. Mai and Drazic find themselves without a home when they are served with an eviction notice. Ryan reluctantly agrees to let them move in with him and Anita assured it will be only temporary. Mai quickly finds a new warehouse but she and Drazic must wait a week before they can move in. However, when Drazic and Anita enjoy playing house, they decide to make it permanent. Mai is furious that she is left without a flatmate and Ryan is equally unhappy at the prospect of having Drazic living with him. For Mai, the solution is easy: just tell Anita how glad she is to be rid of Drazic and his bad habits. Much to Ryan's annoyance, Nikki invites Kurt to a party to celebrate her success in the pub talent quest. However, she is made to regret the invitation when Kurt endangers her career by embarrassing her in front of a record company executive.

Guest Cast: Domenic Galati as Mike Serafini, Nick Jasprizza as Pat

Note: Peter Sumner's last episode, he started in episode 99

Episode 6.05 (135)

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Written by Lisa Hoppe
Directed by Malcolm McDonald

New student Andrew arrives at Hartley. Although he has Muscular Dystrophy and is in a wheelchair, he is determined to be treated like a normal teenager. Albers asks Melanie to show him around and make him feel welcome, but Andrew resents the whole idea. Jeff Scheppers arrives to look after Ryan and Anita and goes out of his way to be the dutiful father. Anita doesn't appreciate it when he starts laying down the law to her, especially when Ryan appears to be able to do whatever he wants. Drazic and Mai are struggling with the higher rent at their new warehouse and can't afford to buy much food — they almost resort to eating leftovers at the Shark Pool! Things get really desperate so Mai decides to do a "stock take" at the Shark Pool in which she and Draz are a little over-zealous with their health and safety standards, taking a huge haul of food home. When Tony realises what's going on, Drazic loses his job forcing Mai to come forward and make things right.

Guest Cast: Jim Holt as Tony Black, David Price as Andrew McReady, Andrew McFarlane as Jeff Scheppers, Patrick Tonatora as Esteban Fernandez, Elvis Taduil as Elvis, Sylvia Bonsu as Skye, Peter Damian Hayes as Cab Driver, Brad Hills as Young Male Attendant

Episode 6.06 (136)

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Written by Kevin Roberts
Directed by Malcolm McDonald

Melanie and Andrew seem happy together but as opposition to their relationship mounts, Melanie starts having second thoughts. She is amazed by Andrew's fierce reaction when she suggests they cool things off until after the HSC until Mr. Albers explains that Andrew doesn't have a lot of time to waste... he is dying. Wanting to make the most of their time together, Melanie decides to drop out of school so they can go to Tasmania together.

When Kurt's father doesn't turn up for football practice, Kurt and Ryan take over but disagree on coaching methods and Ryan storms off. On his way home he finds Barry slumped over drunk in the driver's seat of his car. Ryan takes him home and helps sober him up and the two bond over common interests. Kurt is appalled when he arrives home and finds Ryan — his family secret has been exposed.

Mai, so often the activist, feels humiliated when Di chastises her in class for wasting paper. In an act of revenge, she and Nikki decide to test the theory that you can learn a lot about someone from what they throw away and use Di as the unwitting subject of a science project.

Guest Cast: Andy Anderson as Barry Petersen, Jim Holt as Tony Black, David Price as Andrew McReady

Note: Rebecca Smart's final appearance (she started in episode 95). This is also the last we see of Jim Holt who plays Melanie's father.

Episode 6.07 (137)

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Written by Phil McAloon
Directed by Geoff Bennett

Albers decides to teach a history class with a twist when he asks the class to put Arthur Phillip on trial. Was Arthur Phillip a good man or did he knowingly attempt to carry out genocide on the Aboriginal people? A fight breaks out when Kurt, role playing as Governor Phillip, takes offence to Ryan's prosecution tactics which bring the academic exercise too close to home.

Mai and Drazic need a flatmate to help pay the rent. Drazic lets his friend D'espo move in, but when he arrives in the middle of the night he does not endear himself to Mai. D'espo attempts to drive a wedge between Mai and Drazic and it appears to be working until he resorts to racial slurs to denigrate Mai.

Jeff disappears to pick up his girlfriend, Sharon, from the train station. He returns with Sharon — and their three month old son, James. Anita is furious that Jeff neglected to tell her and Ryan about their new half-brother and is offended twice over when Jeff also forgets to mention that he and Sharon are christening James at the end of the week.

Guest Cast: Andy Anderson as Barry Petersen, Andrew McFarlane as Jeff Scheppers, Laura Keneally as Sharon, Putu Winchester as Dennis, Mario Gamma as D'espo, Ary Anni Sunartha as Kathy, Elvis Taouil as Elvis

Note: Mario Gamma will return in a starring role from 151

Episode 6.08 (138)

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Written by Keith Thompson
Directed by Geoff Bennett

Anita and Ryan are not coping well with the 4am wake up calls from baby James. Jeff feels bad — he came here to help the kids through the HSC but he seems to be making things harder for them. He has a decision to make — either stay and jeopardise the kids' HSC or take Sharon and the baby back to Newcastle… what will he decide?

Kurt, worried about his father's drinking, drives him to work everyday so he doesn't drive drunk and is furious when he inadvertently discovers Barry lost his job several weeks ago. In an effort to placate Kurt, Barry promises to change his ways but Kurt is disappointed once again when Barry arrives to Parent/Teacher night intoxicated.

Mai, desperate for a story for the school paper, gets an idea when she hears Nikki complaining about being short of cash after busking all morning. The paper is released with an article about struggling students. Nikki furiously confronts Mai about invading her privacy but Mai is adamant — kids should not be ashamed of their financial situation.

Guest Cast: Andy Anderson as Barry Petersen, Andrew McFarlane as Jeff Scheppers, Laura Keneally as Sharon, Putu Winchester as Dennis, Linda Pereira as Bella, Carmen Werrington as Karen, Chris Vaughan as Chris, Jake & Dylan Craft as Baby James, Elvis Taouil as Elvis

Episode 6.09 (139)

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Written by Howard Griffiths
Directed by Karl Zwicky

Anita and Ryan are enjoying life without parental supervision until Kath Livingstone, a housekeeper hired by their father, arrives with her daughter, Sarah. Kath is strict in her ways and makes it clear that she is not impressed — Ryan and Anita need to clean up their act.

Di Barnett is anxious when a Hartley High student is stabbed in a fight at a bus stop. She decides to consult a security firm and introduces bag searches at the school gates. The kids are incensed at this invasion of their privacy and appeal to Ms Barnett to change her mind but she is immovable — the kids' safety is paramount. It is not until Draz ends up in serious trouble after a prank that Di is forced to rethink her policies.

Kurt tells Nikki about his interest in marine biology but when she finds out Kurt is too frightened to apply for a job at the aquarium, she loses all respect for him.

Guest Cast: Roger Ward as Jon Pavlovic, Putu Winchester as Dennis, Christian Vodika as Serge, Alan Cinis as Gregory, Colette Bruss as Aquarium Assistant

Notes: Nathalie Roy and Elaine Hudson join the main cast. Alan Cinis appears in his third guest role: Wozza in 1.19, Stan in 5.02 and 5.07, Gregory in 6.09

Episode 6.10 (140)

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Written by Howard Griffiths
Directed by Karl Zwicky

Nikki is furious when Kurt continuously puts his love for the environment ahead of her. However, he reveals the cause of his fanaticism: a seal at the Aquarium is on the brink of death because it swallowed a plastic bag, and Nikki and Kurt decide they will have to find a compromise between their personal lives and their love for the environment. Ryan tries to impress Nikki with his record company contacts, but when they let him down, he is left to pay. Anita takes Sarah under her wing, including her on her dates with Drazic. Draz, annoyed by the constant third wheel, sabotages Sarah's promise to her mother to be home early and Sarah is subsequently grounded for a month. Draz is not in Anita's good books. Mai is being stalked by a new boy at school but all is not what it seems and Mai gets caught up in a potentially dangerous situation when she decides to help the boy who is in the country illegally.

Guest Cast: Ponsinh Boutkaska as Stanley, Russell Newman as Mr Reynolds, Michael Scali as Grunt, Giordano Gangl as Clifton, Putu Winchester as Dennis, Mark Fitzpatrick as Officer Worker, Colette Bruss as Aquarium Assistant

Episode 6.11 (141)

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Written by Tim Gooding
Directed by Jessica Hobbs

When Sarah helps Anita and Drazic discover the Internet, she inadvertently gets them both into trouble. Anita is wooed by a man calling himself DJ Byron and she puts herself in a dangerous situation when she agrees to meet him. Drazic has a run-in with Customs officials when he tries to import CDs to sell to his school mates. Both learn a tough lesson. While Nikki is filming Mai performing as a human sculpture in the local mall they inadvertantly record a pickpocket working the crowd. They discover the crime while watching the tape in class and debate what action to take. Embarrassed when his dad turns up to footy practice drunk following his failed job interview, Kurt sacks him as coach and takes over himself. Not everyone is pleased with Kurt's unilateral decision and Ryan quits the team. However it seems that there may be more behind Ryan's departure — Kurt and Nikki are now an item but Ryan refuses to believe that he's lost Nikki just yet.

Guest Cast: Andy Anderson as Barry Petersen, Putu Winchester as Dennis, Craig Blair as DJ Byron, Lauren Jefferies as Thief, Elvis Taouil as Elvis, Chris Vaughan as Chris, David Gubbay as Tobacconist, Jai Kemp as Customs Officer, Anita Varga as Romy, Stewart Armstrong as Security Guard

Episode 6.12 (142)

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Written by Chris Roache
Directed by Jessica Hobbs

Ryan, still smarting over Kurt and Nikki's blossoming relationship, is staying away from the football team but his father manages to persuade him to rejoin for an inter-school competition. However, prompted by Kurts constant teasing, Ryan high tackles him and Kurt ends up in hospital with spinal injuries uncertain if he will ever walk again. Will Ryan ever be forgiven or forgive himself? Mai organises for a student helpline to be run at night from the warehouse but Drazic is annoyed by the intrusion. He is scournful of the idea until he is confronted with a suicidal caller. Anita and Sarah sign Kath up with the 'Mate for Life' dating service in the hopes that she might become a happier person with a man in her life. When a strange man turns up on their doorstep, Anita and Sarah realise they may have overstepped the bounds.

Guest Cast: Andy Anderson as Barry Petersen, Putu Winchester as Dennis, Jenny Apostolou as Doctor, John Flower as Ian Lovell, Marcel Bracks as Dave, Chris Vaughan as Chris

Note: Marcel Bracks will join the cast in 6.23 as Lee Delaine

Episode 6.13 (143)

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Written by David Phillips
Directed by Andrew Prowse

After putting Kurt in hospital, Ryan finds he is being ostracised at school. Feeling sorry for himself, he wags school and meets Mario, a shady character who offers him a way out of his depression. And so, Ryan begins his trip into the drug culture. Kurt is on the mend but Barry's fussing and pampering is getting on his nerves. In an effort to redirect Barry's attention, Kurt and Nikki talk the local football club into making a tribute cabinet with all of Barry's trophies. At the club, Barry runs into an old friend who offers him a job as a barman. Will Barry be able to keep his alcoholism under control enough to take the job he needs so desperately? When the kids begin to study Jim McNeil's play, How Does Your Garden Grow, Kath is furious — she thinks it is obscene and pulls her daughter out of class. Kath convinces Di to drop the play from the school syllabus causing Sarah to feel the wrath of the other kids. Can she find a way to appease everyone?

Guest Cast: Andy Anderson as Barry Petersen, Putu Winchester as Dennis, Kel Graham as Will Fegan, Michael Raft as Mario

Episode 6.14 (144)

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Written by Lisa Hoppe
Directed by Andrew Prowse

Now well and truly entrenched in the world of drugs, Ryan is at the point where speed is costing him more than he can afford. Desperate for more drugs, Ryan begins to steal, first from Anita and then from the school. Drazic sees what's happening with Ryan but Anita refuses to believe her brother would get involved with drugs. When she discovers Ryan with stolen goods, she is left with the task of making him see sense. When Albers sets a project focusing on personal histories, Sarah sets out on a journey to find out about her father. She may not be pleased with what she finds out. Kurt's return to school brings back memories of his accident, and Nikki is concerned that no one knew what to do when the accident happened. She convinces Di to run a voluntary basic first aid course but has trouble getting Drazic and the other boys to participate. It is not until she reveals her secret weapon that they finally come around.

Guest Cast: Putu Winchester as Dennis, Michael Raft as Mario, Rachel Cleland as Vicki, John Simmons as Bill "Caretaker", Craig Corsetti as Ambo

Episode 6.15 (145)

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Written by Sally Webb
Directed by Malcolm McDonald

When Ryan is late for class again, and hasn't done his major assignment, Barnett hauls him over the coals. Ryan refuses to be helped by her or anyone else and walks out before he can be suspended from school. When he complains to his dealer that he is lacking in funds, Mario offers him a way out — he can deal for him. Can Ryan possibly stoop so low or will he realise where his life is heading? Kurt and Mai convince Nikki to enter a radio competition singing on Jumpin Jack Jet's amateur hour. Later, Nikki is contacted by an A&R person for an up-and-coming record company wanting to sign her up. Mai finds out that Nikki is being conned but Nikki, blinded by the stars in her eyes, refuses to believe her. Can Mai convince Nikki before she is hurt? Against Kath's wishes, Sarah agrees to fill in for Mai at the Shark Pool. Draz has a field day — giving Sarah all the menial tasks. In a down moment, Draz leaves Sarah to cope on her own. However, the Shark Pool is never quiet for very long and it soon appears that Sarah is in above her head.

Guest Cast: Shane Porteous as Jumpin Jack Jet, Putu Winchester as Dennis, Michael Raft as Mario, Bill Conn as Rev. Mel Harris, John Tawadros as Bobby, Rebecca Bell as P.A., Jade Gatt as Dino, Hugo Gilbert as Young Thug, Georgie Johnson as Male Singer, Nathalie Bassingthwaite as Young Girl Singer [v/o]

Episode 6.16 (146)

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Written by Kevin Robers
Directed by Malcolm McDonald

Sarah enlists Anita's help to find her father but Kath makes it very clear that they'll receive no assistance from her. After pursuing a series of false leads Sarah finally uncovers his identity and is thrown into the middle of a scandal. Mai is robbed while working at the Shark Pool. She feels even more traumatised when she realises that the robber has taken her house keys. Drazic is unusually protective and sits up all night keeping watch. However, when Mai can't sleep, he suggests she get into bed with him and one thing leads to another. Drazic is instantly and sincerely remorseful — how can he explain to Anita? Ryan, still coming down from his flirtation with drugs, returns to school to find himself ostracised — it appears his educational return will be short-lived. Albers discovers that because the school tennis court is disused and in need of repair, the education department is considering selling off the land. He conceives a plan to both rehabilitate Ryan and restore the court in one hit.

Guest Cast: Putu Winchester as Dennis, Justin Lepani as Iain, Mark Kounnas as P.C. Perugia, John McKenzie-Low as Frank Wills, Dan Smith as Biker/Robber, Bill Conn as Rev. Mel Harris (uncredited)

Episode 6.17 (147)

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Written by Johanna Pigott
Directed by Karl Zwicky

While busking, Nikki meets Luda, a recording artist who wants to record one of her songs. Overjoyed, Nikki joins Luda in her studio to produce the song, but refuses to take any part in the contractual details of their partnership. When the CD is finished, Nikki ends up with no credit and it appears it is too late to do anything about it. This is a hard lesson for her to learn. Devastated after learning the identity of her father, Sarah lets loose her rebellious streak and finds herself suspended after slapping headmaster Barnett in the middle of class. When Kath threatens her with abuse charges, Sarah decides to take matters into her own hands and marches down to the police station to give herself up throwing Kath into an embarrassing situation. After their night together, Mai continues to pursue Drazic who is busy finding various excuses to keep them apart. Kurt is inveigled into helping Drazic set up an aquarium at the warehouse… which turns into an overnight stay… which turns into a few more days stay… which turns into Kurt moving in. Mai gets the message and confronts Drazic — ending with a promise to control her feelings but this could be easier said than done!

Guest Cast: Anja Coleby as Luda, Putu Winchester as Dennis, Chris Maxfield as Constable, William Burns as Blader #1, Harley Imber as Blader #2

Episode 6.18 (148)

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Written by Keith Thompson
Directed by Karl Zwicky

Since Mai and Drazic's liaison, things in the warehouse have been somewhat tense. As the new arrival, Kurt feels that maybe he's the problem but Anita assures him he isn't and when he suggests a dinner party to get things back on track Anita agrees to help him. The party isn't a jovial affair and Anita gets an inkling of what's up. Her suspicions are confirmed by Mai who, struggling with her conscience, comes clean. Anita is more upset that Drazic didn't tell her than she is about what happened. She dumps Drazic who is left devastated. Ryan, who's turned over a new leaf, volunteers to help Kath at the local retirement home. There he strikes up a friendship with Harold, a feisty retired musician, and the pair bond over their mutual love for music. When it comes to Ryan's attention that Harold is broke because his pension goes straight to the retirement home manager, he thinks Harold should get to keep the pension he is entitled. When Harold tells Ryan he can't afford his visits any longer, Ryan smells a rat. Kath is sceptical when Ryan tells her that the manager, Mrs MacDonald, is ripping off the residents, but this is eventually confirmed and Mrs MacDonald is sent packing. Sarah has returned to school on probation after slapping Barnett. Di makes her help out in the office so that she can keep an eye on her but Sarah resents it and plans her revenge. She plants a virus in Di's computer causing a hard disk crash. Just when it looks like a speech that Di has to give to an area teachers meeting is lost, Sarah makes herself look good by saving the day only to be found out eventually by Barnett.

Guest Cast: Martin Vaughan as Harold, Maggie Dence as Mrs MacDonald, Wally Nash as Pianist, Jean Taylor as Woman #1, Elizabeth Baker as Woman #2

Note: Lara Cox appears to cut Callan Mulvey on the bridge of his nose when she throws her drink in his face

Episode 6.19 (149)

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Written by Chris Phillips
Directed by Richard Jasek

When JJ, a prisoner on day release, begins working at the school, he runs into some prejudice from the kids. All that is, except Sarah who, upon talking to JJ, realises they have a lot in common and quickly begins to fall in love. Kath is extremely unimpressed with the recent changes in Sarah but her continual pushing and prodding cause Sarah to leave home. How will Sarah explain to her mother and her friends that she is in love with a man of whom none of them approve? When Albers introduces practical parenting as a class unit, Kurt and Nikki are roped into taking on the role of parents to a simulated baby. However, they do not become a blissful family unit, and after a couple of nights with no sleep because of a crying baby, Kurt decides to do something about it. Ryan agrees to Drazic's proposal that the two make some money playing two-on-two together at the local basketball courts. For Ryan it is a way to make some money so he can but a new pair of basketball shoes, while Draz is just looking for a way to get back into Anita's life.

Guest Cast: Simon Lyndon as JJ, Putu Winchester as Dennis, Chris Vaughan as Chris, Anita Varga as Romy, Sonny Arifian as Zac, Ari Stein as Bundy, Damian Babb as Eugene, Darren Cole as Cosmo, Eloise Gormley as Sophie, Vinita Singh as Rose Courier

Episode 6.20 (150)

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Written by Serge Lazareff
Directed by Richard Jasek

Despite her mother's objections and threats, Sarah continues her relationship with JJ. Kath decides her relationship with her daughter is the most important thing and finally, reluctantly, agrees to live with the situation for the time being. However, it appears Kath won't have to live with it for too long when Sarah catches JJ with another girl. Could this be the blow that sends both mother and daughter back to the country? Kurt takes Nikki to an expensive restaurant for her birthday and is horrified when she orders the lobster. However, Nikki changes her mind when the waiter asks her to come and choose which one she'd like boiled. The next day they pool their money to buy the lobster, planning to keep it in the aquarium at the warehouse until the tide is right to liberate it. Unfortunately for the crustacean, it is Drazic's night to cook and he has decided on pasta marinara. The girls feel they have no space for themselves at school — wherever they turn they are being barged, bashed or tripped over by boys playing games. A play they are studying gives them the idea to segregate themselves from the male-dominated playground. Led by Anita, the girls convince Di to create a Girls Only room but this only serves to further divide the sexes. It is not until Anita realises that her actions have been motivated by her feelings for Drazic that the situation is resolved.

Guest Cast: Simon Lyndon as JJ (uncredited), Putu Winchester as Dennis, Kelly Butt as Sibby, Maria Compton as Kylie, Chris Vaughan as Chris, Anita Varga as Romy, Elvis Taouil as Elvis, Gary Scale as Waiter, Jan Ringrose as Marj, Ben Cornwall as Skate/Blader, Adam Lindblom as Pianist

Note: Elaine Hudson's last episode, Nathalie Roy temporarily departs

Episode 6.21 (151)

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Written by Peter Kinloch
Directed by Steve Mann

Deciding to refocus his life on getting back in shape, Kurt has a chance meeting with Lachlan, an old friend who is now running a fitness club that is also dedicated to cleaning up the environment. Lachlan's ideas on fitness are somewhat unusual but his social views are extreme and Kurt soon falls under his spell. Drazic is taken aback to learn the Shark Pool has been bought by none other than D'espo, his stereo-stealing mate. D'espo is eager to turn the place around, whatever the cost, and begins by reducing portions, watering down the drinks, and serving stale food. With her busking revenue drying up, Nikki is convinced her career is over and that she is a has-been before she's even been a someone. Ryan persuades Nikki to showcase her talent properly by making a music video to market her songs.©tzuk

Guest Cast: Putu Winchester as Dennis, Kim De Lury as Lachlan, Leah Tansey as Skye, Paul Kelman as Phil, Mark Johnstone as Moose, Alan Mundy as Buyer, Luke Ashwood as [Homeless Youth], David Anderson as Clarrie, Casey Holloway as Busker

Note: Mario Gamma joins the starring cast. Luke Jacobz (credited as Luke Ashwood) appears as one of the homeless kids, he will join the main cast as Zac Croft in episode 187

Episode 6.22 (152)

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Written by David Phillips
Directed by Steve Mann

Kurt and Lachlan discover Skye and her friends camping in the park and try to move them on. Things heat up when Lachlan and Anita later find Lachlan's club house has been vandalised. Anita recognises Skye's graffiti style and goes in search of an explanation. When Lachlan and his mates decide to escalate matters, Kurt must choose which side he is on. Coming off the success of Nikki's music video, Mai is in search of new projects. Nikki believes her music career is about to take off when she is told a record executive has taken notice of her music video. Unfortunately when she goes to meet him, she learns he is not interested in her music but Mai's filmmaking. Albers weights a job offer as the artistic director of a regional theatre company while Mai must decide about a job offer of her own, a one-shot chance to make another music video. Between fending off advances from D'espo's girlfriend, Drazic hires Ryan to work at the Shark Pool. D'espo comes up with another controverisal promotion for the Shark Pool which involves tricking customers into believing they have a chance to win a car.©tzuk

Guest Cast: Putu Winchester as Dennis, Kim De Lury as Lachlan, Leah Tansey as Skye, Paul Kelman as Phil, Melanie De Ferranti as Jasmina, Geiordano Gangl as Clifton, Mark Johnstone as Moose

Note: the last episode for Nina Liu (she debuted in 104) and Frederick Miragliotta (133)

Episode 6.23 (153)

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Written by Lisa Hoppe
Directed by Karl Zwicky

Lee Delaine has two strikes against him: he's the newest student at Hartley Heights and his father is the school's new Humanities teacher. Lee tries to keep their relationship a secret to ease his way into the student populace but the truth is quickly revealed. Desperate to make friends, Lee agrees to Drazic's initiation test which sees him land in detention for smoking in the school yard. Matters take a dangerous turn when Drazic's next dare sends Lee up onto the school's roof. Kurt recruits Anita to help him buy a ring for Nikki but he is shocked when Nikki breaks up with him. Tired of taking grief from Drazic at the Shark Pool, Ryan is ready to quit his job until D'espo promotes him to the prestigious position of Manager of Special Functions. Nikki grows weary of Ryan's smothering attention.©tzuk

Guest Cast: Putu Winchester as Dennis, Michelle Wright as Clare, Damian Bradford as Ryan Double, Steve Morris as Nat Double, Dan Smith as Lee Double

Note: John Walton, Morna Seres, and Marcel Bracks join the cast as the Delaine family.

Episode 6.24 (154)

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Written by Howard Griffiths
Directed by Karl Zwicky

Sarah is back at Hartley having finally left home and returned to the city. She has rented a flat, but her landlord, who is abusing his wife, keeps trying to chat her up. Ryan encourages her to just move back in with him and Anita but Sarah is determined not to turn her back on her abused neighbour — even if she refuses her help. Lee tries to ingratiate himself with Anita and Nikki by helping them buy a car from his mother but has some explaing to do when Jill can't accept the special deal he's promised his friends. Kurt and Dranzic, both single and enjoying the life of bachelors, hit the town only to fall for the same girl.

Guest Cast: Putu Winchester as Dennis, Anna Hruby as Sharon Ikin, Chris Cummins as Brian Ikin, Melissa Kounnas as Penny, Stewart Armstrong as Car Salesman

Episode 6.25 (155)

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Written by Sally Webb
Directed by Jessica Hobbs

When Drazic throws himself into designing a new type of skate, Di suggests he consider a career in industrial design. Draz takes an immediate interest but Di tells him if he wants to go on and get a university degree in design he will have to focus on his studies and take extra courses. When Mr Delaine gives his class a confidential IQ test, Nikki objects to the very notion, anticipating a cultural bias, while Drazic blows off the apparently meaningless test in typical fashion. Lee, tormented by Drazic at every turn, takes a look at the test results and revels in telling everyone that Draz finished bottom of the class. In light of his test results, Di suggests Draz reconsider his career path and accept his limitations. Kurt becomes Anita's fitness trainer, but he soon realises he has a rival. Anita prefers Paul's training methods over Kurt's leading to a jealousy-fueled fitness challenge and a new friendship that leaves Anita sitting on the sidelines. While helping Sarah move in to the Delaine's house, Ryan accidentally breaks a picture frame. Sarah has a replacement made hoping it won't be noticed but is unaware of the frame's great sentimental value.

Guest Cast: Putu Winchester as Dennis, Mark Slater as Paul, Julian Leather as Hans, Elizabeth Williams as Craft Lady

Episode 6.26 (156)

Written by Kevin Roberts
Directed by Jessica Hobbs

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Believing she's on a date with Paul, Anita is taken aback when he recoils from her attempted kiss. When she presses him for an explanation, Paul reveals that he is gay. Kurt and Paul have been getting on well together, busily training together for a kayaking competition, but after Anita tells Kurt about Paul being gay, Kurt distances himself from his friend, going so far as to speak out against homosexuals in class. Is their friendship over? While working on a Communications assignment together, Lee discovers that Sarah is in love with Ryan. She's too shy to tell him, so Lee decides to help things along by slipping her secret admirer letter into Ryan's locker. When Ryan reads the letter aloud in class, treating it like a joke, Sarah is crushed. Hoping to make amends, Lee tells Ryan everything but when Ryan asks Sarah out, she turns him down thinking he's only doing it out of pity. Nikki successfully campaigns to bring healthy food to the school canteen. Drazic leads the backlash and sets up a rival shop with D'espo in the schoolyard selling the kids the food they want. However, Nikki and Di don't make it easy on the entrepreneurs.©tzuk

Guest Cast: Putu Winchester as Dennis, Mark Slater as Paul, Lois Ramsey as Ethel, Chris Maxfield as Policeman, Brett Wilson as Official

Episode 6.27 (157)

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Written by Johanna Pigott
Directed by Ian Watson

Nat Delaine's old friend, Pat Gregory, takes up a teaching post at Hartley, but soon runs into trouble with Lee who is still having difficulty fitting in. Taking advantage of the rumoured trade in black market car parts going on in the schoolyard, Lee orchestrates an elaborate scheme to discredit Gregory. Ryan and Sarah's romance hits a snag when he wants to take her to the opening of a new dance club. Believing she's the only person incapable of dancing, Sarah agrees to some lessons from D'espo but when Ryan walks in on them, he jumps to the wrong conclusion. Kurt takes the blame for Nikki and Anita when the girls vandalise a controversial advertisement and he's left holding the spray can when the police arrive. Di rewards Kurt's apparent altruistism by naming him the school's representative to a feminism conference.

Guest Cast: Putu Winchester as Dennis, Alan Cinis as Pat Gregory, Mark Kounnas as P.C. Perugia, Chris Vaughan as Chris, Stephen Younie as Mechanic, Jan Ringrose as Passer-By, Lauren Farry as Photographic Model; Line dancers: Melanie Waters, Patricia Kattz, Zoe Trilsbach, Simon Lind, Kieren Kulik

Episode 6.28 (158)

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Written by Serge Lazareff
Directed by Ian Watson

With his parents waiting for him to choose a new school to attend, Lee shocks them by announcing he is not going to change schools... he's dropping out. Angered by his father's continual comparisons to his seemingly perfect dead brother, Lee succumbs to the pressure and runs away. Di Barnett teaches her class about the stock market. Despite their contrasting investment philosophies, Nikki and Ryan make it to the head of the class... but there can only be one winner. Spurred on by her success in class, Nikki tries her hand at investing with actual money hoping to buy Dennis' new bike. Drazic's jealousy, and temper, emerges when Kurt and Anita start going out.

Guest Cast: Putu Winchester as Dennis, Sam Toomey as Roger

Episode 6.29 (159)

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Written by Peter Kinloch
Directed by Paul Faint

Nikki turns moral crusader when she learns that her friend's mother is being exploited by her boss. Nikki takes it upon herself to demand he pay his workers a fair wage but her meddling only causes more problems when Tasha's mother is fired and Tasha is forced to leave school to find a job.

In response to an innocent comment by Drazic about no relationship being perfect, Sarah and Ryan consider changes to their images in an effort to please one other. Drazic has some fun at his friends' expense and encourages Sarah to get a nose ring while suggesting to Ryan that Sarah has an issue with his hair.

Complaints from the public about the behaviour of Hartley Heights students prompts Barnett to select a student to give a talk on the subject of school spirit to the senior students and a number of community leaders. When Mr Delaine nominates Anita, she panics at the thought of speaking in public having already frozen up infront of her classmates.©tzuk

Guest Cast: Putu Winchester as Dennis, Bojana Novakovic as Tasha, Joseph Utchitel as Zoltan, Biljana Novakovic as Olga, May Pussey as Mrs Hadley, Meighan Williams as Punk

Episode 6.30 (160)

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Written by Chris Phillips
Directed by Paul Faint

Di informs the students that the school has installed an ID card system as part of an "efficiency measure". Among other things, the cards record attendance, a system Drazic is quick to capitalise on resulting in attendance skyrocketing... suspiciously so. Di is concerned about Nikki's slipping academic performance and the confrontational attitude she has developed of late. When Nikki is banned from borrowing books from the library and is then evicted from her locker, she boils over and destroys the ID card system.

Anita and Sarah are excited at having gotten their learners permits. While Ryan refuses to teach Sarah to drive, explaining it would be a "relationship breaker", Kurt is persuaded to give lessons to both Anita and Sarah but his patience is quickly put to the test. His patronising and sexist comments don't help matters either.

To get Lee off the couch, Nat tries to get his son interested in sport and asks Ryan to take Lee to a football match. Sensing an opportunity, Ryan exploits the situation for all it's worth. Lee backs out when he discovers his father is paying Ryan to spend time with him, but Ryan convinces him to go anyway and embrace a new experience. Lee gets a little too into the experience and gets himself and Ryan into a fight with some opposing fans before the match even starts.©tzuk

Guest Cast: Putu Winchester as Dennis, Lisa Armytage as Librarian, Andy Pike as Bruiser, Shane Daly as Dog Supporter, Anita Varga as Romy

Episode 6.31 (161)

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Written by David Phillips
Directed by Jessica Hobbs

In a well-intentioned effort to help Sarah overcome her inhibitions, Ryan volunteers her to perform a play in front of the class. Seeing a chance to help Kurt explore his sensitive side, Anita nominates him to be Sarah's partner. However, after watching the pair perform a romantic scene together, Anita and Ryan suspect there may be something going on between them. Perhaps they're right.

Di organises a work experience job for Drazic in the automotive industry but washing cars for Jill at the car yard is not what he had in mind. Fortunately, the perks are easy to come by and with a little initiative, Drazic is soon transformed into a charismatic pitchman for a series of tv commercials.

Nikki makes a stand against animal cruelty, but when Lee joins her in a protest against hunting in the wetlands, her passion nearly gets Lee shot. It won't be the last time Lee get's shot down…©tzuk

Guest Cast: Putu Winchester as Dennis, Errol Henderson as Wayne, Gary McGuire as Trevor, Alex Silverman as Mime Artist, Fred Rouady as Mechanic, Cramer Cain as Director

Episode 6.32 (162)

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Written by Howard Griffiths
Directed by Jessica Hobbs

Wanting to take her relationship with Ryan further, Sarah asks Nat and Jill if she can have a friend stay the night. Unaware she means Ryan, they are quick to agree and the evening is awkward for everyone involved… except for Lee who enjoys stirring the pot. Uncomfortable with the whole situation, Nat asks Sarah to reconsider her plans.

With Drazic in demand for another set of commercials for the car lot, D'espo inserts himself as Drazic's personal manager, an arrangement he assures Drazic will pay off… minus his 25% of course. When Drazic holds up the commercial shoot while searching for his "motivation", Jill is motivated to look for a new star.

After being knocked back by Anita more than once when he has asked her out, Kurt's jealousy gets the better of him and he begins following Anita to see where she's going in her free time. Seeing her with another guy, Kurt confronts him and beats him up unaware he is nothing more than Anita's driving instructor.©tzuk

Guest Cast: Putu Winchester as Dennis, Tasneem Roc as Mariel, Fred Talib as Josh, Tony Senese as Male Shopper, Cramer Cain as Director

Note: look for future HBH star Tasneem Roc in a brief guest role at the start of the episode as the girl who recognises Drazic.

Episode 6.33 (163)

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Written by Sally Webb
Directed by Ian Watson

After Anita spends the night with Kurt at the shed, Drazic doesn't appreciate Kurt rubbing his nose in their relationship and asks him to move out. However, Kurt has no intention of leaving and suggests if Drazic's not happy, HE should be the one to move out.

Hartley's basketball team has made the playoffs for the first time and Anita has volunteered to film the game. Drazic has no desire of working with Kurt and little interest in playing basketball. He provokes a brawl with the other team and the Hartley squad is disqualified. When a rival student is injured and assault charges become a possibility, Anita's video becomes an important piece of evidence — against Drazic. When Kurt threatens to take the video to the police, Drazic, who is still on a court ordered behaviour bond, asks Anita to intervene.

Nikki's new-found love of astrology convinces her that she, an Aquarius, needs to go into business with Sarah, a Virgo. Convinced the "stars" will look out for them, Nikki ignores her school work to concentrate on their business but the intensity of her commitment overwhelms Sarah.

Nat's class discussion on gender roles prompts the guys into joining D'espo's paintball retreat. After convincing Di of the benefits of learning to develop "real" leadership skills, Nat leads the boys into battle.©tzuk

Guest Cast: Putu Winchester as Dennis, David Kerslake as Mr Wallace, Amber Virtue as Amber, Chris Maxfield as Policeman, Ken Honeyset as Referee

Episode 6.34 (164)

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Written by Kevin Roberts
Directed by Ian Watson

With a virtual Cold War existing at the shed between Kurt and Drazic, Kurt conspires with their realtor to orchestrate a scheme to break their lease by getting evicted. Kurt secretly plans to re-rent the place on his own but when Drazic discovers the realtor plans to hike the rent, Kurt has second thoughts about the whole thing.

Following a presentation to the class, Anita volunteers to help at a halfway house for the mentally disabled. Despite being the only one of her friends to volunteer, she is surprised to see Dennis there. She's even more shocked to learn his brother is the one she's been spending time with.

Encouraged by Ryan, Lee puts his musical talents to use in an effort to win the affections of a girl. When that fails, Lee invites her to a party that coincides with his parents' impromptu vacation plans. Nikki misreads Ryan's friendly support for something more. She is convinced Ryan is not over her and is coming on to her.©tzuk

Guest Cast: Putu Winchester as Dennis, Kirsten Lee as Josie, Linden Wilkinson as Mrs Swain, Chris Vaughan as Chris, Saxon Graham as Michael, Noel Hodda as Bob Rainer, Nick Brusic as Man #1

Episode 6.35 (165)

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Written by Johanna Pigott
Directed by Lynn Hegarty

Nikki's behaviour is becoming erratic. She has missed two days of school and when she returns, wet from being in a fountain where she was talking to a cherub, Lee becomes concerned for her welfare. When she tries to share her fountain experience with him, Lee realises there is something seriously wrong with Nikki's state of mind. Concerned for his friend, Lee asks her to spend the night at his place but the next morning Nat immediately jumps to the wrong conclusion. However, after Nat and Jill witness Nikki's extreme behaviour first hand, they come to learn Nikki's parents have kicked her out and have her admitted for a psychiatric evaluation.

With an important science test looming, Ryan is handed a gift from the school photocopier — a copy of the exam paper. Sarah is offended he would even consider taking the test already knowing the answers and when Barnett warns him of the consequences of cheating, Ryan is left no choice but to tank the exam.

Kurt's jealousy is triggered when he discovers Anita still has a photo of Drazic in her wallet. Anita tries to accommodate Ryan but his growing paranoia and controlling behaviour become too much for her to take.©tzuk

Guest Cast: Putu Winchester as Dennis, Anthony Lawrence as Doctor

Episode 6.36 (166)

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Written by Serge Lazareff
Directed by Lynn Hegarty

Kurt takes up the cause of helping find a mate for Wally the sea turtle. With charitable donations hard to come by, Kurt accepts help from D'espo who comes up with a racy promotion for a dance night at the Shark Pool. The event is set to make a tidy profit but once D'espo's assorted fees are deducted, there's little money left prompting a change of plans.

Concerned for how his friend Harold is coping at the retirement home, Ryan decides he needs a change of scenery and talks Drazic into letting Harold move into the shed. All appears well at first but Drazic soon realises they are in over their heads and Harold needs help they can't give him.

Lee spends all of his free time at the hospital hoping to see Nikki but finds it difficult to accept her request that he not visit her. With medication stabilising her condition, Nikki is released from hospital to resume her schooling but a rough welcome from Draz and Dennis sets her back. Lee tries to help her but Nikki she pushes him away again.©tzuk

Guest Cast: Putu Winchester as Dennis, Martin Vaughan as Harold, Kate Sheil as Matron, Anthony Lawrence as Doctor, Kelly Butt as Sibby, Anita Varga as Romy

Episode 6.37 (167)

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Written by Chris Roache
Directed by Paul Faint

After a humbling defeat on the tennis court at the hand of a visiting tennis ace, Kurt takes a personal interest in Bonnie Coyne but her intense training schedule — and demanding mother — keep the pair apart.

With Ryan's presence at the Delanie home increasing, Nat tries to have a quiet word to Sarah about seeing less of him but the delicate nature of the situation is lost on Ryan who refuses to accept he is as pushy as others say he is. His solution is to make dinner for everyone — at the Delaines. Realising he needs a place of his own, Ryan moves in with Drazic.

Drazic's mouth earns him two weeks detention from Barnett but his automotive skills earns him a reprieve from the classroom and a glimpse into Di's personal life when she gives him the opportunity to work on her car in lieu of detention. It is a glimpse he's glad to share at $10 a copy — until he witnesses Barnett in a vulnerable moment.©tzuk

Guest Cast: Putu Winchester as Dennis, Tasmin Carroll as Bonnie, Judy Morris as Fiona

Episode 6.38 (168)

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Written by Craig Wilkins
Directed by Paul Faint

To mark Ryan's move into the shed, Sarah gives him a clock that is family heirloom. Needing money to buy a bed, Ryan turns down Sarah's offer of a loan and then takes Drazic's suggestion that he pawn the clock. Sarah asks Lee to play detective to find out what he's done with the clock and together they conspire to teach Ryan a lesson.

As part of a science project, Barnett asks the students to bring in urine samples. After Drazic embarrasses Dennis in class, Dennis exacts his revenge by doctoring Drazic's specimen to make it appear he has diabetes. Suddenly aware of his mortality, Drazic becomes a changed man, and of course... revenge is sweet.

Bonnie's big break into the tennis world arrives in the form of a six figure management contract but Kurt makes a surprising discovery that reveals just how much Bonnie has sacrificed for her sporting career. Unfortunately, her mother has little interest in shifting her daughter's focus off tennis and Bonnie drops out of school. Confronted by her illiteracy, Bonnie makes a difficult decision.©tzuk

Guest Cast: Putu Winchester as Dennis, Tasmin Carroll as Bonnie, Judy Morris as Fiona, Anthony Ingersent as Mr Jacobsen, Ken Honeyset as Referee

Episode 6.39 (169)

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Written by David Phillips
Directed by Jessica Hobbs

A radio contest for a state-of-the-art sound system catches Drazic's ear. "The Wheelie Challenge" is an endurance challenge that has the competitors riding a Ferris wheel. Drazic and Kurt are two of the lucky ones chosen to participate giving the feuding duo a chance to spend some time together — a lot of time. But is it enough to allow them to resolve the issues between them?

While paired together for a school project on politicians and government, Lee discovers Nikki is plagiarising her work. When Mr Delaine challenges her, he gives her a chance to rewrite the assignment but the extra stress leads Nikki to make an important decision about her future at Hartley.

Ryan and Anita find themselves on opposite sides when a local park becomes the target of developers. The siblings learn a lesson in compromise and in the end, neither is happy with the result.©tzuk

Guest Cast: Putu Winchester as Dennis, Chris Vaughan as Chris, Ursula Brooks as Candy, Ric Herbert as Compere, Scott McRae as Fuller, Carmen Russo as Ruth, Laurie Foel as Amanda

Notes: Fleur Beaupert's last episode (she began in 131). Ursula Brooks (the girl on the Ferris wheel) is married to doctor/actor/Australian Survivor host Jonathan LaPaglia

Episode 6.40 (170)

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Written by Alan Love
Directed by Jessica Hobbs

Kurt's sudden disruptive behaviour escalates until he assaults Mr Delaine in the corridor and is suspended from school. Di reports the incident to the police but Nat is more interested in uncovering the reason for Kurt's behaviour.

Lee is horrified at having to wear the ugly vest his mother has bought him. Further humiliation comes when Jilly discusses his childhood crush on a teacher with Sarah.

In an effort to break out of their routines, Ryan and Drazic turn their lives over to chance, leaving all their decision making to a pair of dice found in a cereal box. Their game soon takes an ugly turn with whatever may have been left between Anita and Drazic apparently lost for good.©tzuk

Guest Cast: John McNeill as Detective Bareson, Chris Maughan as Chris, Carla Bignascia as Admired Girl

Note: a guest star from episode 131, Putu Winchester is finally elevated into the opening credits

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