McLeod's Daughters: episode guide


Overview

Begin a fond farewell to a long-time TV favourite as the last series of this epic Australian drama returns with all the hardship, beauty and romance of the land.

The final series opens with the shocking news that someone is missing after the terrifying car accident involving Grace, Riley, Tayler and Patrick that closed out the last series.

This season the program will welcome some new and interesting faces, including guest stars Martin Lynes (All Saints) and Alex Cook (Love My Way), a father and daughter who desperately need help from the women of Drovers Run.

Grace's sister, Jaz McLeod, (Edwina Ritchard) returns with a dark secret. Can the sisters overcome their differences for the good of Drovers Run? And when Stevie's cousin, Ben Hall, (John Schwarz) arrives to lend a helping hand he sets hearts racing.

Romance is in the air as new couples hook up and old ones reunite, while a love triangle causes havoc for the women.

The birth of Stevie and Alex's baby brings happiness and joy, but is tragedy just around the corner?

This series will also feature an all-singing and dancing musical episode, and some familiar characters return to Drovers Run as well.

Aftermath

Episode 8.01 (203)
Written by Margaret Wilson
Directed by Arnie Custo
Australia: Wed, July 23, 2008 (8.30pm)
New Zealand: September 18, 2008
Ratings: 1.089 million viewers (15th for the night)

Kate is obsessed with proving that Riley survived the Christmas night car accident.

Grace searches for the mysterious person who saved her life in the car accident.

After his lucky escape from the car crash, Patrick feels invincible and risks his life to prove it.

Ingrid is forced to reveal a dark secret — she is on the run from an abusive husband.

The Drovers girls use old world technology to repair their windmill, which broke and fell during the recent flood.

  • Guest Cast:
  • Aaron Jeffrey as Alex Ryan,
  • Peter Hardy as Phil Rakich,
  • Rachael Coopes as Ingrid Marr,
  • Gus Murray as Father Dan,
  • Robert Shook as Patrick Stunt Double,
  • Emma Cook as Kate Riding Double,
  • Jackie Boyd as Tayler Wagon Double,
  • Brendan Dodds as Frank/Man Pic Double

The Pitfalls of Love

Episode 8.02 (204)
Written by Nick Stevens
Directed by Arnie Custo
Australia: Wed, July 30, 2008
New Zealand: September 25, 2008
Ratings: 0.880 million viewers (21st)

Grace and Marcus are trapped at the bottom of an abandoned mine shaft. Will help arrive before Grace succumbs to hypothermia?

Kate helps Father Dan by caring for a cantankerous elderly woman, who makes her life a misery — but also has some useful advice for grieving Kate.

Tayler is nervous about taking her relationship with Patrick to the next level and Phil goes to extreme lengths to woo back Moira.

  • Guest Cast:
  • Peter Hardy as Phil Rakich,
  • Rachael Coopes as Ingrid Marr,
  • Gus Murray as Father Dan,
  • Maggie Blinco as Mrs McEvoy,
  • Benjamin McNair as Tim Dolan,
  • Rosie Denny as Tracey,
  • Robert Shook as Marcus Stunt Double,
  • Sarah Grieve as Grace Stunt Double

Wild Ride

Episode 8.03 (205)
Written by James Walker
Directed by Steve Mann
Australia: Wed, August 06, 2008
New Zealand: October 02, 2008
Ratings: 0.931 million viewers (18th)

Stevie's wild-at-heart former rodeo mate Sharon visits Drovers and turns everyone's lives upside down.

Marcus sacrifices his chances in a major horse endurance race to save Ingrid from an abusive rider.

Kate is feeling increasingly dissatisfied with her life, and throws herself into her new role as overseer. But is this enough for her?

  • Guest Cast:
  • Peter Hardy as Phil Rakich,
  • Rachael Coopes as Ingrid Marr,
  • Gus Murray as Father Dan,
  • Anita Hegh as Sharon Buckingham,
  • Jonathan Bennett as Peter,
  • Dean Baker as Haig
  • Reece Horner as Nat,
  • Graham Ware Jnr as Freddie
  • Jamie Harding as Simmo,
  • Terry Rogers as Strapper,
  • Jo Dunston-Kreig as Elise,
  • Carmel Margaritis as Pregnant Woman #1,
  • Sally Addison as Pregnant Woman #2,
  • Lyndall Nonyane as Pregnant Woman #3,
  • Lisa Diekman as Pregnant Woman #4,
  • William Dewsbury as Haig Riding Double,
  • Graham Ware Jnr as Marcus Riding Double

Nowhere to Hide

Episode 8.04 (206)
Written by Sarah Duffy
Directed by Steve Mann
New Zealand: October 09, 2008
Australia: Sat, December 06, 2008 (8.30pm)
Ratings: 0.575 million viewers (11th)

Kate is raring to finish her pipe project when she comes across a young man, Jamie, broken down on the stock route.

Kate assumes it must be her camp man and the pipe project takes a back seat. Taking Jamie's car back to Drovers Run to get it fixed, Kate tries to talk to Jamie and get him to open up about his problems. All the questions are too much and he runs, stealing her car.

Kate manages to catch him but he won't talk. She forces him to work as payment for damaging her car. Kate then discovers Jamie is not her camp man. He admits he's a runaway, fleeing from his parents' high expectations.

Kate questions her job on Drovers. Father Dan gently pushes her in the direction of a job helping troubled teens. When Jamie reconnects with his parents, Kate realises she must leave Drovers to follow her true calling.

Meanwhile, Noisy the dog is making Patrick and Tayler's nights hell, howling when Tayler's away and killing the mood when she's at home. Tayler thinks the dog is jealous of Patrick and suggests they move in together. Patrick baulks at the idea, leaving Tayler confused.

  • Guest Cast:
  • Peter Hardy as Phil Rakich,
  • Rachael Coopes as Ingrid Marr,
  • Gus Murray as Father Dan,
  • Anita Hegh as Sharon Buckingham,
  • Craig Stott as Jamie Mitchell
  • Hamish Mitchell as Bob (Horse Vendor)
  • Andy Whitfield as Brett Samuels,
  • Adam Morgan as Stock Agent
  • Jenny Heath as Sharon Riding Double,
  • Sarah Grieve as Moira Riding & Drive Double,
  • Brett Sheerin as Brett/Jamie Drive Double

Notes: after the broadcast of episode 8.03, Nine removed McLeod's Daughters from its schedule and listed the series as "Now Exclusively Online" on its website. The network resumed airing the final season on tv in December, one month after the DVDs came out, and after the remaining episodes has already aired in numerous countries around the world.

Stand By Me

Episode 8.05 (207)
Written by Sam Carroll
Directed by Richard Jasek
New Zealand: October 16, 2008
Australia: Sat, December 13, 2008 (8.30pm)
Ratings: 0.585 million viewers (12th)

There seems to be an intruder haunting Drovers. Moira is spooked by strange noises in the night, and discovers an open packet of biscuits lying on the floor of the kitchen. Possums? Then what is the noise in the laundry?

The next day she and Tayler hear mysterious footsteps crunching on the gravel, but there's no one there. Eventually they discover the culprit — a grubby, nine-year old girl called Lily.

Could she be from Kate's mystery cave-dwelling family? Moira is at once suspicious, but the others counsel patience. Lily has a quick answer for all Moira's questions, but when her dad, Frank, arrives to pick her up, Moira smells a rat. She follows him and sure enough, he floors it to get away, clearly hiding something.

Meanwhile, Moira discovers that things are going badly for Phil at the truckstop, and she develops a mysterious, itching rash. She remembers a curse she put on Phil when she was struggling to forgive him, and worries that the curse is coming back at her, bringing bad karma. She knows she has to undo the curse in order to set things right, and discovers that means being honest with Phil about how she feels.

  • Guest Cast:
  • Peter Hardy as Phil Rakich,
  • Rachael Coopes as Ingrid Marr,
  • Martin Lynes as Frank Edwards,
  • Alex Cook as Lily Edwards,
  • Scott Lowe as Jim Selkirk,
  • Denis Noble as Denny Faulkner,
  • Jenny Heath as Moira Riding Double,
  • Allen Heath as Frank Driving Double,
  • Clem Heath as Lily Picture Double

Note: young Alex Cook is best known for her ASTRA Award nominated performance in Love My Way

Close Enough to Touch

Episode 8.06 (208)
Written by Christopher D. Hawkshaw
Directed by Richard Jasek
New Zealand: October 23, 2008
Australia: Sat, December 13, 2008 (9.30pm)
Ratings: na

Stevie awakes from a dream in which she is having trouble finding Alex to help her with their new baby. She puts it out of her mind quickly, for today is the day Alex returns from Argentina. Moira helps her set up a romantic picnic spot for their first supper together since the honeymoon. And then Stevie sets off for the airstrip to collect her man. On the way she buys cheap hay, and calls Moira to get it picked up. Moira says she and Tayler will get it soon.

Alex and Stevie's reunion is blissful and as they drive back home the banter between them is affectionate — and the issue of baby names rears its head. It's been windy in the last few hours and a branch blocks their path. Stevie goes behind a tree to answer a call of nature. As she stands, there is an ominous crack above her. Alex pushes her to safety, but a large branch comes crashing down. It traps him, injuring Alex terribly.

  • Guest Cast:
  • Aaron Jeffery as Alex Ryan,
  • Peter Hardy as Phil Rakich,
  • Rachael Coopes as Ingrid Marr,
  • Gus Murray as Father Dan,
  • Ashton & Tate Hutchins as Xander Ryan,
  • Irene Dangov as Dr Shea,
  • Caleb & Cooper Marschall as Infant Boy,
  • Stefan Thomas as Alex Picture Double
  • Ingrid Kleinig as Stevie Driving Double

Bringing up Wombat

Episode 8.07 (209)
Written by Greg Millin & Justine Gillmer
Directed by Ian Watson
New Zealand: October 30, 2008
Australia: Sat, December 20, 2008

In her single-handed determination to continue Alex's work and build up Killarney for their son, Stevie overextends herself, suddenly leaving Drovers Run and making a series of rash management decisions that threaten the future of Killarney.

Her friends are helpless in trying to convince her of the mistakes she is making but are reluctant to intervene. Marcus decides he must stand by Stevie regardless of the cost but the repercussions of his decision extend into his personal life as well.

Tayler questions Patrick's commitment to their relationship while Grace decides not to even pursue her's with Marcus.©tzuk

  • Guest Cast:
  • Zoe Naylor as Regan McLeod,
  • Peter Hardy as Phil Rakich,
  • Rachael Coopes as Ingrid Marr,
  • Ashton & Tate Hutchins as Xander Ryan,
  • Carmel Johnson as Beth Martin,
  • Guy Leslie as Mal Brennan,
  • Nathan Porteus as Truckie,
  • Megan "Lee" Ibrahim as Stevie Stunt Double

Three Sisters

Episode 8.08 (210)
Written by Chris Corbett
Directed by Ian Watson
New Zealand: November 06, 2008
Australia: Sat, December 20, 2008

Jaz McLeod steps off a bus in Gungellan looking every inch a fashion plate. As she struggles to gather up her luggage she meets Ben, a handsome larrikin on the same bus. Sparks fly as he tries to free her clothes which are caught in the cargo hold. He embarrasses her, and they part ways hoping they won't see each other again.

Back at Drovers, Jaz's return seems to reawaken old tensions amongst the McLeod sisters. Grace and Jaz are so different — the rebel and the princess — and they have always clashed, leaving Regan stuck in the role of peacemaker.

Stevie, meanwhile, is glad to see Jaz — she tells her their old tensions are like water under a bridge. Jaz is sad over her loss, Alex did a lot for her. Jaz volunteers to help out around the farm, but when she goes to get some jeans she discovers she's picked up the wrong bag at the bus stop. After helping Marcus out of a bog, Ben introduces himself — Ben Hall, Stevie's cousin. Patrick fears Tayler has baby fever.

  • Guest Cast:
  • Edwina Ritchard as Jasmine McLeod
  • John Schwarz as Ben Hall
  • Zoe Naylor as Regan McLeod,
  • Peter Hardy as Phil Rakich,
  • Ashton & Tate Hutchins as Xander Ryan,
  • Phil Monaghan as Truck Driver,
  • Paul Davies as Coach Driver,
  • James Anfiteatro as Mini Patrick,
  • Trinity Tilley as Mini Tayler,
  • Jenny Heath as Grace Riding Double,
  • Melissa Katrutz as Regan Riding Double,
  • Emma Cook as Jaz Riding Double,
  • Annette Van Morsel as Grace Driving Double

Notes: Jaz McLeod first appeared in episodes 4.29 and 4.30 played by Anna Torv who now stars in the US Fox Network's new series Fringe. John Schwarz previously appeared in episode 6.14 as Mark Weatherdon. The short clip of Jaz in the "previously on" segment was re-shot with Edwina Ritchard. This is writer Chris Corbett's first episode of MD having written for Stingers and Blue Heelers previouly.

Dammed

Episode 8.09 (211)
Written by Peter Dick
Directed by Arnie Custo
New Zealand: November 13, 2008
Australia: Sat, December 27, 2008 (9.40pm)

The girls mobilise the local community to prevent a massive dam being build upstream.

When Olympic-hopeful Jaz finds herself voluneered to be the face of the anti-dam campaign, she soon finds herself being blackmailed by pro-dam farmer Terri Barker, who threatens to reveal an explosive secret from Jaz's past unless Jaz convinces her sisters to support the dam and accept the government's compensation.

Patrick's brief trial as he new overseer on Killarney ends in disaster.

  • Guest Cast:
  • Peter Hardy as Phil Rakich,
  • Rachael Coopes as Ingrid Marr,
  • Ashton & Tate Hutchins as Xander Ryan,
  • Martin Lynes as Frank Edwards,
  • Alex Cook as Lily Edwards,
  • Scott Lowe as Jim Selkirk,
  • Gus Murray as Father Dan,
  • Leah Purcell as Terri Barker,
  • Carmel Johnson as Beth Martin,
  • Reece Horner as Nat,
  • Marco Lukic as Linesman #1,
  • Steve Rudd as Linesman #2,
  • Jessica Plush as Andrea
  • David Pearce as Blues Player,
  • Deanna Ortuso as Blues Player,
  • Matt Lively as Blues Player,
  • Anthony Lamond as Blues Player,
  • Bradley Butliva as Blues Player,
  • Corrie Maccini as Red Player,
  • Johnnie Ricci as Red Player,
  • Jeremy Aubert as Red Player,
  • Chris Wilson as Marcus Stunt Double,
  • Michael Duncan as Ben Stunt Double,
  • Julie Reynolds as Beth Picture Double

Notes: Edwina Ritchard and John Schwarz have been added to the opening credits.

Mother Love

Episode 8.10 (212)
Written by Sally Webb
Directed by Arnie Custo
New Zealand: November 20, 2008
Australia: Sat, December 27, 2008 (10.40pm)

Tayler's and Patrick's happy domesticity is disrupted when Tayler's mother, Jane, returns. Jane wants to set the record straight with her daughter about why she left, but Tayler is wary.

Frank's daughter, Lily, is distressed by the constant upheavals in her life. She wants a settled home, but she's pretty sure she can only get this by leaving her beloved father to live with her mother.

Meanwhile, Xander has not smiled yet, and it's worrying Stevie immensely. When Xander does smile, first, for Moira, and then for everyone in the house except Stevie, the Drovers women decide to keep it a secret.

  • Guest Cast:
  • Rachael Coopes as Ingrid Marr,
  • Ashton & Tate Hutchins as Xander Ryan,
  • Martin Lynes as Frank Edwards,
  • Alex Cook as Lily Edwards,
  • Trudy Hellier as Jane Barbara Geddes,
  • Scott Lowe as Jim Selkirk

Note: Trudy Hellier first appeared as Tayler's mother in episode 7.29 (when she was named Barbara)

Bright Lights, Big Trouble

Episode 8.11 (213)
Written by Liz Doran & Jane Allen
Directed by Grant Brown
New Zealand: November 27, 2008
Australia: Sat, January 03, 2009 (9.30pm)

Grace, Jaz, Marcus and Frank head off to the city to confront the Minister responsible for a dam proposal that will take away their water. Marcus manages to get in to see Ayres and arranges a meeting for later that day. But instead of the face-to-face they'd imagined, Ayres leads them directly into a press conference.

Meanwhile, Phil gives Moira a gift, the script of his musical — "The Girl from Gungellan". Moira reads it and is overwhelmed to find the main character is based on her.

It's Stevie and Alex's first wedding anniversary but Stevie wants to forget about it. Moira dresses Xander in pink to help Stevie with her grieving. Stevie leads the others in a toast to Alex.

  • Guest Cast:
  • Peter Hardy as Phil Rakich,
  • Rachael Coopes as Ingrid Marr,
  • Martin Lynes as Frank Edwards,
  • Ashton & Tate Hutchins as Xander Ryan,
  • Robert Grubb as Tim Ayers,
  • Toby Schmitz as Scott Johnson,
  • Peter Hosking as Groundsman,
  • Doug Wiggins as Journo #1,
  • Stephen Degenaro as Journo #2,
  • Ezra Juanta as Throwing up Backpacker,
  • Grahame Ware Jnr as Ben Riding Double,
  • Jenny Heath as Moira Riding Double

Note: see article McLeod's stars heckled in Mall

Love and Let Die

Episode 8.12 (214)
Written by Nick Stevens & Alexa Wyatt
Directed by Grant Brown
Australia: Sat, January 03, 2009 (10.30pm)

Jaz is taken aback when Lily reveals her dad Frank is talking about proposing to her. Jaz thought she'd put the kiss with Frank to bed — it happened in the heat of the moment, but now knows she was wrong.

Meanwhile, Frank's hopes for a stable family life take a pounding when he learns that his ex-wife has a new job in Queensland and intends to take Lily with her.

Marcus is still searching through Bryce's old papers in a last ditch attempt to dig up some dirt on Ayres. He and Grace go through every one of the archive boxes, but nothing comes to light.

  • Guest Cast:
  • Peter Hardy as Phil Rakich,
  • Rachael Coopes as Ingrid Marr,
  • Martin Lynes as Frank Edwards,
  • Alex Cook as Lily Edwards,
  • Ashton & Tate Hutchins as Xander Ryan,
  • Gus Murray as Father Dan,
  • Robert Grubb as Tim Ayers,
  • Toby Schmitz as Scott Johnson,
  • Patrick Frost as Neil Thompson,
  • Scott Lowe as Jim Selkirk,
  • Simon Leonard as Ambo #1,
  • Peter McConnell as Ayres' Driver,
  • Shea Adams as Frank/Marcus Stunt Double

A Dog's Life

Episode 8.13 (215)
Written by Justine Gillmer
Directed by Steve Mann
Australia: Sat, January 10, 2009 (9.30pm)

Ben's ex-girlfriend, Monique is playing on his mind. He tries to contact her with no luck, and resigns himself to another day in the district without her. Meanwhile, Marcus has been looking for a new overseer for weeks. Clashing constantly with Ben, neither of them can accept that Ben is right for the job. Marcus isn't offering and Ben wouldn't take it — or so they say.

With the district Yard Dog trials approaching, Ben is unexpectedly befriended by a border collie. Marcus, however, is unaware of this, and unwittingly denies any knowledge about the dog to its irate owner, the burly, heavily tattooed Trevor. When Marcus finds out, he insists they take the highly trained dog back. But when Ben steals the dog back, believing it's being abused, Marcus is furious — Ben has got them into even more trouble.

  • Guest Cast:
  • Peter Hardy as Phil Rakich,
  • Rachael Coopes as Ingrid Marr,
  • Ashton & Tate Hutchins as Xander Ryan,
  • Eddie Baroo as Trevor Cherry,
  • Georgia Adamson as Lou-Anne Cherry,
  • Philip Dodd as Sergeant Oliver,
  • Joanne Dunston-Krieg as Elise,
  • Patrick Frost as Neil Thompson,
  • Antje Guenther as Jacqui,
  • Tristan Hudson as Declan,
  • Reece Horner as Nat,
  • Carmel Margaritis as Mum #1,
  • Sally Addison as Mum #2,
  • Lisa Diekman as Mum #3,
  • Jim Willoughby as Yard Dog Trial Judge,
  • Coral Fortune as Competitor #1,
  • Anthony Fotheringham as Competitor #2,
  • Michael Tekel as Competitor #3,
  • Kit Fortune as Competitor #4,
  • Kerry Hoare as Competitor #5,
  • John Hentschke as Competitor #6

My Prince Will Come

Episode 8.14 (216)
Written by Michaeley O'Brien
Directed by Steve Mann
Australia: Sat, January 10, 2009 (10.30pm)

After finding Annie, her showjumping horse from Europe, grazing in the windmill paddock, Jaz is surprised to discover she has been personally delivered by Mischa, her friend from Europe who happens to be a wealthy prince. The others are stunned to discover he is also Jaz's ex-boyfriend of two years

Jaz is thrilled to see her beloved horse, and riding Annie again reminds her of exactly what she is missing with her career. Jaz has no evidence to prove her innocence before the hearing in Europe and Mischa's offer of a means to clear her name comes at a cost. Can Jaz trust Mischa's motives for coming to Australia and is she willing to sacrafice her intergity for the sake of the career she loves?

Phil encourages Moira to consider their plans for the future, such as leaving Drovers Run.

  • Guest Cast:
  • Peter Hardy as Phil Rakich,
  • Rachael Coopes as Ingrid Marr,
  • Ashton & Tate Hutchins as Xander Ryan,
  • Gus Murray as Father Dan,
  • Radek Jonak as Prince Mischa,
  • Carole Skinner as Helga,
  • Rikki Van Gyen as Helga Driving Double,
  • Emma Cooke as Jaz Riding Double,
  • Allen Heath as Prince Mischa Riding Double

Snogging Frogs

Episode 8.15 (217)
Written by Christopher D Hawkshaw
Directed by Richard Jasek
Australia: Sat, January 17, 2009 (7.30pm)

Concerned for Jaz getting caught up in Mischa's scheme to clear her name, Grace threatens to report him to the officials if he puts Jaz at risk by going through with his plan.

Moira debates telling Phil she is pregnant for fear of his reaction but when she does reveal the news, his reaction is far from what she expected.

Marcus helps Stevie set aside her grief to attend the charity ball.

Jaz uncovers the terrible truth behind her horse's failed drug test.

Tayler's new "study buddy" has Patrick concerned.©tzuk

  • Guest Cast:
  • Peter Hardy as Phil Rakich,
  • Rachael Coopes as Ingrid Marr,
  • Gus Murray as Father Dan,
  • Radek Jonak as Prince Mischa,
  • Ashton & Tate Hutchins as Xander Ryan,
  • Ben Milliken as Wolfgang Hunter
  • Rosie Denny as Tracey,
  • Justin Pounsett as Band Member #1 (Keyboards),
  • Claudio Villaroel as Band Member #2 (Guitar),
  • Malcolm Sutton as Band Member #3 (Drums),
  • Emma Cooke as Jaz Riding Double,
  • Jenny Heath as Grace Riding Double

The Merry Widow

Episode 8.16 (218)
Written by Sarah Duffy
Directed by Richard Jasek
Australia: Sat, January 17, 2009 (8.30pm)

Stevie and Marcus become the subject of small town gossip when a photo of them dancing at the charity ball is published in the local newspaper. While Marcus does his best to combat the rumours, Stevie fears history may be repeating itself.

With the rumours costing Drovers' a sale to Fisher Meat Works, Tayler is determined to uncover the skeleton in owner Ted Franklin's closet. Along the way, she learns that Patrick may be leaving.

After growing closing to Grace, Father Dan makes a difficult decision about his future.

Stevie faces her first night away from Xander when she goes on an overnight drove.

With parenthood looming, Moira and Phil plans for their future family are dealt a tragic blow by a sudden loss.©tzuk

  • Guest Cast:
  • Peter Hardy as Phil Rakich,
  • Rachael Coopes as Ingrid Marr,
  • Gus Murray as Father Dan,
  • Ashton & Tate Hutchins as Xander Ryan,
  • Roger Newcombe as Ted Franklin,
  • Carmel Johnson as Beth Martin,
  • Hamish Mitchell as Ned Ford,
  • Bridget Walters as Mrs Tilden,
  • Michael Allen as Billy Timms
  • Bianca Djurdjecvic as Stripper

Show Pony

Episode 8.17 (219)
Written by Chris Corbett
Directed by Arnie Custo
Australia: Sat, January 17, 2009 (9.30pm)

Unable to use Annie as a work horse following a costly accident, Jaz, with help from Ben, must try to determine what is spooking her horse if she hopes to use her at Drovers.

While helping two police detectives with their investigation into local cattle thefts, Grace discovers that some of the new Drovers cattle are stolen.

While helping Ingrid with her appointment schedule, Tayler messes things up and decides to pose as Ingrid's assistant, giving help to frustrated farmers over the phone.

Moira and Phil come to terms with their loss while the unexpected appearance of an unwelcome face from Ingrid's past has her prepared to bolt.©tzuk

  • Guest Cast:
  • Peter Hardy as Phil Rakich,
  • Rachael Coopes as Ingrid Marr,
  • Ashton & Tate Hutchins as Xander Ryan,
  • Daniel Whyte as Paul Simpson,
  • Ben Geurens as Geoff Gardiner,
  • Warwick Wimmer as Alan Richardson,
  • Guy Leslie as Mal Brennan,
  • Sarah Grieve as Jaz Stunt Double,
  • Melissa Karutz as Stevie Riding Double,
  • Jenny Heath as Grace Riding Double

Note: Now playing Ingrid's husband, Daniel Whyte appeared as another police officer, Dan Nugent, in episodes 5.02, 5.07 and 5.18

Every Move You Make

Episode 8.18 (220)
Written by Jane Allen
Directed by Arnie Custo
Australia: Sat, January 17, 2009 (10.30pm)

When Drovers Run is hit by cattle thieves, Ingrid finds herself in the unwelcome position of having to interact with her husband, Detective Paul Simpson. Ingrid is concerned for Marcus' safety should Paul learn of their relationship but the others aren't quite convinced there's anything to worry about, frustrating Ingrid who lives in constant fear, having seen first hand what he is capable of. Pushed too far, Ingrid takes matters into her own hands.

Tayler and Patrick receive their essay scores in mail. Patrick is elated by his "A" but Tayler is not so fortunate and hides her failing mark. Stressed about rewriting the paper, Tayler seizes on an offhanded comment by Stevie and turns to the internet for quick help.

Phil is on the verge of selling the truckstop to begin his life with Moira and is caught unprepared for her admission that despite being happy about their first, unplanned, pregnancy, she doesn't want to have another baby.©tzuk

  • Guest Cast:
  • Peter Hardy as Phil Rakich,
  • Rachael Coopes as Ingrid Marr,
  • Ashton & Tate Hutchins as Xander Ryan,
  • Daniel Whyte as Paul Simpson,
  • Ben Geurens as Geoff Gardiner,
  • Leon Stripp as Outraged Motorist,
  • Reg Roordink as Truck Driver,
  • Sarah Grieve as Jaz/Grace Stunt Double,
  • Amanda Graver as Ingrid Stunt/Driving Double

Into Thin Air

Episode 8.19 (221)
Australia: Sat, January 24, 2009 (10.00pm)
Written by Hamilton Budd & Justine Gillmer
Directed by Steve Mann

Out of hospital after being shot, Ingrid's husband Paul is determined to get his wife and he will not let anyone stand in his way.

Alarmed at having the brakes on her truck tampered with, Ingrid is ever more concerned for her safety as well as that of her friends who doing their best to keep her safe. Marcus vows to protect her regardless of the cost but Ingrid has made plans of her own.

When Marcus finds Ingrid's truck abandoned and Ingrid no where to be found he fears the worst. However, a letter soon reveals her plan to fake an accident and escape but did she have time to implement her plan or has Paul already found her?©tzuk

  • Guest Cast:
  • Zoe Naylor as Regan McLeod,
  • Rachael Coopes as Ingrid Marr,
  • Ashton & Tate Hutchins as Xander Ryan,
  • Daniel Whyte as Paul Simpson,
  • Ben Geurens as Geoff Gardiner,
  • David Gamblin as Sgt Hartmann,
  • Julian Jones as Motel Clerk,
  • Simon Leonard as Ambo #1,
  • Chelsea Bruland as Stevie Stunt Double,
  • Amanda Graver as Ingrid Stunt Double,
  • Dean Gould as Paul Stunt Double

The Show Must Go On

Episode 8.20 (222)
Australia: Sat, January 24, 2009 (11.00pm)
Written by John Ridley
Directed by Steve Mann

With the debut performance of Phil's musical, The Girl from Gungellan, coming fast, rehearsals' and preparations are in full swing.

Stevie is unexpectedly thrust back into the dating world when she and the new locum vet share a mutual attraction. Is she ready to date again?

Marcus is preoccupied with searching for Ingrid while Grace must decide whether to tell him of her role in Ingrid leaving.

Moira's attempts to reconcile Phil with his son but by reuniting father and son, will she lose the man she loves?

Meanwhile, Noisy gives birth and Jaz learns that Ben really does have two left feet.©tzuk

  • Guest Cast:
  • Peter Hardy as Phil Rakich,
  • Ashton & Tate Hutchins as Xander Ryan,
  • Nicholas Bishop as Russ Connors,
  • Katie Nazer-Hennings as Olivia Connors,
  • Reece Horner as Nat,
  • Tristan Hudson as Declan
  • Kate Dempsey as Dancer,
  • Alexandra McNally as Dancer,
  • Shenayde Wilkinson-Sarti as Dancer,
  • Alana Shepherdson as Dancer,
  • Brad Butliva as Dancer,
  • Steve Rudd as Dancer,
  • Jeremy Aubert as Dancer,
  • Max Trengrove as Dancer
  • Hayley Wolfendale as Finale Chorus,
  • Kira-Marie Laverty as Finale Chorus,
  • Sue Pole as Finale Chorus,
  • Taryn Trengrove as Finale Chorus,
  • April Hill as Finale Chorus,
  • Laura Wilden as Finale Chorus,
  • Sophie Wilden as Finale Chorus,
  • Louise Shepherdson as Finale Chorus,
  • Leonie Davey as Finale Chorus,
  • Mark Horner as Finale Chorus,
  • Scott Nell as Finale Chorus,
  • Gavin Cianci as Finale Chorus,
  • Geoffrey Mitchell as Finale Chorus,
  • Marley Cruse as Finale Chorus,
  • Dominic Hodges as Finale Chorus,
  • Stephen Tulip as Finale Chorus,
  • Paul Symmons as Finale Chorus,
  • Evan Lever as Finale Chorus,
  • Kylie Pedler as Finale Chorus,
  • Jenny Heath as Moira Riding Double,
  • Rachael Coopes as Ingrid Marr (voice, uncredited),
  • unknown as Phil Jr (voice, uncredited)

Into The Valley Of The Shadow

Episode 8.21 (223)
Written by Michaeley O'Brien
Directed by Richard Jasek

It is one year after Alex's death and Drovers Run is in crisis. Hit hard by the drought and facing a growing debt, the very future of Drovers Run is at stake. Stevie, determined not to be the one responsible for failing to keep the property alive, is desperately trying to make ends meet, all the while, doubting her ability to make the right decision.

With Jaz and Ben growing closer, Regan wants to Ben to deal with his past before getting involved with her sister. Little does Regan know the consequences her suggestion will have not only for Jaz and Ben's relationship, but for her and Jaz as well.

When Grace sees Ingrid in town, she must decide whether to tell Marcus.

After receiving her marks, Tayler has big plans for her future but can they involve Patrick?

Unable to locate transportation for their stock, a massive drove of Drovers and Killarney stock is organised. Failure could spell the end for Drovers Run.©tzuk

  • Guest Cast:
  • Rachael Coopes as Ingrid Marr,
  • Zoe Naylor as Regan McLeod,
  • Alex Davies as Monique Black,
  • Zayne & Eddison How as 1 yr old Xander,
  • Reece Horner as Nat,
  • Allen Heath as Ben Riding Double,
  • Sandy Hahn as Regan Riding Double,
  • Heather Currie as Stevie/Monique Riding Double,
  • Annette Warendorf as Stevie Riding Double,
  • Emma Cook as Jaz Riding Double,
  • Jenny Heath as Grace Riding Double,
  • Angela Donaldson as Tayler Riding Double,
  • Mick Van Moorsel as Patrick Motorbike Double,
  • Michael Duncan as Marcus Motorbike Double,
  • Raelene Champman as Stevie Stunt Double,
  • Annette Van Moorsel as Grace Stunt Double,
  • Sarah Grieve as Jaz Stunt Double,
  • Dean Gould as Ben Double,
  • Catherine Warnest as Stevie/Tayler Shearing Double,
  • Tamra Walter as Grace Shearing Double,
  • Steve Reynolds as Marcus Shearing Double,
  • Shannon Warnest as Ben Shearing Double,
  • Norton Warnest as Patrick Shearing Double,
  • Peter Hardy as Phil Rakich (uncredited)

Note: Alexandra Davies appeared in episodes 1.21, 2.09 and 2.10 as Briony Masters, one of Tess' friends from the city with whom she started a café before eventually returning.

The Long Paddock

Episode 8.22 (224 — series finale)
Written by Alexa Wyatt
Directed by Richard Jasek

With the future of Drovers Run on the line, Stevie musters all her determination to do the impossible. Having quelled the stamped, Drovers' stolen cattle must be retrieved and their convoy of trucks must be chased down is a high stakes cross-country ride.

Grace resolves her feeling for Marcus and faces a difficult decision; Patrick and Tayler make their plans for their futures, together; and Ben must choose between his past and his present.

Old friends and loved ones return home as the future of Drovers Run is secured for the next generation.©tzuk

  • Guest Cast:
  • Rachael Carpani as Jodi Fountain,
  • Sonia Todd as Meg Fountain,
  • Peter Hardy as Phil Rakich,
  • Rachael Coopes as Ingrid Marr,
  • Zoe Naylor as Regan McLeod,
  • Alex Davies as Monique Black,
  • Basia A'Hern as Rose Hall-Smith,
  • Nicholas Bishop as Russ Connors,
  • Katie Nazer-Hennings as Olivia Connors,
  • Bruce Venables as Bruce Creighton,
  • Reece Horner as Nat,
  • Josua Helman as Grown Up Xander,
  • Dana Miltins as Grown Up Charlotte,
  • Patrick Graham as Cattle Yard Worker,
  • Tahlia, Brooke & Kaitlyn Stacey-Clark as Charlotte McLeod,
  • Zayne & Eddison How as 1 yr old Xander,
  • Patrick Duggin as Trucker,
  • Dean Gould as Regan Riding/ Marcus Riding Double,
  • Allen Heath as Ben Riding Double,
  • Sandy Hahn as Regan Riding Double,
  • Heather Currie as Stevie/Monique Riding Double,
  • Annette Warendorf as Stevie/Jodi/Monique Riding Double,
  • Emma Cook as Jaz Riding Double,
  • Jenny Heath as Grace Riding Double,
  • Angela Donaldson as Tayler/Jodi Riding Double,
  • Linda Magro as Meg/Ingrid Riding Double,
  • Emily Bennett as Meg Riding Double,
  • Raelene Champman as Stevie Stunt Double,
  • Annette Van Moorsel as Grace Stunt Double,
  • Dean Gould as Ben Double,
  • Mick Van Moorsel as Patrick Motorbike/Stunt Car Double,
  • Michael Duncan as Marcus Motorbike/Phil Stunt Double,
  • Sarah Grieve as Moira Stunt/Drive Dbl/Jaz Stunt/Riding Double
  • Catherine Warnest as Stevie/Tayler Shearing Double,
  • Tamra Walter as Grace Shearing Double,
  • Steve Reynolds as Marcus Shearing Double,
  • Shannon Warnest as Ben Shearing Double,
  • Norton Warnest as Patrick Shearing Double

Note: Filming concluded on March 20, 2008. With 224 episode produced, it ranks ahead of Australia drama Matlock Police (220) but behind The Flying Doctors (236)