australian television information archive

Fairy Tale, Ending

Episode 3.01 (45)
Written by Chris McCourt
Directed by Karl Zwicky
Australia: February 12, 2003
UK: August 28, 2003
Canada: July 02, 2004 (VisionTV)
USA: September 10, 2005 (WE)

Claire returns to Drovers Run after her long stay in hospital, but returning home is far from easy for the single mum-to-be. Claire must deal with the lie she told some months ago — that Alex is the father of her child, when he isn't. Claire and Alex are inundated with congratulatory wishes from everyone in the town. She has something else to worry about when Alex is involved in a serious chopper accident out in the field while rescuing Claire from a cattle stampede.

Meanwhile, Meg agonises over whether to send more money to Jodi who is still on her overseas travels, and using up her mum's funds like there's no tomorrow. With Jake's help, Becky is busy chasing downs leads on Brick's possible whereabouts, her latest tip taking her in search of an amnesia victim matching Brick's description. Nick informs Tess that Sally is moving in with him.©tzuk

• Starring:
• Bridie Carter,
• Lisa Chappell,
• Jessica Napier,
• Rachael Carpani,
• Aaron Jeffery,
• Myles Pollard,
• Sonia Todd

• Guest Cast:
• Charlie Clausen as Jake Harrison,
• Kathryn Hartman as Sally Clements,
• John Jarratt as Terry Dodge,
• Ben Mortley as Alberto Borelli,
• Marshall Napier as Harry Ryan,
• Brett Tucker as Dave Brewer,
• Catherine Wilkin as Liz Ryan,
• Damien Garvey as Dr. Jim Cunningham,
• Carmel Johnson as Beth Martin,
• Gavin Clarke as Young Man,
• Jessica Li as Nurse,
• Will Snow as Declan,
• Jenny Heath as Cast Double,
• Annette Warendorf as Cast Double,
• Lachlan Willoughby as Cast Double,
• Allen Heath as Cast Double

Better The Devil You Know

Episode 3.02 (46)
Written by Vicki Madden
Directed by Karl Zwicky
Australia: February 19, 2003
Canada: July 09, 2004

Claire and Alex's lie about the baby causes a rift between the McLeod sisters. Harry lends Claire his prize bull which upsets Tess for not being consulted, but more importantly, Tess doesn't like the growing influence that Harry Ryan appears to be having on the operation of Drovers Run.

Jodi returns from her oversees holiday but it seems life at Drovers Run is now all a bit ho-hum for the world traveler who is also upset at having been forced to return home. All is remedied by Alberto's marriage proposal, but the timing is not good with Becky preoccupied with her search for Brick, a task she refuses to give up on despite Meg's insistence that she accept that he is not coming back to her. With Becky's blessing, a date for the wedding is set, but three weeks is a bit sudden for Meg.

Under mounting pressure, Claire confesses to Liz that Alex is not her baby's father. Liz admits she suspected as much but still wants to keep the truth from Harry, as the prospect of becoming a grandfather has done wonders for Harry and Alex's relationship.

Charming veterinarian Dave Brewer continues his not-so-subtle pursuit of Tess, who is not at all pleased when an innocent embrace becomes the talk of the district. ©tzuk

• Guest Cast:
• Charlie Clausen as Jake Harrison,
• Kathryn Hartman as Sally Clements,
• John Jarratt as Terry Dodge,
• Ben Mortley as Alberto Borelli,
• Marshall Napier as Harry Ryan,
• Brett Tucker as Dave Brewer,
• Catherine Wilkin as Liz Ryan,
• Melissa Truscott as Tess Stunt Double

The Road Home

Episode 3.03 (47)
Written by Giula Sandler
Directed by Bill Hughes
Australia: February 26, 2003
Canada: July 16, 2004

Becky leaves Drovers Run chasing another reported sighting of Brett. Her obsession is interfering with her work and Claire has about had it, but Becky is sure this sighting is the one that will bring Brett home. With Jake accompanying her, Becky tracks Brett to a property he was supposedly working at but her hopes are dashed when she is confronted with a look-alike. Returning to Drovers, Becky is resigned to give up the search and move on with her life but a dream provides her with a vital clue that brings her search to a heartbreaking end.

Jodi is busy making plans for a huge, elaborate wedding that is becoming too much for Alberto's liking — and Meg's finances. When Alberto informs Jodi her mother intends to sell her jewels to pay for the event, Jodi decides a simple, traditional wedding may be better, although the appeal of wearing her mother's wedding dress quickly loses its appeal.

Meanwhile, Tess is frustrated by Claire's refusal to go for her ultrasound for fear of discovering something wrong with the baby. Nick confesses to Tess he is reluctant to have children, afraid of becoming the type of father Harry was to him and Alex. ©tzuk

• Guest Cast:
• Charlie Clausen as Jake Harrison,
• Kathryn Hartman as Sally Clements,
• Fletcher Humphrys as Brett "Brick" Buchanon,
• Ben Mortley as Alberto Borelli,
• Stephen Curry as Clayton Murdoch,
• Joey Kennedy as Irene,
• Michael Allen as Vincent,
• Cathy Adamek as Carmel,
• Bob Vale as Bob,
• Shaun Goodfellow as Brad

An Affair To Forget

Episode 3.04 (48)
Written by Christina Milligan
Directed by Bill Hughes
Australia: March 05, 2003
Canada: July 23, 2004

Tess believes Sally is cheating on Nick when she sees her in town with another man. Sally's denial of the incident and subsequent sightings of the pair together only fuels Tess' suspicions, eventually forcing her to tell Nick.

Like her engagement ring, Jodi's wedding plans go down the drain when Alberto learns about the affair she had while overseas. Despite her assurances it meant nothing, Alberto sees red and is ready to walk out on her.

Jake tries to help Becky cope with her feelings following Brett's death. ©tzuk

• Guest Cast:
• Charlie Clausen as Jake Harrison,
• Kathryn Hartman as Sally Clements,
• Jonnie Cocks as Geoff “Rooster” Clements,
• Ben Mortley as Alberto Borelli,
• Lachlan Willoughby as Alberto double,
• Jim Willoughby as Jake double,
• Annette Warendorf as Jodi double

Put To The Test

Episode 3.05 (49)
Written by Alexa Wyatt & Robert Armin
Directed by Richard Jasek
Australia: March 12, 2003
Canada: July 30, 2004

As part of a pre-Buck's Night prank, Craig and a couple of his mates kidnap Alberto and leave him stranded in the middle of nowhere. When Jodi finds out, she goes ballistic and together with Craig they search for Alberto. During their search, Craig is injured when Jodi accidentally knocks him down a ravine. Jodi tends to his injuries as best she can and they manage to locate an abandoned shack in the bush. Jodi makes a fire to keep him warm but while talking, Craig questions Jodi's reasons for marrying Alberto and not him. The conversation leads to Jodi kissing Craig to prove she has no feeling for him — but will Alberto see it the same way when he finds out?

At Jodi's Hens' Night, a game of Truth or Dare reveals far more than was intended when Liz's half-drunk musings about the prospect of Alex becoming a father to Claire's baby leaves Claire and Tess with the distinct impression that a deep secret exists in the Ryan family.©tzuk

• Guest Cast:
• Charlie Clausen as Jake Harrison,
• Kathryn Hartman as Sally Clements,
• John Jarratt as Terry Dodge,
• Luke Ford as Craig Woodland,
• Ben Mortley as Alberto Borelli,
• Brett Tucker as Dave Brewer,
• Catherine Wilkin as Liz Ryan,
• Teresa De Gennaro as Dianne Plummer,
• Paul Mawhinney as Red,
• Joshua Taylor as Johnno,
• Paul Lightfoot as Craig Stunt Double

The Wedding

Episode 3.06 (50)
Written by Jeff Truman
Directed by Richard Jasek
Australia: March 19, 2003
Canada: August 06, 2004

With last-minute wedding preparations underway, Jodi's father blows in unexpectedly. His arrival threatens more than Terry's job of giving away the bride — his relationship with Meg is under threat as well as Kevin hopes to pick up where things left off and step back into the family he left so many years ago.

Tess may have started seeing a different side of Dave when he tells her about his previous marriages — the first ended amicably but the second was concluded suddenly by a fatal car accident that killed his wife.

A series of events serve to illustrate to Jodi that she and Alberto have very different outlooks on married life, she wanting to continue traveling and seeing the world with him at her side while Alberto is looking forward to settling down and starting a family. While the wedding goes off without a hitch, all is not well as Jodi comes to a life-changing realisation. ©tzuk

• Guest Cast:
• Charlie Clausen as Jake Harrison,
• Kathryn Hartman as Sally Clements,
• John Jarratt as Terry Dodge,
• Luke Ford as Craig Woodland,
• Richard Healy as Kevin Fountain,
• Ben Mortley as Alberto Borelli,
• Marshall Napier as Harry Ryan,
• Brett Tucker as Dave Brewer,
• Catherine Wilkin as Liz Ryan,
• Chelsea Bruland as Jessica Carter,
• Rosie Denny as Emma Brown,
• Nikki Fort as Amanda Hunter,
• Josh Wiloughby as Riding Double,
• Lachlan Willoughby as Riding Double,
• Annette Warendorf as Riding Double

Gone To The Dogs

Episode 3.07 (51)
Written by Ysabelle Dean
Directed by Cath Roden
Australia: April 02, 2003
Canada: August 20, 2004

Becky senses more mystery surrounding Jake's past when he convinces her to help him save a prized racehorse from thieves.

Sally wants to become friends with Tess but she doesn't help her own cause when she leaves a gate open allowing a herd of sheep to damage Tess and Nick's organic wheat crop.

Despite Jodi's best efforts to keep a busy social calendar, it is not enough keep her from missing Alberto and wondering if she made a mistake in letting him go. Meg asks Terry to move in with her. ©tzuk

• Guest Cast:
• Charlie Clausen as Jake Harrison,
• Kathryn Hartman as Sally Clements,
• John Jarratt as Terry Dodge,
• Syd Brisbane as Ben Connors,
• Corey Page as Damien Cosak,
• Chris Clark as Auctioneer,
• Patrick Frost as Neil Thompson,
• Michael Constantinou as Gino Ginopolous,
• Felicity Electricity as Jenny,
• Kym Hamann as Cast Double,
• Annette Warendorf as Cast Double

The Ghost of Things to Come

Episode 3.08 (52)
Written by Denise Morgan
Directed by Cath Roden
Australia: April 09, 2003
Canada: August 27, 2004

Claire uncovers a long-lost hidden treasure which brings back ghostly memories of her mother and unleashes a gnawing fear that she will share her mother's fate and die in childbirth. Tess organises a fake séance to try to ease Claire's fears but Claire is less than impressed with the effort, although there are some suprising results.

Unable to cope with having Terry underfoot, Jodi decides she needs to move out but returning to the room she shared with Alberto brings back too many memories leaving Becky with an unwelcome roommate.

Meanwhile, Terry's locked suitcase proves too tempting for Meg who must discover the secret within. Sally does not feel that she is adjusting to rural life. ©tzuk

• Guest Cast:
• Charlie Clausen as Jake Harrison,
• Kathryn Hartman as Sally Clements,
• John Jarratt as Terry Dodge,
• Melissa Truscott as cast stunt double

House of Cards

Episode 3.09 (53)
Written by Chris McCourt
Directed by Karl Zwicky
Australia: April 23, 2003
Canada: September 03, 2004

The joy surrounding Harry and Liz's 30th wedding anniversary is shattered when Harry's nagging suspicions about Alex being the father of Claire's baby explodes into a fit of rage after a innocent remark leads to Liz confessing a long-held secret. The revelation rocks the entire Ryan family and the fallout tears the family apart as relationships and loyalties are put to the test.

Brick's younger sister Kylie arrives out of the blue at Drovers Run looking for Becky. Her enthusiasm and idyllic vision of country life do not last long however when she concludes Becky has apparently gotten over Brick's death and is now seeing Jake. ©tzuk

• Guest Cast:
• Charlie Clausen as Jake Harrison,
• Chelsea Bruland as Jessica Carter,
• Kathryn Hartman as Sally Clements,
• John Jarratt as Terry Dodge,
• Jovita Lee Shaw as Kylie Buchanan [sic],
• Marshall Napier as Harry Ryan,
• Catherine Wilkin as Liz Ryan,
• Trevor Coles as Barman

Three Little Words

Episode 3.10 (54)
Written by Dave Warner
Directed by Karl Zwicky
Australia: April 30, 2003

Relations between Alex and his father take another turn for the worse when Alex discovers he has been cut off financially. Nick tries to play peacemaker but both sides are stubborn and his efforts go unappreciated.

Sally's growing sense that Nick is not as committed to their relationship as she is results in a difficult decision being made.

Dave persistence pays off with Tess who finds it increasingly hard to resist her attraction to the charming vet.

Becky learns the value of patience in dealing with Kylie when her enthusiasm to help out only causes more trouble. ©tzuk

• Guest Cast:
• Charlie Clausen as Jake Harrison,
• Kathryn Hartman as Sally Clements,
• John Jarratt as Terry Dodge,
• Jovita Lee Shaw as Kylie Buchanan [sic],
• Marshall Napier as Harry Ryan,
• Brett Tucker as Dave Brewer,
• Catherine Wilkin as Liz Ryan,
• Kym Hamman as Cast Double,
• Jenny Heath as Cast Double,
• Jane Willoughby as Cast Double

Repeat Offenders

Episode 3.11 (55)
Written by Chris Hawkshaw
Directed by Bill Hughes
Australia: May 07, 2003

Anticipation is high as Tess' journalist friend is due to arrives at Drovers Run to write a feature magazine article about life on the land. However, Amanda Mowbray arrives an emotional mess having just been left at the alter and tensions between her and Tess begin to rise as old wounds are reopened and long-forgotten feelings are revisited.

Jake's promotion to lead station hand at Killarney ruffles Terry feathers who feels unjustly passed over being the senior employee. Fallout from the snub quickly reaches Drovers where Meg and Becky see their own situations reflected. The pair decide to swap jobs for the day to prove their worth but they soon learn that there really are horses for courses.

Kylie's sticky fingers nearly destroy her friends' trust in her but at the same time she manages to expose the secret hook to Amanda's story on the women of Drovers Run.

Meanwhile, Nick and Alex formalise their business partnership. ©tzuk

• Guest Cast:
• Charlie Clausen as Jake Harrison,
• John Jarratt as Terry Dodge,
• Jovita Lee Shaw as Kylie Buchanan [sic],
• Gabby Millgate as Amanda Mowbray,
• Brett Tucker as Dave Brewer,
• Steve Turner as Ray Lambert,
• Mariusz Horn as Nigel Kronbergs

Sins Of The Father

Episode 3.12 (56)
Written by Shane Brennan & Guila Sandler
Directed by Bill Hughes
Australia: May 14, 2003

Becky feels betrayed when she learns Jake's true identity from his father, Milos Cosak, at the auctions. Milos wants Jake to return to the family and dangles lucrative job offers that only serve to feed Damien's jealousy of Jake as the favourite son. At dinner with Jake and his family, Becky tries to test whether Jake is truly not embarrassed to be seen with her. When Damien offers Becky $50,000 to stay away from Jake, she and Jake use the money to buy a horse.

Jodi discovers the reason Kylie left home when she goes through Kylie's mail. A pending court date for a shoplifting charge is rapidly approaching but Kylie's seems willing to ignore it. Meg and Jodi pretend to have learned of the charge while filing for Kylie's driver's license and convince Kylie to contact her mother and return home and to face the consequences.

Meanwhile, Tess is away at a conference with Dave and Claire must wean Phoenix from Blaze. ©tzuk

• Guest Cast:
• Charlie Clausen as Jake Harrison,
• John Jarratt as Terry Dodge,
• Peter Green as Milos Cosak,
• Jovita Lee Shaw as Kylie Buchanan [sic],
• Corey Page as Damien Cosak,
• Brett Tucker as Dave Brewer (not in ep),
• Greg Beaton as Auctioneer,
• Jenny Heath as cast riding double,
• Annette Warendorf as cast riding double

Jokers To The Right

Episode 3.13 (57)
Written by Margaret Kelly
Directed by Cath Roden
Australia: May 21, 2003

Having Claire tell him he's not wanted at her baby's birth is the last straw for Alex. His resentment at being trotted out as the father of Claire's baby at her whim, with no thought that he might want more to their relationship, has him looking elsewhere — and with Sandra Kinsella making an appearance at the Picnic Races, he may be ready to move on.

Tess and Nick's sick sheep provide an opportunity for Nick and Dave to butt heads over the best method of treatment.

Jodi's jealousy of Becky's new status as the girlfriend of the wealthy Jake Cosak threatens to come between the long-time friends. Adding to Jodi's woes is hearing from Craig that he is “over her.”

Dave's knack for creating a spectacle comes in handy at the races when his diversionary tactics save Claire and Alex from an embarrassing situation while further endearing him to Tess. ©tzuk

• Guest Cast:
• Charlie Clausen as Jake Harrison,
• John Jarratt as Terry Dodge,
• Brett Tucker as Dave Brewer,
• Luke Ford as Craig Woodland,
• Margaret Harvey as Bella Ferguson,
• Inge Hornstra as Sandra Kinsella,
• Tom Edwards as Farmer Bookie [Tommy],
• Tara Carragher as Brook,
• Xavier Samuel as Jason,
• Tania Iocopetta as Hat Competitor #1,
• Pam Heinrich as Hat Competitor #2,
• Kit Fortune as Hat Competitor #3,
• Ben Princi as Hat Competitor #4,
• Kristy Ravans as N/S Rider #1,
• Katie Eberhard as N/S Rider #2,
• Jenny Heath as cast riding double,
• Annette Warendorf as cast riding double,
• Julie Willoughby as cast riding double,
• Kym Hamann as cast riding double

Chain Reaction

Episode 3.14 (58)
Written by Jeff Truman
Directed by Cath Roden
Australia: May 28, 2003

When Jodi receives a mysterious chain letter, she discards it immediately. After all, superstition is something this country girl has no time for. But that could be about to change, for the scattered pieces of the letter have barely hit the compost when Becky announces that the cattle are sick. Further misfortune soon strikes Drovers, with Terry falling ill and the discovery of a dead sheep. Could Jodi have inadvertently cursed the farm?

The lie of being the father of Claire's baby continues to complicate Alex's life — especially with the local women who want nothing to do with him now that he has supposedly left Claire. To help restore his good name, Alex decides to throw a party to spread the word that he's not an impending father and is very much available.

Meanwhile, Tess wants to know what has caused Dave's behaviour to change so suddenly. He's standoffish and reluctant to talk but eventually open up and reveals it is the anniversary of his wife's passing and he is still harbouring feelings of guilt over the circumstances of her death. ©tzuk

• Guest Cast:
• John Jarratt as Terry Dodge,
• Brett Tucker as Dave Brewer,
• Inge Hornstra as Sandra Kinsella
• Jenny Heath as Cast Double,
• Annette Warendorf as Cast Double,

The Awful Truth

Episode 3.15 (59)
Written by Chris McCourt
Directed by Chris Martin-Jones
Australia: June 04, 2003

The conflict between Alex and Harry is back in the fore with Harry back in town. Gathering the neighbouring landowners, Harry presents his plan to upgrade an old stock route that runs across their five properties.

Alex's refusal to support Harry's proposal holds up the project but Nick hopes the conflict will give the two an opportunity to work through their issues. A conciliation appears to be in the works when Harry's scheme to manipulate Alex is revealed. To make matters worse, Alex makes a startling discovery when he returns to Killarney to confront Harry and is faced with the awful truth about Harry's new girlfriend.

Meanwhile, Tess stubbornly refuses to ask for outside help to shear her alpacas, insisting on doing the job herself. Meg is concerned about Terry's absences to visit a nonexistent sick aunt but jumps to the wrong conclusion. Jodi is searching for direction but doesn't like her mother's idea of taking a course. ©tzuk

• Guest Cast:
• Marshall Napier as Harry Ryan,
• John Jarratt as Terry Dodge,
• Brett Tucker as Dave Brewer,
• Inge Hornstra as Sandra Kinsella,
• Peter Stefanou as Vince Lavise,
• John Walter as Foreman,
• Julian Crotti as Roadworker,
• Jenny Heath as Cast Double,
• Annette Warendorf as Cast Double,
• Jim Willoughby as Cast Double

Seeing The Light

Episode 3.16 (60)
Written by Ysabelle Dean
Directed by Chris Martin-Jones
Australia: July 23, 2003

The appearance of mysterious Min Min lights over Drovers Run is an ominous sign in Tess' view but is it a good sign or a bad one? Claire is two weeks from her due date and Tess makes sure they have their plans in place for the big day when it finally comes, taking Claire on a test run to the hospital in Fisher, but getting sidetracks to attend to a ram caught up in a fence.

Back at Drovers Run, Tess is taken aback by Dave's unexpected marriage proposal and can only tell him she needs time to think about it. Alex wants no part of an apology from Harry for getting involved with Sandra but Alex does warn him that Sandra is only using him to get Killarney. Claire's friend Moira, aka “Mystic Miranda,” brings a group out to Drovers to camp and observe the Min Min Lights.

While dealing with an infestation of weavels at Willgul, Tess falls into a grain bin, nearly drowning as she gets sinks into the loose grain, before being rescued by Nick with help from Meg, Jodi and Becky.

Meanwhile, Claire, who has gone off in search of a lost wand belonging to Moira's daughter, goes into labour in the middle of a paddock with only a dilapidated old shed for shelter. Returning from Willgul, Tess is directed to Claire by Moira's daughter, while the others join up with Moira's group to watch the lights. Alex, whose ute got stuck when he diverted off road to avoid the awkwardness of being stuck with Harry and Sandra at a roadblock, comes across the shed while walking back home and helps Tess with Claire. Meanwhile, at the campsite, the others watch as the Min Min Lights reappear over the distant horizon, unaware that below the lights Claire has given birth to a daughter. ©tzuk

• Guest Cast:
• Marshall Napier as Harry Ryan,
• John Jarratt as Terry Dodge,
• Brett Tucker as Dave Brewer,
• Inge Hornstra as Sandra Kinsella,
• Doris Younane as Moira (Mystic Miranda),
• Margaret Harvey as Bella,
• Eliza Moloney as Angela
• Sarah & Alisha Hart as 'Baby of McLeod',
• Jenny Heath as Cast Double,
• Annette Warendorf as Cast Double,
• Melissa Truscott as Tess stunt double

A Slight Interruption

Episode 3.17 (61)
Written by Elizabeth Packett
Directed by Karl Zwicky
Australia: July 30, 2003
Canada: August 13, 2004

A mob of Emus descends upon Drovers Run, wreaking havoc on anything and anyone they encounter. The chaotic situation is just one more stress for Claire who is struggling to balance the demands of motherhood with that of running Drovers — and feeling that she is not succeeding at either.

Dave is demanding an answer to “the question,”, so to prove his commitment, Tess sends him on a fairytale-inspired quest to bring back a hair from the back of a unicorn.

Becky's overprotective behaviour for her and Jake's new horse causes some tension but is nothing compared to the misunderstanding that arises when Becky talks about her dream of settling down and starting a family.

Harry's plan to bulldoze the stock route is nearly halted by the sudden appearance of a rare plant.

Claire finally decides on a name for BoM — Charlotte Prudence McLeod, Charlotte after Tess' middle name and Prudence after Claire's mother. ©tzuk

• Guest Cast:
• Marshall Napier as Harry Ryan,
• John Jarratt as Terry Dodge,
• Charlie Clausen as Jake Harrison,
• Brett Tucker as Dave Brewer,
• Michaela Cantwell as Sharon Draper,
• Sarah & Alisha Hart as 'Baby of McLeod',
• Annette Warendorf as Cast Double,
• Jim Willoughby as Cast Double

Old Beginnings

Episode 3.18 (62)
Written by Denise Morgan
Directed by Karl Zwicky
Australia: August 06, 2003

Claire is having a naming ceremony for baby Charlotte with her friends and family when an unexpected visitor crashes the party — Peter Johnson, Charlotte's father. Claire has written to him after the birth telling him he is a father. Peter is justifiably angry.

Nick's reaction to Dave's announcement of his and Tess's engagement forces Tess to act hastily and try to arrange a quick wedding.

When Claire's sheep are stolen and shorn in the middle of the night, Jodi and Becky work to track down the culprits before Claire finds out.

A serious accident nearly deprives the newest Mcleod daughter of her natural father.

Harry's new relationship with Sandra has apparently gone to his head.

• Guest Cast:
• Marshall Napier as Harry Ryan,
• John Jarratt as Terry Dodge,
• Charlie Clausen as Jake Harrison,
• Brett Tucker as Dave Brewer,
• Luke Ford as Craig Woodland,
• Rodger Corser as Peter Johnson,
• Carmel Johnson as Beth Martin,
• Rodney Van Der Wall as Sanjay Varma,
• Jim Willoughby as Tradesman,
• Sarah & Alisha Hart as Charlotte,
• Annette Warendorf as Cast Double,
• Jim Willoughby as Cast Double,
• Brian Ellison as Peter stunt double

Where There's Smoke

Episode 3.19 (63)
Written by Chris Hawkshaw
Directed by Ali Ali
Australia: August 13, 2003

Determined to prove herself during a Fire Service training weekend, Jodi quickly realises it's going to be far more difficult than she had anticipated. A potential new romance with fellow trainee Toby soon turns sour. What's even worse, Jodi has a major panic attack during her first mock fire exercise. Will she manage to overcome her fears when she finds herself caught up in a real fire emergency?

The growing infestation of St. John's Wort on Drovers Run threatens Claire and Alex's business but the solution to the problem may prove more troublesome when a herd of unruly goats is called upon to eradicate the weed.

Meg is dedicating herself to her studies in order to prove herself at TAFE and is thoroughly immersed in Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. The misjudgments and misunderstandings of character that drive that classic echo through everyone's dealings at Drovers Run.

• Guest Cast:
• John Jarratt as Terry Dodge,
• Brett Tucker as Dave Brewer,
• Peter Stefanou as Vince Lavise,
• Raj Ryan as Gordon Vidmar,
• Diarmid Heidenreich as Toby Frye,
• Carmel Johnson as Beth Martin,
• Jeremy Schwerdt as Nathan Piggin,
• Simon Leonard as Joel,
• Scott Elison as Turtle McMahon,
• Trevor Coles as Warren,
• Sarah & Alisha Hart as Charlotte,
• Annette Warendorf as Cast Double,
• Jenny Heath as Cast Double,
• Kym Hamann as Cast Double

Perfect Match

Episode 3.20 (64)
Written by Jutta Goetze and Giula Sandler
Directed by Ali Ali
Australia: August 20, 2003

Becky's loyalties are tested when she and Jake establish a horse breeding business at Drovers Run. They are soon in disagreement with Claire over how the business is run and when the conflict comes to a head, Becky is caught in the middle and the strain quickly becomes too much, breaking up the business arrangement and her relationship with Jake.

Meanwhile, Tess, eager to see Claire dating again, signs her up for an internet dating service, and when that fails, gathers the local singles for a "Quick Dating" session. Jodi and Toby continue their flirtations.

• Guest Cast:
• John Jarratt as Terry Dodge,
• Brett Tucker as Dave Brewer,
• Charlie Clausen as Jake Harrison,
• Peter Stefanou as Vince Lavise,
• Diarmid Heidenreich as Toby Frye,
• Patrick Frost as Neil Thompson,
• Troy Planet as Adam Glick,
• Alan Heath as Ivan Morgensen,
• Sandra Thompson as Single Woman,
• Ben Princi as Single Man,
• Sarah & Alisha Hart as Charlotte,
• Annette Warendorf as Cast Double,
• Jenny Heath as Cast Double,
• Kym Hamann as Cast Double,
• Josh Willoughby as Cast Double

Let The Best Man Win

Episode 3.21 (65)
Written by Chris Pearce and Alexa Wyatt
Directed by Chris Martin-Jones
Australia: August 27, 2003

Alex and Nick come to the rescue of an attractive woman named Ellie when her car breaks down on a country road. Almost instantly they're pitched into a competition to woo her, and the lead quickly shifts from one to the other as each shines with his own charm.

Meanwhile, Tess takes up a new cause when she learns the district nurse is moving away and the local council does not plan to seek a replacement. Meg enjoys some time alone while Terry is away.

• Guest Cast:
• Marshall Napier as Harry Ryan,
• John Jarratt as Terry Dodge,
• Brett Tucker as Dave Brewer,
• Peter Stefanou as Vince Lavise,
• Katrina Campbell as Ellie Freeman,
• Margaret Harvey as Bella Ferguson,
• Nick Jasprizza as Bob Truscott,
• Alan David Lee as Eric Cooper,
• Ksenia Logos as Karen,
• Catherine Purling as Ruby,
• Brad Colmer as Long Haired Man,
• Sarah & Alisha Hart as Charlotte,
• Fiona Talbot-Leigh as Mother #1,
• Sarah Lockwood as Mother #2,
• Kate Herbold as Mother #3,
• Adriana Bonaccurso as Mother #4,
• Annette Warendorf as Cast Double,
• Jenny Heath as Cast Double

Majority Rules

Episode 3.22 (66)
Written by Chris Hawkshaw
Directed by Chris Martin-Jones
Australia: September 03, 2003

When Drovers is quarantined and the future of the stock placed under a cloud, true friends seem few and far between as Claire finally goes head-to-head with her old enemy Sandra Kinsella.

Vince Lavise has convinced Claire to run for a seat on the Gungellan Farmers' Council but she faces stiff competition from Sandra whom Harry, the council's chairman, has talked into running in a ploy to strengthen his position. When Sandra uses the situation at Drovers to force Claire out of the election, the reaction of the community threatens Claire's livelihood when her cattle come up for auction.

Meg and Terry have their eye on a piece of land but are unable to come up with the deposit for a bank loan, until an offer of help comes from an unlikely person — but is realising her dream worth the high asking price for Meg.

Jodi meanwhile is ready to act on her feeling for Nick, but does he feel the same way — or will he even take notice when she asks him out? ©tzuk

• Guest Cast:
• Marshall Napier as Harry Ryan,
• John Jarratt as Terry Dodge,
• Brett Tucker as Dave Brewer,
• Inge Hornstra as Sandra Kinsella,
• Peter Stefanou as Vince Lavise,
• Alan David Lee as Eric Cooper,
• Adrian Shirley as Fred Gannon,
• Nick Jasprizza as Bob Truscott,
• Sarah & Alisha Hart as Charlotte McLeod,
• Annette Warendorf as Cast Double,
• Jenny Heath as Cast Double

The Ties That Bind

Episode 3.23 (67)
Written by Dave Warner
Directed by Karl Zicky
Australia: September 10, 2003

Claire's role as spokesperson for the local farmers' association requires her to visit Melbourne and meet with their MLA, Charles Bateman, who is attending a national forum with other MPs. Alex is insistent that he comes along to look after mother and baby while also pursuing some Wilgul matters but the real reason is that he wants to meet his biological father, Bryce Redstaff, an eminent barrister.

Claire's meeting is a bust but Alex's encounter with his father is a gratifying experience, showing the promise of a good relationship — until Alex begins to spend more time with him and begins to discover the true nature of the man.

Back at Drovers, Jodi makes her play for Nick utilising some questionable advice from Dave, while Terry intoduces Meg to his record collection.

• Guest Cast:
• Marshall Napier as Harry Ryan,
• John Jarratt as Terry Dodge,
• Brett Tucker as Dave Brewer,
• John Stanton as Bryce Redstaff,
• Damien Hill as Mounted Police Officer,
• Suzie Bovaci as Simone,
• Andreas Sobik as Porter,
• Belinda Bromilow as Ashleigh Redstaff,
• Nathanael Hueppauff as Rollerblading Courier,
• Chrissie Page as Female Victim,
• Peter Thorpe as Balloon Clown,
• Sarah & Alisha Hart as Charlotte McLeod

One Step At A Time

Episode 3.24 (68)
Written by Chris McCourt
Directed by Karl Zicky
Australia: September 17, 2003

Claire and Alex are still in Melbourne with Charlotte, blissfully in love, and making plans to extend their stay another day. At Drovers, Tess and Dave are also happy and making plans for their wedding day. When Tess, in the shower, discovers a lump in her breast, she fears she will share her mother's fate and quickly goes into denial, telling no-one, not even Dave.

Realising something is wrong with Tess, Meg calls Claire in Melbourne and asks her to return home. In the midst of this new family crisis, news of Claire and Alex's new relationship takes a back seat to concerns for Tess's health as Claire is able to convince her to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis.

Meanwhile, Alex tries to exploit Harry's concerns about being upstaged by Alex's biological father. Meg hopes to reign in her and Terry's spending by cutting back on unnecessary items.

• Guest Cast:
• Marshall Napier as Harry Ryan,
• John Jarratt as Terry Dodge,
• Brett Tucker as Dave Brewer,
• Jerome Pride as Tim Segal,
• Michiki Yamanaka as Japanese Tourist Man,
• Tomiko Yananka as Japanese Tourist Woman,
• Sarah & Alisha Hart as Charlotte McLeod,
• Annette Warendorf as Cast Double,
• Jenny Heath as Cast Double,
• Kym Hamann as Riding Double

Time Frames

Episode 3.25 (69)
Written by Katherine Thomson
Directed by Ali Ali
Australia: September 24, 2003

Tess and Dave split up when they realise that he has not yet come to terms with the death of his wife. Meanwhile, prompted by Becky, Claire asks Harry if she can use King Harold in a new breeding program on Drovers. Harry agrees, only to renege on the deal when Sandra claims he'd promised King Harold to her. Claire is furious and Harry is embarrassed, but there's nothing either of them can do. Sandra is looking for proof that she's now part of the Ryan family, King Harold was the first test but now she wants Harry to pass another, will he organise a family lunch and introduce her properly as the new woman in his life?

• Guest Cast:
• Marshall Napier as Harry Ryan,
• John Jarratt as Terry Dodge,
• Brett Tucker as Dave Brewer,
• Charlie Clausen as Jake Harrison,
• Inge Hornstra as Sandra Kinesella,
• Sam Isaacs as Dr John Murphy,
• Sarah & Alisha Hart as Charlotte McLeod

Body Language

Episode 3.26 (70)
Written by Guila Sandler
Directed by Ali Ali
Australia: October 01, 2003

Drovers Run hosts the Regional Young Farmer of the Year Contest, and Becky is surprised to learn that Jake has entered. He tells her he's going to win her back. They compete neck and neck and slowly Becky is won over by his persistence and charm and the old spark between them returns. When Jake asks her to come and live with him on the property he's leased, Becky is truly torn between the man she loves and Drovers Run…

• Guest Cast:
• Marshall Napier as Harry Ryan,
• John Jarratt as Terry Dodge,
• Charlie Clausen as Jake Harrison,
• Inge Hornstra as Sandra Kinsella,
• Raj Ryan as Gordon Vidmar,
• Patrick Frost as Neil Thompson,
• Lucy Rasheed as Ruth Davies,
• Trevor Coles as Warren,
• Adam Willson as Dan Smith,
• Samuel Wark as Mark Waller,
• Sarah & Alisha Hart as Charlotte McLeod

Note: For some international viewers, this is the last episode in series 3 with the remaining episodes packaged with series 4

To Catch A Thief

Episode 3.27 (71)
Written by Christina Milligan
Story by Sarah Smith & Alexa Wyatt
Directed by Chris Martin-Jones
Australia: October 08, 2003
Canada: September 27, 2004 (One)
Canada: January 21, 2005 (VisionTV)

Tess's upcoming operation has thoughts of mortality creeping in so she begins to write a letter to Charlotte so that her niece can know her, should Tess no longer be around. Meanwhile, Claire reminisces when an old friend turns up unexpectedly. Claire offers Stevie a job on the ranch and Tess soon begins to wrongly suspect her of stealing feed and fuel.

• Introducing:
• Simmone Jade Mackinnon as Stevie Hall
• Guest Cast:
• John Jarratt as Terry Dodge,
• Andy Anderson as Race Hayley,
• Diarmid Heidenreich as Toby Frye,
• Sam Isaacs as Dr Murphy,
• Jeremy Schwerdt as Nathan Piggin,
• Simon Leonard as Joel Bishop,
• Jessica Li as Nurse,
• Todd Haydon as Anaesthetist,
• Sarah & Alisha Hart as Charlotte

My Noon, My Midnight

Episode 3.28 (72)
Written by Chris Hawkshaw
Directed by Chris Martin-Jones
Australia: October 15, 2003
Canada: January 28, 2005
USA: March 25, 2006 (We)

In a dramatic and emotional episode, heartbreak hits Drovers Run. Tess anxiously awaits the results of her breast cancer tests convinced that her time is up while Alex and Claire decide to move in together.

Tess's premonition of death appears to be unfounded when she receives good news from her doctor but planned celebrations are cut short when a sister's worst nightmare comes true and the ultimate sacrifice must be made.

• Guest Cast:
• John Jarratt as Terry Dodge,
• Sam Isaacs as Dr John Murphy,
• Sarah & Alisha Hart as Charlotte McLeod,
• Brian Wllison as Claire Stunt Double,
• Christopher Hill as Alex Rope CLimbing Double,
• Buffy Benton as Claire Picture Double,
• Cast Doubles: Jim Willoughby, Allen Heath, Jenny Heath, Annette Warendorf

Note: see the related articles McLeod's loses a daughter, Television tragedy, McLeod's Daughters star suing over rock fall, McLeod's Daughters: Looking back...

The Long Goodbye

Episode 3.29 (73)
Written by Denise Morgan
Story by Sarah Smith & Alexa Wyatt
Directed by Karl Zwicky
Australia: October 22, 2003

Claire is dead and everyone is dealing with it in their own way. Tess tries to keep her emotions in check, unable to deal with her grief and burdened by survivor's guilt. Tess's one grasp on reality is, strangely, the appearance of Claire's ghost. A cheeky, interfering spirit who tries to guide Tess towards the things that matter. Tess, however, becomes fixated by the idea that she might have been able to save Claire. Nick tries to get Tess to realize that there was nothing she could have done to save Claire. But it is not until the eulogies that Tess finally understands that she has to let go of Claire and move on.

Alex deals with his grief through anger and revenge. Blaming the brumby on Claire's death, he sets out to destroy it. In the course of the chase, he runs into Stevie who has been camping on Wilgul land. She joins Alex in his quest, but when she realizes he could miss the funeral and therefore avoid saying goodbye, she tries to get him to understand that this could be the biggest mistake of his life.

Terry, Jodi and Meg are left with the task of running Drovers and dealing with funeral arrangements. Jodi is uncharacteristically eager to do chores, finally admitting she cannot face up to Tess or say goodbye to Claire, thinking that her response will be inadequate. Meg faces her own grief when she thinks Tess is losing her mind.

A new day and the farm life goes on. Stevie returns knowing Tess will need all the help she can get. And Tess is big enough to admit it.

• Guest Cast:
• John Jarratt as Terry Dodge,
• Marshall Napier as Harry Ryan,
• Inge Hornstra as Sandra Kinsella,
• Peter Stefanou as Vince Lavise,
• Diarmid Heidenreich as Toby Frye,
• Luke Ford as Craig Woodland,
• Patrick Frost as Neil Thompson,
• Carmel Johnson as Beth Martin,
• Peter Simmons as Minister,
• Sarah & Alisha Hart as Charlotte McLeod,
• Jane Willoughby as Steivie Stunt Riding Double,
• Cast Doubles: Jim Willoughby, Allen Heath, Jenny Heath, Annette Warendorf

Notes: In his eulogy, Terry reads Alfred Tennyson's Crossing the Bar. Claire is laid to rest on Drovers Run beside her father Jack, mother Prudence and brother Adam

Turbulence

Episode 3.30 (74)
Written by
Directed by Karl Zwicky
Australia: October 29, 2003

Tess and Stevie continue to clash and all the competitive ill-fellings come to the surface when a private investigator turns up at Drovers Run. Tess accepts Stevie's explanations at first (something about witnessing a rodeo accident up north), but gets suspicious again when Stevie is caught packing her bags. Still refusing to reveal the truth, she offers her resignation and Tess accepts with more than a little relief. As Stevie loads up her car, Jodi, Meg and Tess discover little Charlotte has been bitten by a redback spider. Fearing for Charlotte's life, Tess accepts a ride from Stevie to the hospital, but it turns out to be far from a straightforward trip. With the private investigator in hot pursuit, things get worse when Charlotte has a heat-induced fit. It looks like they are not going to make it to the hospital in time so Stevie steals a plane to speed the trip up. Charlotte's young life is in the balance and Tess is terrified that she is going to lose the one link she still has to her dead sister.

• Guest Cast:
• John Jarratt as Terry Dodge,
• Marshall Napier as Harry Ryan,
• Inge Hornstra as Sandra Kinsella,
• Patrick Frost as Neil Thompson,
• Steven Bowers as Martin Ginley,
• Irena Dangov as Dr Shea,
• David Mealor as Sgt Slatter,
• Anna Cheney as Nurse,
• Sarah & Alisha Hart as Charlotte McLeod