Scripts - Pilot Episode

A STREET

A caption along the bottom of the screen tells us this is 1978. A boy, named FRANK, is running along a street. He is chased by a POLICEMAN.

POLICEMAN

Frankie, Frankie, Frankie.

The POLICEMAN then hides behind a corner and catches FRANK as he walks past.

POLICEMAN

Aw, Frankie. What’s your mum going to say?

YOUTH AND COMMUNITY SERVICES

MR JARVIS is there with TOM and PIPPA.

MR JARVIS

Have a look at that. Frank is a very difficult child.

TOM

How difficult?

MR JARVIS

Well, three arrests by the time you’re eight’s not bad going. Mind you, with his background I’m not surprised. Father, in and out of jail, mother an alcoholic. I hope you know what you’re taking on.

PIPPA

We never thought it would be easy.

MR JARVIS

Look, fostering a child of this sort.

TOM

Yeah, we do know Mr. Jarvis. That’s why we’re here. Anymore you’ve got like him.

PIPPA

We’d be just as happy to take them.

MR JARVIS

I think you’ll find that one is quite sufficient.

TOM

I think you’ll find you’re wrong.

THE FLETCHER HOUSE

A caption along the bottom of the screen tells us that is now 1988. PIPPA is in the kitchen. FRANK walks in.

FRANK

How’s it going?

PIPPA

Fine.

PIPPA shows FRANK a cake figure.

PIPPA

Do you think he looks like you?

FRANK

Mmm, no. Not handsome enough. I’ll see you.

PIPPA

Bye.

PIPPA puts the figures on top of the cake.

PIPPA

Frank, Carly, Lynn, Sally, Steven. More like five is enough is sufficient Mr. Jarvis.

The opening credits are shown.

THE FLETCHER HOUSE

TOM, PIPPA, CARLY, SALLY, LYNN, FRANK and STEVEN are sitting at the table. They are singing.

PIPPA, CARLY, SALLY, LYNN FRANK & STEVEN

For he’s a jolly good fellow, for he’s a jolly good fellow, for he’s a jolly good fellow and so say all of us, and so say all of us, and so say all of us for he’s a jolly good fellow, for he’s a jolly good fellow, for he’s a jolly good fellow and so say all of us.

They cheer.

FRANK

Tom, give us a little speech. Show us what you’re made of.

TOM

Oh, I’ll show you more than that chum if you’re not careful. Now turning forty for some men it’s, it’s like a threat. End of their youth and all that sort of thing, but for me, looking around me, it’s just the start. I’ve got a terrific wife. The best. No, I’m serious mate. I’ve got five top kids. Frank, Carly, Lynn, Steven and Sally.

SALLY

What about Milko?

TOM

Oh, sorry. How could I forget him? Milko, too. Sorry mate. Yeah, we’ve had our ups and downs getting to know each other haven’t we? We’ll probably have some more too.  I reckon I’m a pretty lucky bloke.  Now I’ve turned forty all I’d like to say is, well I’m just looking forward to the next forty. I’m looking forward to seeing you all grow up, have kids of your own and you your own fortieth birthdays. See, there’s nothing to be worried about. Not when you’ve got as much love around you as I have. Let’s cut that cake, hey.

The next morning, TOM and STEVEN walk out the house and along the street in opposite directions. PIPPA is clearing the table where the leftover cake is. She hums to herself.

TOM’S WORK

TOM walks in. He walks past a WORK COLLEAGUE

WORK COLLEAGUE

G’day.

TOM’S BOSS walks over.

TOM’S BOSS

Can I see you please Tom?

TOM

Yeah, whatever it is, I’m innocent. It’s that bad, eh?

TOM’S BOSS

It’s not good. Come into the office.

They walk into TOM’S BOSS’ office.

THE FLETCHER HOUSE

PIPPA is in the hall. TOM walks in.

PIPPA

Hi. You’re home early. You sick.

TOM

I just got retrenched.

PIPPA

What?

TOM

Yeah.

TOM and PIPPA walk through to the living room.

TOM

In the current economic climate, we regret, if there was any alternative, all that sort of stuff leading up to the big way and oh.. Sorry Tom, we’re closing your department.

PIPPA

You’ve been with them fifteen years.

TOM

Yeah, well old Sam’s been with them twenty five. Didn’t save him. I knew things weren’t good, but I didn’t think they’d pull a stunt like that.

PIPPA

You won’t have any trouble getting another job.

TOM

No, of course I won’t. Life begins at forty, eh.

That night TOM, PIPPA, FRANK, CARLY, STEVEN, SALLY and LYNN are in the living room.

TOM

Now, I don’t want any of you worrying. It sounds a lot worse than it is.

CARLY

Yeah, but you see all those things on TV about older men losing their jobs and not being able to get another one.

FRANK

Carly!

CARLY

Well you do.

TOM

Now that’s all right mate. That’s what we’re here for, so everyone can talk out their worries and I can answer them.

PIPPA

Tom won’t have any trouble finding another job with his experience.

STEVEN

What if he doesn’t?

LYNN

Yeah.

TOM

Well, we’ve got some savings. We live off those for a while.

FRANK

Yeah, and I’ve been trying to get a job. I’ll just have to try harder now, that’s all.

TOM

Yeah, we know you have mate. Look, the last thing I want you doing is acting likes it’s the end of the world.

CARLY

Well I could maybe leave school if it gets too bad.

TOM

You’ll do no such thing. That’s exactly what I’m talking about. No hitting the panic button unless we have to.

PIPPA

Which we won’t. No one should lose any sleep over could’s and maybe’s. OK.

FRANK

Yeah, OK.

TOM and PIPPA are in the kitchen. TOM is reading the paper.

TOM

There’s nothing in here.

PIPPA

Friday’s always a bad day. They’ll be more tomorrow.

STEVEN walks in.

STEVEN

Can I talk to you?

TOM

Yeah, course you can mate. What is it?

STEVEN

I was thinking, I’ve only been with you a few weeks and I’d understand if you want me to go back to the home. It will save money.

PIPPA

No one’s going anywhere. Come here.

STEVEN and PIPPA walk into the living room. TOM follows them.

PIPPA

Do you remember we had this photo taken on your first day here? We did the same with all the kids. It’s became a sort of ceremony. A welcome to the family photo and once the photos taken, once you’re in that frame, you’re stuck there. You’re part of the family, through thick and through thin, OK.

STEVEN

It’s just, sometimes I feel like I don’t belong.

PIPPA

Do you trust me?

STEVEN nods his head.

PIPPA

Then believe me, you do belong. OK.

TOM

Yeah, I second that mate.

STEVEN

Thanks.

STEVEN walks out.

TOM

Nice work Mrs F.

YOUTH AND COMMUNITY SERVICES

MR PEARCE is walking around his room.

MR PEARCE

It has come to our attention that you have recently been retrenched and despite strenuous efforts over the last six weeks are no closer to find alternative employment. As you are aware, any change in your circumstance has to be reviewed by us in cause it augers ill for the in your care.

THE FLETCHER HOUSE

PIPPA gets the mail of the postman.

MR PEARCE

We would regrettably have to reassess your situation should you prove financially unable to adequately acquit your role as foster parents.

TOM, FRANK and PIPPA walk into the living room.

TOM

We would appreciate it if you would call to arrange an appointment, for you and your wife at your earliest convenience. Yours sincerely, Tarquin Pearce.

PIPPA

We knew it had to come.

FRANK

Can we do anything?

TOM

I don’t know. I tell you what though. No one’s taking our kids away from us, no one.

YOUTH AND COMMUNITY SERVICES

MR PEARCE, TOM and PIPPA are there.

MR PEARCE

Well, that’s the bottom line. Unless you find a job pretty quickly we’d be forced to move on the situation. Frank’s no longer our problem, of course, but, eh, we’d certainly be reviewing the custody of the others.

TOM

Well, you’re overreacting a bit, aren’t you?

MR PEARCE

Not really. The kids will suffer more from seeing their security tumble down around them than from being taken away in the early part of the process.

PIPPA

They’re mature enough to cope with things being a bit tight.

MR PEARCE

More than a bit if they keep going on as they are.

TOM

Yeah, we’re doing everything we bloody well can.

MR PEARCE

There’s no point in getting heated, eh.

PIPPA

We have got a plan.

TOM

Yes, a last resort.

PIPPA

Well I’d say we were pretty well there.

MR PEARCE

Yes.

TOM

Well, we worked out some figures. If we were to sell the house and maybe relocate out of the city we’d make quite a good profit. We should be able to live off that for a while and we’d be able to live more cheaply as well.

PIPPA

It would be good for the kids. Clean air. Health environment. It’s got a lot going for it.

MR PEARCE

Move where?

TOM

Well we don’t know.

PIPPA

We’ll know when we see it.

MR PEARCE

Do you mean you’re prepared to sell out and up stakes just to keep the kids?

PIPPA

Look, I don’t know what other foster parents are like, but you’re acting as if this is something strange. We’ll do anything to keep the kids.

MR PEARCE

OK, OK. I’m impressed.

PIPPA

Well then, give us a go.

THE FLETCHER HOUSE

STEVEN wheels his bike onto the pavement. FRANK is running along.

FRANK

Hey. Tom and Pippa should be back soon.

STEVEN

There’s something I have to do.

FRANK

Where do you go on your secret little trips anyway?

STEVEN

There’s nothing secret about them.

FRANK

No. Then, why do you sneak off? Where do you go?

STEVEN

Why don’t you like me?

FRANK

I don’t trust you. Tom and Pippa have got enough troubles as it is.

STEVEN

I can’t help it if I’m a bit smarter than you.

FRANK

What’s that got to do with anything?

STEVEN

I don’t know why you’ve got a hang up about smart kids, but you have. That’s why you pick on me.

FRANK

I haven’t got hang ups about anything.

STEVEN

You’ll have your secrets, I’ll have mine.

TOM and PIPPA arrive back.

FRANK

You’ll keep. And they’ll want to see us all, so whatever it is you’re doing will just have to wait.

TOM, PIPPA, CARLY, FRANK, STEVEN, LYNN and SALLY are in the living room.

TOM

And he agreed. In fact, by the time we left he was right onside. He thinks it will be great for you.

PIPPA

Which it will.

CARLY

So, we’re moving away?

LYNN

To the country.

FRANK

Great.

TOM

Yeah, big changes all round.

FRANK

You can count me in.

PIPPA

We don’t want to force anyone in to anything. We know you all have friends here, school.

TOM

Yeah, the main thing is it’ll stop Pearce making noises about breaking us up.

PIPPA

It’s your choice. You don’t have to come with us if don’t want to. It does seem to be the only way to keep the family together.

SALLY

Milko wants to go.

PIPPA

I thought he might. What about you?

SALLY

Me too. Me and Milko always think the same.

TOM

Funny that. Look as Pippa said no ones being forced to do anything, but think about it. It’ll be great. A whole new start.

STEVEN runs down the back stairs. PIPPA follows him.

PIPPA

Steven.

STEVEN

Yeah.

PIPPA

Do you want to talk about it? You didn’t look too happy.

STEVEN

Tonight. I’m late for something.

STEVEN rides away on his bicycle. PIPPA sits down on the stairs. CARLY walks out.

PIPPA

What is it?

CARLY

Well it’s Brad. If we move I’m never going to see him again.

PIPPA

Brad Adams. I thought you couldn’t stand him.

CARLY

Yeah, I couldn’t, but that’s just because I thought he was so gorgeous and he acted like I didn’t exist.

PIPPA

That’s changed, has it?

CARLY

Yes. Yesterday I dropped my books and he picked them up for me. He smiled at me.

PIPPA

That’s it.

CARLY

Well, at least he knows that I’m alive.

PIPPA

It’s start, eh.

CARLY

Yeah, I know and if we move.

PIPPA

Look, you can believe, but in six months I’ll say the name Brad and you’ll say Brad who.

CARLY shakes her head.

PIPPA

Didn’t think so.

A PARK

STEVEN and BILL practice some karate moves. Later they are sitting down.

STEVEN

It’s not like I’ve been with them long.

BILL

You know I’d give you a home if I could. That was good friend.

STEVEN

Pippa and Tom are great. It’s.

BILL

The other kids.

STEVEN

Yeah. The oldest one, Frank.

BILL

What’s his beef?

STEVEN

It’s because I’m smart. He said it’s because he doesn’t trust me. That’s not it.

BILL

Why should your being smart worry him? At least with the karate he’ll think twice about hitting you.

STEVEN

They don’t even know I’m doing it. I don’t want them to know, because if they do, they’ll start asking questions and I’ll have to tell them that dad taught me. I can’t help thinking of him and mum burning and. I couldn’t keep on having lessons wherever we went and I think dad would have wanted me to.

BILL

Small towns have karate schools.

STEVEN

Not many.

BILL

You’re good enough now to keep it up on your own anyway. You’ve found a good mob to live with. Frank will cool down. You don’t want to go back to the home now, do you?

STEVEN shakes his head.

BILL

Well there.

THE FLETCHER HOUSE

TOM, PIPPA, FRANK, SALLY, STEVEN, LYNN and SALLY all walk out the house and get in the car.

A ROAD

The Fletchers drive past a sign that says “Welcome to Summer Bay”.

THE CARAVAN PARK

ALF drives around the caravan park in his jeep. He whistles as he drives. There is sign up saying that the caravan park is for sale. ALF stops the jeep and toots the horn. He gets out. FLOSS and NEVILLE walk out.

NEVILLE

G’day Alf.

FLOSS

G’day Alf.

ALF

G’day Nev, Floss. How are you going?

NEVILLE

Aw, can’t complain as the bearded lady said to the barber.

ALF

Aw, Neville. There not getting any better.

FLOSS

Hear you thinking of buying a new boat.

ALF

Who’s the big mouth Floss?

FLOSS

Ailsa.

ALF laughs.

ALF

That would be right. You get your groceries from Ailsa and you get the news of the world as well.

FLOSS

Decided to come and play landlord did you?

ALF

Yeah, well I might not have to much longer. I’ve got a family coming to look over the place. A young couple, a couple of mugs I hope.

NEVILLE

There coming to look the place over.

ALF

Yeah.

FLOSS

When?

ALF

Well I thought they might have been here now as a matter of fact.

FLOSS

They’re coming here now.

NEVILLE

For an inspection.

ALF

Yeah, what’s wrong?

FLOSS

Well, nothing, nothing, no. You should have called, that’s all. We’d have given the place a bit of a tidy up wouldn’t we Nev?

NEVILLE

Yeah, sure.

FLOSS

It’s not too late. Why don’t you go and clear some of the junk out of the way?

NEVILLE

All right.

ALF

Aw, look. Don’t worry about it. I mean, the joints not looking real flash anyway.

FLOSS

Go on love.

NEVILLE

Yeah. We wouldn’t want you to think that we’ve lost you the sale Alf. Place being on the market for so long.

NEVILLE runs away.

FLOSS

Still got a problem with them geraniums.

NEVILLE runs up to a caravan. A girl, BOBBY is hiding in it.

NEVILLE

Here, people are coming to look the place over. We’ll keep Alf busy and you better get in to the bushes until there gone. It’s too late. I’ll make sure they’ll look at the house first. When they are inside you skedaddle.

NEVILLE runs back. TOM, PIPPA, FRANK, CARLY, LYNN, SALLY, STEVEN, FLOSS, ALF and NEVILLE are there.

TOM

Right, this is our lot. This is Frank, Carly, Lynn, Steven and Sally.

SALLY

And Milko.

ALF

Milko.

PIPPA

Milko.

PIPPA points to SALLY’S left side.

SALLY

Milko.

SALLY points to her right.

PIPPA

Sorry, Milko.

TOM

Yeah, Milko is Sally’s special friend. He’s a bit hard to see sometimes.

FLOSS

Oh, he’s not hard to see at all.

PIPPA points over SALLY’S right shoulder. FLOSS bends down and shakes hands with MILKO.

FLOSS

How do you do Milko? He’s just like the little folks at the Carnie. Now you could always see them if you took the trouble to look properly, but you wouldn’t believe the number of people who couldn’t be bothered and used to knock the poor little blighters over.

NEVILLE

Floss and I worked in shows for years.

TOM

Oh yeah.

FLOSS

Madame Zara, fortune teller.

NEVILLE

And I was the billed as the world’s strongest man.

They all laugh.

NEVILLE

That was just for kids and it was a long time ago.

ALF

Well, eh.

BOBBY is in the caravan. She is brandishing a rolling pin. SALLY walks off from the group.

PIPPA

Don’t wander too far. We’ll tell you when we’re going inside the house.

NEVILLE

You should do that first up. It’s lovely in there.

FLOSS

Aw, too right it is.

ALF

Yeah, it’s a credit to Floss the way she keeps it. We can if you like.

TOM

No, you’re right. I think I’ll look at the books first. I’ll get that boring financial stuff out of the way. Now, tell me, how does the place move?

ALF

Well, in it’s heyday it was a goldmine.

TOM, PIPPA and ALF walk off.

FLOSS

Aw, I could kill you Nev.

NEVILLE

Uh.

FLOSS

Such I nice young couple and their family. I’d like to be able to relax and enjoy their visit.

NEVILLE

Well, there’s no chance of that.

FLOSS

Exactly.

NEVILLE

We better keep an eye on those kids. We don’t want them going in the caravans.

TOM and PIPPA walk back up to FLOSS and NEVILLE.

TOM

Alf tells me you’ve retired here Neville.

NEVILLE

Yeah.

TOM

See it as a bit of a home for a while do you?

NEVILLE

Yeah, that’s right Tom.

SALLY walks up to the caravan which BOBBY is inside. BOBBY runs out the caravan. SALLY is hit by the door and starts crying. BOBBY runs away. FRANK, TOM, STEVEN, PIPPA, CARLY, LYNN, FLOSS, NEVILLE and ALF run to SALLY.

TOM

Hey. What is child? What’s wrong?

SALLY

She hit me.

TOM

Who?

SALLY

The girl in there.

PIPPA

There was no girl.

SALLY

She went round there.

FRANK runs to check.

TOM

She’s more shocked than hurt I think.

PIPPA

Where does it hurt Sally?

SALLY

My bum.

PIPPA

Bottom.

SALLY

My bottom.

TOM

Oh, does it hurt bad?

PIPPA

Anything else that hurts.

SALLY

It’s numb.

TOM

Oh, I think you’re going to have a bruised bum pumpkin.

SALLY

Bottom.

TOM

Sorry.

FRANK runs back.

FRANK

There wasn’t anyone there.

SALLY

There was someone. There was a girl.

ALF

Have you seen a girl around the place?

NEVILLE

No, not me. Floss?

FLOSS

No.

NEVILLE

She probably toppled back when she opened the door. It tends to be a bit free on its hinges that one.

TOM

Well if there was someone there she’s gone now. Come on, we’re going to get you cleaned up.

ALF

Hey, you can use the house if you want Tom.

TOM

Thanks Alf.

They all walk away leaving FLOSS and NEVILLE standing their.

FLOSS

I told you that girl would be trouble.

NEVILLE

There’s no real harm in her.

FLOSS

Well what do you call that? You’ll have us in strife with the cops if you’re not careful.

FLOSS walks away.

SUMMER BAY HOUSE

PIPPA cleans SALLY up in the kitchen. LYNN, TOM and ALF are also there.

PIPPA

Good as new.

TOM

Should we get on with the tour and inspection, shall we?

STEVEN and FRANK are looking in a cupboard.

ALF

Sure, sure. In case you hadn’t of noticed, this is the kitchen and of course the dining room.

CARLY is looks into a cupboard.

PIPPA

Carly.

ALF

No, you’re all right kids. Poke your noses in wherever you like. You’re here to have a look.

TOM

Just take it easy please. We don’t want Alf here suing us for property damage.

ALF laughs.

ALF

Let’s hope you buy the place and then it won’t matter what you do.

PIPPA

It’s so clean.

ALF

Yeah, yeah. Well, like I said I’ve had Floss look after it since my wife died. She used to keep the place spotless. Only woman I knew who’d wipe under the table every day. She would have wanted it this way and she would have wanted a nice family like you lot in the place. Let’s have a look upstairs, shall we.

CARLY

How far is it to the beach Mr. Stewart?

ALF

Oh, my dear from here I’d say it’s about a well hit two wood. Sorry, you’re not a golfer. Just down the road.

LYNN

Carly wants to know where to find the surfies.

CARLY

Lynn.

ALF

Oh, don’t be embarrassed Carly. There’s some very nice surfies down there.

ALF, SALLY, CARLY, LYNN, STEVEN and FRANK walk into the hall.

CARLY

Aw, great, stairs.

LYNN

Last one up’s a rotten egg.

PIPPA

I’ve got a good feeling about this place.

TOM

Yeah, I think he’s a bit of a shafter.

PIPPA

Well, we’ll just have to out shaft him, won’t we?

CARLY, LYNN and FRANK walk into a bedroom.

CARLY

Aw, bags this room.

LYNN

You’re.

SALLY walks in.

SALLY

Wahl.

FRANK and SALLY walk out. ALF is standing on the top landing.

ALF

Good girl.

SALLY tries to turn a light on. It doesn’t come on.

ALF

Aw, I’ll fix that. Why don’t you have a look in that room and see if you see the pussy cat that lives in there.

SALLY walks into another bedroom. FRANK and STEVEN walk out.

SALLY

Wahl.

SALLY walks back out the bedroom. PIPPA and TOM walk up the stairs.

ALF

Well, I’d say if the kids have got anything to do with it, I’ve got myself a sale. Why don’t we look in the main bedroom? I’ve got a bit of a surprise for you.

TOM

All right.

TOM and PIPPA walk into a bedroom.

TOM

Yeah, we should have given them sedatives. Every squeal of joy adds a hundred to the price.

TOM and PIPPA walk out the bedroom. CARLY and LYNN walk in. ALF, TOM and PIPPA are in another bedroom.

ALF

Well, what do you reckon?

PIPPA

It’s beautiful.

TOM

It’s antique, isn’t it?

ALF

Yeah, it’s been in my wife’s family for years and my daughters not one for sentiment so no one to leave it to. I always said if I found the right young couple that it would go with the house. I reckon I’ve found them.

THE CARAVAN PARK

FLOSS and NEVILLE are there.

FLOSS

They seem such a nice young couple.

NEVILLE

Who?

FLOSS

The Fletchers of course and all this waffle Alf’s going on with. This place has never done well. I don’t know where he’s got them figures he’s been showing them.

NEVILLE

It’s called creative accounting love.

FLOSS

I don’t care what it’s called. I don’t like seeing nice young folk diddled. I’m in half a mind to say something.

NEVILLE

Here. You keep your beak out of it. It’s none of our business.

FLOSS

Oh, that’s right. You’ll help a little crim, but you won’t say a word to help a decent young couple.

NEVILLE

Number one, Bobby didn’t do what they say she did.

FLOSS

You’ve only got her word for that.

NEVILLE

It’s good enough for me and number two, the Fletchers look smart enough to look after themselves so keep your beak out of it Floss.

SUMMER BAY HOUSE

SALLY, LYNN, CARLY, STEVEN, FRANK, PIPPA, TOM and ALF walk out the house.

THE CARAVAN PARK

BOBBY is hiding in the bushes. SALLY, CARLY, TOM, LYNN, PIPPA, STEVEN, FRANK and ALF walk through the caravan park.

BOBBY

Rack off.

FLOSS and NEVILLE are with ALF and the Fletchers.

FLOSS

The caravan park, you’re hoping to make a go of it, are you?

TOM

Well, you bet. From the business it used to do, a bit of spit and polish, we’ll have it going soon.

PIPPA

And we’re not only buying a house, we’re buying a job into the bargain.

FLOSS

Ah, I was thinking.

NEVILLE

Floss.

FLOSS

I was just about to suggest that I give Pippa a reading. I’m getting vibrations dear. I reckon a good in the crystal ball could yield results.

PIPPA

Aw, I don’t.

CARLY

Aw, go on Pippa.

FRANK

Come on. Bookie, bookie, bookie.

ALF

I’m with you mate.

FLOSS

Don’t mock what you don’t understand, you fellow, me lad. Aw come on love. Give an old girl a go.

CARLY

Go on.

PIPPA

Why not?

FLOSS

Come in then.

NEVILLE

Now Floss.

FLOSS

Girls only Nev.

BOBBY is hiding in the bushes.

BOBBY

Get rid of them.

DON walks through the bushes behind her. BOBBY hides. DON walks up to TOM, ALF, NEVILLE, CARLY, LYNN, FRANK, STEVEN and SALLY.

ALF

Ah, Donald.

NEVILLE

Mr. Fisher.

DON

I heard a commotion so I thought I should check. Better to be safe than sorry.  I was burgled recently myself so I’m very aware of it. Donald Fisher.

TOM

Ah, please to meet you.

DON

I live over there. It’s a distance, but not that far. Noise carries unfortunately.

NEVILLE

I’ll play my bagpipes whenever the mood takes me.

DON

I wouldn’t object if you could play.

NEVILLE

If I a man can’t use his retirement to learn an instrument he’s admired all his life, what can he do?

DON

And your name?

TOM

Ah, Tom Fletcher.

ALF

Yeah, Tom’s thinking of buying the place.

TOM

Yeah, and these are my kids. Steven, Lynn, Sally, Frank and Carly.

DON

Charming. Charming.

SALLY screws her face up. TOM smiles at DON.

FLOSS AND NEVILLE’S CARAVAN

FLOSS and PIPPA are there.

FLOSS

I see an oven. Let me look inside. Awww. Books.

PIPPA

Books.

FLOSS

Books.

PIPPA

Books in an oven.

FLOSS

That’s what I see.

PIPPA

Why would anyone want to cook books for? Alf’s books are shonky right?

FLOSS

Madame Zara doesn’t interpret; she just tells what she sees.

PIPPA

Thanks for the warning Floss, but we’re not totally gullible. Anyway, who cares what the figures were? It’s what they are going to be that’s important.

FLOSS

You’re quite a shrewdie aren’t you Miss Earagard.

FLOSS & PIPPA

No flies on you.

PIPPA and FLOSS laugh.

A ROAD

TOM, PIPPA, FRANK, SALLY, LYNN, CARLY and STEVEN are in the car.

FRANK

We’ll be back.

SALLY

Milko. Where’s Milko? We left Milko behind.

Everyone else in the car sighs.

SALLY

He’s definitely back there.

TOM

I’ve told you about this before young lady. Milko’s your responsibility. You’re supposed to see he’s in the car, all right.

TOM turns the car around.

TOM

Back we go.

FRANK

Told you.

THE CARAVAN PARK

BOBBY, NEVILLE and FLOSS are there.

BOBBY

I didn’t hurt her, did I?

FLOSS

You could have.

BOBBY

You think I’m a creep or something. Go around, getting a kick out of hurting little kids.

FLOSS

You don’t think Bobby. That’s just your problem.

BOBBY

Yeah. Well thanks for nothing. You don’t have to help me now.

NEVILLE

Stop it both of you. Look, we’re letting you hide out her because we believe what you told us and we’re no fonder of Fisher than you are.

BOBBY

I suppose you think I really did pip his joint off.

FLOSS

If I thought that you’d be out of here so fast your feet wouldn’t hit the ground. Now, Neville sees some good in you, all right, so be it, but that doesn’t mean I have to lie, you here. It’s a criminal offence, you know. Harbouring a felon.

BOBBY

Geez, you’re a dag Floss.

NEVILLE

Hey, you watch your tongue. Now off you go.

BOBBY

You’re OK Nev.

BOBBY begins to walk away. The Fletcher’s drive back into the caravan park. STEVEN, SALLY, PIPPA, TOM, CARLY, FRANK and LYNN are there.

SALLY

That’s the girl that hurt me.

BOBBY runs off. FRANK and TOM get out the car and chase after her.

TOM

Get her.

FRANK catches BOBBY.

TOM

All right, who are you? Who the hell are you?

DON walks up to them.

DON

Justice prevails for once. Congratulations Mr. Fletcher, a perfectly executed citizens arrest. Come on.

DON grabs hold off BOBBY.

BOBBY

Let go of me.

DON drags BOBBY away.

DON

Come on.

BOBBY

Let go of me.

SERGEANT BARNETT puts BOBBY in a police car. DON is there.

DON

I’ll follow in my car.

SERGEANT BARNETT

No need to worry Mr. Fisher.

DON

It was my house the girl burgled. I ought to be there.

FLOSS, NEVILLE and PIPPA are watching them.

DON

What do those two know about it?

SERGEANT BARNETT

Nothing, if you insist.

SERGEANT BARNETT and BOBBY drive away. DON walks over to FRANK and TOM.

DON

Good to have you in the neighbourhood Fletcher.

DON walks away.

TOM

Now, how come I get the feeling we wish we hadn’t caught her?

FRANK

Yeah, because what ever she is, she’s a creep.

TOM

Yeah.

FRANK

Do you think she did it?

TOM

Well he’s certainly got her hung, drawn and quartered before she’s even charged.

PIPPA walks over.

PIPPA

I got the story from Neville. She’s a local. Mother’s dead, dad’s in jail. Apparently Fisher’s always had it in for her.

TOM

And this her first arrest?

PIPPA

She’s always in trouble. She said she never broke into Fisher’s house. Neville thinks someone else did it. Fisher saw it as a chance to get rid of her.

FRANK

So you reckon Fisher lied?

PIPPA

Well, either he did or she did. He swears he caught in the act. She says she was never even there. Anyway, whatever she is, Neville says she’s no liar. He says there is a lot of good underneath.

TOM

No.

PIPPA

What do you mean?

TOM

I know you. We’re going to have enough on our plate moving into this place.

PIPPA

There’s no harm in just trying to get to know the girl, even if she is found guilty. It’s her first offence, she might get off on a bond.

TOM

Look, we’re not taking on anyone else’s future until we’ve got our own sorted out.

PIPPA

But.

TOM

No, no.

HOGAN’S GENERAL STORE

DORIS pushes her bike along. PIPPA draws up in the car. AILSA is practising some dancing inside the shop. DORIS walks in.

AILSA

Just practising my routine for the Riley night.

DORIS

Oh, she’s coming in.

AILSA

Who?

DORIS

The lass who’s just taken over Alf’s old place. Fletcher’s the name. Husband, wife, five children. Poor little thing. She must be worn out. Catholic I expect. I saw the children. I took a peak up the drive just as I was passing.

AILSA

Yeah, neighbourly curiosity.

DORIS

Yes, yes, just neighbourly curiosity. I was wondering if it was her second marriage. None of the children looked anything alike. In fact, one of them looked positively foreign.

PIPPA walks in.

AILSA

Aw.

DORIS

Oh, well, I’ll just browse around Ailsa whilst you attend to Mrs Fletcher. Mrs Doris Peters. How do you do? Nice to see you.

DORIS walks behind a shelf.

AILSA

Welcome to Summer Bay. There’s not many secrets around here. Ailsa Hogan.

PIPPA

I’m Pippa Fletcher. Please call me Pippa.

AILSA

Of course, as long as you can manage Ailsa. How are you settling in?

PIPPA

Fine.

AILSA

It’s only a few weeks since you looked the place over. You must have got all that paperwork settled very quick. Like I said, there’s not that much that goes on around here that everybody doesn’t get to hear about.

PIPPA

Alf was kind enough to let us move in before everything was finalised. It’s school holidays so it was a good time to move without disrupting the kids.

AILSA

Five I hear.

PIPPA

I’m sure you’ll be seeing plenty of him.

AILSA

You’re a beggar for punishment.

PIPPA

No, it’s not like that. Tom and I can’t have any of our own so we fostered.

DORIS

Oh.

AILSA looks at DORIS. DORIS picks up some washing liquid.

DORIS

This has gone up.

SUMMER BAY HOUSE

TOM, SALLY, CARLY, STEVEN, FRANK and LYNN are there.

CARLY

I hope Pippa hurries up. I’m starving.

SALLY

Me too.

TOM

What are you doing there pumpkin?

SALLY

I can’t find Milko. Maybe he’s hiding in one of these.

TOM

Aw, I’m pretty sure he hasn’t. Why don’t you just check upstairs?

SALLY walks out.

STEVEN

Tom, do you think it’s wise to keep pandering to her childish fantasies?

FRANK

Pandering to her childhood fantasies.

STEVEN

I only asked.

FRANK

Yeah, well we got along without your concerns until now, thanks.

TOM

Cut it out you two. Now, you see Steve, having Milko around helped Sal through some rough times before she came to us.

CARLY

Yeah, she lost her parents and her nan.

TOM

Yeah, she didn’t have anyone, but Milko. We figure one day she won’t need him anymore and he, well, he’ll just be gone.

STEVEN

You should have told me.

TOM

Everyone’s background is there own business in this family mate. People tell, they tell what they want to tell, but that’s an important bit, so you can understand, all right.

FRANK

Einstein understands all about not telling people things.

STEVEN

Get off my back and stop calling me Einstein.

TOM

Hey, hey, break it up.

STEVEN walks out.

TOM

Don’t grind him so much, eh.

FRANK

I don’t trust him.

CARLY

I do.

FRANK

Well you would, wouldn’t I?

LYNN

Well I do.

CARLY

You never, ever give up.

TOM

That’s enough. Now split, all of you, all in different directions, all right, and when you come back, I want to see some smiles.

CARLY and LYNN walk out. TOM smiles at FRANK.

HOGAN’S GENERAL STORE

AILSA, PIPPA and DORIS are there.

PIPPA

So, all in all I feel pretty damm lucky. We’re the happiest family.

AILSA

Sounds perfect. I believe you had a bit of trouble with one of our local youngies when you were first here.

PIPPA

Bobby.

AILSA

Yeah, that’s her.

DORIS

Mmm.

AILSA

No need for that Doris Peters.

DORIS

The girl’s a mischief. It’s just a shame the courts can’t see it.

AILSA rolls her eyes.

PIPPA

You agree with Neville and Floss, do you?

AILSA

Aw, there’s good there, all right.

PIPPA

I heard she got off on a bond.

AILSA

A few of us around town willing to bat for her.

PIPPA

You obviously care for her.

AILSA

I have a thing about underdogs.

PIPPA

She’s very aggressive.

AILSA

Aw, not always and when she smiles, she’s a different girl.

DORIS

I’ve never seen her smile.

AILSA

No, I’m sure you haven’t Doris. This town’s divided into pro and anti Bobby. The anti’s are led by Fisher.

PIPPA

You might have another member on your team.

DORIS looks at PIPPA funny.

THE BEACH

STEVEN practices karate on a rock. BOBBY walks down the beach.

BOBBY

What are you doing creep boy?

STEVEN ignores her.

BOBBY

Over here bozo. I asked you a question?

STEVEN

None of your business.

BOBBY

Tough.

STEVEN

What’s your problem?

BOBBY

You and your family, vacuum head. You’re a Fletcher, right?

STEVEN

So?

BOBBY

So, you watch it.

BOBBY walks away.

SUMMER BAY HOUSE

TOM and PIPPA tuck SALLY into bed.

TOM

Your own little room, eh.

SALLY

It’s my favourite.

PIPPA

Sleep tight.

TOM

Hey, butterfly kiss.

SALLY and TOM butterfly kiss.

TOM

That’s a good girl. Sleep tight pumpkin.

TOM goes to turn the light off.

SALLY

Can I have it on?

TOM

A big girl like you. You’re not afraid of the dark.

SALLY

Milko is.

TOM

Aw, I see. Probably because it’s a strange new place, right?

SALLY nods.

TOM

Aw, I think we can leave the light on tonight, just for Milko, can’t we Pippa?

TOM and PIPPA walk out SALLY’S room.

PIPPA

I think we might. Nightie night.

TOM

Yeah, night you lot.

CARLY

Good night.

LYNN

Good night.

LYNN and CARLY are lying in their beds.

CARLY

Aw.

LYNN

Oh, Brad.

CARLY

Shut your face pea brain.

CARLY throws a pillow at LYNN. LYNN throws it back.

LYNN

No dirty dreams about him.

CARLY

I should be so lucky.

LYNN

Make it work god. Don’t let us all be split up. Amen.

CARLY

Saying your prayers, are we?

LYNN

Nothing wrong with that.

CARLY

Waste of time. While you’re at it ask him to send me a new boyfriend as good as Brad. Good night.

LYNN

Oh, Brad.

CARLY throws a pillow at LYNN. STEVEN lies in his bed reading a book with a torch. He keeps accidentally shining it on FRANK.

FRANK

Turn it off Egghead. Well, you told me not to call you Einstein.

STEVEN accidentally flashes the torch on FRANK. FRANK gets out of bed and grabs it off him.

FRANK

I can’t sleep with you flashing this thing about.

STEVEN

Give it back.

FRANK

Or what?

STEVEN

You’re not worth it.

FRANK

Wimp.

STEVEN and FRANK get back into bed.

STEVEN

Someone with brains must have really dumped on you once.

FRANK

Is that what you call psychology, is it?

STEVEN

No, I call it sense.

STEVEN turns over.

STEVEN

Night dad. Night mum.

PIPPA and TOM are in their bedroom.

PIPPA

What are you up to?

TOM

Nothing.

PIPPA and TOM climb into bed.

PIPPA

Everything’s going to be all right. It already feels like home.

TOM

Yeah, well let’s make it even more like home.

TOM and PIPPA kiss.

PIPPA

I love you.

TOM

Yes, I feel strangely attracted to you too.

PIPPA

Hey, I forgot something.

PIPPA jumps out of bed.

TOM

Hey, nothing can be that important.

PIPPA

It is to me.

PIPPA runs downstairs and puts the photos on the mantelpiece. She then walks back into the bedroom.

PIPPA

Now, where were we?

HOGAN’S GENERAL STORE

LANCE and MARTIN are standing outside the shop. LANCE blows a bubble with his gum and MARTIN bursts it.

MARTIN

Hey, Lance, check it out.

CARLY, LYNN and SALLY are walking along.

LANCE

Yeah, right, check it out.

MARTIN

Woah.

CARLY

I hope that’s not the best Summer Bay can offer.

LYNN

He’s going to talk to us.

CARLY

Not for long he’s not.

MARTIN

How are you going? He’s Martin. I’m Lance.

CARLY

And I’m not interested.

CARLY, SALLY and LYNN walk away.

LANCE

Too bad mate.

MARTIN

Shut up. It’s your loss. Suckers.

LANCE and MARTIN walk away.

CARLY

If that’s the answer to last nights prayer then I’m an atheist.

SALLY

What’s an atheist?

LYNN

She’s just being silly.

CARLY walks into a SURFER walking out the shop.

SURFER

G’day.

The SURFER walks away. CARLY get excited.

LYNN

Amen.

BOBBY and AILSA are in the shop.

BOBBY

Thanks Ailsa. I’ll catch you.

AILSA

All the junk you eat, it’s a wonder you’re not one big pimple.

LYNN, CARLY and SALLY walk in.

LYNN

You should have seen the look on your face.

BOBBY

Hey, it’s the Fletcher girls. Boo.

BOBBY runs out. LYNN, CARLY and SALLY walk up to the counter.

AILSA

Come on in girls. Don’t mind Bobby. She’s all bark and no bite. Now what can I get you? Oh, I think I know what you like.

Later, BOBBY is standing outside. SALLY, LYNN and CARLY walk out.

SALLY

She’s nice.

LYNN

Yeah, Pippa said she was.

BOBBY

Won over.

SALLY

Yeah.

BOBBY

How are we little girls?

CARLY

Just ignore her.

BOBBY

Don’t think you’re going to get away with it that easy, do you? You lot got me arrested.

CARLY

Look, you got yourself.

BOBBY

Think you’re tough do you?

LYNN

Leave her alone.

BOBBY

Or what?

CARLY

Look, you want a fight, I’ll give you a fight, but not around her.

AILSA walks out.

AILSA

Come inside Bobby. Carly take her home.

CARLY, LYNN and SALLY walk away.

BOBBY

You’ll pay.

AILSA

Get inside.

AILSA and BOBBY go in the shop.

AILSA

You always have to do it, don’t you?

BOBBY

They’re creeps.

AILSA

They’re nice young kids.

BOBBY

They’re as bad as Fisher.

AILSA

Their mother was in here yesterday. She was actually worried about you. She won’t give a damm now.

BOBBY

Doesn’t worry me.

AILSA

Now you listen to me young lady. You need every friend you can get. OK, you’ve had a tough life, but it only excuses so much. If you’re not careful, you’ll even turn the likes of me against you, now out.

AILSA pushes BOBBY out the shop.

SUMMER BAY HOUSE

PIPPA takes a cake out the oven. LYNN, CARLY and SALLY walk in.

PIPPA

In case you’re wondering, it’s a pineapple upside down cake. What happened?

THE BEACH

PIPPA drives along a road in the car. She gets out and walks down to the beach where BOBBY is standing.

PIPPA

Ailsa told me I might find you here. I’m Pippa Fletcher.

BOBBY

Come to warn me off, have you?

PIPPA

Our family is not out to get you.

BOBBY

I don’t care.

PIPPA

We regret what happened.

BOBBY

Sure you do.

PIPPA

Please. Hear me out. I want to prove to you that the arrest wasn’t our idea. We’ve got spare caravans. You can have one rent free if you help out around the grounds.

BOBBY

Me. Live at your joint.

PIPPA

Why not? You already have.

BOBBY

That was before the Brady Bunch moved in.

PIPPA

You don’t have to have anything to do with us if you don’t want to. I’m offering you accommodation, that’s all.

BOBBY

Why?

PIPPA

I came here wanting to thump you, then I thought that makes me no better than you.

BOBBY

And that’s pretty rotten, isn’t it?

PIPPA

I didn’t mean that. Ailsa told me where you live so I went there looking for you. It’s a hovel.

BOBBY

I does me.

PIPPA

I want to prove to you that we’re friends and help you into the bargain. What do you say?

BOBBY

I get it. Talk about running scared. You think by buttering me up will stop me hitting your little brats, then forget it.

PIPPA

It’s a genuine offer.

BOBBY

Sure it is.

PIPPA

I don’t want trouble with you Bobby.

BOBBY

You’ve got it.

BOBBY walks away.

PIPPA

I’m warning you. I’m not going to stand by and watch you hurt my children and I don’t think you want to.

BOBBY

Don’t bet on it.

THE CARAVAN PARK

TOM stands and talks to SALLY, FLOSS, PIPPA, LYNN, CARLY, NEVILLE, STEVEN and FRANK.

TOM

Now I’m in full charge and you’re all going to do what I say.

NEVILLE

Ooohh.

TOM

Now there’s some raking to be finished round there. Lynn and Sally.

LYNN does some raking. FLOSS and PIPPA do some sewing. TOM saws a piece of wood. NEVILLE paints a caravan. He wipes his hand against his face leaving a paint mark. FRANK and CARLY clean windows on a caravan. STEVEN puts a post into the ground. TOM puts a pot plant down. CARLY puts some utensils on the barbecue. SALLY, CARLY, NEVILLE, FLOSS, LYNN, STEVEN, FRANK, TOM and PIPPA stand at the new barbecue area.

SALLY

Milko and I declare that the barbecue is open.

SALLY cuts the ribbon and they all cheer and clap.

SUMMER BAY HOUSE

TOM and PIPPA are lying in bed.

PIPPA

Look at what we’ve done in just a few days. It’s working Tom.

TOM is asleep. PIPPA kisses TOM. Later that night, NEVILLE can be heard yelling outside.

NEVILLE

Tom, Tom, fire. One of the caravans is on fire. Come down here quick.

TOM wakes up.

NEVILLE

Fire.

THE CARAVAN PARK

One of the caravans is on fire. TOM, FRANK and NEVILLE throw buckets of water. FLOSS uses an extinguisher.

NEVILLE

Floss, be careful.

PIPPA runs over to TOM.

PIPPA

Tom, the fire brigade is on it’s way. Can’t you do anything?

TOM

No, it’s too far gone. The bush is dry. If we don’t contain it the whole damm thing might go up.

The caravan continues to burn. Later, the fire brigade arrives. The fire is out. The engine crashes into the barbecue area.

TOM

Watch out.

PIPPA

I don’t believe it.

ALF gets out.

ALF

When did you put that bloody thing there?

TOM and PIPPA laugh.

ALF

Well, where’s the fire?

TOM and PIPPA laugh.

FLOSS AND NEVILLE’S CARAVAN

FLOSS and NEVILLE climb into bed.

FLOSS

Aw, deary me. I’m too far over the hill for this sort of caper.

NEVILLE

You’re not the only love and I’m afraid you won’t need your crystal ball to see what’s going to happen.

FLOSS

What do you mean?

NEVILLE

Well, no one’s had time to think yet, but when they do I’m going to give you one guess at where they’re going to point the finger.

A ROAD

BOBBY stands by the side trying to thumb a lift. A car draws up. AILSA gets out.

AILSA

Right. I just want to know one thing. Did you do it?

BOBBY

Rack off.

AILSA

Did you do it?

BOBBY

See. Even you think I might have. Don’t blame me for going while the going’s good.

AILSA

Did you do it?

BOBBY

No, all right. Bloody well no, OK.

AILSA

If you do a flit now you’re as a good as signing a confession to something you didn’t do.

BOBBY

I’m on a bond, a good behaviour bond. Torching a caravan’s not good behaviour.

AILSA

There was no proof that you did it.

BOBBY

There was no proof I robbed Fisher.

AILSA

Aw, how many times do I have to tell you? The Fletcher’s are nothing like Donald Fisher.

BOBBY starts running.

AILSA

If you start running now, you won’t stop Bobby, trust me.

AILSA runs after BOBBY.

AILSA

Trust me, you stubborn little idiot.

BOBBY starts crying. AILSA and BOBBY cuddle.

BOBBY

I’m sick of being dumped on Ailse.

SUMMER BAY HOUSE

DON, TOM and PIPPA are there.

TOM

Sit down.

DON, TOM and PIPPA sit down at the table.

DON

I noticed the police sifting through the ashes as I came over. Glad to see you brought them in.

TOM

Yeah, well we didn’t really have much choice.

PIPPA

Alf had to report the fire.

DON

Well at least we will see justice done.

TOM

Just, why are you here Mr. Fisher?

DON

Well it’s obvious, isn’t it. There’s no doubt that they’ll find proof of arson. I’ve suffered at the girls hands too. I understand.

TOM

Yeah, there are such things as electrical faults.

DON

And there are such things as delinquent girls. You know it wasn’t a girl as well as I do. Bobby Simpson decided to get her own back.

PIPPA

There’s no proof.

DON

There will be and I want to make sure you don’t side with the bleeding hearts of Summer Bay when there is. With your help I can see the girl behind bars, where she belongs, even if we have to tell a few white lies. I know I can count on a decent couple like yourselves.

TOM and DON walk out the house.

TOM

Out please.

DON

There’s no need.

TOM

Our or I’ll throw you out.

DON

I expected better from you.

TOM

Just because I helped you arrest Bobby by accident, don’t think we’re going to join your little club. We don’t get kicks out of persecuting kids.

PIPPA

Or framing them.

DON

What does that mean?

PIPPA

I think you know.

DON

Well if that’s your attitude.

TOM

You better believe.

DON

Hardly surprising of course. I hear you little brood all come from bad blood too.

TOM

I’ll go now while the going’s good if I were you.

DON

I was prepared to be a good neighbour. I can see how it’s going to be though. I have a lot of influence in this area.

DON walks away.

HOGAN’S GENERAL STORE

AILSA and BOBBY are there.

AILSA

The condemned man ate a hearty meal.

BOBBY

What?

AILSA imitates BOBBY biting her nails.

AILSA

With or without salt?

BOBBY

It’s my nerves.

AILSA

You haven’t done anything wrong. You’ve got nothing to worry about. Come on. Come give us a hand.

BOBBY

Why do you bother Ailse?

AILSA

Because if I don’t they’ll be nothing on the shelves, stupid.

BOBBY

No, I don’t mean this. I mean me. Why bother?

AILSA

I’m a beggar for punishment.

BOBBY

No, I’m serious. Why?

AILSA

I knew somebody very like you once. They weren’t given a chance.

BOBBY

What happened to them?

AILSA

Nothing. Oh, this old dames got a history darling, but don’t expect to hear it from my lips. Do you want a cuppa?

BOBBY

I want to hear the story.

AILSA

One cuppa coming up.

SERGEANT BARNETT walks in.

SERGEANT BARNETT

Stop. Ailsa. G’day Bobby. Thought I might find you here. I’d like a word with you.

SUMMER BAY HOUSE

SALLY, FRANK, STEVEN, CARLY, LYNN, TOM and PIPPA are there.

CARLY

Look, you don’t know what she’s like. You haven’t been there.

PIPPA

You are overreacting.

CARLY

We’re not.

PIPPA

You’re not being fair.

TOM

Will you listen to me please, for a minute. Now the police have found no proof one or another. They know it wasn’t an electrical fault, but there’s no proof of arson either.

PIPPA

They’re not sure how it started.

CARLY

So it could have been Bobby.

PIPPA

It could have been.

TOM

Yeah, but we’re not prepared to see someone thrown in the slammer on a maybe.

PIPPA

She’s on a good behaviour bond. If she breaks it, she’s done for.

CARLY

Yeah, well good riddance.

LYNN

Yeah.

SALLY

I hate her.

PIPPA

Sally.

SALLY

Well I do.

TOM

Look, I can understand you girls, but we can’t tell the police to put her away just because she had a go at you.

PIPPA

If we do, we’d be no better than Fisher.

TOM

And I don’t think any of us want to be like him.

FRANK

No, no way.

PIPPA

We’ve told the police that we’re not interested in seeing it taken further and that means by any of us.

TOM

So that means if you see Bobby, they’ll be no accusation and no slanging matches because we decide right here and now that she didn’t do it, right, and we never mention it again. Right.

FRANK

Yeah, OK.

TOM

Carly.

CARLY

Look, if she hassles me I’m not just.

TOM

Yeah, well you just come and see us, but no accusations right.

HOGAN’S GENERAL STORE

BOBBY runs out the shop. SERGEANT BARNETT and AILSA walk out.

AILSA

Good to see her happy for a change.

SERGEANT BARNETT

I hope she realises how lucky she is. If the Fletcher’s had really wanted to force the issue it might have been a different story.

AILSA

Yeah, I hope she realises that to.

SERGEANT BARNETT

I don’t suppose a pies out of the question.

AILSA

Come on. They’re hot.

AILSA and SERGEANT BARNETT walk back inside.

A ROAD

BOBBY is walking along. LANCE and MARTIN stand a truck.

MARTIN

Hey, Lance, check it out. It’s Bobby, man.

LANCE

Yeah, right. G’day, you dag.

BOBBY

Up yours Lance.

MARTIN

That’s no way to talk to Summer Bay’s most eligible bachelors.

BOBBY

Aw, I don’t know where they are. I can only see you blokes.

MARTIN

We used to be good enough for you once.

BOBBY

Yeah, well we all grow up, don’t we? Well some of us do. Aw, guess what. Barnett just told me I’m off the hook, not even if I torched that caravan.

BOBBY runs down to the beach.

LANCE

Do you reckon we should tell her mate?

MARTIN

Good for a laugh.

THE BEACH

MARTIN and LANCE walk down to BOBBY.

MARTIN

Hey Bobby, what would it be worth to you to know who lit the fire?

BOBBY

You know?

MARTIN

Maybe.

LANCE

Maybe.

MARTIN

But you don’t get nothing for nothing.

LANCE

Right.

BOBBY

Who brought the echo?

LANCE

What do you mean?

BOBBY

Forget it. Who was it?

MARTIN

What’s it worth?

BOBBY

Tell me Martin or I’ll throw up. Just tell us.

MARTIN

A mate of Lance, he snuck in with his Sheila for a bit of fun and he reckons he left a ciggy burning. Not surprised though. He’s a real drongo.

LANCE

Yeah.

BOBBY

When did you find this out?

MARTIN

This morning.

LANCE

He told me at work.

BOBBY

You knew this morning and you didn’t say anything.

LANCE

Aw, I’m not going to dob in a mate.

BOBBY

What about me?

LANCE

Aw, you’re not a mate. You’re just a.

MARTIN

A Sheila.

LANCE

Sheila, yeah, that’s right.

BOBBY

You mongrels.

BOBBY goes for LANCE and MARTIN.

MARTIN

Watch it.

LANCE

Hey.

BOBBY

I nearly had my whole life stuffed up and you knew all along.

LANCE picks BOBBY up. STEVEN is walking along the beach.

MARTIN

Bobby.

LANCE

Take it easy.

BOBBY

I’m going to kill you.

MARTIN

You’re nuts.

LANCE

Aw, you’re nuts.

BOBBY

Let go of me.

STEVEN

Let her go. Let her go.

BOBBY

Rack off. I don’t need any help.

STEVEN

Doesn’t look like it to me. Drop her.

MARTIN

We’ll do what we like.

LANCE drops BOBBY.

MARTIN

You with weed killer.

LANCE

Yeah, you weed.

BOBBY

Rack off will you.

STEVEN

Not until they go.

MARTIN

Aw, I’m scared.

STEVEN

This is your last chance.

LANCE

What are you going to do about it?

MARTIN

Blow on us. Come on. That’s it mate.

STEVEN fights MARTIN and LANCE off with karate. He runs over to BOBBY.

BOBBY

Where did you learn to do that?

STEVEN

You’re going now, aren’t you?

MARTIN

You should watch your temper kid.

LANCE

Can’t a bloke have a joke.

BOBBY

Serves you right.

MARTIN

She’s nuts. You can have her.

MARTIN and LANCE walk away.

MARTIN

Did you see that? The little blokes Bruce Lee.

BOBBY

You sure you’re a Fletcher?

STEVEN

Yeah.

BOBBY

Well why did you help me then?

STEVEN

Well, why not?

BOBBY

You don’t even like me.

STEVEN

Who said? Don’t tell my family about.

BOBBY

The karate?

STEVEN

Yeah.

BOBBY

As if I’d talk to your family.

STEVEN walks away. BOBBY runs after him.

BOBBY

Hey.

STEVEN

Yeah.

BOBBY

The cops reckon your folks kept them off my back. Did they?

STEVEN

Yes. Pippa and Tom are OK. Did you know we’re not their kids? We’re fostered, all of us.

STEVEN walks away.

SUMMER BAY HOUSE

TOM, PIPPA, STEVEN, FRANK, NEVILLE, FLOSS, CARLY, SALLY and LYNN all stand around the table.

TOM

So here’s to Neville and Floss.

They have a toast.

TOM

Neville and Floss, we can’t thank you enough for all that help.

NEVILLE

Aw, no worries.

They all sit down.

NEVILLE

Getting stuck into a bit of work like that helps the old girl drop a bit of weight.

FLOSS

The only weight I’ll drop will be this fist on your head if you don’t watch it.

NEVILLE

Ooh.

TOM

No, seriously, though, you two, thanks for last night and your help with the clean up. It was great.

FLOSS

Oh, my pleasure, as the Siamese twins said to their girlfriend.

FLOSS starts laughing. Nobody else gets it, but they start laughing anyway. BOBBY walks around outside. She hears the laughing, then walks away.

HOGAN’S GENERAL STORE

PIPPA draws up outside the shop. She sees BOBBY sitting outside. She walks inside. ALF and AILSA are inside.

ALF

A bloke with a crook back is not really up to all this disco dancing rubbish.

AILSA

Where’s your crook back when it comes to bowling?

ALF

Golf. Bowls is an old mans game. Besides, that’s different.

AILSA

I think your back is very selective about when it does and doesn’t play up.

PIPPA walks in.

AILSA

Oh, hello Pippa. I won’t keep you a minute.

PIPPA

No hurry. Hi Alf.

ALF

G’day Pip. Look Ailse, I’ve got nothing against dancing, but just so long as I don’t have to do it.

AILSA

In other words you’d rather go to the pub, again.

ALF

You’re a born salesman.

AILSA

Oh, come on Alf. Haven’t you ever heard the word variety?

ALF

Yeah, it’s the spice of life, but just because we’re going to the pub doesn’t mean there’s going to be any spice.

AILSA

Oh, stop it Alf Stewart. Go on. Get out of here.

ALF

I’ll pick you up about eight. You fixed your barbie yet?

PIPPA

We’re thinking of leaving it as it is. The leaning tower of Summer Bay. Might catch on as a tourist attraction.

ALF

Love a woman with a sense of humour. Rare commodity.

ALF walks out.

AILSA

You need a sense of humour with him around here.

PIPPA

I didn’t know you and Alf were an item.

AILSA

Oh, we’re what they used to call in the old days a courting couple. The trouble is it’s more coupling than courting. What can I get you?

PIPPA

Five hundred grams of sliced ham to start with. Bobby’s still playing it cool.

AILSA

Oh, is she still out there? I think she might like a word with you.

PIPPA

Why?

AILSA

Well let’s just say she’s starting to see things a bit differently.

PIPPA walks out and gets in the car.

BOBBY

Hey.

PIPPA

Yeah.

BOBBY

You know that caravan, is it still there?

PIPPA

The one I said you could live in.

BOBBY

Right. Like, it’s not the one that burnt down or anything, is it?

PIPPA

No.

BOBBY

Is the offer still good?

PIPPA

Do you want to take me up on it?

BOBBY

Could do for a while, I suppose.

PIPPA

Good.

SUMMER BAY HOUSE

TOM and PIPPA are there.

TOM

You did what?

PIPPA

You heard.

TOM

Well when did you come up with this little bright idea?

PIPPA

Remember the other day when I tracked her down and read her the riot act.

TOM

Oh, asking her to live with us is reading the riot act.

PIPPA

She won’t be living with us. She’ll just be using one of the caravans.

TOM

Look, this is the girl that’s been monstering our kids.

PIPPA

It’s all going to change.

TOM

Oh, you’ve got that in writing, have you?

PIPPA

I thought you were on her side.

TOM

I didn’t want her thrown in the slammer. That doesn’t mean I want her living here.

PIPPA

You’ve never even met her. Believe me, it’s a breakthrough.

TOM

Look, you know what we’re doing here, don’t you? I mean, we need every bit of support we can from this town, to make this place a going concern. You bring her in, you risk blowing it. I mean, if we don’t get this place up and running love, we jeopardise the entire family. The departments out there waiting to take our kids off us or have you forgotten that fact? I’m sorry love, but that’s the way things are.

PIPPA

There’s no guarantee bringing Bobby here will cause trouble. If it does I’ll ask her to leave. We’ve never turned our back on a kid in trouble before.

TOM

Did she actually ask you if she could move in?

PIPPA

Yes.

TOM

Well do you think it might work?

PIPPA

It’s worth a try.

TOM

Right, one condition. We have to get a majority vote on it. We rave on about being democratic parents. We’re going to have to put our money where our mouths are.

PIPPA, TOM, SALLY, CARLY, LYNN, FRANK and STEVEN are in the living room that evening.

PIPPA

Well, that’s about it. Over to you.

CARLY

You must be nuts.

STEVEN

Sounds OK to me.

CARLY

Aw, what would you know? You’ve never even met the girl.

STEVEN

Have so.

CARLY

Aw, where?

STEVEN

Down the beach one day.

LYNN

What happened?

STEVEN

Nothing. I said hi and she said hi. That was it.

CARLY

I bet.

FRANK

Einstein’s got the knack.

TOM

Hey.

FRANK

Sorry. Steven has.

PIPPA

The trouble with you girls was once incident. I’m sure she’s over it.

SALLY

I hate her.

PIPPA

Would you stop saying that.

SALLY

But I do.

PIPPA

Hey, let’s take a vote, shall we, before we all start arguing. Majority rules, OK. Now, hands up all those in favour of giving Bobby a go, and I want to stress, the first sign of trouble and she’ll be out.

PIPPA and STEVEN put their hand up. TOM then puts his hand up.

FRANK

Yeah, well I suppose we should at least give her a go.

FRANK puts his hand up.

PIPPA

That’s four. Sorry girls. That’s a majority.

SALLY

No, it’s not.

PIPPA

Yes, it is sweetheart. Me, Tom, Steve, Frank, that’s four. You, Lynn and Carly that’s three. Four to three, that’s a majority.

SALLY

What about Milko?

PIPPA

What about him?

SALLY

Me, Carly, Lynn and Milko. That makes four. Four of us and four of you.

PIPPA

Sorry sweetie, but Milko can’t vote.

SALLY

Why not?

CARLY

Yeah, why not? Milko’s a member of the family, isn’t he?

PIPPA

Carly.

CARLY

Well he is. You can’t say he is one minute and not the next.

SALLY

Yeah.

TOM

You’re a stirrer Carly.

CARLY

So what if I am.

LYNN

We don’t want her here.

CARLY

Right, and you said there had to be a majority vote for it to happen. Well, there’s not a majority vote. It’s a tie so Bobby.

PIPPA

You watch your tongue young lady. Milko can’t vote and that’s it.

SALLY

Milko can vote, he can.

PIPPA

Aw, Sal.

SALLY

It’s not fair.

CARLY

We agree Sal. Come on. Let’s go. You can’t change the rules to suit yourself. We’ll be upstairs. Come on Milko.

PIPPA

I could throttle her.

TOM

Yeah, she’s being a little devil. She’s got a point.

PIPPA

What point?

TOM

Well we can’t acknowledge Milko just when it suits us. If we do that we’re threatening Sal’s whole belief in him.

STEVEN

It’s effectively giving her two votes.

TOM

If we want to be consistent, yes it is.

FRANK

Look, I’m on your side about Bobby, but Tom’s right.

PIPPA

So Bobby loses out because of a figment of Sally’s imagination.

TOM

Not unless you can talk Milko around.

PIPPA

Don’t be stupid Tom. Maybe I can.

SALLY, LYNN and CARLY sit on a bed. There is knock on the door.

CARLY

Now no giving in OK. Yes.

PIPPA walks in.

PIPPA

I’m sorry I was cross girls.

LYNN

That’s OK.

CARLY

We’re not going to change our minds.

PIPPA

I wanted to say sorry to Milko too. Where is he Sal?

SALLY points at a chair.

PIPPA

Of course. Maybe I got cross about you voting Milko because this means such a lot to me. Remember how we helped you and Sally when you came to us. I want to help Bobby too. I know she can be mean. She’s never had anyone to love her. Her mummies dead and her daddies gone away. No one cares about her. Maybe you’d be like her if you hadn’t come to live with us. I’m so proud of you and the girls. Wouldn’t it be terrific if we could help Bobby. Give her the chance you’ve all had. That’s all.

PIPPA walks out. The next morning, BOBBY walks up to the house. FRANK, CARLY, STEVEN, PIPPA, TOM, SALLY and LYNN are sitting at the table. There is a knock on the door.

PIPPA

That will be her.

TOM

I’ll get it.

PIPPA

Do your best.

TOM

Bobby right.

BOBBY

Yeah.

TOM

Yeah, good to have you around the place. I’m Tom. Come on in.

BOBBY

The neighbours.

PIPPA

Well, you know most of the family, but by name, Steven.

BOBBY

Yeah, I know Steve.

PIPPA

Sally.

SALLY

Hi.

PIPPA

Frank.

FRANK

Hi.

PIPPA

Lynn and Carly.

TOM

Yeah, well that’s that done. We’re having some lunch. Do you want to join us?

BOBBY

Not hungry.

PIPPA

Sure.

BOBBY

Yeah, just point me to the caravan.

PIPPA

I’ll be back in a minute.

BOBBY and PIPPA walk out.

THE CARAVAN PARK

PIPPA and BOBBY open a caravan door.

PIPPA

There you go. All right.

BOBBY

It will do.

PIPPA

I’ll leave you to it then. You know where we are if you need anything?

BOBBY

What’s my first job?

PIPPA

Sorry.

BOBBY

Around the joint. Nothing for nothing.

PIPPA

No rush about that.

BOBBY

The deal was this for some work. I’m no one’s charity case.

PIPPA

Fair enough. Ask Tom about it.

PIPPA walks away.

FLOSS AND NEVILLE’S CARAVAN

FLOSS is giving STEVEN a reading.

FLOSS

Ah, place where you used to live. Full of love, eh. Yeah, I’m getting green and white. Yeah, white, it was white with a green face, eh.

STEVEN

Right.

FLOSS

Yeah, just you and your parents. Oh, no, no there another bloke. Of course there is. A friend of your dads, eh.

STEVEN

Yeah, Bill. You’re amazing.

NEVILLE walks out with his bagpipes.

STEVEN

Got to go Floss.

FLOSS

What about the rest of your reading?

STEVEN

Maybe later, eh.

STEVEN runs off.

FLOSS

You would bring those things out.

NEVILLE

I have to practice sometime.

FLOSS

Well you scared young Steven off and I was giving him a real good read too.

NEVILLE

More likely you scared him off yourself.

FLOSS

Peesh, tash.

NEVILLE

You’re good when you get going Floss. Sometimes you see things that people don’t want you to see.

FLOSS

Oh, young Steven just didn’t want his ears bashed, that’s all.

NEVILLE starts playing the bagpipes.

FLOSS

Oh, not around here.

NEVILLE

What’s wrong with it?

FLOSS

It’s hardly a turn on.

NEVILLE

Turn on. Picking up the kids lingo, are we? Turn on.

FLOSS

Oh, stop leering Nev. You’re too old to leer.

NEVILLE

You can’t blame a bloke. You’re still a very fetching woman Floss.

FLOSS

Oh, get away will you.

NEVILLE

What are you going to do now?

FLOSS

Well I’m going to do a reading for Bobby and see what it says.

NEVILLE

Ah, good idea.

NEVILLE starts playing the bagpipes again.

THE BEACH

LYNN and CARLY walk along.

CARLY

Did you see the way he looked at me?

LYNN

You don’t even know his name?

CARLY

Well he’ll get round to telling me.

LYNN

That’s if he even talks to you.

CARLY

Great, that’s all we need.

LYNN

She’s not too bad.

CARLY

She wouldn’t even be here if you and Sal had listened to me.

LYNN

Well after what Pippa said.

CARLY

Emotional blackmail.

BOBBY walks through the middle of them. CARLY goes for her. LYNN stops her.

LYNN

Don’t, it’s not worth it.

FLOSS AND NEVILLE’S CARAVAN

FLOSS is doing a reading. NEVILLE walks over.

NEVILLE

You should be used to it by now.

FLOSS

Oh, it’s not that, it’s these.

NEVILLE

Oh, what does it say?

FLOSS

Nothing. Nothing at all.

NEVILLE starts playing the bagpipes.

SUMMER BAY HOUSE

STEVEN and PIPPA are in the kitchen.

STEVEN

It’s not like that crystal ball stuff she goes on with. She’s really accurate with the cards.

FLOSS

She’s an old fake. She’d have pumped the other kids for information.

STEVEN

She knew things none of them know. I’ve never come across a paranormal phenomenon before.

STEVEN walks out. PIPPA walks over to TOM.

PIPPA

To any of us she’s a fortune teller, to him she’s a paranormal phenomenon.

TOM

Yeah, well you wouldn’t need to be paranormal to read this lot.

PIPPA

Not good, eh.

TOM

Isn’t there a tarot card called the hangmen. Oh, I’m going to puncture that bloody thing one day.

PIPPA

I suppose we have been going through money like water.

TOM

The dams almost dry.

PIPPA

We had to start getting things ship shape. We’ll just have to economise from now on.

TOM

It will be OK when the customers start coming in, whenever that is.

PIPPA

They will. Word just has to get around.

TOM

Yeah. Even when it does there’s no guarantee they’ll come. And then we’ve got the offices to cope with. I think it’s time I did something about getting a job.

A CAR PARK

AILSA is looking under her car bonnet. MR BALDIVIS walks over.

MR BALDIVIS

Need a hand Ailsa.

AILSA

Oh, no thanks. Think it’s just the plugs.

MR BALDIVIS

Fine.

DON walks up to MR BALDIVIS

DON

Mervin. I hear that Tom Fletcher was in for a interview today.

MR BALDIVIS

That’s right.

DON

I think there’s something we should speak about.

MR BALDIVIS

Oh, what’s that?

SUMMER BAY HOUSE

TOM is on the phone. PIPPA is there.

TOM

Yeah.

Yeah.

Yes, I understand Mr. Baldivis.

Yeah, sure.

Well, look, if anything else should come up.

Thank you.

TOM puts the phone down.

TOM

He wants a younger man would you believe. Ah, there’s plenty more jobs going.

PIPPA

Course they are.

HOGAN’S GENERAL STORE

PIPPA walks in. AILSA is there.

AILSA

Aw, g’day.

PIPPA

Hello.

AILSA

Aw, I’ve been meaning to ask you, any of your lot got any talent. We’re looking for another act for the variety night.

PIPPA

Frank plays guitar, or if you’re really desperate you could get Neville to play a solo on the bagpipes.

AILSA

We want an audience, thanks. Hey, are you all right.

PIPPA

I’m trying to stay positive.

AILSA

What’s wrong?

PIPPA

You don’t want to hear.

AILSA

Bobby’s not playing up again, is she?

PIPPA

No, apart from some tension with Carly she’s doing better than we could have hoped. It’s just that Tom can’t find a job. He goes for interviews, everything seems OK and then we get the thanks, but no thanks call. He’s been out looking every day this week. Gets you down after a while.

AILSA

Yes. He should be able to get something.

PIPPA

Well, that’s what we thought, but jobs just don’t grow on trees. Certainly not in a small town like this.

AILSA

Look, I might be wrong, but I think I know what’s been happening?

PIPPA

What do you mean?

AILSA

I think your next door neighbour is one step ahead of you all the time.

DON’S HOUSE

TOM bangs on a window. DON walks up to him

DON

Mr. Fletcher, a rather boisterous knock.

TOM

I know what you’re up to Fisher.

DON

I don’t understand.

TOM

Oh, you understand all right.

DON

Perhaps you’ll be good enough to enlighten me then.

TOM

We both know you’ve been white handing me getting jobs.

DON

Me, stopping you getting work. That’s ridiculous.

TOM

I know it for a fact.

DON

Well I suggest you check your facts.

TOM

I’ve got witnesses.

DON

Then they’re mistaken. What you do or don’t do is of no interest to me Mr. Fletcher. I had to put up with your rumours on your own property. I don’t have to put up with it here.

TOM

You’re a gutless wonder Fisher. You’re not even man enough to admit what you’re up to.

DON

Which is?

TOM

You’re trying to drive us out of the area, aren’t you?

DON

Now you really are being paranoid. Good afternoon Mr. Fletcher.

TOM

I should punch your face in.

DON

You’d be up on an assault charge if you did.

TOM

Oh, I bet I would.

DON

Unless you leave now I’ll have you charged with trespass.

TOM

You like using the law to get your own way, do you? Well there’s some decent people in Summer Bay Fisher and you can’t influence all of them.

DON

Enough to make your life difficult. Now get out.

TOM

Hey, this is our home and it’s Bobby’s too. You’re not going to get away with it.

HOGAN’S GENERAL STORE

NEVILLE runs in. AILSA is there.

NEVILLE

Ailse. You’ve got to do us a big favour love, now.

NEVILLE and AILSA run out the shop.

SUMMER BAY HOUSE

PIPPA, TOM and MR PEARCE sit at the table. FRANK watches them.

TOM

You should have given us a ring. We could have saved you the trip.

MR PEARCE

You’re saying there’s no truth in the letter.

TOM

That’s what I’m saying.

MR PEARCE

Well is the girl here or isn’t she?

TOM

Yeah, she is.

MR PEARCE

Are you still having trouble finding a job?

TOM

Yeah, sure I am.

MR PEARCE

Is money tight?

PIPPA

That letter is a distortion of the facts.

FRANK

The creep next door must have sent it. He wants us out.

MR PEARCE

Why does he want you out?

FRANK

Because he’s a.

TOM

OK Frank, I’ll handle this one. Look, this guy Fisher, he’s a real little heckler. I mean, we got on his wrong side by letting Bobby stay here and he wants out blood. You make anything out of this you are really backing the bad guy.

MR PEARCE

Well let’s leave the good guys and bad guys stuff to the movies, eh. Look, I’m here for the answers to two questions. Are you still experiencing financial difficulties that could be detrimental to the children and two, is this Bobby Simpson a moral danger to them? If the answer’s are yes, no matter who sent the letter and for whatever reason, I’m going to have to reassess your custody of the children.

NEVILLE and AILSA drive up in a car. TOM, PIPPA and MR PEARCE are at the table. FRANK is there.

PIPPA

You take our kids away, the effect will be ten times more disastrous than anything that could happen to them with us.

MR PEARCE

The facts are.

TOM

Facts. I’ll give you facts. Frank here, a little street urchin. A virtual resinous, but today, look at him and Carly, catatonic from parental abuse when she came to us.

MR PEARCE

I know their cases.

TOM

Lynn, run a way. She’s only ever ran away from us once and she can back of her own accord. And what about little Sally, bewildered by the loss of her grandmother and look at her now.

PIPPA

Steven can actually sleep a full night without waking up screaming.

MR PEARCE

This is not getting us anywhere.

TOM

These are our kids, dammit. They are the products of the love and the care that we’ve given them and you’ll take them away over my dead body.

There is a knock at the door.

TOM

Yes, yes.

AILSA walks in.

AILSA

Hello. Hope I haven’t interrupted anything.

TOM

Well, yes, you have as a matter of fact. I’m sorry.

AILSA

I’m terribly sorry. Of course I’ll come back later. I’ll just wanted to leave you this.

TOM

Well what’s that for?

AILSA

You’ve got the job, start tomorrow. Just fill that in and bring it with you.

TOM

Job, what job?

AILSA

Hello, I’m Ailsa Hogan. I run the local store. You can start tomorrow, can’t you?

PIPPA

Of course he can. We’ll change our plans darling. What a relief.

AILSA

Well that’s settled. I’ll leave you with it. That’s all I came along to say. After all you’ve done for Bobby a job is the least I can offer you. She’s one difficult kid, all right. One of our local troublemakers. They’ve done wonders with her. Well, goodbye Mr.

MR PEARCE

Pearce.

AILSA

Yes. Nice meeting you.

AILSA walks outside. NEVILLE is there.

AILSA

Think he bought it.

NEVILLE

Of course he did. I was listening. You even had me believing you.

AILSA

Tom nearly blew it. What job. Now all we have to do is wait.

BOBBY

Why don’t you just?

CARLY

Why don’t you just leave?

FRANK runs out.

TOM

What the hell’s going on?

CARLY

You might as well of. How do you think you are?

TOM and PIPPA run out. BOBBY and CARLY are fighting in the front garden.

AILSA

Bobby, stop doing that. Break it up the pair of you.

FRANK, NEVILLE and AILSA try to break BOBBY and CARLY up.

AILSA

Bobby, get up.

BOBBY

No.

NEVILLE

Get here.

BOBBY

Stand up.

NEVILLE

Get off her.

TOM and PIPPA run out.

TOM

Hey.

They manage to break BOBBY and CARLY up.

CARLY

She started it.

TOM

I don’t care who started it.

BOBBY

That would be right sweetheart.

PIPPA

Stop it, both of you.

SALLY and LYNN run out.

CARLY

We never wanted her in the first place.

PIPPA

Carly.

CARLY

Well, we didn’t.

TOM

Carly.

CARLY

Everything’s a mess now because of her. You care more about hurting people than us.

MR PEARCE walks out.

BOBBY

Who care’s about you anyway?

CARLY

Yeah. The whole town hates you.

BOBBY goes for CARLY again.

TOM

Stop it, now stop it now.

That evening, SALLY, LYNN, TOM, FRANK and STEVEN sit at the table. CARLY is in her bedroom crying. PIPPA walks in.

CARLY

I didn’t know he was there.

PIPPA

Of course you didn’t sweetheart. There, there honey.

CARLY

If he puts us in home now it’s going be my fault.

PIPPA

Shhh.

CARLY

I hate her Pippa. I hate Bobby. It will be all my fault.

PIPPA

It will be all right. Shhh.

The next morning, SALLY, PIPPA, FRANK, TOM, CARLY, STEVEN and LYNN sit at the table.

PIPPA

Anyone for more toast?

TOM

Now, come on you guys. We’re all acting like it’s a foregone conclusions.

CARLY

It is.

PIPPA

No it’s not.

CARLY

You saw him when he left.

SALLY

What will happen to me and Milko?

LYNN

It’s OK Sal.

TOM

Look, he believed Ailsa about the job. That’s a start. Come on. We’ve got to look on the bright side.

There is knock on the door. NEVILLE is there.

NEVILLE

Here, here, Bobby’s done a bunk. She left this.

TOM

Where?

NEVILLE

I don’t know. She was there till late last night. She reckons you’ll all be better off without her here.

CARLY

Good riddance.

STEVEN

Grow up.

FRANK

Yeah.

CARLY

Look, she doesn’t care about us.

STEVEN

She wouldn’t have gone if she didn’t.

FRANK

Right, you call her Steve.

TOM

She can’t have gone far. She might not have left town for all we know. Hey, come on kids. Get changed. We’re going to do a full search.

TOM, LYNN , SALLY and FRANK walk out the room. STEVEN looks at PIPPA.

PIPPA

What?

STEVEN

Frank. He called me Steve. For the first time he called me by his proper name.

STEVEN walks out.

NEVILLE

A breakthrough, eh.

PIPPA

Let’s hope they get the chance to build on it.

PIPPA walks out. CARLY sulks at the table.

THE CITY

BOBBY gets out a car.

BOBBY

Thanks.

The car drives away.

YOUTH AND COMMUNITY SERVICES

MR PEARCE is in his office. BOBBY and MISS PURVIS are in the corridor.

MISS PURVIS

You can’t go in there.

BOBBY

Try and stop me.

BOBBY and MISS PURVIS walk in.

MISS PURVIS

I tried to stop her.

MR PEARCE

It’s all right Miss Purvis. Bobby, isn’t it?

BOBBY

You know it is.

MISS PURVIS

I can call security.

MR PEARCE

It’s all right.

MISS PURVIS

But.

MR PEARCE

Really, Miss Purvis, it’s fine.

MISS PURVIS walks out and shuts the door.

MR PEARCE

Sit down.

BOBBY

No thanks. It’s too late for me, but those kids back there are OK, except Carly, and one out of fives not bad.

MR PEARCE

Bobby, look.

BOBBY

Shut up and listen. My folks were no good and I hated them.

MR PEARCE

I think.

BOBBY

I said listen. I used to dream about what sort of folks I’d like and I reckon Tom and Pippa are just about what I dreamed off. You take those kids away and stick them in some dumb home, you need your head read. It doesn’t matter how broke they get, those two will never let the kids suffer. You don’t have to worry about me. I won’t be there. I’ve stuffed up my own life enough. I’m not going to stuff up there. I just hope you welfare blokes show a bit of sense for a change and leave them along. That’s it.

BOBBY walks out.

SUMMER BAY HOUSE

MR PEARCE, PIPPA and TOM are there.

MR PEARCE

As soon as I realised she intended disappearing into the crowd, I was out of the office and after her, but she had gone.

PIPPA

Maybe she’ll just spend some time in the city and then come back.

MR PEARCE

She said, it’s too late for me. She’s given up on herself.

PIPPA

All the more reason to find her.

TOM

Yeah, it will be downhill all the way for her. You got it.

MR PEARCE

I can inform the police, but the trouble with that is, she’s violated a bond. She shouldn’t have left the district without informing the local constable.

TOM

That means to help her we have to dob her in.

MR PEARCE

I don’t think there’s any choice.

PIPPA

What do you think will happen?

MR PEARCE

Depends on the circumstances when they catch up with her. At worst she’ll have her bond revoked and go to a home. At best. Look, this may seem inconsistent from the guy who huffed out of here the other day, but I read Bobby’s file. Anyone who can inspire that kid to go to the bother of tracking me down to make the speech she made to me. You’ve done a pretty incredible job. The best is we make her a ward of the state and allocate her to suitable foster parents. If I can convince the court it’s for her benefit, they’ll buy it. Now how do you feel about taking on another one?

STEVEN, FRANK, CARLY, LYNN and SALLY sit at a table outside.

STEVEN

Here they come.

TOM, PIPPA and MR PEARCE walk out.

MR PEARCE

Well I’ll get on to finding her, but as soon as we do I’ll need you both in court.

TOM

Yeah, OK. What’s everyone looking so stressed about? We got a reprieve. We’re still the Fletcher family.

CARLY

Thanks Mr. Pearce.

CARLY kisses MR PEARCE.

PIPPA

And there’s one person we have to thank more than anyone else. It’s important you realise that, especially you Carly.

TOM

Hey, this calls for a celebration. Come on.

At night, the phone rings. TOM answers it.

TOM

Hey, this better be good.

Is she all right?

Oh, great.

Yeah, ten o’clock.

Yeah, we’ll be there.

Good.

TOM puts the phone down. PIPPA walks out her bedroom. TOM walks up the stairs.

PIPPA

What was it?

TOM

They’ve found her. We’ve got to be in court tomorrow. That’s only three days. That’s pretty good going.

PIPPA

Let’s hope the court sees it our way.

CARLY is lying in her bed. She sits up.

CARLY

Lynn. Lynn.

THE CARAVAN PARK

CARLY stands outside.

FLOSS AND NEVILLE’S CARAVAN

NEVILLE and FLOSS are there.

NEVILLE

Pippa wants me to take a photo of them all when they arrive? You know Floss, if anyone can get Floss back on the right track, it’s those. That’s what she’s need all her life, you know. To belong to a family.

FLOSS

You can’t guarantee they’ll get custody of her yet.

NEVILLE

Well let’s look on the bright side, eh.

FLOSS

If there is a bright side.

NEVILLE

Here. Are you still worried about what you saw in those cards?

FLOSS

I saw what I saw.

NEVILLE

Well I’d understand why you were worried if I knew what it was.

FLOSS

Forget it eh? Just forget it.

NEVILLE

Stop being so mysterious.

FLOSS

Well let’s just say that if I’m right, if I’m right, it might be better if the judge doesn’t give her too them.

NEVILLE

Floss.

FLOSS

Death, all right. I saw death. Now, if I’m right, Bobby could be the death of one of them. Look, I just want to forget about it. What would I know anyway? Silly little chook like me.

A ROAD

BOBBY, TOM and PIPPA are in the car.

BOBBY

Hope you know what you’ve let yourselves in for.

PIPPA

I think we’ve got a fair idea.

BOBBY

And no way am I calling you mum and dad.

PIPPA

No way do we want you to.

BOBBY

You’re all right, you know that.

TOM and PIPPA look at each other.

BOBBY

Hey, isn’t that Fisher over there? Are you going to stop?

TOM

No.

BOBBY

Do you see what I see?

DON’S car has broken down. He is standing waving for help next to a puddle.

DON

Hey.

TOM

I ahead of you.

DON

Hey.

PIPPA

Hey, Tom. Watch the.

TOM drives through the puddle soaking DON.

PIPPA

Puddle.

TOM

I was watching it.

BOBBY

Ha ha. He was aiming at it.

DON is not impressed. PIPPA, TOM and BOBBY laugh.

BOBBY

I’m back.

THE CARAVAN PARK

CARLY is standing at the entrance to the caravan park. The car stops. She walks up to BOBBY’S window.

CARLY

Can I see you?

BOBBY

You see me.

CARLY

Out here, alone.

TOM

What is it Carly?

PIPPA

Go on. We’ll wait.

BOBBY gets out the car.

TOM

Any idea what she’s up to?

PIPPA

Knowing Carly’s pride, yes.

CARLY

Well, you can see what the sign says.

BOBBY

Yeah. I can read.

CARLY

Well it goes for me to.

BOBBY and CARLY shake hands. LYNN, NEVILLE, FLOSS, STEVEN, FRANK and SALLY are waiting on them arriving. TOM beeps the horn.

NEVILLE

They’re here.

BOBBY get out the car.

BOBBY

Hi.

She shakes hands with FRANK and STEVEN before cuddling LYNN and SALLY.

NEVILLE

Come on, come on. Up here. We’ve got to get a picture of you. Come on. Littlies in front. That’s it. That’s it. Steven, in a bit, in a bit. That’s it. There. Smile.

NEVILLE takes a photo of FRANK, BOBBY, TOM, PIPPA, STEVEN, LYNN, SALLY and CARLY, that is shown on the mantelpiece along with all the other previous pictures.