Episode 4226

Australian Air Date: 10th July 2006

Kit makes a heartbreaking sacrifice to save the lives of her friends. Rachel lashes out violently against Leah, as she continues to spiral out of control. Irene becomes increasing concerned about Jack and Tasha’s growing co-dependence.

Extended Summary

Leah’s leaving a worried message on Rachel’s mobile: ‘Please call me back, I’ll come and pick you up, wherever you are’. When Leah ends the call there’s a rustle at the door. It turns out to be Dan, returning from Drew’s boarding school. Dan has filled Leah in on what happened – the fact that Drew packed his things and ran off after Peter’s memorial. Dan feels guilty; who knows where he is? Leah suggests that Drew probably just needs some time to get his head together; he’s a 17 year old kid. Leah explains the Rachel situation. Seeing her panic, Dan goes for a drive to look for her, but no luck. Leah calls the hospitals, but no accident reports have been filed. Leah stays up all night, worried sick. As she decides to go for another drive to look for her, the phone rings – it’s Rachel! She’s at the Police Station! Rachel was picked up on suspicion for drink driving and she’s refusing to take the breath test. Rachel went to a pub in Yabbie Creek, slept in her car and was picked up by the police this morning as she drove back to town. Leah asks her if she’s still over the limit. Leah suggests there is no point avoiding the test; they’re going to make you take it in an hour anyway. Rachel declares that she’s not going to cooperate with them – she shouldn’t be here in the first place. Finally she takes the test and is luckily just under limit. Rachel demands her car keys from Leah, who refuses to hand them over, instead giving them to Dan. Leah explains to Rachel that her behaviour is affecting everyone. Rachel ignores the remark, grabs a bottle of alcohol and heads to her room. Leah approaches her later, pointing out that by drink driving she was doing exactly what her dad did when Elaine was injured. Stung, Rachel reacts, slapping Leah across the face. A stunned look between them, before Rachel rushes from the room!

Tasha has been spending all of her time with Jack. He comments that it really makes it easier to get through this, having her around. Tasha feels the same way. She feels the baby kick again. Jacks wants to feel, so Tasha takes his hand and guides it over her belly. Both get caught up in the moment. Irene’s concerned that it’s becoming a co-dependant relationship; and that Jack is starting to expect Tasha’s company and assistance, and is applying pressure on Tasha. Alf’s updating Irene and Colleen on the latest re: the search when Tasha comes in. Irene’s surprised to see her out. Tasha explains that Jack was feeling lonely and wanted some company. Irene understands how hard it must be for him in there but voices her concern about the amount of time Tasha’s spending there but doesn’t want her neglecting her own health and need for rest. Tasha is looking tired and frazzled so goes to sit down for a moment, she gets a pain in her stomach. It’s small at first but then grows. Jack wonders if it’s contractions again? Tasha explains that this feels different – more like a cramp… And then a sharper pain hits her. Jack presses the buzzer!

The mood is grim out in the bush. Kim is re-wrapping the bandage around Kit’s ankle. She’s doing her best to keep a brave face, but feels terrible that she’s holding them up. Martha’s begins vomiting – seriously dehydrated. Kim gives her the rest of the water, which she throws back up again. Colin reckons if they don’t find some water fast, they’ll all end up like Martha. They have to keep moving. But Kim doesn’t think Kit can move today, she’s in too much pain… He’s sorry about her foot – but she’s going to just have to deal with it. Kim can’t believe Colin’s attitude – and a mini-argument breaks out. Kim: how are they going to find water anyway? Kit says she’ll just have to work through it. Kim’s worried but Kit assures him she can handle – it’ll be fine. Kit and Robbie are supporting Kit as they try to walk through the bush. Martha, holding her stomach, is trudging along next to them – pale and looking terrible. Kim and Robbie try to move with Kit quicker, but they stumble at one point and Kit puts her weight on her ankle – and screams in pain. She tells the guys to stop – please – she needs a minute. The pain is just too much. Kim tells Kit that’s okay… but it’s clear from Colin’s reaction that it’s not okay.

Colin once again suggests they split up – but the group aren’t keen on that idea. They’ve talked about this and decided against it – splitting up is not an option. Colin: so what do we do? Kim reckons they should just wait to Kit is ready to move again. The others agree with Kim – despite Colin’s protests that they need to find water! Kim – just give her a bit of time. Colin bites his tongue, clearly frustrated… And Kit is left feeling even worse. Everyone is quiet – the mood sombre. Colin checks his watch – and glances at Belle, clearly frustrated that they aren’t moving. Belle shrugs – what can they do? Kit clocks the exchange. She looks around at the grim faces of Robbie, Martha and Kim and finally comes to a decision. She tells them there’s no way she’s going to be able to keep moving on her ankle. If they stick with her – they are simply not going to make it. Kim tries to stay positive but Kit cuts over him and tells them that she wants them to go and find help – and she’ll stay here. Kim is thrown – what do you mean? Kit: If the five of you are going to have any chance at making it out alive, you’re going to have to leave me behind. Shocked faces all around.