Romancing the Outback

By Irene Drummond

Romancing the Outback is a sequel to War at Our Door.

A continuation of War at our Door, thirty two years on, Romancing the Outback includes some of the same main characters, along with their offspring, and the politics and happenings around that time.

It covers troubled romances and a double wedding. A runaway, Tommy, ends up on the streets of Brisbane, battling for survival. A returned soldier and an army nurse finally find peace thirty-two years after WW2 ends. A plane crash kills a neighbors twin sons. There are near fatalities when dealing with ruthless cattle rustlers. Accidents happen, a heart attack is dealt with, and a horse sale along with a Charleville Picnic Race Meeting isnt without its dramas. A Land Army Girl reunion brings back to the fold, two from Tuscany. And all this, amid cattle being mustered, branded, ear-marked, cut, injected against brucellosis and parasites, sheep mustering, and sheering, and many other chores and happenings that go hand in hand with living on a sheep and cattle station in the outer regions of Queenslands vast outback.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris AU
• Release date: Dec 12, 2014
• ISBN: 9781499032802

Book preview

CHAPTER 1

ROMANCING THE OUTBACK

L EE, EVER THE efficient business woman from her flawless makeup to her up-swept, silver-blonde hair; pale blue blouse, navy pencil slim skirt and spike heeled shoes, looking thoughtfully out the office window at the clear azure sky, was this morning, finding it difficult to concentrate on business matters with her usual alertness.

Five years now, she had been working for the firm of Kramer and Sedgwick Estate Agents, Pty Ltd., and knew, she had to take a break; a real vacation, very soon.

It had been completely out of the question until now, what with their busy schedule becoming even busier after Cyclone Tracy swept through Darwin three years ago, hitting with such powerful force on Christmas Day 1974, it took 71 lives with it, left the city’s buildings destroyed beyond repair, caused $837 million in damages and left 41,000 inhabitants homeless, with 30,000 having to be evacuated—60% of who, never returned.

It was a disaster of first magnitude without parallel in Australian history. And was the largest humanitarian or disaster relief operation ever performed by the Navy; requiring 13 Royal Navy ships to transport essential relief supplies to the area. As well, the entire Defence Force throughout Australia, and the entire Royal Australian Air Force fleet of transport planes, were needed on a massive scale, to evacuate the citizens by air and road.

And of course, in that same year, during Australia Day weekend, following a wet spring, Cyclone Wanda, pushing the river systems to the limit, drew the monsoon trough southward, providing additional rainfall to the Brisbane River, Bremar River and the Stanley River catchments, and was the reason almost every river in Queensland flooded. The Brisbane River running through the heart of Brisbane; Australia’s third largest city, broke its banks and caused mass flooding to its city streets and its surrounding areas. This in turn, produced wide-spread, severe flooding with 14 lives lost, central businesses hard hit, and 8,500 homes flooded in Brisbane and Ipswich, costing $200 million in damages. When some people did eventually return home, it was only to be flooded out again, days later.

Some of those surviving these disasters; the Brisbane flood, and Cyclone Tracy, having been permanently affected both physically and mentally by the shock and the aftermath, would never recover fully from their traumatic experience, this Lee had seen for herself, first hand.

Being in the Estate Agency business, as they were, they had flown over both areas to assess for themselves, the extent of the damage. And horrified at what they saw, were more or less prepared for the steady stream of desperate people who converged on Melbourne from both quarters, all looking for a safe haven, all in desperate need of houses to rent, or buy. Most of whom, barely escaping with their lives, losing all their possessions; having to start over again from scratch, had much the same heart-wrenching stories to tell.

Then of course, a year later cattle prices crashed, as Australia’s main markets; the US, Japan, and the European Economic Community, all reacted to tough economic conditions by imposing severe import quotas.

As well as a drought to contend with; going from buoyant, with gross value of wheat exceeding wool for the first time in Australian history, to bleak; some farmers, forced to dig pits, shoot their livestock and bury them. Adding to the battered farmer’s woes, young people in particular, deserted the bush to find work in the cities. All of which meant, there’d been no let up for the Estate Agency, for they too had to be housed.

Meanwhile, in their typical fashion, farmers went back to their uncanny craft of survival, by selling, or shooting all but their best breeders in an endeavour to hang on to their properties and their livelihood. This was made even worse by the Whitlam Government budget; cutting back rural support, scrapping superphosphate bounty, reducing dairy subsidies, meat export incentives, and farm deprecation allowance.

Not even John Kerr’s sacking of the Whitlam government in November 1975, causing a double disillusion, an opposition challenge in the Senate, the return of the Labour Party led by Gough Whitlam, and the Senate failing to gain a Senate majority, resulting in the return to power of the Liberal-National Party, with Malcolm Frazer as Prime Minister. Not even this; a change of Government, was able to reverse the trend, as tough economic times forced all governments to take a firmer grip on all spending.

Sighing deeply, Lee bought her mind back to the present, and no closer to solving her vacation dilemma, of where to go, she rose and began tidying the office after its owner’s hasty departure.

She was at the filing cabinet, her back to the door, when Maggie announced, A gentleman to see you, shall I show him in?

Yes please Maggie. Hearing him enter, Take a seat I’ll be with you in a moment, she told him.

When turning, and he was still firmly standing, she took in at a glance, the tan akubra he held in his hands, his white shirt and dark brown sports suite, his wide shoulders and tall, well built frame dwarfing the office. Looking into his handsome, suntanned face and he said, Good morning, his deep drawl sparked off something in the deepest regions of her being, her knees went weak, and she sat.

I am looking for a chap, name of Lee Kramer, he told her.

Easing herself back into her chair, she smiled, and waved him to the one opposite. When still he stood, and she said, That’s me, it set him back momentarily, as she knew it would.

That was when he sat, saying, I thought that and trailing off, slightly embarrassed, But you very obviously, are not.

She smiled, No, I am not, and you are not the first person to make that mistake. So now that we have established that, how may I help you?

Taking his time, he lent back in his chair, and placing his hat on his knee, Well Lee, I have written to you several times over the past months, trying to finalise a land holding. It seemed to be taking an unusually long time to me, so I decided to come in person and find out if there were any problems. My name is Braden Scarborough, but please call me Brad, and leaning forward, stretched out his arm, and they shook hands.

Arh, yes, Mr Scarborough, and standing, Excuse me a moment while I pop into my office and get your file.

Watching her leave the room, Brad couldn’t help thinking, that this beautiful, tall, dark blue eyed blonde was a hot house flower if ever he’d seen one - not his type at all!

Yes, here we are, she said, reappearing, and cutting across his thoughts, walked back behind her desk, sat, and lay the files contents out before her.

Fascinated with her gracious elegance and subtle sophistication, he watched her every move, and was still in this frame of mind, when taking up a letter addressed to Braden Scarborough, she handed it to him. It was to be mailed just as soon as I had it signed. And that should be in the morning. So you could collect it anytime after eleven A.M.

With a quick mind-shift, he glanced at it fleetingly, smiled back at her with relief, and showing an even set of incredibly white teeth against his deep suntan, handed back the envelope, saying in his soft, unhurried drawl, Well I’m glad that’s finalised.

Having put his file back in order, and still he sat; making no effort to move, she looked at him in her direct manner and said in a voice, equally direct, Seeing as it’s my lunch hour and part of the firm’s policy is to take our clients to lunch, on our charge account of course, if you have nothing better to do, would you care to join me?

She was just as taken aback as he was. It was true, it was part of their policy, but she had only ever followed that particular procedure, under pressure, and here she was holding her breath, hoping he would say yes. There had been many men pass through her office over the past five years, but never one like this, and she was reluctant to let him go.

Braden Scarborough on the other hand, couldn’t believe his luck. He would have asked her, had he thought for a second she would have accepted, so of course he said, Yes.

With his file still in her hand she rose, saying, I’ll just pop this back in my office and collect my bag and coat.

Watching her walk from the room, he decided, he had never seen anything quite as exquisite in all of his twenty six years. A hot house flower definitely. She would never fit into his rugged lifestyle. She probably had a dozen men standing in line hoping to win her heart—could even be serious about one - no rings on her fingers, not that that made much difference these days. He couldn’t help wondering just how chummy she was, with her boss, what with the free run of his office, and hers adjoining—all very convenient.

+ + +

Sitting in the fashionable restaurant, their order taken and relaxed now, a curious Lee asked, Where exactly is Crail Station, Mr. Scarborough.

Please call me Brad, and I hope you don’t mind if I call you, Lee, he smiled, sending her heart rate leaping.

Please do, she smiled back.

To answer your question, Lee, he drawled, placing one arm on the table and leaning towards her, Crail Station, is situated in one of the remotest regions of the outback and on it, we run several thousand head of sheep and cattle.

Have you always lived there? she asked, surprised at how much she enjoyed this unhurried, quietly spoken stranger’s company.

All but for the four years I spent in Sydney at boarding school. I did most of my schooling by correspondence. It’s all very different now of course, school of the air makes it much more interesting. There are four of us in the family. We had a governess for a few years, but it’s nigh on impossible to hold people out there, it seems you have to be born to it. It’s either in your blood, or it’s not. People either love it, or they hate it. It never pays to rely too heavily on the odd one who comes along. They seem unable to cope with the loneliness, the heat, the flies, the dust, and then there’s the rainy seasons; when we become marooned for weeks on end. So you see, it’s no picnic out there, he finished matter a factly.

How about you, how does it affect you? Do you get lonely?

The loneliest days of my life, were spent at school in Sydney. The solitude, peace, and the tranquillity of the bush, doing the work I was born to, that is where I want to be. I love it out there. It’s the only life for me.

Thinking back to her thoughts earlier, she asked, How has the recent drought affected you, did you have to kill many of your livestock?

No, we weren’t affected in Queensland, this time. Besides, we have this theory, which goes back to my great, grandfather’s day. When in a drought, we open the property up and turn everything loose, and let them fend for themselves. It’s amazing how many there are when the rains come and we muster. We’ve never yet, had to restock.

Lunch arriving just then, put a stop to their talking for a few moments. On their own again, and a curious Lee asked, When are you going back?

About Wednesday, and chuckling, began emptying his pockets out onto the table, saying as he did so, You couldn’t imagine what it’s like when the grapevine hears I’m coming to the city. Immediately, I’m being presented with all these lists containing all sorts of requests. It started while I was attending boarding school. Each year, a few weeks before Christmas, the letters from home would start arriving and by Christmas, I’d be snowed under.

Unfolding and reading one note after the other, Lee was amazed at some of the items—corsets, bras, briefs; all different sizes and colours - boots and shoes, socks and stockings, scarves, ties and ear rings. And then, there were the materials; something in blue suitable for nightgowns, something in grey with a red design suitable for an afternoon frock. With only half of them read, intrigued, Lee, a sparkle in her eyes, set them aside saying, I know exactly what I would do, but tell me, how do you deal with all this?

Laughing softly at her obvious interest, Oh it’s easy really, I simply head for a large department store, find an elderly attendant in each department, they each make a list of what they can help me with, I have several cups of coffee while I wait, and then do the rounds. And when I get home, everyone is well pleased with their parcels, saying, they couldn’t have done better themselves, and of course, I take full credit.

And when will you start this little venture?

Well not today, I’m going to see a documentary film this afternoon, and would you believe, he chuckled, It’s all about the outback. It was filmed on Crail, and two neighbouring station properties, Thelnation, and Willanna.

Really, and eagerly she asked, I would love to see it. Would you mind if I came with you? immediately the words were out, she thought, ‘What am I doing. He will think I’m throwing myself at him.’ In truth though, he was so easy and interesting to talk to, and the first man she’d met who didn’t look as though he was thinking up some devious scheme to get her into bed, she was growing more and more reluctant to let go of him.

Her directness took him by surprise, and when he saw her waver, as though regretting her spontaneity, I would enjoy that, but aren’t you expected back at work?

The boss is out of town, she smiled mischievously, her eyes twinkling, And you know the old saying; when the cats away, the mice will play.

In that case and looking at his watch, We will just be in time for the 2.p.m. show, if we go within the next half hour. And with that settled, they finished the remainder of their meal in relative silence.

+ + +

Next morning Brad skipped breakfast at the Victoria hotel, in favour of sipping coffee at a sidewalk coffee shop in Swanston Street, going over in his mind the unexpected events of the previous day. He’d found Lee to be a breath of fresh air, in this overcrowded city. She’d been on his mind every waking moment since he first saw her. He was he knew, beginning to like her a little too much for his own peace of mind. Were he to do the unthinkable, and fall in love with her, it could only bring heartache. There was no way; he could expect a girl like her to settle comfortably in the outback. His brother Troy had made that mistake and look at him today, working in an office over on the coast, as far away from the station as Lana could take him. It had been either that, or lose her and his two daughters, Alexandra and Danielle. Lana too was a city bred, fragile blonde, and to his mind, that spelt sure disaster.

The film had had such an impact on Lee that save for asking the occasional question, she’d sat spellbound, the vastness and the utter isolation striking a chord within her. She’d been in awe of the verdant, wildflower covered plains, majestic trees and wide-open clear blue skies. She’d been entranced with the magnificent horses, white woolly sheep, shiny fat cattle and the abundance of wildlife, and all of a sudden, she yearned to be there.

Crail and Thelnation homesteads were very similar, she was quick to note. One story buildings with delicate lacy, cast iron detailing on balconies and verandas, entwined with purple wisteria vines, and everywhere, trailing and climbing, were magenta bougainvillea, and jasmine creepers with their masses of scented white star flowers. Also in full bloom, were the many trees; purple Jacarandas, golden Silky Oaks, and red, yellow and pink blossoming eucalyptus gums.

Crail had been set on an elevated rise, on a plateau short of the crest. The homestead, built of pale orange-pink gneiss stone, the face elegantly turreted and three faced. The prominent east side was formed by a half-circular turreted bay, from which the flinty grey-black slate porch arched wide, and receded to a less broad, paned bay that encased the entrance hall. A third bay squared and without turrets, marked the western edge. All rooms had French windows, with rooms downstairs opening onto a veranda, the upper rooms, onto a balcony.

Beyond the massive garden, surrounding the homestead, with its acres of lawn strewn with colourful flower-beds, park seats, and masses of bulbs growing profusely beneath the trees, was a creek gently flowing by.

On all three stations, scattered over a half mile radius, were large orchards and vegetable gardens, poultry runs, well kept stables, three large storage sheds, as well as a gardeners cottage, married men’s quarters, station hands quarters, sheering sheds, shearers quarters, holding yards, cattle ramps, air fields and hangars.

The film showed all inhabitants at different stages of work, and play. The three children standing on the veranda at Crail had no idea what was expected of them, so they giggled.

Brad later told her that the three children, Lizzie the girl, and the two young boys, Rory and Joel, belonged to Pat and Chris Ryan, who lived in one of the married men’s cottages. And that Chris, during the busy times - and they were short handed—worked shoulder to shoulder with her husband. The children in the meantime were taken care of by Kate, his mother.

On Thelnation had been two teenagers, Virginia and Kent, who were the owners, Don and Rhea Brereton’s, grandchildren.

Missing from Thelnathion, Brad told her, was Tommy, an adopted boy; who’d left with a drifter one night, six months ago, and they hadn’t heard from him since; a great concern to them all

+ + +

Arriving back at the office building after the film, Thank you Lee, it was much more interesting, watching the film with someone, than on my own, he admitted, opened the door for her, smiled, tipped his hat brim and said I’ll see you tomorrow morning, turned and went on his way.

Lee, hurried to her office, worked until midnight, took the lift, just outside her office, down to the underground car park, where she always parked in No1 parking space whenever her boss was away; it being right next to the lift, got wearily into her blue Gemini, and set off for home.

It took twenty minutes, to complete the drive along St Kilda Road, take a left into Toorak Road, a right into Mathoura Road, reach the huge wrought iron security gates, insert her card in the slot, drive through, up the sweeping drive, through her remote controlled garage door, step into the lift, step out on the second floor into her apartment, and another five minutes to strip off and fall exhausted, onto her bed.

Lee had risen earlier than usual, a half hatched plan in mind, and a great deal of work to be done if she was to have everything done that had to be done.

With everything done by 11.A.M., the intercom buzzed and Maggie’s business-like voice said, Mr. Scarborough to see you Lee.

Just as businesslike, she answered, Show him in please Maggie.

Good morning Lee, he said.

Looking to where he stood, blocking the doorway with his height and breadth, she was shocked at how; just the sight of him and the sound of his deep unhurried drawl set her heart racing. To cover her confusion, keeping her voice businesslike she answered, Good morning Brad.

Sitting in the chair opposite, he queried, I trust everything is finalised?

Well, no. Not quite Brad, you see, the man himself rang early this morning to say he wouldn’t be back until this evening, that he is dreadfully sorry for any inconvenience he may have caused you, and for me to take care of you in the meantime. He wants me, to bring you, to have dinner with him tonight, and he will sign the appropriate papers then.

‘In that case,’ he straight away thought, ‘today, was going to be another lucky day for him.’ And smiling, he sat forward, looked directly at her, and asked, "And so, what are you going to do with me for the next five or six hours?"

Laughing, her eyes sparkling with fun, she asked, Is there anything in particular, you would like to do?

No! he told her decisively, The ball is in your corner.

Good, she said with satisfaction, stood up, put her jacket on, placed his file in her brief case, and collecting her handbag, Let’s go then, shall we? and led the way to the lift.

As she drove out of the car park and began expertly manoeuvring the busy traffic and he asked Where are we going?

Somewhere we can talk, she told him.

Stopping outside the botanical gardens, she looked at him for a reaction, and he raised one eyebrow inquiringly, she smiled mysteriously and softly said, Well, you did say the ball was in my corner.

Walking slowly towards the kiosk, her busy mind taken up with finding the courage to tell him what she so desperately wanted to do, she was only vaguely aware of her surroundings; mowed lawns, flowering trees and shrubs, colourful gardens, and the large lake, where people were sitting about on rugs feeding the swans and their soft downy signets.

Noting her sombre mood, It looks to me, as though you have something weighing heavily on your mind, am I right? And raising a quizzical eyebrow he asked, Want to talk about it?

Coming to a halt, and looking up at him, Yes, but I don’t know how you will take it.

Try me, was all he said.

Thoughtfully leaning her head to one side, she held his gaze for half a second, and reaching a decision, walked over to the kiosk, ordered two coffees and a packet of sandwiches.

He paid, took up the tray, and with her leading the way towards the furthermost table, he followed, thinking; the more he saw of this intriguing young lady, the more he liked her direct, honest approach. You would always know where you stood with her, he decided.

When seated opposite each other, she took up her coffee mug and began to sip, her serious eyes meeting his amused ones over the rim, she held his gaze. After a thoughtful few moments, she lowered her mug to the table, rested her elbows on the table, entwined her fingers, rested her face on the backs of her hands, and mustering all her courage, she said, All right, I’ll try you! I want to go back to Crail with you.

Watching him quietly absorb what she had just said, the smile leave his face and he set his mug down, she knew then, she had his full undivided attention. Still, he said nothing, just sat, warily watching, waiting for her to continue.

Starting tomorrow, I take four months leave. And I would very much like to spend those four months on Crail Station. I would be more than willing to help in any way I could. You said yourself you are always shorthanded. I wouldn’t mind what I did; teach the children, take them off your mother’s hands for a while, help in the kitchen, anything. I could be ready whenever you say the word.

You don’t know what you’re saying, he told her, finding his voice at last. The film you saw yesterday was taken after the rains, when everything was looking at its best. You have no idea what it’s like out there right now, Lee. We are in the middle of our dry spell at the moment. It’s dusty, the flies are cruel, and the heat would bowl you over in the first day.

Try me, she said determinedly, refusing to give in without a fight.

He’d been watching her closely, and admired her directness, earnestness, and sheer determination and unwavering pursuit of something she had set her mind on. Here was someone who would always go after what she wanted and give it her all, no matter the personal cost. Evenso, he determined, the outback was completely out of the question.

You’ve tried me, without even giving me a chance haven’t you, she said, reading his expression.

Thoughtfully considering her words, he couldn’t help thinking; she would certainly be quite something to come home to each evening, with her bright positive attitude and confident assertiveness, not to mention her flawless beauty. She would, he decided, radiate some much needed excitement into his life, what with them coming into the busy time of the year—all work and no play.

Your parents, he challenged, What do they say about you going off to God knows where, with a total stranger?

They don’t know yet, but they will approve. You see, they trust my judgement. Say yes, please Brad.

He lent on the table, took a deep breath, breathed out slowly, and still holding her gaze, took another deep breath, and resignedly said, All right, if they approve, yes, after all, what do I have to lose.

She looked so elated, he thought for a second she was going to throw her arms around his neck and kiss him, unfortunately, she caught herself just in time, and instead, Thank you. Thank you Brad, I can guarantee, you won’t be sorry.

After they had discussed what she would need—a hat, high on the list. All businesslike again, she told him, Now that’s all settled, I’m going to take you back to your hotel, collect your belongings, then take you back to my place and introduce you to my parents.

Won’t they mind you bringing home someone you have only known for five minutes?

I don’t know. I have never done anything like this before. But that is what I would like you to do; after all, I will be doing the exact same thing to your parents. How do you think they will take it?

They won’t bat an eye, but then it’s different in the bush, he protested.

Lifting an eyebrow, aping him, she queried, Is it? Well let’s just put it to the test, shall we? Let’s try them.

At that, he gave a burst of laughter and held up his hands in total surrender. And with the sun warm on his head, the air noisy with children’s laughter, people talking happily, birds honking and warbling and singing, he gladly gave himself over to her, for the remainder of the day.

And, he’d quite happily gone along with everything she said, no questions asked, but when arriving at the security gates to a palatial mansion that could only be associated with a multi millionaire, suddenly he was sitting erect, fully alert, keenly observant, wanting to know, What is this?

My home, she told him, as they swept up the driveway.

Wordlessly, he mulled this over as he followed her. Stepping out of the lift into a spacious hallway that led into a luxurious lounge room, and seeing the amusement in her expressive eyes, he raised a questioning eyebrow.

The whole second floor is mine, she told him mater-a-factly. I used to share it with a nanny and a brother once, but now, there is just me. It’s my own private apartment; I even have a small kitchen and cook most of my own meals. My parents occupy the first floor. And the ground floor is for entertaining.

When leading the way again, she said, I’ll show you to your room and then, I am going to take a shower and dress for dinner. You could do the same, but only if you wish.

Just as she made to move off, he said, Just one question.

Yes, she smiled.

Who is your father?

Oh, I thought you knew. My father is my boss, Mr Cramer.

Standing alone in his room, he had this profound feeling he’d just been deliberately and expertly shanghaied. Everything seemed to be moving along at an alarming speed, and for a man accustomed to running his life, his way, and at his pace, he was feeling slightly out of step. He had come to the city for the sole purpose of finalizing matters concerning his property, and here he was.

‘Yes,’ he mused, ‘here he was indeed,’ and thinking of the evening ahead, promptly took up the folded towel on the end of the bed and whistling softly, a spring in his step, walked towards the shower.

When back in the lounge-room, and Lee appeared; a vision, in a long black, slim fitting, backless frock, a single strand of pearls her only adornment, her shiny silver-blonde hair, ringlets released, bouncing about her shoulders, a sensuous, self assured young woman, and she asked So, you did shower and change! Feel better?

Yes, but I’m still confused. I don’t get it Lee, a girl like you, leaving all this to go to the hot dusty outback. You’ll be dealing with harsh elements out there you know. Are you sure you won’t change your mind?

Not a chance! Come on, and meet the folks, and as though they’d been friends for years, she linked her arm through his and steered him towards the staircase.

Paul and Marcia were mixing drinks when the pair appeared, and walking towards them, Lee said, Mother, daddy, meet Braden Scarborough.

The two men, tall, powerful, prosperous and self-assured, from their first firm hand shake and direct eye contact, immediately felt comfortable in each other’s company.

Paul, Brad noted, as they stood drinks in hand making small talk, was beginning to thicken a little at the waistline; from too much easy living he surmised. Not so his much younger wife, Marcia, tall and elegant in a clinging, midnight blue gown, sparklingly adorned with a diamond necklace, ear rings, and bracelet, honey-blonde hair swept up in what he imagined, was the latest sophisticated style.

They were midway through dinner when Paul asked Lee had she decided on a holiday venue yet.

Although instantly alert to the couple’s reactions, Brad gave nothing away, as Lee, barely able to contain her excitement, told of her plans.

How exciting for you darling, was Marcia’s first reaction.

When Paul, having listened without comment until she’d finished, and facing Brad asked, How do you think she will cope with the elements out there Brad?

I don’t, but there doesn’t seem to be anything I can say that will dampen her enthusiasm. And hopefully, I am relying on you to make her see reason.

Lee says she could help around the homestead. What exactly would that entail?

Brad couldn’t believe what was taking place here. He’d been expecting a storm of protests from the pair; actually, he’d been relying heavily on it. But instead, it seemed they too were getting all fired up.

Yes, well, he reluctantly began, There is plenty Lee could help with, schooling the children, helping in the kitchen, feeding animals. We are always under-staffed. And looking at each one in turn, his tone and expression deadly serious, his words meaningful, People come out there full of all these unrealistic expectations, grand ideas, good intentions, and romantic notions about living in the country, most though, don’t even last out the first month. When I mention the discomfort of heat, dust and flies, while we sit here in air-conditioned comfort, they are just words, but believe me, it is stark reality when you are out there working in it. And I can’t see Lee coping with any of that.

Marcia, looking him directly in the eyes, Well Brad, I happen to disagree with you. I have watched Lee all her life set impossible goals for herself, and not once have I seen her give in. So I would like to see you, at least, give her a chance to prove you wrong.

In desperation he looked to Paul for support, but when he simply smiled and shrugged his shoulders, Brad bought his gaze to rest on Lee, and seeing the pleading in her beautiful blue eyes, he took a deep breath, and sinking back into his chair with an air of defeat, I give up. I tried, just you remember that, he quietly told her.

Her face aglow, Thank you Brad, you won’t regret it.

He couldn’t tell her of course, that he was already regretting it. Fool that he was, in the short time he’d known her, already, he’d dropped his guard, and she’d got under his skin, so heaven help him.

It was then Lee told her parents all about the film she’d seen, and after extracting from them a promise to go and see it. She went on to tell them of the strange shopping expedition Brad was to embark on; come Monday; all throughout the telling they remained her captive audience.

Taking their coffee in the lounge, and after a time Paul and Lee began talking business, Marcia, who liked the cut of this handsome young man, and felt her daughter couldn’t be in better hands, led him over to sit in a corner of the room, and began asking him all about how life was for him in his beloved outback.

Fascinated, she listened in silence, all the while he spoke, and then, Brad, if it wouldn’t be too much of an inconvenience, do you think, before Lee comes home, Paul and I might come out to your Crail for a week-end. We have our own private plane. Surely there is somewhere we could land. I have always had a yearning to see the outback regions. Would there be room for us do you think?

To say Brad was taken aback would be an understatement. He’d come to Melbourne for the sole purpose of having some papers signed, and now here he was, without any effort on his behalf, caught up in a situation that was gathering momentum by the moment.

The old country hospitality very quickly kicked in however, and he was saying, Well Mrs. Kramer, like I told you, it’s no picnic out there at the moment, but, you would be most welcome. My mother would welcome you all with open arms, she loves visitors. We have an airstrip so that’s no problem, and there are plenty of vacant rooms.

It all sounds wonderful. We will definitely come then. But don’t say anything to Lee right now. It is her little venture after all, she confided.

Brad, Marcia, and Lee, were out on the patio, and had just finished a leisurely breakfast next morning, when Paul arrived home with a young man in tow, whom he introduced, as Tony Barnett, the son of Victor Barnett, a college of his.

Tony is twenty-two years old, Paul went on to enlighten them. He has just completed his carpenter’s apprenticeship and a course in architecture, and he tells me, he has wanted to go Jackarooing all his life. His father though, insisted he do a trade and then, if he still wanted to take off out west, he would do everything within his power to make it possible. And bringing the full force of his gaze to rest on Brad, After hearing all this, I decided to bring the lad home so he could have a talk to you; I haven’t promised him anything, mind you, he hurriedly added, It’s all up to you two, to work it out, and having said his piece, settled back in his chair to watch, and observe.

All the while, Brad had been looking the youth over. Finding him almost as tall as himself, solidly built, with bright, alert eyes and a thick shock of auburn hair, he liked what he saw. The downside was - he’d never been on a horse in his life. He was though, he was quick to point out, keen to learn and eager and excited over the prospect of living his dream at last; overriding every obstacle Brad put before him.

Even though the picture Brad painted was bleak; from the hot summer weather, to long hours in the saddle mustering sheep and cattle, to the back breaking task of sheering, nothing failed to put the lad off. And in the end, Brad had no other option than to reach out his hand and say, Welcome aboard.

And Tony, hardly able to believe his luck, excitedly shook his hand saying, You won’t be sorry Brad.

Right now, Brad wasn’t too sure about that. Here he was with two green horns on his hands and sheering starting in two weeks. ‘Oh well,’ he thought, sighing inwardly, ‘we’ll just have to face all that when we come to it.’ And when looking around his gazed locked with Lees, and he saw the sparkle of fun lighting her eyes, he realised, she’d been watching him closely, and had read his thoughts.

Worrying over what you are going to do with the new chums? Look on the bright side Brad. We may even surprise you, she smiled.

Stranger things have happened I guess, he said with a dry chuckle.

It was soon after Paul and Tony left, that the time set for the shopping expedition arrived, and with Lee determined to take part, Brad welcomed her company.

Arriving at her favourite department store, linking her arm through his, Lee steered him in, sought out the floor-manager, Mr. Rupert, and after greeting each other like old friends, he asked, How can I help you Lee?

For answer, she introduced Brad, explained the situation, then much to Mr. Rupert’s merriment, she asked Brad to empty his pockets.

Collecting the scraps of paper, Mr. Rupert told her, Leave it with me Lee, I will have it attend to immediately, and delivered to your residence in due course, as per usual.

Thank you Mr Rupert, she smiled.

Yes, thank you very much. You have taken a weight off my mind, Brad assured him.

My pleasure, I can assure you, he said, with a twinkle in his eye and a slight bow.

Now, to the toy department, Lee said over her shoulder, already leading the way again.

Once there, she went into action, and in no time, had chosen three skate boards, three pairs of adjustable roller skates, along with jigsaw puzzles, dolls, toy pistols, play dough, colouring pencils, crayons, books, note paper, pens, pencils, rubbers, and countless other little nick-knacks. Asking for them to be charged to her account, and sent along to her address with the order Mr Rupert was taking care of.

After standing by and watching all this go down, and he could now finally get a word in, Brad asked, Why?

Well you did say, I was to teach the children, and if that is the case, then I would like to do it my way. Now, I need your help in choosing something for the eldest boy, Kent. What do you suggest I get for him? And don’t tell me I don’t have to do this. I’m going to, because I want to.

For answer, he dug into his top breast pocket, took out a scrap of paper and handed it to her, Kent gave me this just before they left on their last visit, and said if I had time, would I get these things for him and he would pay me something off them each week. I had intended letting him do a couple of days work for me, one day.

Let me get the pocket knife and the elastic sided J.R. William’s boots. But you will have to help me.

In that case, I’ll give him the whip.

I thought you might, she smiled.

When that was done, and Lee said, Right, now to Virginia, although Brad accompanied her to the chosen department, he had very little to offer. Mainly, he looked on, intrigued at how quickly and surely Lee chose one article after another, and then asked that they too, be charged, and delivered.

The next department she led him into, however, she did need his expert advice, and once this was completed, these too, were added to the delivery.

+ + +

With that all behind them, they found a reasonably quiet coffee bar, and relaxed.

So, Lee said, once their coffee was set before them, Six A.M. it all begins. Are we booked?

Everything has been taken care of. All you and Tony need do, is be on time, he told her in a no nonsense tone, taking up his coffee mug and looking across at her.

Consider it done, she firmly told him, and her gaze meeting his, she raised her coffee mug and touching hers to his, Here’s to a great journey, and she laughed, really laughed, a full throated, rich sounding laugh that came from deep within.

It somehow, had a relaxing effect on Brad, all the tension left him, a feeling of well being infused his whole being, and suddenly, he was laughing just as joyously, eventhough he knew full well he was the butt of the joke, and had no earthly idea why she found him so funny.

Oh Brad, you poor man, she said, still laughing. Saddled with us two cityites, wondering what on earth you are to do with us, and how to explain us away to your folks. I really do feel for you.

He could have told her, that these were the least of his worries. The worry, was his heart, it was in grave danger. Watching her over the rim of his mug, he knew he was losing ground rapidly with every second she was in his company. But, he consoled himself, once back on Crail, with the workload that awaited him, there would be no time to concern himself over affairs of the heart, it would be full-on, with sheep mustering and sheering taking up every scrap of their energies and every minute of their time for many weeks to come. And she was right; a couple of greenhorn was the very last thing they needed out there right now.

Have you let them know of our coming? she asked, breaking into his thoughts.

I took the liberty of using your phone earlier, so yes, they know, he told her, adding, In any case, I always ring home, to say I’ve landed safely and again as soon as I know the time of take off. I’ve made it a rule, eversince Dusty and Derren Davidson were killed a few years back in their plane while out mustering brumbies.

‘So,’ Lee thought, ‘That was the reason he was so strict about timing. He didn’t want to miss the flight. Well, he had no need to worry on her behalf; she was a stickler for punctuality. In their business, time was of the essence.’

+ + +

The moment his mid-day meal was eaten, Paul excused himself, saying he would see them at dinner; he had urgent business to attend to. Marcia disappeared after saying she had a million things to attend to. And Lee asked Brad, Would you like to see how I spend my weekends, unwinding.

Yes, I’m intrigued already, he smiled.

When later, stretched out on a comfortable deck lounge, soaking up the sun alongside the massive swimming pool, the tension of the last few days beginning to fade from his memory, Brad realised how stifling he’d found city living. His tone lazy, he drawled, So this is how the urban population unwind?

Hmmm she murmured.

Not bad. Not bad at all.

Flipping over onto her stomach she looked across, and informed him, When we really do need to unwind, time permitting of course, we can be found at out hideaway property at the foot of the Dandenong mountain ranges. It’s where we have another dwelling, enough land for an air strip, and plenty of space for our horses and stables. That is where we really relax, riding around amongst the foot-hills.

He remained thoughtful for a time, and then, a question in his voice, I’m curious, I thought I’d have met the other partner, Sedgwick, by now.

You have met, she told him.

Well we weren’t introduced, he accused.

Yes you were, she answered, hard pressed to keep a straight face.

Sitting up, he looked at her, and asked, When?

At dinner, Marcia Sedgwick Cramer is the other partner in the business.

A silent partner, he breathed, summing it up.

No! she said her voice sure and strong. Mother knows as much, and has just as much say in the running of the business, as daddy does.

Seeing the amazement register on his face she went on, Mother was away in Switzerland at boarding school when daddy first started work at the Agency. She was eighteen when she came home on holidays and met him; a young man of the world, ten years her senior. She fell in love with him on sight, and let him know how she felt by making moon eyes at him. He of course, was so dedicated to learning the ropes, and as well, sewing a few wild oats, that he paid the young school girl very little attention. From then on, she saw out the next twelve months with a new game plan in mind. Which saw her buckle down, and for the first time, begin taking her education seriously; learning all she could about the business of real estate. She was determined, not only to win him over, but also, become indispensible to the Agency? When she finally came home, her education completed, she literally talked her father into taking her on. A decision he never regretted. And so much so, that when Paul Cramer Senior retired owing to poor health, and his son and heir, Paul, stepped in, Marcus Sedgwick stepped aside for Marcia, his heir to take over from him. He went into early retirement, and left it all in the capable hands of the, ‘young blood,’ as he called them.

How soon after her return was it, that they married? curious now, Brad asked.

Not long after both seniors loosened the reigns, as daddy tells it. Fearful of someone else snapping her up, he wasted no time in making advances. And of course mother, determined not to be an easy catch, strung him along for a time, just to pay him back for ignoring her in the first place.

Lying down again, Brad thought of their wedding photo on the dresser in the lounge, and how devastatingly beautiful, wide-eyed, young and innocent she looked, ‘Yes, he could well understand Paul hurriedly roping her in,’ he smiled to himself.

Lee then changed the subject, and used the time she had alone with him, to extract more of what to expect when she arrived on Crail. And Brad, who never tired of talking of his home, willingly obliged.

+ + +

Marcia and Paul insisted on accompanying them to the airport next morning, and when the stretch limo pulled up at the front door, and their driver bounded out to hold the door open, Marcia was the first to step in.

With Brad giving directions and they were approaching Brearton + Fisher Airfield, it was easy to see, that it certainly wasn’t the Airport the others had in mind. We hold shares in it, he told them, going on to explain, Don Brearton from Thelnation Station and his friend, Tod fisher, started it up, just after the war. When they branched out and opened up one in Sydney as well, Dad helped them out with financing. Don and Tod still hold the reigns, with Don running the Sydney Airfield, with the thought in mind that Kent takes an interest in it one day. Tod’s son, Kurt, runs this one.

They were in for a further surprise, when Brad directed them over to where an eight seater plane stood with its engine humming, ready for takeoff.

They were met by a young man, a little older than Brad, who said, as the two shook hands, Sorry I missed you when you flew in, Brad, but with business booming and a need to be in half a dozen places at once, and reliable staff being what it is, I’m sure you understand.

All too well, and speaking of which, meet Lee Kramer and Tony Barnett, they are going to try their luck in the outback.

After a hearty handshake accompanied by a hefty slap on the back, and, Best of luck Tony, I hope you make it. Kurt turned, took in the sophisticated girl who was watching him with wide intelligent eyes; he sobered very quickly, as taking the initiative she offered her hand, saying, It’s nice to meet you Kurt.

Nice to meet you too, Lee, he told her, and looking up at Brad, a knowing look in his eyes, he added, Life’s full of nice little surprises isn’t it?

Brad wasn’t about to be drawn though, instead, he turned his attention to introducing Marcia, Paul, and Andréa their chauffeur, and then asking, Don’s plane parts?

Already on board, he straight away told him.

Then it was all hands to the task, transferring their luggage, packages, and parcels, from the limo, to the plane.

With everything and everyone aboard, goodbyes having been said, Brad at the controls, and he called out, I’ll see you in four months time.

Kurt laughed, You think they’ll last that long, do you?

Brad merely waved as they began taxing down the runway.

It was a smooth take off, with a steep climb. When levelled out, they released their seatbelts, and looking down on the sprawling metropolis that was the city of Melbourne, Brad sat relaxed but alert.

Lee looked around at Tony, and seeing he was rigid and as white as a sheet, going to his aid, she concernedly asked, Have you flown before? And gently he shook his head, she hurriedly handed him a paper bag, saying, Here, use this. Taking it he quickly buried his face, and leaving him to get on with it, she returned to her seat up front.

Looking across at Brad’s profile, she fell to wondering about him. He puzzled her. She couldn’t work him out, one minute she felt he enjoyed her company and then, just like that, for no reason, his whole attitude towards her changed, and he looked so closed off and unapproachable, she longed to reach out to him and ask what was troubling him. Instinctively though, she knew to leave it alone. ‘Why was it,’ she asked herself, ‘that for most of her life she’d had trouble keeping men at arm’s length, and now, when she had finally found the man whose arms she would walk into gladly, who set her heart pounding and her pulse rate racing, he didn’t seem interested in her, that way.’ She knew she was falling more hopelessly in love with him by the day. ‘Perhaps,’ she thought, ‘there was a girl in his life already.’

With a wry smile, Brad surmised, It’s his maiden flight I take it? And glancing sideways at her, He doesn’t know the half of it, yet. The lads in for some torrid times, and it will be interesting to see how he handles himself.

Don’t be too hard on him, she said, thinking of her own journey.

Lee, believe me when I say, I will everyone who takes it on out there, to make good, but in the end, it’s up to the individual. The remoteness and the hazardous conditions confronting them can be a daunting enough prospect in itself, aside from the workload they face daily. I genuinely hope he makes it, I like the cut of the lad, but it’s completely up to him.

During that three and a half hour flight, with Tony recovering very quickly from his queasiness, the three learnt a lot about each other.

Lee for instance, soon noticed, as she and Tony took turns at sitting up front with Brad, how quickly the pair became at ease with each other. She knew right from then, that this serious young man with the dry sense of humour, if she was any judge of character, would become indispensible to Crail, for she also knew that like her, he was no quitter.

Touching down at Charleville, so as to load on board the mail bag and countless other supplies that had been ordered by Crail and delivered to the hanger for them to collect, they wasted no time in taking to the air again.

And this time, for the further three quarters of an hour air travel, the threesome trained all their attention on the scene below, as Brad gave his commentary, pointing out anything he thought may be of interest—the rivers, the creeks, the bores, the jump ups, and the trail taken when droving stock to Charleville. And then they were flying over Crail property with its cattle, sheep, and mobs of kangaroos and emus. All of course, had been in the film, but now held for the pair of newcomers, even more significance, as they were to be living amongst it. Tony, long term; he was most adamant about that. Lee, just as determined to see out the four months she had set herself.

They were then doing a wide circle over the homestead, with Brad pointing out to the east, furthermost from the homestead, spread out amongst a forest of gum trees, the shearer’s quarters and the shearing shed with its holding yards, ramps, and pens. And further over, closer to the homestead, the stockmen’s living quarters, and the dwellings that housed their married men. And closer in still, was the gardener’s cottage.

Then their full attention was taken up with watching those down below, already in the utility, setting off from the homestead, dust trailing out behind, heading for the airstrip and the hangars.

CHAPTER 2

THE GATHERING OF THE CLAN

L OOKING DOWN FROM the cockpit, Lee watched the slowly moving utility come to rest shrouded in dust. The dust, quickly blown away on a stiff breeze, reveal two children sitting in the back, and another smaller child sitting on the lap of the woman behind the wheel. All this she noted before Brad bought the plane to rest in the giant hangar beside another identical plane.

It wasn’t until both engines stopped, that the two children scrambled over the side of the utility and with the smaller one turned loose and not far behind, they raced towards the plane. The woman took her time.

When Brad lowered the steps, the youngsters excitedly swarmed up and crowded around him all talking at once, Yes, I did your shopping, it’s all here, he told them, and placing a parcel in each ones arms, Here, take this with you on your way down.

Clutching it to them, they immediately did as they were told; raced back down, over to the Ute, dispose of it, and raced back for more. With all hands to the task, the remaining cargo was off-loaded onto the Ute in very quick time.

Down on the tarmac, Brad, hugging his mother, asked, Everything O.K.

Kissing his cheek, Yes, it’s wonderful to have you home again, son.

It’s great to be here, he fervently told her.

With one arm still around her shoulders, he turned and introduced her to Lee and Tony, It’s nice to meet you both. I hope you enjoy your stay with us, she warmly welcomed.

When it came time to introduce Lizzie, Rory, and Joel, all of a sudden they were too over come with shyness to say a word.

Hurrying things along, Kate said, Come on, let us get out of this blistering heat, and Lee dear, you come and sit up front with me and nurse Joel, if you will.

But when Joel, refusing to leave his side, Brad hoisted him up into the back with him and the others, it left Lee free to take in her surroundings uninterrupted, she wasn’t displeased.

Only when sure all were settled, did Kate start the engine and drive off sedately; ever mindful of how precarious the situation was, ferrying a back-load of over-excited children.

At the homestead, once all packages and parcels were safely behind the closed office door, led by the energetic children, they made their way towards the kitchen, to where Kate had prepared a lunch of sandwiches, scones, and fruit cake.

One of the many surprises of the day for Lee, was how the children sat up to the table and ate their meal without a word passing their lips - unless spoken to. Their eyes and ears though, were on full alert and missed not a word or action. And this was even more evident when Kate spoke of the barbecue that was to be held the following day, with the Brereton family and the Davidson’s joining them, as they were coming over to collect their shopping. It would, she said, be the last chance for a get together until after the sheering season on all three properties was behind them.

Brad was on his feet the moment he’d drained his cup, saying to Tony, Coming? I’ll start showing you around while I do a check on everything, and Lee, what about you?

Eventhough she would have preferred to go with him, she felt compelled to say, Not just now Brad. I’ll help your mother clean up.

The children, not to be left out, each said a hurried, May I leave the table please, scurried from their chairs and beat the men to the door.

Feeling a little frustrated at not going, Lee soon shrugged it off, cleared the table, located the dishwasher, and began stacking it with dishes. This done, she stood back and surveyed the kitchen, and was immensely pleased to note there was every labour saving device imaginable; microwave, electric stove, an immense combustion range, a huge pantry and a utility room opening off the kitchen, a tremendous deep freeze and two of the biggest refrigerators she had ever seen. The huge kitchen table, she was told, was where they sat to have breakfast, and later, ate a hurried lunch when busy and on the run. Their dinner at night though, was served in the dining room, where, their meal eaten, they all relaxed over a fresh pot of tea, caught up with each other’s news, talked over the day’s happenings, and worked out their strategy for the following day.

With the kitchen put to rights and Kate said, Now that we have a few idle moments, I’ll show you to your room, Lee.

Collecting some of her luggage, they started up the beautiful old staircase, Kate explaining, We all sleep in the West wing; it’s much cooler there. Other than the one suite of rooms downstairs, and the domestic staff’s quarters, all other bedrooms are up here. We also have two separate shower cubicles downstairs, for when any of us need take a quick shower.

Opening a door, she continued, I decided to put you in here. It is one of the bigger rooms. It was Kathy’s, adding with a little chuckle, "And before her, it was mine, when I first came to Crail