Luke's Kingdom

Drama

In 1829, a recently widowed Englishman brings his children to New South Wales to claim land and begin a new life, only to find it already occupied. Forced to settle as squatters, the family faces mounting challenges from colonial authorities, rival settlers, and the harsh conditions of the frontier.

Play

Creator

E.V. Timms

Starring

Oliver Tobias, Helen Morse, Gerard Maguire, James Condon, Les Foxcroft, Willie Fennell

Audio & Subtitles

EN (Original), English [CC]

Format & Features

4K Ultra HD • Dolby Atmos • 5.1 Surround

45m

1. A Sort of Gentleman

It's 1829, Jason Firbeck, a retired naval Leiutenant, recently widowed arrives with his family - Samuel, his elder son, Luke, his second son and Jassy his daughter - in NSW, where land granted by influential friends, supposedly awaits him.

45m

2. The Land Lovers

Jason Firbeck, shocked to discover land assigned to him is occupied by another, tries to sort out the legal aspects of ownership.

45m

3. The Bait

Luke has taken control of the family and has occupied land in the wilderness. The family have thus become 'squatters'.

45m

4. A Man Worse Than Cormac

In squatters territory it is law of the strong that prevails and Cormac Doyle, an English-hating Irishman, sets his sights on occupying Luke's kingdom

45m

5. A Woman Waiting

In New South Wales in the 1830s convicts were granted "Tickets to Leave" to find employment on their own account. However one mistake, the slightest misdemeanor, and the ticket could be withdrawn.

45m

6. The Man from Home

The Firbecks have been squatters for two years. The building of a timber homestead is finished and an area of land cleared. The arrival of an uninvited guest causes complications for Luke because of an association he builds up with Jassy.

45m

7. The Surveyor

For Jassy, life as a housekeeper to her squatting family has become unbearable. Jason watches anxiously as with each day she grows more tired, more depressed, and more listless.

45m

8. The King's Gentleman

The Governor has set up a committee to inquire into squatting and the possible granting of Tenancy Rights to the squatters.

45m

9. The Dam and the Damned

It has not rained for four months. Sheep and cattle are dying and settlers are facing ruin. Luke, taking advantage of the dry state of the river bed, is struggling to build an immense dam. However his ambitious plan is plagued by tragedy.

45m