Fields of Fire III

The final chapter of the scorching historical saga set in Australia's North Queensland cane fields, Fields of Fire series 3 takes the story into the 1950s, exploring the lives of the hard-working residents of Silkwood. Gina (Peta Toppano) and her brother Paolo (Bob Ruggiero) have established themselves and enjoy relative prosperity as successful cane growers. Still mourning the loss of her beloved husband Franco, Gina's attention is taken by a handsome newcomer, Italian cane cutter Rinaldo (Logie Award winner Martin Sacks). Local larrikin Jacko (John Jarratt) discovers a kindred spirit in down-to-earth mechanic Dawn (AFI Award winner Noni Hazlehurst) and inspiring school teacher Iris (AFI Award winner Michelle Fawdon) attempts to give wayward Whacka (Harold Hopkins) an education.

But the future is not all roses for the people of Silkwood - as Prime Minister Menzies' 1951 Federal Referendum to outlaw communism causes all manner of instability within the small community, bringing back memories of past fears and oppression to many of the migrants. Coming to terms with a bold new political landscape, dealing with the unpredictable and life-threatening nature of Australia's tropical climate - Fields of Fire series 3 brings the epic story full circle - exploring both the migrant experience and the ever tumultuous relationship between man and nature. (Umbrella Entertainment)