In this powerful family saga, set mainly in 19th century Australia, the adventures of handsome English curate Tom Barrett are followed as he treks north to establish a new colony. With him is the beautiful blonde Annelise Hauser, a German orphan, and together they are destined to found a dynasty. Amongst those in the small colony are Tom's sister, Elinor, and Irish ex-convict Danny O'Halloran whose lives and children intermingle from one generation to another. Here, indeed, is a story rich in the happiness and sorrows of a community far removed from the tranquillity of an English parish.