It is 1788 in New South Wales, and dawn is breaking over the ramshackle camp where British convicts and their masters are waking up to another dangerous day.

Freeman must tackle bully Marston, who is persisting in stealing his food. Drastic action is required.

Reverend Johnson leads the community in prayer on a hot beach as they bury another poor soul who has succumbed to the hardships of life. After shouting is heard from out at sea, some marines are gesturing that their fishing nets have been slashed. Elizabeth and Tommy marriage is later blessed by Reverend Johnson in the partially built church.

Mary Johnson shares her past sorrow with the insightful convict Anne Meredith as the camp waits for news of Freeman.

To everyone's amazement Freeman is alive, and Major Ross is deeply affected by a personal loss.

Rebellion is in the air and Tommy's headstrong behaviour risks Elizabeth's future plans.

James Freeman faces the most difficult decision of his life. With the prisoners far outnumbering the soldiers, what will the outcome be?