The Ryan family are in dire straits, having been evicted from their crofter holdings in Ireland. A chance for a new life and brighter prospects is offered to them with their passage paid by a benevolent society. It is an opportunity to own their own land, and for their children to prosper.

But for the Ryan family and the other 425 passengers on board the aged Erin go Bragh, the voyage to that new life in Queensland turns out to be a terrifying, frustrating, and heartbreaking experience, with disease, hunger and death an almost constant spectre in the cramped and fetid tween deck.

As the weary survivors of this epic voyage arrive in Moreton Bay, there is relief, joy, and trepidation at what the future will bring. Though, even now, fate plays a frustrating hand until they actually step ashore. The Ryans then grasp opportunities and endure hardships to forge the future for their family.