Marcus Clarke's epic novel of the horrors and degradation of the Australian penal system is one of the great classics of Australian literature and the subject of this classic 3 part mini-series, presented here over 2 discs.

Disinherited and driven from his home in England when he discovers the secret of his true parentage, young Richard Devine (Colin Friels) changes his name to Rufus Dawes but is then falsely accused of murdering his real father. Transported to the notorious Port Arthur in Van Diemen's land 'for the term of his natural life', Dawes is gradually transformed from the bright and witty young Englishman into a hardened and desperate convict. He is unafraid to attempt the most daring escapes or brutal dashes with fellow prisoners and his jailers-including the cruel Lt. Maurice Frere (Rod Mullinar) or the troubled Reverend North (Anthony Perkins). 'Dawes' last hope for vindication is his passion for Sylvia (Penelope Stewart), daughter of prison Commandant, Major Vickers (Patrick Macnee). That hope is put to the ultimate challenge by her own dark secrets.