It's discovered that the O'Bannions work for "Backer" Bowman, who learns of a shipment of money that Charlie Withers is transporting from Port Nelson to Wilga, and they hold up the Five Mile Creek family in demand of it. When Wattle, the dog, escapes to warn Con with her "bushranger" trick, Con becomes suspicious, who is on his way back from Wilga after learning of the O'Bannions. With the help from the person that informed Con about the O'Bannions, they overpower the hold-up.
Unless a couple is willing to adopt him, the adults are told that Sam will have to go to an orphanage. In order to keep Sam, Con informs everyone that he and Kate are engaged. Kate beomes furious with Con, whom she had never even dated. When Con explains to Kate that he actually has feelings for her, he asks to court her and she accepts.
