1975

Ian's Number 96 episode guide: 1975

Number 96 synopses © 1994, 2020 Ian McLean and Lindsay Street Productions. They have been rewritten and annotated from information derived from Sydney and Melbourne editions of TV Week and TV Times, cross-referenced with original Cash Harmon documentation and viewings of episodes. No text may be reproduced without the express permission of the author. To use this material in research, you are requested to inform the author and credit his contribution accordingly. Thank you.

CLIFFHANGERS:

Can the deli survive its stern new owner, Freda Fuller?

Will Don Finlayson's sister, Carol, believe that her fiance, Brad Hilton, is a homosexual?

Did Lucy Sutcliffe's secret cause the destruction of Michael Bartlett's family?

Will Tracey Wilson endure another beating from her husband, Peter?

Has Harry Collins returned from the grave?

Who killed Patti Feather?

670. (13/01/1975) It is 1.30am and Don has ordered Brad to leave Flat 4 immediately, but Brad continues to argue. Don realises that he should have woken up to him from the start. Carol staggers out of her bedroom, complaining that it is the middle of the night. Why is Brad dressed? Brad claims that Don propositioned him. Incredulous as to Brad's lies, Don flings the front door open, just as Detective Sergeant Short ascends the staircase. All three are ordered back into the flat, as "there's been a little trouble upstairs" and no one is to leave the building. Short continues up to Flat 6 and Andy points out where Patti's body was found. In Flat 5, Marilyn and Edie have been watching a movie on TV in their sleep attire. Marilyn tries to get Mummy to understand Daddy's supposed need to "seek mental stimulation elsewhere" was his way of saying that he was leaving the family for "The Bullock". The news shatters Edie. Marilyn is also concerned about what has been happening with Michael. Mrs Sutcliffe received a phone call from Tom (in New Zealand) yesterday, but Michael had claimed that his father was dead? Alf comes into Flat 8 fuming, having just driven all the way back from Kurrajong to talk to Mrs Cole. Lucy informs him that there has been another murder: Arnold's Patti. Andy brings a dazed Arnold upstairs and Lucy offers Arnold his old room back, as Michael is out. Andy warns that Arnold is acting as if nothing has happened. Next morning, Alf is having a cup of tea in bed. Lucy mentions that Michael never came home, even though Lucy made up the sofa and left him a note. Alf snaps at her when he thinks she is suggesting that Michael is the killer. Alf agrees that Michael has been lying to them. That Mrs Cole who came to the door recently was not the real Mrs Cole. Lucy tells Alf about the call from Tom. So Michael lied about Tom's death and also about Lucy being left money in the will? Detective Sergeant Short is still in Flat 6, interviewing Tracey, who had been on nightshift at the hospital, and Andy, who has been staying with Vera but was going downstairs for a walk (in the rain!) when he met Arnold, returning from Canberra. In Flat 4, Dudley is back from Aunty Brenda's and hears about Patti. Carol makes serious accusations: were Don and Dudley setting it all up so that Don could proposition Brad while Dudley was away overnight? She is very angry and intends moving out today. Lucy talks to Freda over the phone in Flat 8. It seems that Arnold cannot accept that Patti is dead; he is down in the deli, working away as if nothing had happened! Michael arrives and tries to avoid the Sutcliffes' questions. Michael accuses Lucy of killing his mother, as if she'd taken a gun to her. His motive for lying to Lucy was revenge. Michael admits that he wanted to break up Lucy's family so she'd know what his bedridden, invalid mother went through, knowing that Tom was in love with another woman. In Flat 5, Short is ready to depart when Edie's meandering commentary begins to incriminate Daddy, who went missing around the time of the murder. Sometimes when Marilyn makes Daddy angry, "he could cheerfully strangle her". Only yesterday, Daddy was angry about Marilyn leaving her pantyhose in the bathroom. Don and Dudley visit the deli to check on Arnold. He seems oblivious to recent events. Arnold mentions that the takeaway food service is being discontinued but there is still some goulash left. At the bar of The Red Baron, Brad and Carol are waiting for a table. She can't understand why Don would act the way he did to Brad. She will pack her things and move into Brad's. Brad states that he needs to be by himself while it all gets sorted out. Michael comes to Flat 5 to explain to Edie and Marilyn about the situation concerning Lucy. Marilyn jumps at the chance to invite Michael to stay. Mummy thinks it's a good idea, too. Andy and Tracey come into the deli and are shocked to see Arnold serving behind the counter. He mentions that he and Patti will soon be off to Tahiti. Dudley is unable to establish an alibi. Don is worried that Dudley doesn't take the situation seriously. When Dudley produces his Wynyard-to-Beecroft rail ticket, Detective Sergeant Short does not accept it as proof of actual travel. The lunch at The Red Baron has been a tense situation. Brad accuses Carol of being "a possessive woman" and storms off. In Flat 5, Edie makes up a bed for Michael on the sofa. Marilyn comes in after a visit to the Paddington Town Hall. Daddy has taken a week's leave from his job. She then went to Mrs Bullock's home - and she is on a week's vacation! It seems obvious that they have gone off together [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Peter Benardos.]

In Melbourne, GTV-9 had been airing "Days of Our Lives" in prime time over the summer, ready to do a ratings battle against "Number 96" when it returned for its 1975 season on ATV-0. Coincidentally, Tropical Cyclone Tracy was the name of the severe weather event that devastated the city of Darwin, in the Northern Territory of Australia, early on Christmas Day in 1974. Tracey Wilson was about to become newsworthy. Since "The Red Baron" is a studio set replicating a corner of actual restaurant within the "Holiday Inn" in North Sydney, why would Dudley head to Wynyard Station to catch the last train to Beecroft? The blond extra, Mark Markham, can again be spotted as the "maître d'hôtel" of "The Red Baron" restaurant. Peter Flett's Michael Bartlett moves into Flat 5, as does his end credit. Frances Hargreaves' Marilyn gains a mispelt surname, "McDonald", which will last for several weeks. The family name is officially spelt "MacDonald".

671. (14/01) Tracey is reading a newspaper on the couch in Flat 6 when Arnold arrives from closing the deli at its new time of 6.00pm. She hides the paper under a cushion. Arnold greets her, then calls out for Patti. Tracey mentions that Mrs Sutcliffe was expecting him upstairs. Arnold is puzzled; it is unlike him to forget a dinner engagement. In Flat 3, Dorrie has her feet up while Herb is doing the ironing. With her delicatessen job, she is now "a working wife". Dorrie discusses how poor Mr Feather has gone completely "non compos Menzies" and quite "beresk". Dorrie is still jealous about Flo's election to President of the Paddington Senior Citizens Club, and is ropable that the position comes with a presidential allowance, so Flo has once again found herself homeless. It is politically undesirable to share the same flat. Daphne Begley can't put Flo up, as she's taking the bed out of the spare room to install a ping pong table. Dorrie disputes that Flo has "a mandate" and has requested a recount on the voting. Herb reprimands them both about their squabbling. In Flat 7, Vera and Andy tell Tracey about the latest development in the Pintor Collection art robbery. The police are suspicious that Harry Collins' name came up in the investigation, but with its main tip-off coming from a Vera Collins. Surely, there is a connection? Vera still has no doubt in her mind that Harry died in that fiery car crash last year. She had to identify the body, but Harry's wallet and watch were on the charred body. Nothing to worry about! In Flat 1, Norma tries to remember Patti's last movements for Detective Sergeant Short, but Les tries to take over the questioning. Next morning, in Flat 7, Andy tells Vera of the lastest findings on the doping of "I Kid You Not". An old private eye colleague, Paul Dougherty, has found new details on Bert Kelly's stableboy, Scott, and his brother. The brother was seemingly planted into Billy Barnes' stable by Kelly himself, not long after Andy and Vera moved "I Kid You Not" over to Billy. Andy's plan misfires: Scott did come forward to the AJC (Australian Jockey Club), but claimed that Andy had approved Jim Sutton to offer him hush money. Rather, this money was to encourage Scott to talk to the officials. Now Vera and Andy are deeper in trouble than ever. Flo is hogging the phone in Flat 3, suggesting an extraordinary meeting to organise the upcoming Jenolan Caves bus trip. Dorrie has added a blazer to her work outfit and her style emulates Mrs Fuller herself. In Flat 8, Alf wants Lucy to tell Tom that his son, Muchael, is "a psycho". Arnold comes out for breakfast and says that he misses Patti when she is on nightshift. Alf mentions going to the deli and Arnold asks if he can reassure Mr Godolfus that he will be downstairs shortly. Alf is incredulous. In the deli, Freda tells Dorrie that she seems overdressed - and Dorrie accepts it as a compliment! Herb wants to collect the garbage but Dorrie reprimands him for wanting to take it through the shop. Freda tells him to go right through. Alf tries to buy a box of matches, but Freda explains that they only come in packets of twelve boxes now. Alf refuses to buy in bulk and storms off. In the wine bar, Flo helps Norma to unpack some bottles. They discuss Flo's search for new lodgings and remember the Paradise Street fire that led to Dorrie taking Flo in. So how come Dorrie is tossing her out now? The Senior Cits Presidency, of course. Flo says that Dorrie thinks Freda Fuller is the greatest thing since Skippy Corn Flakes. Les is found with pantyhose around his neck in Flat 1, but he is just conducting an experiment - on himself. He tells Norma and Flo that he has just proven that it was impossible for the three female victims to strangle themselves. He apologises for ruining a pair of Norma's best pantyhose. Tracey notices Andy examining the locks of Flat 6's front door. Andy is convinced that the Strangler must have had a key. Tracey invites him to move into the flat with her. He can protect Tracey, but who will protect Andy? Outside the wine bar, Les is disguised as the street artist again. Roma's paintings are displayed along Lindsay Street. Freda comes past; she wants to replace the deli's window signage. Who did the wine bar's signwriting? Les knows that the firm in Bondi will be busy for four weeks, but he has done a signwriting course and will gladly help her out. She declines, then casts aspersions upon Roma's "hideous" paintings, which will chase away her customers. (Flo reckons that Mrs Fuller has the same effect.) In Norma's Bar, everyone laughs about Crimebuster Whittaker. A commotion causes them all to race outside, where Les has tackled and pinned down the man in the trenchcoat. Detective Sergeant Short introduces them to Detective Constable Johnson, who had been doing undercover surveillance of the building. In the deli, Freda shows Arnold an error that he has made in the bookkeeping and Dorrie manages to trigger him with a dose of reality concerning Patti. Freda takes him through to the back and Detective Sergeant Short comes in to ask Dorrie about using the Redphone. Dorrie assumes that he has come to question her, as "conserge", about the night of Patti's murder. In the wine bar, Les tries to defend his actions. Andy quotes Short: "Stay out of this Whittaker, or I'll have you locked up." Les is appalled by the lax policework: "Three unsolved murders and no arrests." He can't believe that no one has followed up the Reg MacDonald lead. Vera is incredulous that Reg is even considered a suspect. Reg disappeared when Patti was strangled. Norma sends Les down to the cellar to get the camp bed. Her mother is coming from Armidale for a visit. Norma is not looking forward to it. In Flat 8, the Sutcliffes cajole Arnold to play cards with them. Arnold must face grim reality: he finally realises that Patti has been murdered. [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Peter Benardos.]

Tracey Wilson is obviously reading the latest news about Patti's death and the Pantyhose Strangler, considering how quickly she hides the newspaper when Arnold Feather comes home. The "Australian Jockey Club" and "Sydney Turf Club" Merger Act of 2010 merged the two clubs under the name of the "Australian Turf Club" (ATC). It was first mooted in 2003. The fire at "Gosford Mansion" in Paradise Street, Paddington, occurred offscreen in Episode #313. The disguised Detective Constable Johnson, portrayed by an uncredited extra, was first noticed by Les Whittaker in Episode #669.

672. (15/01) Michael drops into the laundrette because his afternoon lecture was cancelled. Would Marilyn like to go to the movies? Marilyn suggests they take Mummy with them, since there is still no word from Daddy. Marilyn mentions how gloomy Mummy has been. Meanwhile, Edie is having a delightful afternoon entertaining Vera and Don in Flat 5. Her guests prepare to leave, as they have a booking for dinner at The Red Baron, but Edie tries to tempt them to stay a bit longer. A coffee and an Adora Cream Wafer? Vera invites Edie to join them. Vera insists that they make a trip to her friend at Hair 2000 in Pitt Street. She will also lend her an outfit. Edie thanks a smirking Don for his (actually, Vera's) generosity. Dorrie antagonises a deli customer when she weighs some devon-ham sausage, but has her finger on the scales. The customer storms out. Freda delivers a difficult message: Dorrie's trial period "has been a trial" (for Freda) and Dorrie's services are no longer required. In Flat 5, Vera introduces Edie, who has been glammed up for her night out. Marilyn and Michael approve of the stunning transformation. Don pretends not to recognise Edie. As soon as they are alone, Marilyn and Michael dash into her bedroom! A pair of pantyhose are uncomfortably close to the bed. Having closed up the shop, Dorrie brings up the topic of wages. Freda reminds her that she had agreed to no wages for the week's trial period in the deli. Dorrie will miss this old shop. She, Mr Evans and Mrs Patterson will be taking their business elsewhere. At the restaurant, Vera laughs as Edie is whisked off to the dance floor by a handsome man. Vera says, "She's so sweet and she doesn't get much fun out of life." Don thinks that Vera has become a sentamentalist. They discuss Reg's disappearance, its timing with Patti's murder and how Les still thinks that the police need to be made aware. As Don pays the bill to the "maître d'hôtel", Edie is returned to the table by a different dance partner. Edie mistakes Don's standing up as an invitation to return to the dance floor! Vera thinks it is hilarious. In Flat 3, Dorrie is determined that the deli is now off-limits. Herb complains that it is a long walk up to the other shops. Dorrie doesn't want Flo to hear about Mrs Fuller sacking her. Herb says that Flo is having a hard time finding a new place to live, but Dorrie believes it is "all my eye and Mary Martin"! Flo arrives, having made a sacrifice for the sake of friendship. At an extraordinary meeting of the Senior Cits, Flo resigned as President. Dorrie is surprised. Now Flo won't have to leave the flat. When does Dorrie need to take over? Flo explains that Dorrie should have been at the meeting: Myrtle McIntyre is the new President! Don says goodnight to Vera and Edie at the door to Flat 4 and reminds them to lock their doors. Inside, he finds Carol, sitting forlornly in the dark. She explains that she spent the previous night at a girlfriend's, then went to Brad's place to have it out with him. He was in bed with a fellow whom Carol knew from work! She ends her disagreement with Don. Flo pops into Flat 5 to borrow some shoe whitener and invites Edie to watch them play bowls, but before that, to come for some tucker with Dorrie and Herb. Carol is still apologising to Don in Flat 4, and wants to go with him on his work trip up north. He doesn't want Carol staying in the flat by herself, as Dudley is working in the wine bar until midnight. Who does he suggest she stay with? Everyone in the building seems to be a suspect in the Pantyhose Murders. A thump outside Flat 7 spooks Vera. She flings the door open, but it is only Herb collecting garbage! Vera is on her way to the AJC tribunal. Herb shows Vera tomorrow's funeral arrangements for Patti which are in today's newspaper. Mrs Olsen organised everything. Vera is relieved that she won't miss the funeral. Dorrie comes into Flat 3 with two armsful of groceries from the supermaket. Flo, while preparing her bowling shoes, recalls the convenience of having a deli downstairs. Dorrie intends to encourage the other residents to join her boycott. She has a brainwave: a personalised shopping service that would keep everyone from patronising the deli. Dorrie is only just hearing that Edie will be a lunch guest today. Marilyn and Michael arrive home to Flat 5, thinking they will have time for a tryst. While Marilyn slips into something more comfortable, Michael pours them some sweet sherry. Edie emerges from the kitchen, preparing to go down to Flat 3 for lunch. She asks why Marilyn isn't wearing clothes, but is soon explaining that Mr Whittaker invited her to a ball tonight. Edie is so excited by her new, busy social life, she doesn't care if she ever sees Daddy again. Later, while in bed together, Marilyn suggests that she and Michael should get married. He wonders if marriage isn't a bit "old hat"? Marilyn describes her vision of their future wedded bliss. In Flat 3, Edie has smuggled in some gin to put in the teapot. When Dorrie tastes it, she is impressed by this new supermarket purchase and tells Herb to remember the brand. Dorrie also finally hears about Herb and Edie attending the Curbing & Guttering Centenary Ball while she was away. In Flat 4, Don needs to borrow money and sends Carol to get Dudley's wallet from the bedroom table. The wallet reveals a strange secret: photographs of Lorelei Wilkinson, Patti Feather and a girl whom Vera recognises as the first Strangler victim from Chestnut Lane! [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Peter Benardos.]

There are probably no surviving records of official synopses for this episode and Episode #673. Plots are drawn from brief episode descriptions in the TV magazines, plus viewings of the episodes. "Hair 2000" was Elaine Lee's regular hair salon at the time. There may have also been a connection between that business and a resident of 83 Moncur Street, Woollahra; several businesses of actual tenants were namedropped in scripts in compensation for the fame of their building. The blond extra, Mark Markham, again plays the "maître d'hôtel" of "The Red Baron" restaurant. There is a continuity error with Michael Bartlett's pants. He is wearing blue denim flares but, in the next scene, a pair of beige trousers are discarded beside Marilyn MacDonald's bed.

673. (16/01) Marilyn and Michael plan a strenuous evening in Flat 5, knowing that Mummy is off to a fancy dress ball with Mr Whittaker. Marilyn suggests a costume for Edie: Salome the Belly Dancer, making use of those silk scarves that Aunty Jeanne gave her for Christmas. Carol has come to have dinner in Flat 7 with Vera and Andy. The phone rings and Andy thinks it was the call he was expecting. Instead, it is Don for Carol. Andy tells Vera that he has a surprise for her. In Flat 5, Edie is getting ready for the ball while a radio newsreader (Kevin "Kev" Golsby) updates the story on the Paddington Pantyhose Murders. There is a knock at the door. She opens it - and a masked man in a black cloak and top hat is standing there! Edie faints. A fearful Carol tells Vera that Don will be away longer than he expected and Vera insists that Carol stay with her, and not in the empty Flat 4. Andy announces a very lucrative offer for "I Kid You Not". Billy has agreed that the offer is "fair dinkum". Vera worries about selling her gift horse from Jack, and had been excited about the forthcoming "Wiltshire Stakes". Andy jokes that Vera only wanted her photo in the society pages of the newspaper. He promises to write an article on the sale, now that he has his job back! In Flat 5, Edie wakes up on the couch to the sounds of thumping from the kitchen. She arms herself with a garden gnome (Edies's "little men"). The disguised Les comes through and greets her. Edie explains that she thought he was the Strangler. He had considered that costume option, but went with Count Dracula. Marilyn closes up the laundrette and sends Michael off to get takeaway hamburgers. She locks the door behind him. In Norma's Bar, Vera has ordered champagne but Norma notices that Vera looks a bit down. The Harry Collins reports are getting to her. At the other end of the bar, Freda is having a white wine after a hectic day. She mentions to Norma that she had to sack Dorrie for incompetence. They discuss Arnold's situation. Freda has mixed feelings but can't run the deli without him. There are squeals from the customers as Count Dracula and Salome enter the bar! Les read Sister Warren's invitation incorrectly; it was not a fancy dress ball at all, it was a formal dress ball. They had to walk back to Number 96 because the taxi drivers were scared of Les's costume. Andy lifts Edie onto a stool and she bellydances for the crowd. In the laundrette, the front door has mysteriously opened. Marilyn is scared. Michael abruptly returns without the hamburgers - all of the food shops were closed - and they consider how the door became unlocked. Someone has a duplicate key? Next morning in Flat 5, Edie almost catches Michael darting out of Marilyn's room and onto the couch. Edie tells them about the disappointing ball, but she did enjoy dancing in the wine bar. Carol returns to Flat 4 to find Dudley examining the three photos that were found in his wallet. He owns the Lorelei snap but is mystified as to how the photos of Patti and the girl from Chestnut Lane got in there? In the deli, Vera and Freda discuss Dorrie's threat to boycott the shop. Les is in disguise again, surveilling Lindsay Street, but Vera greets him by name. Freda is unimpressed by him smoking his pipe in the deli. In the wine bar, Andy, Norma and Dudley discuss the murders. The mysterious, jobless Tanya Schnolskevitska (Natalie Mosco), her comrade, Joseph, and Joseph's male friend, arrive. They plan to hide out in Norma's Bar to avoid the KGB informant who is lurking outside. Dudley assures them that Mr Whittaker is harmless. Tanya wonders if she met Dudley on the ski slopes of St Moritz? He asks for her details in case she wants to work in the bar. In his top pocket, Dudley is stunned to find another photo. This one is of... Marilyn MacDonald! Edie is vacuuming Flat 5 and chatting to Michael as he studies. She admits to not missing Daddy even one little bit. "Mrs Bullock can have him!" Edie dashes into the bedroom and grabs her husband's framed photo. She sobs. In the wine bar, Les - still in disguise - is taking down notes as Carol and Norma discuss the photos of the four young women. They also ponder the suitability of Tanya as a waitress. Dudley joins them. He's just been upstairs to see Arnold. The funeral is tomorrow and Dudley fears for Arnold's ability to cope. In Flat 7, Andy ponders over the appropriate asking price for "I Kid You Not". The phone rings and he must prepare Vera for a shock: Harry Collins is still alive, and wants to talk to her! [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Peter Benardos.]

There are probably no surviving records of official synopses for this episode and the previous Episode #672. Plots are drawn from brief episode descriptions in the TV magazines, plus viewings of the episodes. Marilyn MacDonald's mention of "everyone goes as Charlie Chaplin" is a reference to Flo Patterson's fancy dress ball costume from Episode #450. Marilyn also makes a rare reference to Christmas, which is never celebrated onscreen at "Number 96" due to the series' early-December cliffhangers that are not resolved until mid-January. (With the strong connection between "Number 96" and "The Mike Walsh Show" it is possible that Marilyn's "Aunty Jeanne" was named for upcoming Channel TEN celebrity, Jeanne Little. Jeanne had first appeared on "The Mike Walsh Show" in 1974 to plug her ailing Paddington dressmaking business!) The radio newsreader, heard by Edie MacDonald, is voiced by Kevin "Kev" Golsby, who was previously heard in the same role in Episode #650. Kev also portrayed Rudi Savanto, departing in Episode #624. The actor will return as Trevor Banks from Episode #908. Vera Collins mentions the "Wiltshire Stakes" horse race; previously it was being called the "Wiltshire Classic". (There is a "Wiltshire Stakes" in England as well as an annual bicycle race in Salisbury, Wiltshire. In Australia in the 70s, there was a popular range of kitchenware with this brand name. There is also a "Wilshire Stakes" horse race, without the "t", in the USA.) Sister Warren and Valerie Mason get namedrops. Natalie Mosco, who joins the regular cast as Tanya Schnolskevitska from this episode, was familiar to viewers as the bellydancer at a bus stop in a long-running TV commercial for Fry's "Turkish Delight" chocolate bars. One of the b/w photos found in Dudley Butterfield's wallet will give viewers their only glimpse of Denise Coleman, the first victim of the Pantyhose Strangler (killed offscreen in Episode #645). The other photos were of Lorelei Wilkinson (Josephine Knur), who was strangled in Episode #649, and Patti Feather (Pamela Garrick), who was found dead in Episode #669. The photo of Marilyn (Frances Hargreaves), found in Dudley's shirt pocket, is seen only from the back, but appears to be in colour.

674. (17/01) Dorrie and Flo are exhausted doing the shopping service for the other residents. After struggling up the stairs to Flat 3 with a full trolley, they realise that Herb is nowhere to be found. Flo remembers that they have to order a wreath for Patti's funeral. Dorrie thinks that Arnold is still "non compos Menzies". Dorrie is unimpressed when Herb comes in with the home delivery toothbrush that he bought for Tracey. In Norma's Bar, Les is telling Dudley about the practice of his work colleagues sneaking in a snooze in the hospital morgue. Norma rushes in with the news from Andy that Harry Collins is alive! Vera's clairvoyant vision was right, after all! So who was burned to death in that car accident? In Flat 8, Tracey and Arnold have joined the Sutcliffes for tea. Lucy encourages Alf to tell the old story of the woman who almost gave birth in his cab. Tracey mentions the time that she and Patti helped a woman to give birth in a hospital lift. The mention of Patti's name causes Arnold to retire to his bedroom. In Flat 4, Dudley tells Don about finding the photograph of Marilyn in his shirt pocket during his wine bar shift! Don finds the mystery of the now-four photos difficult to comprehend, and so does Dudley. Vera rings Lucy in Flat 8. She is at the police station and is worried that she will be unable to attend Patti's funeral because she is still being questioned over the Pintor Collection robbery and Harry's involvement. Dorrie arrives at the door to enquire about poor, dear Mr Feather, the tragic orphan: "no mother's love, one leg, and now this!" Les arrives home to Flat 1 from work, just in time to "assist" Detective Sergeant Short to question Dudley and Norma some more. "Marilyn hasn't been strangled, has she?" asks Les. Les brings up the photos in Dudley's wallet, then shoots holes in Dudley's alibi for last night's mystery of the laundrette door. Short is impressed and tells Les that "we'll make a policeman of you yet." In Flat 8, Alf has organised for Arnold to fly to Perth after the funeral to visit with the Sutcliffes' son, Jim, little Sebastian, and Alf's mother. Arnold feels that he has nothing to live for now that Patti is dead. In the kitchen of Flat 1, Don tells Dudley about Short questioning him on Dudley's movements. Someone definitely planted those photos on Dudley - but now he has destroyed the evidence by burning them. Don warns that Dudley has made himself look more guilty than ever. In the laundrette, Lucy explains that there are only two keys to the front door of the laundrette: Lucy's and Marilyn's - but Short has a shiny new one, found in Lindsay Street by Mrs Evans! He tries it in the lock and it works. Since only Lucy's friends ever enter the laundrette's back room, her key could only ever be borrowed by someone that she knew! In Flat 3, Dorrie mentions that she put the key evidence in Detective Sergeant Short's hands "postee hastee". Everyone in the building is reminiscing about the Pantyhose Strangler's victims and this afternoon's funeral for Patti. Herb ponders if the murders are being committed by a "Human Fly". Dorrie says that that is as unlikely as the murderer turning up to Patti's funeral. Herb reckons that that could be "on the cards". In the wine bar, Don, Dudley, Tracey, Norma and Les leave for the funeral. Arnold is going with the Sutcliffes and Mrs Olsen. In the foyer, Dorrie is castigating Flo and Herb when Arnold descends the stairs. At the cemetery, Reverend Peacock presides over the service. Arnold is very distressed. Later, in Flat 8, Arnold retires to his bedroom. Once alone, he breaks down. In Flat 3, Dorrie is critical of the service, Reverend Peacock and Patti's nursing colleagues, who all looked like they'd just come from work! Herb tries to explain that they were honouring their fallen nursing companion. Flo guesses that when she passes away, the Senior Cits might all turn up in their bowling uniforms! Herb mentions that Dudley had done the catering for the wake held downstairs, but no one has seen him since the funeral. In the wine bar, Norma and Don admit to Detective Sergeant Short that they don't know where Dudley went either! At the climax of a very sad day for the tenants, Short announces that he has a warrant to arrest Dudley for murder! [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Peter Benardos.]

Dudley Butterfield mispronounces Tanya's Russian surname as "Schnol-have-a-pizza". Reverend Peacock might be a relative of Judge "Beakie" Peacock, who is namedropped by Amanda Von Pappenburg in Episode #450. An unexpected, strong wind blew through the outdoor funeral scene for the late Patti Feather. The more superstitious members of the cast found this to be an unsettling omen. A styrofoam headstone ("In memory of Charles J Gibson, Born 1918, Died 1956") can be seen rocking back and forth in the foreground! In a later scene, Dorrie Evans actually mentions the wind at the funeral, obviously lines written after the day of location shooting. A stray end credit for the already-departed character of Brad Hilton (Terry Bader) appears onscreen. Andy Marshall (Peter Adams) has also been moved back into Flat 7.

675. (20/01) After the funeral, the Sutcliffes catch up with Vera, inviting her in for a drink in Flat 8. They tell her that they arranged for Arnold to stay with their son, Jim, in Perth. Vera explains that Harry Collins did not die in the car crash after all. After the shock of seeing him again, she couldn't face Patti's funeral and just wandered around The Domain. The burned body belonged to a thief who had bashed and robbed Harry. Vera now feels nothing for Harry, who will be doing gaol time for the art robbery. In Flat 3, the supermarket service is taking off and Les will be printing business cards for Flo and Herb to hand around. The supermarket manager is very pleased. Dorrie receives an unexpected call from Claire Houghton, but her Dig Up a Treasure babysitting duties, for Lady Mendl's friend, would preclude Dorrie's attendance at Claire's high society luncheon at Buckingham Lodge. In Norma's Bar, Andy, Tracey, Carol and the Whittakers discuss how Detective Sergeant Short is still trying to arrest Dudley for murder - but Dudley has seemingly vanished! Norma is unimpressed by Les's summation of Dudley's suspicious character and "dark impulses". Don comes in, having unsuccessfully tried to defend Dudley to the police. Next morning, in Flat 3, Herb and Flo are unable to cover Dorrie's booking to babysit Gloria Devine's children, but Les arrives and suggests a unique solution for Dorrie's dilemma. Les will dress in drag to impersonate Dorrie! Over their breakfast of grapefruit in Flat 4, Carol doesn't think that Don is upset enough about Dudley's disappearance. Don gets defensive. Tracey and Andy are in bed in Flat 6. While Arnold is away in Perth, Andy will move in with Tracey to help her feel more secure. Les is reading 1001 Mass Murderers in Flat 1 and criticising Shorts's handling of the Pantyhose Strangler case. Letting Dudley slip through his fingers like that? Norma gets very testy with Les. She hopes that Tanya will accept their job offer. The phone rings and it is Herb with a message for Les. "Dorrie has given in, whatever that means..." says Norma - and Les dashes into action! On the Boulevard Cafe, Vera and Lucy again chat about Harry and the Pintor paintings. Alf is standing nearby and joins the discussion. Vera won't be accepting the reward money and the police don't believe in ESP (Extra Sensory Perception), anyway. Don's attitude has everyone puzzled when he arrives to catch Alf's taxi; the two men bicker about Dudley again. Vera and Lucy worry that Don is deliberately not defending Dudley. Les is undergoing a transformation into a "fac-si-mile" of Dorrie. She is highly critical and dubious, telling Les not to be "faecetial". Mrs Devine, after all, is "a leading socialist" in Point Piper. Carol, Tracey and Andy are first into the short-staffed Norma's Bar for lunch, but the menu only has Chicken Chop Suey and Fried Rice, which the local Chinese restaurant has already delivered. To top it off, Les has gone off gallivanting with some mad scheme. Carol also feels that Don is acting suspiciously about Dudley. Tanya arrives and is considering taking the job in the wine bar because she loves Australians. Herb and Flo walk "Mrs Evans" down to the main foyer and head off to the supermarket to complete today's shopping service. Alf encounters Les in drag and smoking on his pipe in Lindsay Street. When Alf realises who it is, he lifts "her" skirt and warns "Mrs Evans" not to get arrested. A flirtatious Tanya is monopolising Andy in the wine bar and Tracey is unimpressed. Tanya claims to have defected from the Bolshoi Ballet while performing in Rio De Janeiro. She was rescued by a Mexican bullfighter who disguised her as one of his pecadoras. In Flat 8, the Sutcliffes laugh over Les's impersonation. Alf mentions that Don got out of his cab and went straight acrioss to another one at the taxi rank, as if he was trying to conceal his final destination. Over coffee in Flat 7, Carol tells Vera that she has given up on training air hostesses because she kept running into Brad all the time. It's back to job hunting! As Carol is leaving for a 4.30pm interview, she asks Vera if Don was ever jealous of Dudley's friendship with Lorelei. Vera settles on her lounge and tries riffling a copy of Woman's Day, but she is soon dozing. Herb and Flo are sorting all of the groceries into separate bags in Flat 3. Dorrie returns in a buoyant mood from Claire's function, rattling off some of the "cream de la crem" attendees: "Lord and Lady Lumberdale, Lady Betsy White, the Rhinegolds..." She opens the front door to Les, still in drag. She is pleasantly surprised to learn that Les managed to pull off his impersonation. Furthermore, Mrs Devine wants "Mrs Evans" back for more babysitting tomorrow. In Flat 7, Vera awakes from a nightmare - screaming - and races into Lucy's, next door. Vera needs a brandy. She actually foresaw Marilyn being strangled. But this means that Vera also saw the identity of the killer! [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Brian Phillis.]

Tanya Schnolskevitska gives her middle name as "Elizaveta", but tells everyone not to worry about it. Tanya claims to have trained with the "Bolshoi Ballet", the internationally-renowned classical ballet company based in Moscow, Russia. The first surviving official synopsis to feature the character of Tanya has her name spelled "Tania", but "Tanya" in the end credits. By Episode #681, the accepted spelling becomes "Tanya" in the synopses.

676. (21/01) In the laundrette, Marilyn and Michael try to console Edie over Reg's absence. He left Mummy after over 20 years of marriage? She is so depressed. "I suspect it's just a stage I'm going through," says Edie. Marilyn tried to warn Edie about Alderman Mrs Bullock, but she wouldn't listen. Edie is distressed that will be eating alone again tonight and wanders home. Michael refers to Dudley as "the fink" for turning out to be the Pantyhose Strangler. Michael always suspected him. He heads back to the flat to keep Mrs Mac company but will return to accompany Marilyn home at 9.00pm. Michael promises that he has a big announcement coming up. Tanya enters the deli seeking to purchase some Russian caviar. Freda has discontinued it but offers lumpfish roe as an alternative. Tanya is unimpressed and leaves, but Freda chases her onto the street and offers to order her in some caviar if she intends buying it regularly. Tanya mentions that she is considering taking a job in Norma's Bar. Freda decides that she wants Tanya to work for her in the deli, if she has had experience - and Tanya will ponder the offer. She spent two years at Tiffany's of Fifth Avenue in New York, selling jewellery and fine furs, so she can certainly sell garlic sausage. In Flat 8, Lucy takes Vera's dream very seriously and wants her to tell the police that she "saw" Marilyn's murder. Vera is reluctant after the stolen paintings debacle. She doesn't want to tell Marilyn, either. Vera also can't believe that the killer could be the person whom she saw in the dream. "It's too absurd." Dorrie castigates Flo and Herb in Flat 3 for being so weary after delivering all of their clients' supermarket groceries. Dorrie thinks of how Lady Betsy White looked "so miraculate", sitting at Claire Houghton's table in Buckingham Lodge, and now Dorrie is uneasy about sharing the same table as "a veritable pair of raggle-taggle gypsies". They expect that Dorrie will be helping with the groceries tomorrow but Dorrie is now part of Mrs Houghton's Point Piper luncheon set. She may also be called upon to babysit for Mrs Devine, but Herb is doubtful since it would be obvious that Dorrie was not Les (in drag). Flo intercepts a call from Claire and discovers that Dorrie has not been telling the whole truth. Does the cheque for waitress duties get made out to Dorrie Evans or to Dig Up a Treasure instead? Tanya sees Freda closing up the shop and races to accept the job offer, having consulted with her astrologer. Tanya tells the story of when she worked as a lion tamer in Budapest. Her astrologer warned her not to go on one night. Her replacement, Nicolai Nikolaevich, lost his head to the lion. (It was Nicolai's fault; he had forgotten to feed them.) Lucy arrives at the laundrette and offers to close up, so Marilyn can head home with Michael. She sends Marilyn to get her belongings from the back room so she can warn Michael to be extra protective over Marilyn. Vera had foreseen Marilyn as the next murder victim. Michael reminds Marilyn that he has "something important" to tell her tonight. Flo and Herb approach Flat 5, intending to ask Edie if she wants to make an order for the supermarket tomorrow? Reg suddenly returns from a week's sojourn in Woy Woy. Over the washing up in Flat 3, Dorrie tells Flo exactly what she would do to to Reginald P MacDonald, running away with another woman for a "candlestine" affair! Dorrie is only just learning that Michael now lives in Flat 5 after his tiff with the Sutcliffes. ("Why wasn't I told?") In Flat 5, Reg insists that he spent the week alone in the Woy Woy hotel room, to punish Edith for neglecting her domestic duties. Mrs Bulloch was in Queensland. He wants Edie to resign from all of her committees and for Marilyn to stay with her Aunt Evelyn to evade the Pantyhose Strangler. Tanya takes up her position at the deli and Freda mentions the "silly boycott" going on. Tanya boasts that she has a special magnetism that will attract lots of male customers. Herb sneaks into the deli and meets Tanya. She tries to sell him what Herb calls "continental tucker" but he only needs birdseed for Mr Perky, as the budgie doesn't like the supermarket brand. Tanya confesses her love of men with bald heads, like her Uncle Nikita. Dorrie happens to walk past the deli window just as Tanya is getting all flirty with Herb. Dorrie storms in and orders Herb away from Tanya. Freda hears the kerfuffle and comes into the shop. Dorrie is no longer part of Mrs Fuller's "clientelly". In the laundrette, Vera warns Marilyn to be careful. Lucy wants Marilyn to package up some items for Mrs McIntyre before she goes off on her special date with Michael. Again, Lucy urges Vera to speak to Detective Sergeant Short about her dream. Vera knows that the police would not believe her. Reg and Edie have lunch in Norma's Bar and he hears how Edie was being looked after by the other residents in his absence. Edie mentions that the police want to talk to him, since he left Sydney the night that Patti Feather was murdered. In Flat 3, Flo questions how little Dorrie seemed to accomplish while Flo was delivering orders to Paradise Street and Chestnut Lane. Dorrie and Flo discover that the business cards promoting their supermarket shopping service are printed on the reverse of the cards that Les once used to sell cemetery plots. Over coffee in the wine bar, Reg decides that he will allow Edie to stay on one committee: the Gumnut & Banksia Preservation Society. Michael and Marilyn arrive in the bar to announce an important decision. Reg tries to insist that Marilyn should go to stay with her Aunt Evelyn until the Strangler is caught. Michael and Marilyn see no need for that as they have just eloped at the Registry Office. Reg and Edie are very surprised as Marilyn flashes her wedding ring. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Brian Phillis.]

The real Nicolai Nikolaevich (1856–1929) was the Grand Duke of Russia, not a lion tamer. Myrtle McIntyre gets another namedrop. Frances Hargreaves' Marilyn is still being credited with the mispelt surname, "McDonald", despite having just eloped with Michael Bartlett.

677. (22/01) In the wine bar, Edie takes Marilyn's news better than Reg. Edie wants to order champagne. Reg questions Michael's ability to provide for his new wife but Marilyn was under the impression that they could stay on in Flat 5, since they all get along so well together. Reg still thinks that the whole idea is preposterous. Vera is being served by Tanya in the deli when Alf comes in. He snipes at Freda, then wants an introduction to Tanya but Vera can't pronounce "Schnolskevitska". Tanya is still spinning wild tales in the deli; her last boyfriend was a gun-runner for an African revolutionary. Too many Tsetse flies in Africa! The boyfriend was eaten by crocodiles while crossing the Zambezi River. Freda is disbelieving, having heard about Tiffany's as Tanya's previous workplace. Vera is saying goodbye to Alf, who is starting a shift in his taxi. Tracey approaches her, wanting to have an important discussion. Edie is already sloshed but she brings up Michael, Marilyn and Andy to Flat 5 so they can continue celebrating the Barletts' marriage and the sale of "I Kid You Not". Reg arrives home from the police station and is unimpressed to find the impromptu party. Tracey is chatting with Vera in Flat 7. What if Peter, who has mysteriously disappeared, is the Pantyhose Strangler? The attempt on Tracey's own life was bungled and she now fears that Patti was murdered by mistake. In Flat 5, Reg realises that a marriage cannot be annulled if it has already been consummated! Reg then suspects that Marilyn is pregnant. She denies it. Reg is unimpressed that Michael failed to ask Reg's permission to propose to his daughter and then elope. Tanya tells Freda in the deli that Norma was very upset when she found out about Tanya's new job. A very seedy Andy comes in, seeking a remedy for the consequences of the unexpected wedding reception. Andy adds Acapulco in Mexico to Tanya's list of exotic places in which she has (supposedly) previously worked. Vera comes in, seeking a remedy for an upset stomach, and begs off on dinner with Andy, despite selling the horse. Andy walks her into the main foyer. In Flat 5, the newlyweds are doing the washing up. They are looking forward to more celebrations in Marilyn's bedroom. Alf comes to the rescue when Vera is found writhing in agony on the floor, at the entrance to Flat 7. Next morning, in their bedroom in Flat 5, the MacDonalds reminisce about their honeymoon at Minnamurra Falls. Reg is irate that a non-functional alarm clock - and one additional person living in the flat - has put his whole morning routine in jeopardy. Marilyn, Michael and Edie keep beating him into the bathroom. Reg is going to be very late getting to the TH. Andy chats to Tanya in the deli. She regales them with the tale of her boyfriend, Rufus, a Chilean war correspondent, who was killed by a poison dart in Brazil. Alf tells Andy about taking Vera to the hospital last night. Suspected appendicitis! In Flat 5, Edie and Reg talk at crossed purposes again. Reg, at first, thinks that Marilyn is pregnant. In the laundrette, Tracey accidentally lets out a secret that upsets Marilyn: she had not heard about Vera's dream that identified her as a victim of the Strangler. Michael is annoyed by Tracey's lack of tact. Edie has forgotten to prepare Daddy's luncheon in Flat 5 because she is baking a wedding cake. Marilyn tells Michael that they should never keep secrets. He can't wait until Dudley is arrested. Alf hears the news about Marilyn and Michael's elopement. He is concerned, and explains to Andy, over beers in Flat 8, that he had to turf Michael out recently, following his bizarre behaviour around Lucy. Alf gets a phone call from Lucy, who is still at the hospital. Vera doesn't have appendicitis, after all; it seems that she was poisoned. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Brian Phillis.]

Minnamurra Falls is near Kiama, NSW. Alf Sutcliffe's beer cans have a promotion for the 1974 "America's Cup Challenge" yacht race, in which Alan Bond & Ben Lexcen's "Southern Cross" (Australia) unsuccessfully challenged "Courageous" (USA).

678. (23/01) Les is getting ready in Flat 3 for another babysitting session for Mrs Devine. He is considering a career change as a professional nanny, based on his recently successful impersonation of "Mrs Evans". His new name could be "Miss Hotchkins"? Dorrie and Flo arrive from the supermarket, laden with grocery bags. As Les heads off to Point Piper, Flo realises that she and Dorrie have managed to duplicate the orders. In the laundrette, Norma hears all about Vera's near-death experience from the Sutcliffes. Alf mentions that Vera claimed to have had only a light lunch yesterday but, later, also a drink with Don. Don visits with Dudley, who has been hiding out in a hotel. Detective Sergeant Short and Constable Ted (Frank Menzies) search Flat 7 for any food items in open tins or jars. Herb arrives while they are there, and explains that he had hoped to convince Vera to use their grocery service. Herb arrives back in Flat 3, while Flo and Dorrie are bickering over the extravagance of taxis that will eat into their shopping service profits. Herb is bursting to tell Dorrie about Vera, but Dorrie stops him. She suggests that she, Flo and Herb should pool their money and invest in a small car to assist with their supermarket deliveries. Upon learning about Vera's condition, Dorrie demands to know why Herb did not tell her immediately. Norma is run off her feet in the wine bar and resents Freda for poaching Tanya to work in the deli. Carol mentions that she has resigned her job as a flight attendant trainer, because she kept running into Brad. She now suggests that she could work as a waitress - and Norma offers her the job. An off-duty "Sarge" Short drops in for a glass of Moselle and Carol is excited to serve her first customer. Norma presses him about Vera's dream. He spoke with Mrs Collins at the hospital this morning. As they talk, Les enters as "Mrs Evans" and only Short recognises him at first. Don comes to see Lucy in Flat 8. Has she seen Vera? Lucy and Alf tell him about Vera's poisoning and then question the absent Dudley's motives. Don gets very angry. Since Dudley hasn't been in the building for three days, they could just as easily suspect Harry Collins! Norma drags "Mrs Evans" into Flat 1 and orders Les to get changed immediately. The Whittakers have an increase to the family when Norma's mother, Mrs Anne Florentine (Aileen Britton), comes to stay, choosing this very moment to arrive. Les greets her at the door dressed as "Mrs Evans". Later, Anne has a cup of tea with Leslie. "I'm not one to complain," she says, then has a litany of complaints to unload. She is unimpressed and confused that a woman (Dorrie) would send a man to do her job, dressed as a woman! Norma comes past to check on her mother and Mrs Florentine is shocked that Norma is serving the meals herself. Norma hands off the tray of Chinese takeaway Sweet & Sour to Carol. When Carol asks for a few minutes to dash upstairs to see Don, Norma agrees and sends Les into the bar. Norma hears about the long train journey from Armidale, then tries to ask about her brother, Pat. Patrick is getting married and the new partner is common, so Anne is moving in with Norma indefinitely. Carol arrives in Flat 4. She is still distressed over Don's unusual behaviour. Other residents have noticed, too. It is almost as if he believes that Dudley is guilty? In Flat 3, Flo and Herb are not interested in renewing their driving licences. Flo hasn't driven she was in the AWAS (Australian Women's Army Service), so Dorrie announces her intention to learn to drive. Dorrie demands that Herb samples the tea in case it is poisoned, even though he was the one who made it. The Sutcliffes chat in Flat 8 and wonder about Vera's dream and the poisoning. Both Don and Andy spent time with Vera yesterday. It couldn't be Don. In Norma's Bar, Anne says that she expected a higher class of venue. She is not impressed that the missing chef is, according to Leslie, "a crazed, psychotic killer". Both Anne and Don want Les to stop talking about the murders. Don storms out. Next morning, in Flat 1, Anne is disappointed that the Earl - Leslie - renounced the family title. (It passed to his brother, Andrew in Johannesburg, along with all of the clan's debts.) Anne had already told her friends and neighbours that her daughter was the Countess of MacCraddonow! She can see little evidence of Norma's ladies' college education. Anne is more forgiving of the Earl, saying, "The Aristocracy are renowned for their little eccentricities". There is a knock at the front door. Norma is horrified by the arrival of two deliverymen and a large number of suitcases, suggesting that her mother really does intend a long stay. In Dudley's hotel room, Detective Sergeant Short thanks both him and Don for their cooperation. The trap is closing in on the Strangler; Dudley's disappearance is a part of the police operation to catch the serial killer. Short doesn't believe in clairvoyant dreams, but the Strangler obviously does. The detective is very relieved that Vera survived the attack on her life. The police now know who the Strangler is, but Short had not anticipated the killer turning poisoner as well. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Brian Phillis.]

Prominent scuff marks on the wall behind the couch in Flat 1 and Flat 7 are now also in the same location in Flat 3. The three sets share the same walls. Aileen Britton, who portrays Anne Florentine would return as two different characters in 1977, Miss Gumble in Episode #1167 (although the character was previously namedropped in Episode #645) and Mrs Carlton-Bell in Episode #1192. She would also go on to play a regular role, Joyce Blair, in "Arcade".

679. (24/01) Marilyn has planned a special Flambéed Beef lunch in Flat 5 for Michael and Daddy. Her first meal as a married woman! Edie is excited to watch it ignite. The meal is a complete disaster, though, because Marilyn uses furniture polish on the food thinking it was brandy. There is a happy reunion for Norma when Dudley returns to the wine bar. He explains that, with all the evidence piling up against him, he was sure that he was being set up for the crimes. Detective Sergeant Short comes to Flat 6 and asks Andy and Tracey if they have Arnold's telephone number in Perth? The Sutcliffes would know, but they are not home. "Just routine" questions? In Flat 5, Reg and Edie are heading out. Michael is staying home this afternoon to study. Reg has mislaid some important notes for the DTC - statistical data on sewage outflow to the eastern suburbs' seaboard - and they finally realise that Edie had written her shopping list on the back of the document. She must memorise the list on her way downstairs. As soon as they leave, Marilyn emerges from the bedroom in her underwear. Michael abandons his studies! On the staircase, Mummy is confused by her list, but she is reading the wrong side. Detective Sergeant Short passes them and Reg castigates him. As a father of a young, blonde woman, Reg is disturbed that the Strangler is still at large. Andy's actions are raising suspicions so Short visits Flat 4 to talk to Don and Dudley about him. Carol invites him in. Andy now resides in Flat 6? How well do they know him? Les is restacking his inventions and junk in Flat 1 to make more room for Anne's camp bed. He is using "dimensional planning", but Norma is dubious. Anne reminisces about lunches at the Hotel Australia but Norma informs her that it has been pulled down. Anne, who is "not one to complain", assumed that a wine bar run by an earl and a countess would be "a meeting place for high society". Norma points out that her mother was always ashamed that Mr Florentine was a mere publican. Norma recommends the nearby Beauregard Hotel. Anne can't afford that, but she does not get the old-aged pension because that would be accepting charity. In Flat 4, Don asks Dud how Carol is faring as the new wine bar waitress. Up until now, she has only had to serve Chinese takeway; now she will be serving Dudley's "exclusive, gourmet 'spag bol'!" Andy arrives to welcome Dudley back. He is on his way to visit Vera in the hospital and mentions Short's latest visit. Are the police close to arresting someone? Andy leaves and Don and Dudley ponder why Short was suddenly so interested in him? Marilyn, wrapped only in a towel, catches Michael rummaging her drawers in Flat 5 and he covers by saying that he is planning a surprise for her. Michael chases her around and they get caught by Reg, who feigns disapproval, and Edie, who is delighted that the children are having fun. In Norma's Bar, Dudley likens his recent "miscarriage of justice" to Joel McCrea in Sullivan's Travels, but Anne doesn't understand his reference. She finds movies to be a "vulgar form of entertainment" and Dudley to be "rather forward". (He keeps calling her "Mrs Florry" and she is not impressed.) At one of the tables, Tracey is suspicious of Andy, who suddenly says that he will be working tonight, covering the trots. Tracey feels stood-up and tells Carol that she and Andy are supposed to be getting married when their divorces come through. Is she now having second thoughts? In Flat 5, Edie hopes that grandchildren will soon be on their way. April Bullock rings Flat 5 and Edie is finally satisfied that she really was in Townsville, Queensland, and not Woy Woy. In the wine bar, Anne keeps criticising Dudley "Butterworth" to Norma - and Norma is getting irritated. Les is off to work at the hospital and Anne presents him with a paper bag containing "some salmon paste sandwiches and a fruit roll". She assumes that Norma never supplies him with a midnight snack? Les plans to give Vera a book, 1001 Deadly Poisons, as light reading during her convalescence. Tracey and Carol are offended that people think that Les's book is a laughing matter. Tracey asks Don if the police think the Strangler will strike again? It is the evening shift at the laundrette, and Michael warns Marilyn not to leave until he gets back just after 10.00pm. If she waits, she'll learn about Michael's big surprise. Edie comes into the wine bar for champagne, to celebrate that Mrs Bullock wasn't in Woy Woy. Norma chastises her mother for complaining about her serving staff. Norma thought she was coming to town for only a couple of days. Edie puts the champagne on the slate because she is out of housekeeping money. Carol notices that Don has slipped away quietly and mentions her concern to Dudley. It is a night of terror for Marilyn in the laundrette. Once again, the locked front door has mysteriously opened and is making a banging noise. "Oh, my God, it's you!" screams Marilyn as the murderer is suddenly revealed to her! [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Brian Phillis.]

In 1968, the "Australia Hotel" in Castlereagh Street was purchased by MLC. At first, the stated intention was refurbishment and maintaining the hotel. However, they closed it on 30th June 1971, demolishing it in almost-record time, to erect a modern then-$200 million, 68-storey, office block/skyscraper in its place, the "MLC Centre". The movie, "Sullivan's Travels", was released in 1941. This episode was later showcased in Foxtel/Austar TV1's "Television's Greatest Hits: The Best of Number 96" (2000), introduced by Andrew Mercado.

680. (27/01) A crazed Tracey Wilson advances on her new victim, Marilyn, with a pair of knotted pantyhose the Strangler's only weapon. They end up in the back room of the laundrette, but are soon followed by Detective Sergeant Short and two police officers. As they take Tracey out of the room, Michael and Don race in to comfort Marilyn. In Norma's Bar, Dudley compares Mrs Florentine to Dame May Whitty, the famous English movie actress from The Lady Vanishes and Mrs Miniver. Anne dismisses the idea. While Norma loved going to the movies with her late father (including an icecream before the Movietone News and a Violet Crumble at intermission), Anne much prefers "something more cultural". She used to accompany her son, Patrick, to recitals at the Armidale School of Arts, to listen to Josephine Wardell on the pianoforte. Carol wonders where Don went but, just then, he enters the bar with Marilyn, who looks rather fragile. Michael is with them and wants her to go straight upstairs. Don asks Norma if she has any brandy and she will fetch some from Flat 1. Don explains that Tracey was the Pantyhose Strangler all along. The police are trying to calm her down at the laundrette - she was hysterical! In the back room of the laundrette, Tracey confesses how much she hated the victims' guts. They were all so... happy. Denise was an empty-headed little hairdresser, prattling on about the boyfriend she was about to marry. Lorelei, a brainless tart, who could curl her finger to get any man she wanted. Patti, so happily married to her darling Arnold. And Marilyn, who got married just like that! Tracey is apologetic about losing control tonight; prior to this everything was planned out. She is only sorry about getting caught. Another few seconds and Marilyn would have been dead. Reg and Edie toast themselves with champagne in Flat 5. Reg approves of it and Edie points out that it is the same brand that the Baroness gave him the night he stayed with her. Daddy instigates a guessing game from their honeymoon, which involves thinking of a number and then removing an item of clothing if the guess is incorrect. As the game progresses, Marilyn and Michael arrive home and explain the incident with Tracey. The police used Reg's own daughter as bait? Les is making up Anne's camp bed while Norma expresses frustration over Tracey's killing spree. "The more beautiful they are, the more deadly," observes Les, comparing Tracey to Lucrezia Borgia, or Lizzie Borden. Anne comes in from the bathroom. The water in her bath was quite cold, but Norma reminds her that she was in there for over an hour! (And now she gets the camp bed again!) Following Tracey's arrest for her attempt on Marilyn's life, the police think the mystery of the Pantyhose Murders is resolved, but Tracey has other plans. Mrs Florentine does not approve of sleeping on a camp bed. Gary might have had no complaints about it, but he is much younger and more supple. While demonstrating the sturdiness of the bed, it collapses under Les. In the now-closed Norma's Bar, Don and Carol wait for Dudley to return from the kitchen. Don assures her that Marilyn was actually under constant guard while the police waited for the killer to make a final move. Dudley joins them in the bar just as Andy enters from the street. He has heard on his car radio that an arrest has been made in the Strangler case, but who? They confirm that it was Tracey who was the killer. Andy relates his previous conversation with Peter, where he had described that Tracey was a masochist, always wanting Peter to beat her up. Peter had to drink to put up with his dire situation. During further questioning at the police station, Tracey claims to be "normal". She goes on a tirade about how much her parents hated and ignored her. Tracey was a complete stranger to Denise, but that didn't stop the girl from prattling on about love when Tracey came in for a shampoo. Tracey suddenly realises that she is making her confessions too easy. She likes pain; they can force the truth out of her! Tracey make a run for the door, but she is lifted up, screaming and writhing, by the two uniformed officers. In Flat 5, Edie suggests that Daddy might be hungover from all the champagne. (Edie passed out over Marilyn's shocking news, not the champagne!) Michael takes a cup of tea into Marilyn in their bedroom. He presents her with a belated engagement ring. That was the surprise that he had mentioned. Andy meets Detective Sergeant Short on the staircase. He is on his way upstairs to check on Marilyn. Short explains about finding a discrepency in Tracey's alibi on the night of Patti's murder. Then they found a gap of 30 minutes in her alibi for the night of Lorelei's murder and located the taxi driver who had taken a woman on the five-minute ride from Paddington Town Hall to the corner of Lindsay Street. In Flat 4, Dudley and Carol discuss how Tracey had access to so many keys. He relates how the residents dutifully lock their front doors, then proceed to hide their keys on door jambs, under doormats - "they scatter them around like confetti, the silly sausages!" Anne comes into Flat 1's kitchen complaining of another restless night on the camp bed. Dudley arrives, comparing the full kitchen to the Diamond Horseshoe on opening night. In Flat 6, Andy gets a shock: Tracey is back, having escaped from the police station. She wants Andy to go away with her. In Norma's Bar, Edie is canvassing ideas for a wedding breakfast for the newlyweds, Marilyn and Michael. She tells Dudley that she has difficulty making a packet sponge properly. Andy manages to get Tracey settled in the bedroom of Flat 6. He sneaks out to dial the number for Detective Sergeant Short. She overhears him - and leaps to her death from a front window, landing on the street outside the deli. [Episode written by David Sale; directed by Peter Benardos.]

This episode was broadcast in colour. "The Lady Vanishes" was a movie from 1938 and "Mrs Miniver" was from 1942. Abel Hoadley first produced chocolate-coated "Violet Crumble" honeycomb bars in 1913. The script suggests that it against Norma's liquor regulations to serve fortified drinks, such as brandy. (Marilyn MacDonald is over 18, and has been seen drinking wine in the bar prior to this episode. In NSW, the legal drinking age was set as 18 in 1905; prior to then, it was 16.) Edie MacDonald refers to an incident from Episode #576 and #577, when her husband visited Amanda Von Pappenberg to return a $50 note, and was coerced to drink many glasses of champagne with the Baroness. Gary Whittaker was last seen in Episode #534. He is next onscreen in Episode #842. "Billy Rose's 'Diamond Horseshoe'" is a fictitious nightclub featured in the 1945 movie, "Diamond Horseshoe". (In 1971, an attraction with this name opened at "Walt Disney World Resort", Florida, in USA.) The scene of Tracey Wilson's body lying on the footpath, among the "Boulevard Cafe" furniture, has been flipped during editing. The signage under the deli window is in reverse. Coincidentally, Tropical Cyclone Tracy was the name of the severe weather event that devastated the city of Darwin, in the Northern Territory of Australia, early on Christmas Day in 1974, while the series was on its summer hiatus. (Yet another of the series' wacky coincidences concerning current events.) Chantal Contouri would return as Lara Boltolavic in the Cash Harmon telemovie pilot, "McManus, M.P.B.". (The telemovie even includes a pantyhose in-joke.) Episode #680 was later showcased in Foxtel/Austar TV1's "Television's Greatest Hits: The Best of Number 96" (2000), introduced by Andrew Mercado. Also the last of 32 consecutive colour episodes (#649-680) were released on DVD in 2008, "Number 96: The Pantyhose Strangler" (Volume 1), by Umbrella Entertainment Australia. Episode #680 included a commentary with Chantal Contouri and TV historian, Andrew Mercado.

681. (28/01) The Sutcliffes are in Vera's hospital room as she prepares to be released. She has just learned of the news about Tracey Wilson being the Pantyhose Strangler. Lucy asks if it was Tracey who was revealed by Vera's dream about Marilyn getting murdered. It was - and suddenly Vera realises that Tracey must have been the one who poisoned her! They had met in the deli that day and gone upstairs for coffee. Andy is being consoled by Don and Dudley in Flat 4. He is blaming himself not not acting earlier on Peter's revelations about Tracey's masochistic tendencies. Don points out that Tracey, having killed three innocent young women, was facing life in a mental asylum. In the delicatessen, Dorrie, Herb, Flo and Tanya watch the ambulance, containing the deceased Tracey, move off. "The quality of mercy is not 'stained'", says Dorrie, misquoting "the immortal Bard". Tanya recognises the line from Shakespeare's The Merchant of Venice, but Dorrie insists that it was something she read in the Christian Science Monitor at the dentist. Tanya knows the play from a reading she did in Vladivostok. Freda comes in from Flat 2. "What droppeth to the ground beneath...?", in this case, was "a demented murderess from a third-storey window". Not good for business! Freda asks Dorrie if she has her shopping order and Dorrie is offended. They only came into the deli because a police officer wanted the pavement cleared. Dorrie, Flo and Herb emerge onto Lindsay Street just as Arnold arrives in a taxi from the airport. "How are things at 'Number 96'?" Later, in Flat 8, Arnold is coming to grips with Tracey's death. If only he had said no to Patti's request to let Tracey move in with them? Alf and Lucy discourage him from taking any blame. Arnold ponders his future. Perhaps hotel management, but the opportunity in Tahiti is long gone. He requests to stay on in Flat 8. The Sutcliffes are thrilled; Arnold is like a second son to them. Freda castigates Tanya in the deli for encouraging the customers to engage in idle gossip. Freda intends to make Arnold an offer he can't refuse. In Flat 3, Les commences teaching Dorrie to drive. He has set up a lounge chair as a driving simulator. "Press, pull, steer and brake. Press, pull, steer and brake." Dorrie complains that the seatbelt is too tight, and she must leave for bowls in fifteen minutes, but Les stresses the importance of safety. He needs to dash downstairs to help Norma with her mother, leaving Dorrie to practise. On the top-level landing, Andy meets the returned Arnold and they offer condolences to each other. Andy seems rather short-tempered but is soon knocking on the door of Flat 7. Vera opens it and is surprised to learn that Andy is leaving Number 96. Flo and Herb arrive home to Flat 3 with armfuls of groceries and find the abandoned Dorrie - flat on her back and wailing - still anchored to Les's simulator "like a veritable 'Prisoner of Zebra'!" Dorrie demands that Flo ring Mrs Terry about her missing the bowling session. Flo cuts Dorrie free and realises that the simulator's seatbelt is a restraining strap for a surgical corset. In the deli, Arnold has returned for the second time to speak to Mrs Fuller. Tanya offers to make him a coffee while he waits but he refuses politely. Freda arrives and is determined to secure his services She is prepared to be generous, offering him full managerial control of the shop, plus the use of the flat, rent free. Arnold is stunned! Vera visits Don in Flat 4 and they toast to her recovery. They agree that Vera will miss Andy very much, but the sale of "I Kid You Not" has suddenly made her "a woman of means". She plans to upgrade her sewing machine and give dress designing a serious go. Dudley arrives. He reckons that Vera will be "the Edith Head of Sydney". He quizzes Don on his whereabouts this afternoon. Don is cagey and says that it was work-related. Dudley has prepared the wine bar meals in advance, so he wants Don and Vera to join him for "a night out on the town". In Norma's Bar, Les brings celebratory drinks to the table where Arnold and the Sutcliffes are sitting. Arnold has accepted Freda's job offer but will stay on in Flat 8 rather than moving into Flat 2. In Flat 4, Dudley lets Vera in. Both are dressed in their finery. Don is still in the bathroom, so Dudley tries to hurry him up. Is Don's health a cause for concern? Dudley finds him unconscious on the bathroom floor! Flo tries a little blackmail in Flat 3 to get her own way; she reckons that, if anyone asks about Dorrie's embarrassing afternoon, she might just say that Dorrie was "all tied up". As soon as the deli closes, Tanya comes into the wine bar, looking for Arnold. Does he still require her services? He assures her that Tanya is definitely needed. She is relieved. Russians "always look on the black side", she jokes. Dorrie, Herb and Flo arrive in the wine bar and join Arnold's table. Dorrie goes over to give Les a piece of her mind for leaving her tied into his driving simulator. Alf is bemused that she is taking driving lessons from Les. Les manages to charm Dorrie by suggesting that she is "too advanced" for the simulator. Practical experience is better. He invites her outside. Meanwhile, Lucy reminds Alf that it is nearing the time to get his taxi back to the rank. He can't be late for "the 'omecooked steak and kidney pud" to celebrate Arnold's return. It has been boiling for two hours! Dorrie finds that her driving lessons are not incident-free: patrons run for their lives as Alf's taxi suddenly comes crashing through the front window of the wine bar! [Episode written by David Sale; directed by Peter Benardos.]

William Shakespeare's play, "The Merchant of Venice", is believed to have been written between 1596 and 1598. "The Prisoner of Zenda" (1894) is a novel by Anthony Hope. Movie adaptations came out in 1937 and 1952. Edith Head was an eight-time Academy Award-winning costume designer in Hollywood. The extra who often portrays Myrtle McIntyre can be seen in the wine bar. 32 more consecutive colour episodes (#681-712) were released on DVD in 2010, "Number 96: Aftermath of Murder" (Volume 2), by Umbrella Entertainment Australia.

682. (29/01) Over dinner at The Red Baron, Dudley and Vera express their concerns about Don. Don's meal has hardly been touched and he is currently in the restroom. Trixie O'Toole (Jan Adele) sneaks up behind Vera, signalling to Dudley not to spoil the surprise. Trixie puts her hands over Vera's eyes. Vera is thrilled to see her. Trixie explains that she has been performing in clubs in Brisbane. She points out her restaurant date, Alistair, who has a beard and an eyepatch and is the foreman of a sardine factory. Keen to order some new garments, Trixie is pleased to hear that Vera is using the money received from the sale of "I Kid You Not" to return to dress designing. Alf's taxi has caused much damage in Norma's Bar and Les has to organise the glazier and signwriter to restore the front window. In Flat 1, Anne is still on a tirade about Les and Norma living in squallor. Meanwhile, in Flat 3, Dorrie is applying several Bandaids to her face, then blames Herb for refusing to learn to drive; she wouldn't have had the accident otherwise! Next morning, in Flat 1, Norma is surprised that Les is already home from work, and has even prepared breakfast while she and Flo were cleaning up in the bar. Anne is in the bath again. Norma goes in to order her out - and ends up falling into the bathtub! In Flat 4, Dudley urges Carol to encourage Don to go and see a doctor. Trixie arrives at Flat 7 to order some glittery show garments. Since Trixie's landlord gave the lease on her old flat to someone else, Vera invites her to move into her spare room. Anne has been visiting interior decorators and insists on showing the Whittakers the wallpaper that she is recommending to transform Flat 1. Dorrie realises in Flat 3 that she will need to earn some money to pay off the damage to Alf's taxi and the wine bar's window. She decides to head up to Flat 7 and offer her services as a fashion model for Vera's new business. Vera can't get rid of her. Dudley mentions to Vera about finding numerous appointments for doctor visits in Don's diary. They wonder why Don has chosen not to confide in them about his health? Anne comes to Flat 3 for afternoon tea and mentions to a boastful Dorrie that Leslie doesn't even have a driver's licence. In Norma's Bar, Trixie, Flo, Dudley, Carol and the Whittakers react to Vera's bright idea of adding a piano to the wine bar. Flo fancies herself as "a Winnie Atwell" and will play showtunes for the patrons. Norma can't believe her own eyes: Aldo and Roma Godolfus have returned home! Everyone is excited to see them. [Episode written by David Sale; directed by Peter Benardos.]

Jan Adele's Trixie O'Toole returns for a new story arc. She was last seen in Episode #639. Pianist Winifid Atwell, originally from Trinidad, found popularity in the UK and Australia, in the 50s, 60s and 70s, mostly with ragtime tunes. Channel TEN Publicity wanted it to appear that Johnny Lockwood and Philippa Baker had departed the series permanently, from the end of Episode #663, so the return of Aldo and Roma Godolfus (from the USA) took the audience by surprise. Johnny had to turn down a substantial role with Crawford Productions while keeping his return secret. Once again, the vacant Flat 6 features a large question mark during the end credits. The surname "Godolfus" is correctly spelt in the credits (but not the official synopsis), having mistakenly shown onscreen as "Godolphus" for a time, from Episode #593.

683. (30/01) The deli is full of customers but Freda is furious that Arnold still has the shop open at 7.00pm. Now that he is the appointed manager, he felt that the trading hours should return to the previous closing time of precisely 8.30pm. Surely Tanya will be expecting overtime? Tanya, as a student of the Bolshoi, didn't even think of overtime. If she is happy in her work, who cares about money? She is used to living on a handful of rubles. Arnold tries and fails to point out the many advantages of staying open late. Freda can either accept Arnold's judgement, or take over the management of the shop herself. In Flat 5, the MacDonalds are planning a surprise wedding celebration for "the children", Marilyn and Michael, tomorrow night - but Reg has given Edie a budget of only $15. She needs $40 at least. Reg reminds her that the Good Lord managed to feed the masses on two loaves and five fishes. Aldo and Roma are sitting in Norma's Bar with Trixie and Vera. They are soon joined by Norma and Don. Having just closed the deli, Arnold comes into the wine bar. He must break the sad news to Aldo and Roma about Patti's death, and that Patti's friend, Tracey Wilson, was the Pantyhose Strangler. Aldo and Roma are booked into the Beauregard Hotel, but Arnold insists that, tomorrow, they should move into the now-vacant Flat 6. To Reg's frustration, the amorous Michael and Marilyn claim to be still watching Kojak in Flat 5, not realising that a vampire movie has been playing for over an hour. Edie comes into the room carrying her purse. Reg demands to know where she is going, but her mention of "a secret" piques Marilyn's curiosity. Reg switches over to the ABC to watch a documentary on irrigation problems in Pakistan. In Flat 4, Vera tries to get Don talking about his medical condition; she knows that Dudley is extremely worried about him. In the wine bar, Trixie and Norma decide to help Edie with the party arrangements since Reg has been so frugal. Edie thanks Norma, calling her "a real Blacktown person". As Don is getting ready to see Vera out of Flat 4, he suffers a dizzy spell. Vera is very concerned. Next morning, in Flat 5, Marilyn and Michael announce plans to eat out tonight, which threatens to ruin the surprise party. Reg and Edie make them promise to come home instead. They reluctantly agree. Don visits Vera in Flat 7 and makes her promise not to tell Dudley about his fainting spell. The doctor has told him that Don is just run down and needs to take things easy. Vera opens the door and Trixie falls through backwards, dropping herself, her suitcase and several boxes onto the floor. Freda comes into the deli with the day's float for the till - and is castigated by Arnold because he and Tanya have been unable to provide customers with their change. Arnold suggests that Freda doesn't trust him. At the main entrance of Number 96, the Godolfuses chat with Don about business options now that they are back in Sydney. Aldo and Roma then visit the deli and are shocked by all of Freda's changes. Mrs Fuller is surprised that "Feather" didn't even inform her of their return. Arnold objects, since most recent conversations with her have been so tense and work-related. Roma asks Tanya if she likes working in the shop and Tanya says that it is very different to the Amsterdam "sexual aids" shop that she last worked in. Roma gives Arnold her shopping list but most of the fresh lines have now been replaced by packaged items. The Goldfuses leave the deli reminiscing about the good old days. In the laundrette, Marilyn and Michael consider moving out of Flat 5. Living with the in-laws never works. They decide not to comply with Daddy's demand and will be going out tonight anyway. Vera enters the kitchen of Flat 7 and finds Trixie and Edie in there, preparing all of the food for the party. She is not impressed at first, but is soon coopted to help. In his doctor's surgery, Don receives some shocking news. According to Doctor Langton (John Keithley), Don's health is not good. After numerous tests, there is evidence of an infection in his bloodwork. If the infection is found lurking in one of Don's organs, then they will know how to treat it. If it is a disease of the blood itself, and symptoms continue, the worst possible prognosis is that Don may have only six months to live. [Episode written by David Sale; directed by Peter Benardos.]

This episode was broadcast in colour. The Telly Savalas-led series, "Kojak", had commenced airing on the 0-10 Network from 21st April, 1974. Aristotle Onassis gets another namedrop. John Keithley, who portrays Doctor Langton, is later known by the surnames "Keightly" and "Keightley".

684. (31/01) Trixie is with Edie in Flat 5. She is unimpressed by Edie's fruit punch for the surprise party to celebrate Marilyn's marriage to Michael. Only two flagons of white wine and a dollop of lemon squash? Trixie sneaks a bottle of brandy into the mix. Reg arrives and announces that he has invited the TC to the function and raises Edie's catering budget by $40. She can spend it "as you will". Trixie has a glint in her eye and Edie suddenly understands. In Flat 8, the Sutcliffes, Arnold and the Godolfuses enjoy Lucy's homecooked "Welcome Home" lunch together. Aldo reckons that American food tastes like cardboard. Roma refers to Freda as a cold woman. Alf stirs Aldo about his wandering eye for the beautiful Russian woman (Tanya) whom he met in the deli today. Roma tells them about Joe and Delores Hackenback, an American couple who boarded their plane in Honolulu, bound for San Francisco. When the Godolfuses realised that they were too late to save Irving Lubinski from prison, the Hackenbacks invited them to stay at their property, which has three swimming pools! Joe and Delores plan to visit them in Australia soon. A grateful Roma invites everyone to Sunday lunch but Arnold declines. He doubts that he could enter Flat 6 again. Meanwhile, Dorrie decides to apply for a job advertised in the newspaper for a "charming, still, statuesque' showbiz assistant. It pays $75 per week. Flo suggests that St Vitus might be advertising for a dancing partner. "Flo, there's no call to be 'faecetial'" (sic). Edie has spent the extra $40 and returns to Flat 5 with two bottles of gin hidden under a box of Arnott's Crinkle Cut Potato Chips. She empties the gin into the punchbowl. In the laundrette, Marilyn complains about Daddy ruining her plans for the evening, but Michael has changed her mind again. They are going out! Reg finds Edie lying on the bed with a mudpack on her face, making herself beautiful for the party, as suggested by women's magazines. Reg is mock-horrified by her appearance and wonders if the magazine was Popular Mechanics? Edie's fruit punch gets laced with more additives: Reg pours in a whole magnum of champagne! Michael comes to the laundrette again and tells Marilyn that a university friend urgently needs new flatmates in Randwick. They'll ditch the plans to go out and will return to Flat 5 tonight so they can pack, ready to move out. Dorrie (to be known by her stage name of "Dorothy Carter") is almost skewered against a door by a professional knife-thrower named Leroy Larue (Paul Faranda) who enthusiastically auditions her in Flat 3. She screams! Trixie is about to help Edie with her hair when Reg arrives home to Flat 5 with TC Edward Duncan (Brian Moll) in tow. Trixie tries to serve the TC some punch and he pinches her buttock. He assumes the punch is as weak as water and adds more life to the party by pouring tequila - "ambrosia of the Gods" - into the punchbowl from his own hipflask. While Trixie works on Edie's hair, they debrief about the contents of the now-potent punch. In Flat 8, Aldo disagrees that the MacDonalds are close to teetotallers; he has often seen Edie "as 'fast' as a newt!" Lucy says that Marilyn and Michael were still planning to go out, but finally changed their minds. Alf has already left to do a shift in the taxi but Roma, Lucy and Aldo head down to the party. Arnold will follow them shortly. In Arnold's bedroom, he is again reduced to sobs. In Flat 3, Dorrie has made up her mind to sue Mr LaRue for throwing knives at her, even though Herb is willing to repair the door with wood sealer. She can then use the financial settlement to pay for the damages to the wine bar. Dorrie will fill in her solicitor, Don Finlayson, at the party. On his way to Flat 5, Arnold is tempted to enter the Feathers' old flat next door. He hears Patti's voice echoing in the flat. Reg is schmoozing with the TC about the disposal of sewage, but Trixie is tiring of the TC's wandering hands. Lucy and the Godolfuses are amused by the strength of the punch. Edie offers Dorrie a second cup of fruit punch; she accepts because "fruit is so nutritious". Arnold is able to warn the partygoers in Flat 5 of the approach of Michael and Marilyn on the main stairs. They have resolved to inform Mummy and Daddy about the Randwick flat immediately, then pack and leave. The lights are turned off as the newlyweds enter Flat 5 and... "Surprise!" Marilyn is ecstatic to see everyone there. In the kitchen, the TC is still bothering Trixie. He wants her to call him Eddie. Trixie tries distracting Eddie by mentioning that she once put out a 12" LP - with a 13" hole. She jokes that it sold well in Italy, where "all the natives thought it was licorice pizza". In the loungeroom, Arnold tells Lucy that there are times when he can see a glimmer of hope. Dorrie is getting sloshed on punch. Trixie brings out Edie's two-tiered wedding cake from the kitchen. As Marilyn cuts it, the top tier suddenly deflates! A change of luck is in store for Alf: he bursts into the party to announce that he has won the lottery! [Episode written by David Sale; directed by Peter Benardos.]

"St Vitus' Dance" (Rheumatic chorea) is a movement disorder caused by a bacterial infection. The phone number prefix in the newspaper ad is "237" (signifying, in the 70s, an inner-city suburb of Sydney.) Paul Faranda, who portrays Leroy LaRue, previously played a different character, Angelo, in Episode #301. (Due to a typographical error in the official synopsis, Leroy's surname is rendered "Larve". It is correct in the closing credits.) Dorrie Evans tries to serve Leroy "devon-ham sandwiches", harkening back to the "devon-ham" radio of Episodes #86 and #626. The Evans' daughter, Joan Parker, last seen in Episode #287, is namedropped in this episode. Brian Moll returns to his role of Edward, the younger, randier TC (of the Paddington TH), who was last seen in Episode #639. Now mistakenly referred to in dialogue as "Mr Buchanan", the end credits call him simply "T.C." Reg MacDonald had referred to the previous TC (as portrayed by John Rayner) as "Ian Buchanan" in dialogue from Episode #624, even though the surname "Duncan" was first used for Ian in Episode #493, and re-established onscreen for Edward in Episode #982. Ian and Edward's mother is always "Mrs Buchanan". Jan Adele often taunted scriptwriter David Sale over the dialogue he liked to include for Trixie O'Toole. Many of Trixie's comedic one-liners were Jan's own jokes, which David would simply add into the scenes. As most of the partygoers are residents of "Number 96", there are very few people of the Bartletts' ages in attendance.

685. (3/02) "To be a Russian is to be a soul in torment," Tanya says to Dudley as he is cleaning up in Norma's Bar. She has been reading The Gulag Archipelago by Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn. Dudley much prefers Ninotchka, the 1939 movie, of course, with Greta Garbo. Tanya lights up at the mention of Paris and begins an anecdote about her darling Philippe, whom she met there. (His impressive moustache had those curly ends, but there was a shortage of beeswax at the time.) Tanya mentions that she can swear in fourteen languages, but is also almost broke. Freda Fuller is refusing to pay her or Arnold their wages. When Arnold had complained, she accused him of muddling up the account books! Dudley doesn't believe it; Arnold can balance accounts "like Bette Davis can keep smoking". As the Godolfuses leave the party in Flat 5, Reg is about to wish them a safe journey home when he realises that they are currently his next-door neighbours! Edie is quite sloshed. Reg wants to know where Trixie and the TC ended up? Don seems to be the only party attendee who is not getting sloshed on Edie's potent punch. Edie attempts to top up the punch cups for Lucy, Don and Alf. Lucy thinks it's champion" of Alf that he let Dorrie off the hook (regarding the damage to his taxi) after his unexpected lottery win. In Flat 6, Aldo reckons that Alf "was born with a silver 'fork' in his mouth". Arnold wants the Godolfuses to stay on in Flat 6, but they, too, have some unpleasant memories of Number 96. Aldo refers to Freda as "that witch on a broom handle". Roma and Aldo's new plan is to go into the restaurant business. Roma declares that it will definitely involve Arnold. In the main bedroom of Flat 5, Edie tries to help Daddy get ready for bed. She hasn't enjoyed a party so much since the Sewage Ball in Blacktown, when old Mr Postlethwaite lost his toupée! The TC being so besottted by Trixie poses a distinct threat to Reg's future in LG. In the kitchen, the Bartletts have a row because, while Michael is still keen to move to Randwick immediately, Marilyn has cooled on the idea after her parents threw her such a great party. In the bathroom of Flat 4, Dudley needles Don about the excess of alcohol he consumed last night. Don claims that the more he drank, the clearer his head seemed to become. Dudley is surprised when Don orders up a huge breakfast. Lucy is in a cheerful mood in Flat 8 and chats to Arnold about the lottery win. Alf and "Chiller" Thomas have been buying tickets together for the past two years. Alf staggers out with a hangover. Lucy jokingly boasts that she will buy herself a silver-blonde mink coat, and might go to David Jones for new furniture. She is supposedly receiving a Mini Minor car, amongst Alf's many other promises. In Flat 6, Roma has opened up the curtains and brings a hungover Aldo breakfast in bed. ("Kidneys, mushrooms...") Wasn't Aldo was intending to inspect some potential restaurant sites today? Mrs Fuller's company accountant, Mr Mayhew (Henri Szeps), arrives at the deli and introduces himself to Tanya and Arnold. He insists that he will be collecting the takings each morning, and has a letter of authority from Freda. Arnold reluctantly hands over the bank bag, but he and Tanya are worried. Have they just been robbed by a conman? In the laundrette, Marilyn complains to Lucy that Michael practically ignored her at breakfast. He is cranky that she no longer wants to move out. They also discuss the lottery win. Lucy fancies buying a little house. Meanwhile, in Flat 6, Aldo is wearing his loudest American shirt as he reads through ads in the newspaper; he finds a perfect, moderately-priced, restaurant property in Rose Bay. "Hunky dory! That's an American expression." Roma thinks that the restaurant sounds romantic. She offers to ring the number. Maybe they will think that she is Aldo's secretary? She advises Aldo to change his shirt and hat. "They see that hat, they will double the price!" Reg, returning to Flat 5 for luncheon, almost catches the hungover Edie downing a Bex powder with a glass of milk. Is Mother serving him leftover, crumbed-chicken drumsticks from the party? The TC was missing from the TH this morning, which may be ominous. Reg sees Edie spooning custard, not mayonnaise, onto the reheated tuna boats. Daddy is unimpressed. Edie races for the bathroom. Michael has come to the laundrette wanting Marilyn to go to lunch with him. He wants to discuss their future living arrangements. Lucy sends them off. A buoyant Alf arrives, suggesting that he and Lucy could use the winnings to return to England. Dudley has new concerns about Don's mysterious condition. Dudley catches him drinking in Flat 4 instead of going work. All this eating of rich foods and overindulging in alcohol? In the deli, Freda has just left but has still not paid her workers their wages. Arnold gives $20 to Tanya from his own wallet because she claims to be "as flat as a puncture". She then uses the money to buy a $19.50 jar of Beluga caviar because it is "so nourishing". In Flat 8, Alf's lottery joy soon turns into rage. His partner, "Chiller", had put the winning ticket into his own name only, and is now refusing to share the winnings. Alf has no claim on the prize. [Episode written by Susan Swinford; directed by Brian Phillis.]

"The Gulag Archipelago" is a three-volume non-fiction series, written between 1958 and 1968, by Russian writer, Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn, a Soviet dissident. First published in 1973 by the Parisian publisher YMCA-Press, it was translated into English and French the following year. The volume used onscreen appears to be a mocked-up prop. The comedic movie "Ninotchka" was released in 1939. Although Tanya Schnolskevitska doesn't seem to recognise that name, soon there will be many references to the fictitious "Ninotchka Vodka". (There is a cocktail of that name, which features vodka, creme de cacao and lemon juice.) Henri Szeps, who portrays Mr Mayhew, was a last-minute replacement to read the lines originally written for Sheila Bradley. (Another scene concerning Freda Fuller is said to happen offscreen.) Sheila had to drop out of her role as Freda much earlier than contracted, due to the actor suffering a temporary facial palsey. The character is not mentioned in the official synopsis and is not credited onscreen. Henri makes another uncredited return as that character in Episode #687. Later, he takes on the recurring role of Phillip Chambers (from Episodes #937-938) and Solly Goldman in Episodes #1147-1148. A new inside angle on the deli set shows an impossibly-large section of wall to the right of the entry door, a mismatch to the width of "Moncur Flats" itself. The expression "Hunky Dory" is more of a British saying, and was the title of a 1971 David Bowie studio album. (The earliest known reference in print is found in the USA, in a 1862 collection of songs performed by "Christy's Minstrels", a "blackface" minstrel group founded by Edwin Pearce Christy. He was believed to have been of Irish origin.) There is a stray end credit for John Keithley as Doctor Langton, but that character does not appear in this episode.

686. (4/02) While Norma washes the front window of the wine bar, Anne is full of praise for the hospitality that Dorrie Evans showed her recently. Norma tries to warn her mother that Dorrie will worm all her secrets out of her before she can say "Schnolskevitska"! (Norma is impressed with herself; she finally pronounced Tanya's surname correctly.) Les arrives with two piano removalists. They are wheeling in the piano for Flo's Cocktail Hour singalongs. Norma doesn't remember agreeing to the piano idea, but Anne thinks it will be some much-needed class. Can they even afford it? According to Les's interpretation of Be Your Own Solicitor, Dorrie is still fully liable for the damage to the window if the insurance company refuses to reimburse them. Norma is unimpressed, especially when the row of upended barstools tumble to the floor. While setting the table for lunch in Flat 3, Dorrie tells Herb that she does not believe Flo's story about going to have cauliflower cheese with "that dreadful Daphne Begley". Flo is probably conducting "a 'candlestine' assignation" with some man! Alf arrives, Herb offers him a beer, and Dorrie is effusive as she thanks Alf for his "sense of 'perspectum'" in forgiving her debt. She receives terrible news: Alf has actually come to retract his offer. A bewildered Dorrie snatches back the beer before he opens the can. Later, in Flat 8, Lucy suggests that Alf should get some legal advice over Chiller's actions from Don. Alf agrees. In Norma's Bar, the Happy Hour is a roaring success. The pianist, Florence Patterson, Wizard of the Pianoforte!, is resplendent in a silver gown, rhinestones, a tiara and a corsage. Anne puts in a request for "the Governor's favourite" tune, Advance Australia Fair, even though she only met him once, in 1945. Vera explains to Norma that she came down to the wine bar to escape the TC. He turned up to Flat 7 looking for Trixie (who had managed to avoid him all day). Over the washing up in Flat 7, Trixie continues to be an object of attraction to the randy TC. He had wanted to meet Trixie ever since hearing about "that wonderful weekend" at Mrs Buchanan's beach house. Trixie reminds him that she and the MacDonalds managed to burn the beach house to the ground. She gets a brief chance to vouch for Reg: the TC should promote such a loyal member of LG. The TC begins to tell a blue joke about "the vicar and the Boy Scout". Dorrie and Herb enter the wine bar - the noise can be heard two streets away! She then notices that Flo is the pianist... and she is wearing Dorrie's tiara! Dorrie threatens to call the Noise Abatement Society and that only makes Norma more determined to continue the nightly events. Behind Dorrie's back, Herb is up on a stool, conducting the crowd as they sing. Next morning, in Flat 7, Vera and Trixie laugh about the previous night's events. Vera is sworn to secrecy about the possibility of Reg's promotion. Dorrie castigates Flo over working for the Whittakers, but Flo is playing the piano to raise money for charity. Les arrives, with Be Your Own Solicitor under his arm. He informs Dorrie that she is directly responsible for all of the damage from the taxi accident. Dorrie objects to Les's "legalistic mumbo jumbo" over the whole "debaclee". What about the insurance claim? Les says that the window is not covered by "'Acts of God' and natural disasters", and Dorrie is certainly classified as a "natural disaster". In Flat 1, Anne hoodwinks Norma into giving up the double bed. Mrs Florentine is worried that she is developing a migraine and rejects the breakfast that Norma is cooking for her. Anne blames the polluted city air. Trixie is unpacking a trunk full of colourful costumes in Flat 7. The TC has invited her to a fancy dress ball. She shows Vera a sequinned mermaid costume. One of Trixie's first solo appearances was in Lovelace's Aquatic Revels and she had to sit on a rock singing, All the Nice Girls Love a Sailor. They had a big tank dressed up as grotto and all the chorus girls were in lobster costumes. On opening night, "some idiot" poked a hole in the tank and flooded the front stalls. Trixie holds up the furry suit she once wore as Ermintrude, the Roller-Skating Orangutan. Trixie used to perform at the Tivoli opposite a Vaudeville comic named Enery. She climbs into the costume. Vera zips her up just as the TC turns up at the front door! The TC is only briefly taken aback, then invites Trixie to lunch in the wine bar. Lucy and Alf are in the laundrette. Don has told Alf that, without a written agreement, he doesn't have a leg to stand on regarding Chiller and the money. Lucy receives a letter from a worried Tom Bartlett in New Zealand. Tom can't understand Michael's silence these past months, with all mail being marked "Address Unknown". Alf forbids her from getting involved. Over lunch in Norma's Bar, the TC tries to propose marriage to Trixie but she wants nothing to do with the idea. Les suggests buying a Murphy Bed for Norma's mother. She can't keep sleeping in their bed. Meanwhile, Anne sneaks into the kitchen of Flat 1, helps herself to a large serving of Steak Josephine (pepper steak) and takes it back to the bedroom. Dorrie's financial situation is desperate again, but Alf's negative attitude towards her is unrelenting. Dorrie is visiting Lucy in Flat 8, to try to gain her sympathy, since she and Herb live on "a G-string budget", after all. Alf storms in. He was not keen for the police to become involved over Dorrie's accident, but the cab's owner now knows that Alf had left the keys in the ignition. Once again, Alf demands the $500 from Dorrie, and he wants it now. [Episode written by Susan Swinford; directed by Brian Phillis.]

This episode was broadcast in colour. Among Flo Patterson's "Happy Hour" play list are "The Lambeth Walk" (1937), "Along The Road to Gundagai" (1922), "California, Here I Come" (1924) and "Knees up, Mother Brown" (1938). After "Number 96", Ron Shand performed in a major stage production of "Me and My Girl" (1985-86), which features "The Lambeth Walk". In 1977, a plebiscite chose "Advance Australia Fair" as the country's "National Song". (It was subsequently proclaimed the "National Anthem" in 1984 by the then-Governor-General, Sir Ninian Stephen.) In 1945, Anne Florentine would have met the Governor of New South Wales of the day, the 2nd Baron Wakehurst (aka the Right Honourable John de Vere Loder). The Buchanans' Mona Vale beach house burnt down in Episode #631. There is still a "Noise Abatement Society" (NAS) that exists as a charity in the UK. Lovelace Watkins was a Las Vegas-based, African-American singer. The performer had a long association with Australia's Gold Coast, and helped raise money for the city following the floods of 1974 (hence Trixie O'Toole's anecdote about flooding the theatre). Lovelace was named "Ambassador-at-Large" by the Gold Coast Mayor. "Ship Ahoy! (All the Nice Girls Love a Sailor)" is a music hall song from 1908. The mask of Trixie's Ermintrude costume is more like a gorilla, than an orangutan. When Trixie grabs the TC on the top landing, the whole wall wobbles. Current blackboard specials in "Norma's Bar" are "Beef Stroganoff" ($1.80) and "Steak Josephine" ($1.70).

687. (5/02) To Roma's delight, she discovers that the furniture from Flat 2 was never sold, as had been the plan. Unfortunately, when Aldo returns to Flat 6, he informs her that the Rose Bay restaurant that they planned to buy at auction was out of their price range. It went for five times what they could afford to pay. In Flat 3, Dorrie complains to Herb that her trip to Epping, to squeeze the money that she owes from her sister, Connie, was a waste of time. She is also angry with "that migrant", Alf Sutcliffe, for changing his mind on the $500 of damages to his mate's taxi. Flo comes into the loungeroom, dressed in her finery for Happy Hour, but Dorrie reckons she looks like "a veritable chicken dressed up like a lamb." How can Flo go down to the wine bar knowing that Dorrie has "a veritable 'Storm of Damascus' hanging over her head"? Flo offers to loan her $70, but she could also pass around a hat claiming that it was for a needy charity. Dorrie is offended. While serving in the deli, Tanya tells a customer the whole story about Freda's absence from the shop. Arnold tries to explain to her not to do so. It is worse conditions than Siberia; does Mrs Fuller stay away for 24 hours to avoid paying their wages? In Flat 5, Reg is deep in thought during dinner, when Edie asks him if he has a Lodge meeting tonight? Edie plans to go to the wine bar to listen to Mrs Patterson on the piano. Reg is concerned about the TC's time is being monopolised by Trixie. He saw the TC this evening, dressed in a loincloth, assisting a gorilla into a taxi. Edie seeks clarification, but a sullen Marilyn suddenly erupts in anger. Here is a daughter with a broken heart but her parents can only talk about stupid, trivial matters. She storms out! Edie had noticed that Michael spent last night on the sofa - and tonight he didn't show up for dinner. Edie thinks that they, as parents, should do something. Aldo comes home to Flat 6 and boasts about a Bondi premises that is within their price range for a restaurant. Financially, it will work because it is a rental property. Aldo suggests celebrating tonight at The Blue Danube. Flipping through The Sun newspaper in Flat 3, Dorrie refuses to accompany Herb down to Happy Hour in the wine bar. She doesn't want to be around "those dreadful Whittakers" and describes the outfit that Flo was wearing as "Shirley Temple in 'The Twilight Zone'". On Edie's way to Norma's Bar, she drops in to Flat 3 to ask Dorrie's advice on helping the young Bartletts with their current marriage difficulties. Dorrie proclaims, "A wife must take her husband in hand, regularly. Metaphysically speaking, of course!" She lends Edie a book, entitled Tranquility of Marriage, which she and Herbert had found very helpful in their early days of matrimony. Meanwhile, while waiting for a taxi on Lindsay Street, Aldo and Roma call into the deli to gossip with Tanya and Arnold. Roma greets Tanya in Russian, but Tanya hesitates. She waits for Roma to restate her question in English for Arnold's benefit. Tanya never converses in Russian if English-speakers are present. Aldo understands: it is why he and Roma no longer have accents. Arnold gives them a bewildered look. The Godolfuses share their news about the Bondi plans. Their taxi honks its horn and they race outside. Arnold receives a phone call from Freda, who gives him a piece of her mind about incompetence. Although he and Tanya have been without wages for over two weeks, Freda dismisses them from their employment. They are not to show their ugly faces in the shop again. In Flat 5, Reg is dressed for his Lodge meeting and finds Marilyn sulking on her bed. She is inconsolable. Reg steps out into the loungeroom as Michael comes in the front door. Michael has a brown paper package in his hand. As Reg heads off to his meeting, he suggests that Michael do something about his daughter's unhappiness. Marilyn ignores Michael's presence - until he pretends that he will be packing his belongs to leave. She squeals and they hug on the bed. In Flat 3, Dorrie sobs as she tells Edie about her grim situation. Reg knocks on the door and informs his wife that things seem to be improved for the newlyweds. Edie is thrilled. She then explains that Dorrie has a financial problem. Are there any jobs going at the TH? Reg mentions that the Paddington TH is seeking a new part-time tea lady. Dorrie practically pounces on his words: "I'll take it!" Reg promises that he will look into it. As he departs, Edie suggests that Dorrie could accompany her down to listen to Flo's piano tunes. Dorrie declines. In their bedroom of Flat 5, Marilyn and Michael decide that bickering is almost worth it when they can enjoy making up afterwards. He gives her a present: How to Achieve Sexual Happiness Though Married. He bought it at "one of those sex shops". They agree to try everything in the book. Michael suggests that they could go downstairs to the wine bar for some soda, which is said to be an aphrodisiac. A despondent Dorrie watches TV in Flat 3. A news segment hash Brian Bury (Himself) interviewing Australian housewives about the current cost of living. Dorrie is tearfully agreeing with the sentiments of those being interviewed. Later, Dorrie is sitting beside Flo at the wine bar piano, still teary, but joining in the singalong. Reg passes Norma's Bar during Happy Hour, on his way to his Lodge meeting, just in time to witness Edie, perched on Flo's piano, singing, "My Heart Belongs to Daddy". She waves as he passes. Inside, everyone is enjoying the singalong except Arnold, who is on the phone. He seems stunned. Life may be looking much brighter for Flo, but storm clouds are gathering over Aldo's former shop. Still upset by Mrs Fuller's treatment of him, Arnold joins Tanya's table to tell her that a friend, who works for the same wholesalers used by the deli, has advised him that previous orders were not paid. Furthermore, Don has confirmed that all rent for the shop is still owing! As Arnold leaves the bar, he encounters Mr Mayhew outside the locked deli. The accountant tries to evade the question of Mrs Fuller's obvious financial woes: unpaid wholesalers' bills, outstanding wages, firing the staff - is she heading for bankruptcy? Mr Mayhew follows Arnold into the foyer of Number 96. He states that Freda has just put the deli up for sale, leaving Arnold with no options at all. [Episode written by Michael Lawrence; directed by Brian Phillis.]

"The Sword of Damacles" is referenced in "The Bible" (Exodus 34:6-7), but is definitely not "The Storm of Damascus". Reg MacDonald's Freemasons' Lodge meetings were last mentioned in Episode #538. The "Tranquility of Marriage" book appears to be a title created especially for the script. Although there is an author given on the cover of another prop book, "How to Achieve Sexual Happiness Though Married", the name is not seen clearly onscreen. In relation to Michael Bartlett's claim about soda, studies have shown that aerated drinks may increase testosterone levels in men. Channel TEN's Brian Bury again plays himself. In Episode #182, Brian had played himself, interviewing Dorrie and Herb Evans on TV about the plight of Australian pensioners. The distinctive voice of Moya O'Sullivan can be heard as one of Brian's TV interviewees. Moya will begin appearing as Phyllis Pratt (pictured, inset) from Episode #733. Songs in the wine bar include "Bye Bye Blackbird" (1926) and "My Heart Belongs to Daddy" (a Cole Porter song written for the 1938 musical, "Leave It to Me!"). An earlier version of the first phone call made to Arnold Feather, was originally devised as in-person dialogue. Freda Fuller's scene was described in the official synopsis as: "In the middle of everything, Freda enters. Later on, she fires Tanya and Arnold." Henri Szeps makes another uncredited appearance as Mr Mayhew, providing onscreen closure for the absent Sheila Bradley. Too much of the external building's left side appears on screen and the street scene depicted through the foyer doorway lacks room for the road with its two lanes of traffic. Brian Moll's TC is credited onscreen but does not appear in the episode, although there is a dialogue reference to him (and Trixie O'Toole's Ermintrude costume from Episode #686).

688. (6/02) Next morning, sick of sleeping on the camp bed in Flat 1, Norma worries that she is paralysed. Has rigor mortis set in? She decides that she wants her own bed back. Norma threatens to call the doctor if her mother is still unwell today. Les assures her that he has looked up Mrs Florentine's symptoms in 1001 Ailments, but Norma says that she doesn't care, as she's already crippled for life! The Murphy Bed is on order, and is supposed to arrive today. In Flat 4, Dudley is very concerned about Don. Carol agrees. Her brother was so drunk after his visit to the wine bar that he couldn't put himself to bed. Carol decides to take the initiative; she could visit Don's doctor. Dudley warns that it would be would be unethical of the doctor. As a family member, surely Carol has a right to know? In the deli, Tanya and Arnold are working off their customary week's notice. Arnold explains to Tanya that it is still necessary that they work out their week's notice. When Mr Mayhew comes in to collect the takings, Arnold informs him that he has taken the liberty of deducting two weeks of salary owed, for both himself and Tanya, plus a further week each of severence pay. Helping himself to a bag of marshmallows from the counter display, Mr Mayhew says that Mrs Fuller had mentioned that the original owners of the deli had returned to Sydney. Would the Godolfuses be interested in buying the shop back? Even though businesses such as the deli were often "a goldmine", Freda needs to liquidate it for tax purposes. Arnold doubts that Aldo and Roma would be interested, now that they have secured restaurant premises in Bondi. Mr Mayhew suggests that if the Godolfuses bought the deli back, Arnold could probably return to his managerial role, and avoid unemployment. In Flat 7, Trixie regales Vera with the hilarity that ensued from her night with the Tarzan TC at the fancy dress ball. Their poor taxi driver nearly crashed twice! Meanwhile, Ermintrude sits motionless on Vera's couch. They have an unexpected visitor: Andy Marshall is back! His old flat around the corner is no longer available, so he wonders about Flat 6? Vera explains that the Godolfuses have been staying there. On the Boulevard Cafe, Tanya is serving Aldo and Roma, who are looking dejected. Arnold comes out to hear that they have missed out on the Bondi restaurant deal. The deli goes onto the market today. Should they try to turn back time? Meanwhile, outside the wine bar, Norma and Les are talking to Dudley about Carol's whereabouts. The mention of a Murphy Bed reminds Dudley of Margaret Dumont in the Marx Brothers movies. Trixie comes into Norma's Bar to make a proposal to Flo. Would Flo be interested in becoming her accompanist for her next RSL gigs? (The last bloke to accompany Trixie used to throw up every time she sang Melancholy Baby) Flo agrees! There is much haggling with Mr Mayhew in Flat 6; Arnold and the Godolfuses are shocked that Mrs Fuller wants twice what she bought it for just six weeks ago! Freda's only message was: "You're going to take it or leave it." Andy has a meal with Vera in the kitchen of Flat 7. He ponders the situation with Tracey, and tries to explain to Vera the sado-masochistic side to the troubled, now-deceased, woman with whom he had fallen in love. He would not have a problem moving into Flat 6 when the Godolfuses move to their new restaurant. "You've changed, Andy," says Vera. In the wine bar, Trixie discusses Flo's wardrobe. Maybe her ballerina costume - yards of pink tule with a muted-chutney sash - could be tarted up with some sequins? Much to Norma's surprise, Les offers to become Flo's agent. Lots of Don's fellow residents, including Norma, have noticed Don's increased drinking. She points out an enebriated Don to Dudley and wonders what is up? Don is slurring his words as he chats to Tanya, suggesting that Dud - his best friend in the world, whom Don loves... like a brother - could ask for the night off, and then he could join him, and Carol and Tanya, for a double date. In Flat 6, the Godolfuses get more bad news about a property. Aldo considers Freda to be greedy. Roma suggests that maybe God has other plans for them? Roma sees that it is all her fault. In Norma's Bar, Trixie and Flo discuss checking out the second hand stores for the old sheet music they need for the act. Norma and Dudley are setting up for the dinner rush when Norma realises that Les is not helping. Also, that Don is still there, and still drinking - and is he also crying? In the deli, Arnold makes another attempt to haggle with Mr Mayhew. Arnold has heard that Freda's millinery store in Parramatta, Le Chaperon Rouge, went into receivership some ten days ago. Surely when potential buyers for the deli hear about this, plus the unpaid grocery wholesalers' bills, Freda will be lucky to sell the deli at all? Arnold suggests that the asking price should be exactly what Freda bought the store for: cash in hand. He and Mr Mayhew shake on the deal. Dudley chats with Vera in Flat 7. If Don goes out in a group, at least Dudley can keep an eye out for him. Vera wonders if Don's dizzy spells are still happening? Champagne flows in Flat 6 as the Godolfuses celebrate the purchase of the deli! Arnold is made an equal partner again. (He already has some exciting ideas for new rosters and Independant Activity periods.) Andy arrives at the front door and is invited in. He hears the good news about the deli. Andy then horrifies Arnold with an unsettling request: now that Aldo and Roma are moving back into Flat 2, he wants to return to living in Flat 6. At The Red Baron, Don, Tanya, Carol and Dudley are about to order dinner. Tanya thinks that the restaurant setting is "quite decadent", but Carol believes the term she is looking for is... "great fun". Don is feeling on top of the world and asks Tanya to dance, leaving Carol and Dudley alone at the table. Carol is reluctant to say what she knows. She swears Dudley to secrecy. According to what she was able to glean from Don's doctor, her brother only has six months to live! [Episode written by Michael Lawrence; directed by Brian Phillis.]

This episode was broadcast in colour. Trixie O'Toole's "Ermintrude" costume from Episode #686 makes another appearance. Actress Margaret Dumont (who played stuffy rich widows in seven "Marx Brothers" movies) is namedropped, as a hint of what is in store for Anne Florentine? In 1965, "RSL" stood for "Returned Services League" but, in 1990, it became "Returned & Services League". Trixie and Flo Patterson rehearse "Let's Do It (Let's Fall in Love)" from the 1928 musical, "Paris". That song, and "My Melancholy Baby" (1912), were both popularised by Ella Fitzgerald. "Le Chaperon Rouge" is French for "Red Riding Hood". Henri Szeps finally receives an onscreen credit as Mr Mayhew. Henri returns as a new recurring character, Phillip Chambers, from Episode #937-938, and then portrays Solly Goldman in Episodes #1147-1148.

689. (7/02) In Flat 5, Marilyn approaches Michael about his father, Tom, and the letters that have been sent back to New Zealand, marked Address Unknown. Michael claims to not understand what the problem is. Marilyn wonders if Mummy has been sending the letters back? Edie is very confused. Reg emerges from the main bedroom. He is still worried that Trixie is leading the TC astray. Meanwhile, Trixie is trying to eject the amorous TC from Flat 7. Once he has gone, Trixie invites Vera to accompany her to a club tonight, but Vera claims to be tired from her new dresssmaking business. Don, Carol and Dudley arrive home to Flat 4 from their night out. They are all feeling very sentimental, especially Don. He wonders how much Amanda would have enjoyed meeting Tanya? He almost breaks down telling them how much they are loved. Don makes them promise not to go to bed yet as he knows there are several bottles of champagne which Amanda left. Alone in the kitchen, Don tries in vain to pop the cork and sheds many tears. Next morning, the Murphy Bed has arrived at Flat 1, but is it for Norma or for Anne to use? Les reminds Norma that Mrs Florentine is a very sick woman, according to 1001 Ailments. Her loss of appetite, for example. Norma goes into bedroom, only to find her mother munching on a sandwich - and looking guilty. Norma orders her to be up and dressed immediately. A loud noise gets her back out to the loungeroom, where she finds Les trapped underneath the Murphy Bed. Vera finds the bathroom door of Flat 7 shut, so she bangs on it, and calls Trixie by name. No answer. Inside, she finds a near-naked, young unicyclist at the mirror, balancing while shaving. When Vera asks what he is doing there, he simply says, "Practising!" Bewildered and angry, Vera storms into Trixie's room, only to see a second near-naked man - and his unicycle! - in a makeshift bed. Trixie sits up in her own bed, sleepily. Vera is outraged: "I don't even know if these children are over the age of consent!" The first young man unicycles back into the room. Daddy has prepared his briefcase in Flat 5 and is about to head off for the TH. He tells Edie that he is worried about getting the TC to focus on the important issue of drainage, not Trixie. Edie wants to discuss Marilyn and Michael's marital difficulties, but he is leaving that issue in her hands. In the Bartletts' bedroom, Marilyn and Michael are snuggling. They are so besotted with each other, they may stay there all day. "No, all year!" Meanwhile, Edie finds a copy of Femme magazine on the floor near Marilyn's room. She sits down to read an article entitled, 23 Ways to Satisfy Your Husband With a Cauliflower. In Flat 4, Dudley realises that they have all overslept after their big night out. Dud puts on his robe but Don is feeling tired and plans to stay put for a while. Dudley visits Carol in her bedroom. She hasn't slept, but thought about Don all night. Carol is not sure she can keep pretending that all is well. All the tests have led the specialist to think that Don's condition is hopeless. She sobs on Dud's shoulder. Dudley suggests that they contact Amanda in Heidelberg. She'll be the best one to help him. Dud can't think of a single wisecrack or movie title to lighten their moods. In the loungeroom of Flat 7, Vera gives an impassioned speech about Trixie taking her for granted and bringing men home - but Trixie is in the kitchen. Vera is only rehearsing! Trixie comes in with a peace offering of morning tea and a plate of cakes (including lamingtons, a jam donut and a vanilla slice). Trixie explains that she was only being kindhearted when she offered the young twins "a place to kip down" for the night. She's known the performers since they were little kids, they haven't had any bookings, and they hadn't eaten in three days! Trixie hopes that Vera doesn't mind that she fed them the filet steak from the fridge. (It was supposed to be for Andy's lunch!) Setting up for lunch in the wine bar, Norma is in a foul mood. Her mother is "a big faker" and Norma is tired of all the emotional manipulations. First, Anne was pretending to be sick but now she tries the old "No one wants a silly, old woman hanging about..." shtick. (First Patrick and his horrid new partner - and now Norma doesn't want her around either.) Anne apologises, but Les is confused by Norma's tears as Anne goes back into the flat. In Flat 5, Edie is sniffing the aerosol cans that she ordered to help the Bartlett's marriage: Tasty Bod - an aero sex spray, which comes in eight different flavours! She bought all eight. Just then, Reg arrives with the TC and Trixie in tow. The TC has invited them all to lunch in Norma's Bar. The TC is very excited by the Tasty Bod and begins spraying the cans on Trixie. Trixie is unimpressed. "Don't spray that on me; I feel like an armpit!" Andy visits Vera in Flat 7 and, over a lunch that replaces the filet steak ("It met with an accident") Andy tells her that he will be moving back into Flat 6. Vera had not heard about the Godolfuses buying the deli back. Although she is glad about that news, she is less than impressed about his apparent haste to move into the flat where Patti and Tracey died. She finds it rather ghoulish. Andy doesn't see a problem and defends himself as a newspaperman. In Flat 1, Les demonstrates the new Murphy Bed to Mrs Florentine. She doesn't think that it looks very safe. Les gets her to lie down on the bed and it springs back up with her in it, now upside down. Norma interrupts the demonstration. "Where's Mum?" Norma asks. Les replies, "Oh, she's got her feet up. Resting." Soon after her rescue, Anne ends up inside the Murphy Bed cabinet for a second time. At a table in Norma's Bar, Trixie continues to fight off the attentions of the TC, but she may have succeeded in getting Reg considered for an important promotion. Carol tries to convince Don to take a break in Heidelberg, visiting their Aunt Amanda. Dudley agrees that it is a good idea. Just like being in The Student Prince! Don is reluctant; all of his friends are here at Number 96. In Flat 7, Vera tries to warn Andy that he's changed. Before the murders, he was sweet, warm, gentle and likable. Andy doesn't hold back; he doesn't care what she thinks. It's none of her business. Marilyn rings Lucy from Flat 5 to say that she will be running late for her laundrette shift. She has to wait for Michael. When he walks in, Marilyn's accusations silence him: a phone call from his father in New Zealand has revealed the existence of Michael's secret wife. She gave birth to his child last week - and now she's after him for maintenance! [Episode written by Michael Lawrence; directed by Brian Phillis.]

The "Murphy Bed" is named for William Lawrence Murphy (1876–1959), who was the first to apply for a US patent on the system around 1900. One was featured in Charlie Chaplin's "One AM" (1916) and a store in Vancouver, Canada, once remarked in an advertisement: "Gone are the days of Laurel and Hardy where the beds were portrayed as a fold-away trap for your worst enemies." A 1941 Marx Brothers movie, "The Big Store", featured Margaret Dumont as a stuffy, rich widow - and a variety of "Murphy Bed" styles. A draft script for what became their movie "Go West" (1940) had a similar character, named Mrs Ernestine Van Allstyne (an inspiration for Mrs Anne Florentine?), and a "Murphy Bed" running gag. "The Student Prince" was released in 1954. Its theme is "giving up personal happiness for duty". Episode #689 was later showcased in Foxtel/Austar TV1's "Television's Greatest Hits: The Best of Number 96" (2000), introduced by Andrew Mercado.

690. (10/02) Marilyn wants the truth out of Michael. He still claims it to be "a communication breakdown" with Tom, who is desperate to get him back home to New Zealand and married off to this very wealthy girl. What about the claim that Fiona is already his wife? And with a new baby? Michael says that Fiona is unlikely to be pregnant because she is not that sort of girl. Marilyn is willing to believe Michael. How could Mr Bartlett be so vindictive? Michael and Fiona have no chemistry, but he does with Marilyn. She is relieved! In Norma's Bar, Reg returns from escorting the TC to his car. Reg announces to Edie that he believes the TC will be promoting him. "ADTC to the TC at the TH!" Reg believes that this new position will enable him the opportunity to give Marilyn and Michael a belated wedding gift. He will put their name on the list for a Housing Commission flat. Edie doesn't seem all the elated; Daddy is organising the children's opportunity to leave Number 96! Reg reminds her that the list for available flats is quite lengthy. Dorrie has a shock for Flo. Now that Flo has a regular income from working for Trixie as a pianist, Dorrie plans to increase her rent by $20 so that Dorrie can afford to pay for the damage she caused to Norma's Bar ($250) and Alf's taxi ($500). As if on cue, Alf turns up at the front door to, again, demand the money he is owed. Does Alf not have any of "the milk of human kindness" flowing through his veins? Dorrie was driving without a licence - and learning to drive without a Learner's Permit! Alf is off to the police. In the deli, Roma is in a panic. The removalists are returning her "beautiful treasures", but handling them roughly. She calls Aldo into the parlour of Flat 2. Tanya is thrilled that Freda Fuller has finally gone from their lives. Arnold tries to remind his three work colleagues of their responsibilities according to his new roster. Marilyn is impatient with Lucy in the laundrette. Lucy knows that Tom is not a liar. Marilyn accuses Lucy - and all oldies - of being jealous of young people who are happy and in love. In Flat 5, Edie is wearing a black negligee and spraying herself with Tasty Bod. Reg has the afternoon off work so Edie plans to seduce him. Reg is offended by her thinking she was his "tasty morsel" and wanders off. Dorrie comes to the laundrette to plead with Lucy about Alf's demand for payment. Lucy reminds Dorrie that Alf was swindled out of his lottery win. She decides to lend Dorrie the $500, as a cheque made out to cash, to pay for the damage to the taxi. Alf must never find out about the loan. Big changes are planned for the deli. The Godolfuses plan to modernise and Americanise the whole shop! Aldo and Roma fill in Arnold of their plans. A soda fountain? A cosmetic counter for beauty products? A door thing that goes "ping pong"? A closed-circuit TV monitor? Tanya approves but Arnold is shocked! Reg informs Dorrie that she has been successful in gaining the position of TL (tea lady) at the TH. The Godolfuses and Arnold realise that Tanya may lose her job. The deli can't support more than three shop assistants. They bicker about who will tell her the grim news. Dorrie makes Herb watch her count out $500 in cash, then chases after Reg as he climbs the staircase. At first, Reg misinterprets her attempt to ask about the tea lady position as already knowing of his family's latest scandal. She continues up the stairs to present Alf with his money. Marilyn hands in her notice at the laundrette because the Sutcliffes refuse to believe Michael over Tom. In Flat 3, Dorrie decides that she will elevate her position. She will be the TH (tea hostess) to the TC at the TH. She gives Herb a preview of her tea-making skills but forgets to put tea in the teapot, much to Herb's amusement. Her shift ending for the day, Tanya tells Arnold, Aldo and Roma how much she enjoys working for them in the deli. In Flat 5, Reg's plan to surprise the newlyweds has been met with a surprising revelation. Edie is excited about the Housing Commission gift. Reg had to contact the Registrar for details for the application form. To everyone's horror, Daddy already knows that Michael and Marilyn are not married! [Episode written by Stan Mars; directed by Peter Benardos.]

This episode was broadcast in colour. Earlier that evening, another Cash Harmon Production, "The Unisexers", took up its early evening weeknight timeslot on the Nine Network. The series concerned a group of young people living commune-style, and manufacturing a range of designer denim jeans. The pilot (double-length) episode was taped at the end of 1974, not long after the character of Lorelei Wilkinson (Josephine Knur) had been written out of "Number 96" during the Pantyhose Strangler storyline. The pilot had premiered on the Sunday night at 7.30pm. The series featured Josephine Knur and other "Number 96" alumni, including John Paramor (a Pantyhose Strangler suspect), Patrick Ward and Delore Whiteman, with guests Max Cullen, Toni Lamond, Brian Moll and Colin Taylor. David Phillips would move into the writing team on "Number 96" when "The Unisexers" came to its abrupt end. Scott Lambert, Redmond Phillips and Camilla Rountree would also join the cast of Number 96. The series ran for only three weeks and then vanished.

691. (11/02) Marilyn and Michael's resolve weakens and they decide to get married for real to keep everyone happy. Everyone is staggered when Dorrie produces the $500 so quickly. Norma warns Les that he will have to pay for the wine bar damage since they cannot claim on the insurance without informing the police. The TC proposes marriage to Trixie. Alf threatens Chiller with physical violence if he doesn't produce Alf's share of the lottery money. Trixie tells the Whittakers about the TC's marriage proposal. This gives Les an idea: he attempts to matchmake Norma's mother, Anne, with the TC. Edie has a wedding to plan, but Reg forbids Marilyn and Michael from sleeping together until they are wed. The TC comes to Flat 1 looking for Trixie. While he is there, Les puts in a good word for Mrs Florentine. Anne emerges from the bedroom and is introduced to the TC. The sausage machine causes trouble again and spurts out an enormous sausage that flies between them. Trixie and the MacDonalds head down to Norma's Bar to celebrate Reg's promotion. Les's matchmaking is a disaster. The TC has decided that Anne would make the perfect lady companion for his mother, Mrs Buchanan. Now he is free to marry Trixie! Michael and Marilyn decide to skip the ceremony and elope instead. Alf has a surprise when Chiller's wife, Mrs Thomas (Kitty Greenwood), brings him a cheque for $12,000: his fair share of the lottery winnings. [Episode written by Stan Mars; directed by Peter Benardos.]

692. (12/02) Dudley notices Don filling up on sweets. He is concerned because Don has never had a sweet tooth before. Carol tells Dudley not to worry because Doctor Langton has recommended that Don change to a high-calorie diet is of concern; it's doctor's orders! Anne rejects the idea of becoming a lady companion for Mrs Buchanan. She would rather stay in Flat 1 and look after Norma. Flo goes down to the wine bar ready to play the piano for the Flo Patterson Happy Hour. Vera drops into Flat 4 to visit with Don, desperate to escape Trixie and her rowdy friends upstairs. Tanya overhears the Godolfuses and Arnold discussing who should be the one to fire her. Anne tries to make herself useful in the wine bar but gets in everyone's way, including the customers. There are more strange visitors to perplex Vera. She returns to Flat 7 after Trixie's party, only to find a drunk guest in the bathtub holding a trombone in his hand. Andy has a solution for the dilemma which has embroiled Tanya; he offers her a job as his secretary. Dudley and Carol plan to contact Amanda about Don's condition. [Episode written by Stan Mars; directed by Peter Benardos.]

693. (13/02) Dorrie has plans for the Town Hall. Lucy threatens Alf, while Marilyn suffers a shock. [Episode written by Stan Mars; directed by Peter Benardos.]

694. (14/02) Trouble is looming over Number 96. Amanda (Carol Raye) learns about Don's problem in a phone call with Dudley and Carol, while Trixie decides to put Vera's plan into operation. [Episode written by Stan Mars; directed by Peter Benardos.]

Carol Raye returns as the Baroness Amanda Von Pappenburg in two cameo phone calls from Heidelberg. Carol had been working as Casting Director for Cash Harmon since her two stints on the series (from Episode #383, and from Episode #536). On the 2010 DVD, "Number 96: Aftermath of Murder", Episode #694 included a commentary with Carol Raye and TV historian, Andrew Mercado.

695. (17/02) Dorrie requires help from Don. Vera learns the truth. The tenants get ready for battle. [Episode written by Peter Thorburn; directed by Brian Phillis.]

696. (18/02) Reg is in deep trouble, while Aldo and Roma have a surprise visit. Andy is out on a limb. [Episode written by Rosamund Waring; directed by Brian Phillis.]

This episode was broadcast in colour.

697. (19/02) A long-forgotten talent is recalled by Edie. Trouble pursues Dorrie as Trixie interferes. [Episode written by Rosamund Waring; directed by Brian Phillis.]

698. (20/02) Maggie Cameron has a shock for Don, but saves an angry tirade for Andy. Dolores Hackenback (Del Harmon), a brash American Oomph! sales consultant, helps Roma set up a cosmetics section in the deli. [Episode written by Eleanor Witcombe; directed by Brian Phillis.]

This episode was broadcast in colour, the last in a series of prime time equipment tests before the official launch of colour in Australia. Sharp-eyed viewers might have spotted Pat McDonald's 1974 "TV Week" Gold Logie Award (for Most Popular Female Personality in Australia) sitting on a shelf behind Dorrie Evans.

699. (21/02) Roma's latest career venture has repercussions. Lucy is unhappy while Maggie shows a side of her character which is rarely seen. [Episode written by Eleanor Witcombe; directed by Brian Phillis.]

700. (24/02) Andy is furious. Dudley and Carol find it difficult to hide their unhappiness. [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Peter Benardos.]

701. (25/02) Arnold's patience runs out. A letter from an old friend arrives for Vera. [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Peter Benardos.]

702. (26/02) Dorrie has a new scheme, but Arnold refuses to take part in it. Miss Gloria Featherstone (Di Davidson) turns up to give Edie a dancing lesson, but she has forgotten her glasses. Maggie has a surprise for everyone. [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Peter Benardos.]

703. (27/02) Trixie is left with some explaining to do. She and Flo have brought home a young muso, Adam Shaw (Julian Rockett) - and Vera finds him sleeping on her couch. Reg shocks Edie with news of a move. Investigating a strange noise, Vera finds a hypodermic needle in her bathroom sink - and a naked "Curly Meat" Jackson (Wayne Pickard), sitting crosslegged on her kitchen table, drumming with knives. [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Peter Benardos.]

704. (28/02) Maggie has a warning for Andy. Carol and Dudley are caught in a compromising situation. [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Peter Benardos.]

This was the last "Number 96" episode transmitted in monochrome. (Earlier that night, the Nine Network aired The Unisexers for the last time.) Just before midnight on the last day of February 1975, Channel Ten broadcast a short b/w scene from the Number 96 set to celebrate Australia's official switch-over to regular colour broadcasts, known as "C-Day" (1st March 1975). Featuring Chard Hayward as movie buff Dudley Butterfield, the television set in his flat at "Number 96" is turned on so that Dudley can share his love for the 1960 motion picture, "Can-Can" (starring Frank Sinatra, Shirley MacLaine, Maurice Chevalier and Louis Jourdan). The image on the TV screen appears in full colour. This segment was the brainchild of "Number 96" director, Brian Phillis.

Over on the ABC, a five-minute "Aunty Jack Show" reunion segment was played. Starring Grahame Bond (with Rory O'Donoghue as Thin Arthur and Garry McDonald as Kid Eager), colour starts creeping into the picture, slowly saturating the characters in colour. Legend has it that "Aunty Jack Introduces Colour" went to air three minutes early, on purpose. But as TEN-10 "cheated" that night, too, with its Dudley skit. Network Ten was able to promote itself as "First in Color" (sic) in its station identification ads.

705. (3/03) Alf and Les have formulated a plan to get rid of Andy. Meanwhile, Tanya and Andy are still awaiting the arrival of Clark Harvey. Andy believes that Clark has plans to kill Tanya and keep the ransom money for hmself. To spite Arnold, Aldo urges Roma to go ahead with her plans for an Oomph! cosmetics bar. When Arnold tries to explain that Reg, through his position at the Paddington Council, has the power to stop the deli from selling Oomph!, a bitter and frustrated Roma announces that she is no longer talking to Arnold - ever again! Lucy is feeling quite unwell. Marilyn loses her temper. Vera has another premonition. Tanya shows Vera the unedited copies of Andy's newspaper articles, which do not exaggerate the facts about the Pantyhose Murders. Has Vera been too hard on him? Lucy announces to Vera that she is pregnant. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Brian Phillis.]

From the official introduction of colour broadcasting on 1st March, all new "Number 96" episodes now air in colour.

706. (4/03) Adam moves back into Flat 7 as a boarder. Norma determines to investigate the new rival restaurant, The Grapevine in Paradise Street. It seems Trixie has invited many of the residents to join her table for its opening night. Maggie announces to Adam that she is taking over management of his career. Roma and Arnold stubbornly refuse to resolve their differences. She refuses to speak to him and gives him an ultimatum: either he goes or she does. Aldo seems oblivious; he is more concerned about his new "joke box". Not long after its arrival, the juke box gets stuck playing Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy at top volume. Arnold demands that the juke box be removed because the deli does not have an entertainment licence. Now both Aldo and Roma give him the cold shoulder treatment. Maggie storms into Flat 7 to take Adam on a shopping spree. Flo delivers the mail to the deli and Arnold learns that he has been accepted as a member of the exclusive Meadowvale Golf Club. Aldo is disappointed with his letter; his own application to the club has been rejected. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Brian Phillis.]

707. (5/03) Les's latest scheme, known as Operation: Andy Scare, involves "simulated psychic phenomena", so he has acquired a life-sized skeleton. This does not impress Norma. Reg informs Edie that their new, four-bedroom, brick veneer house features "a concrete garden for all of her gnomes". Edie is enthused. Lucy's news - that she is expecting a change-of-life baby - is a source of horror for Alf. Dorrie increases Flo's rent to $12. Alf has a change of heart and is now boasting about his forthcoming fatherhood. Trixie attempts to give Edie moral support over the upcoming Blacktown move and urges her to stay firm with Reg. Lucy is not jubilant about the thought of a new baby. Reg announces to Edie that their son, Dean, will be moving from Adelaide to the Blacktown house and now Edie is no longer concerned about leaving Number 96. Dorrie tries to warn Adam about accepting Maggie's generosity. A persuasive Alf coaxes Lucy to look forward to having the baby. Reg and Edie receive news from the hospital that Marilyn has been in an accident with her motorcycle. Dorrie discovers that the $640 that was in the rent box has been stolen. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Brian Phillis.]

708. (6/03) Aldo still won't part with his juke box and the Godolfuses refuse to communicate with Arnold. The fact that Dean will be coming home does not enthuse Marilyn about the family's move to Blacktown. Andy suspects that Clark has ditched Tanya and "shot through" with the half million dollars. Adam is concerned about Maggie showering him with gifts and intruding into his life. Vera tells him that Maggie only wants his body. Marilyn tells a visiting Arnold that her accident occurred when she was "being pursued by a lesbian". Arnold puts her straight about the actual meaning of the term. Carol tells Dudley that they have both been offered management jobs at The Grapevine. Reg intends to report the deli's juke box to the Paddington Council, as it contravenes regulations. Aldo ejects him from the shop. An angry Arnold slams his hand against the juke box and it goes up in smoke. Aldo is furious. Now that Vera has read Andy's original articles, they are back on good terms. Maggie is unhappy with Adam's attitude and takes out her temper on Dudley, accusing him of a lack of variety in the wine bar's food menu. She storms up to Flat 7 and picks a spat with Vera, who tells Maggie that she is "too old" for Adam. Aldo's juke box is taken away on a truck. Dudley casually reveals that Aldo's Meadowvale Golf Club membership would have been refused because Aldo is Jewish. Tanya makes a grave mistake: Clark Harvey (Brandon Smith) has arrived at last, and surprises her in Andy's flat. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Brian Phillis.]

709. (7/03) Tanya has a surprise. Clark explains that the half million dollars is safely deposited in a Zurich bank account. Dorrie is distraught about the stolen rent money and blames poor Herb. Flo suspects that the money was stolen by Adam. Andy tells Clark and Tanya that they have 48 hours to leave the country before he puts their story into print. He then relents and extends their deadline to seven days, but refuses the offer of a bribe. Dudley is agitated by Norma's comments to him in the bar. Carol is distressed by some news: Don's Aunt Amanda phones from Heidelberg to tell her and Dudley that she is taking the ailing Don to a faith healer. Les has created a "fright tape" with his tape recorder and manages to terrify Norma with his prop skeleton. Dorrie thinks that Herb took the rent money while sleepwalking. Clark and Tanya depart Flat 6 to flee the country. Operation: Andy Scare progresses to its next stage, with Les preparing a Halloween pumpkin, which he intends to lower on a rope to Andy's window. An exasperated Norma decides to escape the drama by accepting an invitation to the Hunter Valley for a wine festival. She commiserates with Lucy about their deluded husbands and Lucy expresses her concern about the pregnancy. Returning to Flat 8, Lucy manages to interrupt Alf and Les with their secret pumpkin project. Instead of scaring Andy as intended, it plummets past Flat 6 and Flat 4, and lands on an unsuspecting Dorrie as she emerges from the deli. Dudley breaks the thrilling news about his and Carol's successful appointments to the management team of The Grapevine, which comes with a double flat above the restaurant. Carol is excited. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Brian Phillis.]

The 17th Annual "TV Week" Logie Awards were presented on this night at the Southern Cross Hotel in Melbourne and broadcast on the Nine Network. Number 96 won Best Australian Drama. Bunney Brooke won Best Australian Actress.

710. (10/03) Dorrie is still moaning about the traumatic pumpkin incident and Flo makes matters worse by serving her pumpkin pie for tea. Les is back from seeing Norma off to the wine festival and expresses his gratitude that Dudley and Carol will look after the wine bar in Norma's absence. Now Dudley and Carol have an important decision to make, and they feel guilty about accepting their new jobs. Arnold expresses his views about the anti-Semitism at Meadowvale Golf Club and is determined to fight for Aldo. Maggie is furious to learn that Norma is away, especially during the threat of competition from the rival restaurant. Flo again expresses her concern to Dorrie and Herb that Adam stole the missing rent money. Arnold corners Andy about the golf club's biases and Andy reveals that Tanya has left the country. The Sutcliffes discuss the pregnancy and Arnold overhears. Dorrie tells Andy she intends to sue Andy over the pumpkin that was intended for him. Les present Aldo with his concept for a self-propelled golf buggy. Flo warns Alf that having a baby can be dangerous for a woman of Lucy's age. At the laundrette, Dorrie and Roma discuss Lucy's pregnancy and, when Dorrie claims it is "disgusting", Roma tells her off. Maggie is back in Norma's Bar to sample the current lunch menu, and compare it with The Grapevine's. Her attitude upsets Carol and Dudley, making them even more determined to take up their new positions. Aldo is ready to play golf and Arnold is disturbed because Aldo is not rostered off for an "independent activity". Announcing that nothing will stop him from playing golf today, Aldo storms out onto the street - just as it starts raining! Dorrie and Herb are again searching for the missing rent money, just as Maggie arrives to collect it from them. [Episode written by David Sale; directed by Peter Benardos.]

711. (11/03) Dorrie and Herb arouse the wrath of Maggie. She is extremely rude to them and an angry Herb tells her to leave. Vera tells Trixie that she has had enough of Adam and that it is time for him to leave. She wants him out in the next few days. Meanwhile, in the deli, Marilyn has a proposition for Adam: he can move into Flat 5 with her when her parents move back to Blacktown! Trixie and Flo decide that Flo must give up her Happy Hour gig at the wine bar so she can devote more time to her club work. Maggie tells Reg that he must pay three months rent, or find someone to take over his lease, if he wants to move to Blacktown. Flo tells Vera about her suspicion regarding Adam and the missing money. Trixie catches Vera searching through Adam's belongings. Maggie declares that Marilyn is "too young" to take over the lease on Flat 5. Dorrie and Herb decide to tell Maggie that they no longer want the responsibilty of collecting the tenants' rent. Vera confronts Adam about the missing money and the expensive watch she found in his suitcase. [Episode written by David Sale; directed by Peter Benardos.]

712. (12/03) Vera's suggestion proves a shock for Adam. He explains that Maggie sent him the watch, which he doesn't want, and intends to return. He shows her the wrapped parcel, already addressed to Maggie. Vera tells him that Dorrie and Herb still suspect him of stealing money. Carol tries to pressure Dudley into telling Les about their intentions to leave. Tanya and Clark are in a motel room, and a worried Tanya is keen to leave Australia as soon as possible. Dudley breaks the news to Les, but promises that he and Carol will stay on until Norma returns home. Arnold tries to prepare breakfast for Lucy, but burns it during their argument about the baby. Confusion reigns for Carol and Dudley. Carol realises that accepting the jobs - and the accompanying one-bedroom apartment - means accepting that they will be living as a couple. She urges Dudley not to mention any of this to Don in his letters. Adam returns from the post office, having sent off the watch, and Vera tells him that he can stay on in the flat. A desolate Les learns of Flo leaving her Happy Hour job and dreads Norma's return, with everyone abandoning the wine bar. Tanya is alone in the motel room when Clark returns with two international airline tickets. Les plans to replace Flo with a one-man band. Adam realises that Curly Meat Jackson was the likely culprit to have stolen the rent money from Flat 3. Arnold brings cake to Lucy, an effort to make up for ruining her breakfast. Andy is on the phone to the newspaper when Clark bursts in, pointing a gun at him. [Episode written by David Sale; directed by Peter Benardos.]

This episode was the cliffhanger ending to the 32 consecutive colour episodes (#681-712) released on DVD in 2010, "Number 96: Aftermath of Murder" (Volume 2), by Umbrella Entertainment Australia.

713. (13/03) Clark is about to shoot Andy when Tanya enters and knocks the gun out of Clark's hand. Reg arrives home to find Edie knitting baby's booties. Despite a convoluted discussion, a confused Reg concludes that Edie must be pregnant. Andy agrees to tear up his story about the fake kidnapping if Tanya and Clark leave the country tonight. Tanya has a surprise for Andy: she doesn't want to leave after all. She pleads with Andy to let her stay. Alf wants Lucy to have her pregnancy terminated and Lucy is confused. She is now determined to have the baby, no matter the risks. Andy returns from delivering Clark to the airport and urges Tanya to return to the USA and tell her parents about the phony kidnap plot. Marilyn decides to ask Arnold to move in with her and Adam when her parents move to Blacktown. Roma convinces Alf that Lucy will be safe in the care of a good doctor. Marilyn is back from a motorbike ride to inspect the Blacktown house. She tells Edie how awful it is. Tanya is ready to leave for the airport and asks if Andy will be be here when she returns. He tells her not to return because he won't be waiting. Lucy comes into the deli looking for Alf. A postman enters with the mail, which includes a letter for Arnold. Written in Patti's handwriting, the envelope is also scented with her distinctive perfume! [Episode written by David Sale; directed by Peter Benardos.]

714. (14/03) It is a sad day, as Flo's piano is removed from the wine bar. Dorrie comes in to inform Les that she will be suing him over the pumpkin incident. Adam returns from visiting Curly Meat Jackson. As Adam suspected, he was the culprit, but the $640 was all spent on heroin. Dudley is furious with Maggie, who has summoned him and Carol into her office to discuss The Grapevine matters. A special appointment awaits Dorrie and Flo; they try to be prepared to confront Maggie about the collection of rents. Les is practising his skills as a one-man band and, when Herb tries to help, Les manages to crash the cymbals around his head. Herb is left feeling dazed and confused. Maggie decides to put forward the $640 shortfall herself but insists that Dorrie continue to collect the rents. Maggie is interrupted by a phone call. It is Vera inviting her over for drinks that afternoon. Maggie accepts. In Flat 7, Vera, Trixie and Adam tell Maggie the truth about the missing money. Les is again unsuccessful in convincing Dudley and Carol to stay on. Adam and Marilyn are at the laundrette, discussing their plans to take on the lease of Flat 5. The phone rings. It is Patti, wanting to leave a message for her husband, Arnold. Marilyn is very distressed. Dorrie, Herb and Flo are preparing for bed after their late-night cocoa. The phone rings. It is Flo's daughter, Raylene, with good news: she and Tyrone are expecting a baby. [Episode written by David Sale; directed by Peter Benardos.]

Maggie Cameron's receptionist, Angela, is namedropped in this episode.

715. (17/03) Alf and Lucy are still concerned about the mysterious letter, seemingly written by the late Patti, claiming she was on a shift at the hospital. Marilyn tells them about the impossible phone message she received from Patti. Everyone is concerned about how these incidents are effecting Arnold. His work is not up to its usual high standard, and he is even forgetting regular customers' names. Norma returns to utter chaos. Maggie collides with Andy in the street and threatens that she will throw him and Tanya out of Number 96. Carol and Dudley are feeling guilty about leaving the wine bar, but Norma is more understanding after realising that it was Maggie who caused most of the unrest. Maggie intends to prevent Marilyn and Adam from occupying Flat 5. Carol and Dudley become more involved on an intimate basis. Les is still dead against Andy and his sensationalised articles, but Norma wants to bury the hatchet. Arnold shares the headline of the evening newspaper: "MISSING AMERICAN HEIRESS RETURNS HOME". Reading the article in the wine bar, everyone learns the truth about Tanya's real identity. They conclude that Andy is the kidnapper. [Episode written by Susan Swinford; directed by Brian Phillis.]

716. (18/03) Flo has become a grandmother! Dorrie nags Flo about how tired and haggard she is looking. Reg informs Dorrie of his family's intention to leave Number 96 for the Blacktown house and offers her a commission to locate a new tenant. Marilyn and Reg are at loggerheads. Dorrie tells Maggie of her arrangement with Reg and Maggie surprises her by proposing that Dorrie could make some money on the side. Trixie is concerned about Flo because her performances at the club are no longer up to scratch. Adam is concerned about Maggie's attitude and intends to return the expensive suit she bought him. Maggie's proposition to Dorrie gets her thinking; she brokers a deal with Trixie to take over the lease of Flat 5. Trixie immediately asks Adam to join her. Arnold is heartbroken after a phone call from Mrs Olsen, Patti's mother. She needs to discuss condolence replies from the funeral with him, and her overall loneliness. Adam returns the suit to Maggie and she is enraged, accusing him of sponging off Vera. Trixie tells Marilyn about the lease and decides to invite her to stay on in the flat with her and Adam. At this stage, Reg is still none the wiser. In Flat 7, Adam's temper explodes and he informs Vera that he is "a man, not a little boy." [Episode written by Susan Swinford; directed by Brian Phillis.]

Susan Swinford returns to reprise her role as the late Patti Feather's bereaved mother, Mrs Olsen. She is also the writer of this story arc.

717. (19/03) Alf and Les continue to try to scare Andy with the skeleton. Adam is terribly upset about Vera treating him like a child. Adam has an apology for Vera, but she is even more concerned than before. Marilyn tells Reg about the forthcoming arrangements for Flat 5, including that Trixie has taken over the lease. Flo's health continues to deteriorate, traipsing around after Trixie on her club circuit. Edie receives a call from Dean announcing his change of plans. He won't be returning to Sydney after all. Edie's enthusiasm is depleted and Reg cannot convince her that moving to Blacktown is for the best. Carol and Dudley tell Norma that they will stay on at the wine bar. Norma is ecstatic. In an attempt to dangle the skeleton outside Andy's window, Alf and Les manage to drop it onto Dorrie. Andy seeks Norma's assistance. While making their escape, Les and Alf bump into Lieutenant Swanson (Stuart Finch), an inspector with the CIB (Commonwealth Investigation Branch). He is looking for Andy. [Episode written by Michael Lawrence; directed by Brian Phillis.]

Stuart Finch portrays Lieutenant Swanson. He returns in Episode #718. Previously he played Tim Grose, a porno film creator, appearing from Episode #311 Stuart would return as the recurring character, Ian Chester, from Episode #929, and a ute driver in Episode #1086. Dean MacDonald is namedropped in this episode, with Edie chatting to him on the phone about his new girlfriend in Adelaide. That girlfriend will move to Sydney and appear regularly from Episode #776.

718. (20/03) Arnold is concerned about Mrs Olsen's welfare, so he organises a dinner with her, Aldo and Roma. Les's one-man band is no replacement for Flo, but he persists in rehearsing. Swanson annoys Andy with endless questions and the half a million dollars in ransom. In the deli, Swanson questions Aldo, Arnold and Roma about Rosemary Prior - and Roma has too much to say on the matter. Alf and Les have seemingly vanished, but they continue to create havoc in Andy's flat, making Andy look like a complete fool in front of Swanson. The inspector's investigations come to a stop following receipt of a cable from America. The dinner with Mrs Olsen is progressing well, until she reveals that she, too, has been receiving nasty phonecalls from someone impersonating Patti. [Episode written by Michael Lawrence; directed by Brian Phillis.]

719. (21/03) Dorrie and Flo threaten to send Herb to an acupuncturist, so he ends his pretence that he has gone deaf. The night of the dinner with Mrs Olsen, a strange hoax phone call upsets Roma. Maggie throws Dorrie into a panic with the news that Dorrie will be the one furnishing the vacant flat. Dudley is accused by Maggie of being deceitful towards Don, especially considering his condition. Edie breaks down in the deli over the move to Blacktown. Aldo and Roma tell Reg but he refuses to acknowledge the gravity of the situation. Trixie and Adam bid farewell to a sad Vera, only to discover that the Macdonalds are not moving out for another week, so they return to Flat 7. Dorrie attempts to implement the scheme Maggie had suggested. Maggie visits Vera and apologises for her behaviour, and tells Adam that a music agent, Doctor Clinton Mather, wants to see him. Adam's concerto show "great promise" and "flashes of genius". Dudley and Carol receive another letter from Don. He is coming back to Number 96! [Episode written by Michael Lawrence; directed by Brian Phillis.]

720. (24/03) Arnold is on the phone to Mrs Olsen. Marilyn, Aldo and Roma discuss the nasty campaign that seems to be aimed at tormenting both Arnold and his mother-in-law. A proposed visit upsets Alf; Lucy has received a postcard from her niece, Vanessa, who plans to visit them for an extended stay very soon. Dorrie is on the phone to her daughter, Joan. Flo and Herb arrive home and Dorrie asks Flo if she can lend her $1000 to furnish the MacDonalds' flat. Edie is distraught about the impending move back to Blacktown. Her spirits are lifted, somewhat, when Marilyn enters, all dressed up for a date with Arnold at the Holiday Inn. If Vanessa comes to stay, Alf intends to move out. Dorrie tells Flo she should give up all her club jobs and start acting her age. Flo wants to know how that would help raise the money that Dorrie needs for Flat 5. Dorrie is speechless, for once. Over coffee, Arnold explains that he cannot marry Marilyn because he is Jewish. Marilyn gets very confused. Reg gives Edie some money towards essentials for the new Blacktown house. Marilyn invites Arnold up to Flat 5 for a nice Kosher lunch. Arnold tells Roma of his plan to become a Jew. Marilyn makes a terrible mess of her attempt at gefilte fish fingers. Flo has mail for Herb, who announces some great news: the bank has sent him a Bankcard, seemingly worth $1000. Aldo is thrilled by Arnold's desire to convert to Judaism. Marilyn misunderstands an offer: she will become a Jew, too, so she can marry Arnold. Arnold looks worried. [Episode written by Eleanor Witcombe; directed by Peter Benardos.]

721. (25/03) Adam and Vera return from the concert at the Sydney Opera House. Trixie and Flo decide to go out to dinner in the wine bar and give Vera and Adam some alone time. Dorrie and Herb return from a shopping spree, having spent the whole $1000 on Herb's new Bankcard. Norma is studying her wine books, preparing for the wine-tasting event she is planning. Les arrives home from his shift at the hospital with the bizarre news that Patti Feather had rung in, saying that she could not come in to work because her husband needed her. Flo points out that Bankcards must be paid back in full in 25 days. Dorrie is unconvinced. Marilyn's plans are upset by Trixie, who tries to convince her to go back to Blacktown instead of moving in with her and Adam. Just as Vera and Adam finish dinner, a phone call comes in for Adam from Clinton. He wants to see him about his concerto. Andy has a surprise: Tanya is back from the USA! He doesn't want her and tells her to get out. Marilyn announces to Edie that she is coming to Backtown after all. Edie is thrilled. Dorrie explains to Herb that she will become a grandmother after all; Joan is being "artificially incinerated". Andy is worried about Clark Harvey coming back, but Tanya says that her father had him killed. While discussing Adam's childhood, Adam declares that he wants to make good in his music career for his father's sake. Vera is confident he will succeed. [Episode written by Eleanor Witcombe; directed by Peter Benardos.]

Bankcard had been officially launched in Australia in October 1974, by then-Prime Minister Gough Whitlam.

722. (26/03) Dudley gets ready to collect Don from the airport. Dorrie, Herb and Flo argue about where the new furniture is to be stacked. Before they can come to a decision, it starts to arrive. Vera wishes Adam luck as he heads off to meet with Clinton. Tanya makes breakfast for Andy. He still wants her to leave and get her own flat, but she claims to be down to her last five cents. Reg is leaving for the T. H. and Edie attempts to sound uplifted about the move to Blacktown. As soon as he's gone, Edie breaks down in tears. As Marilyn tries to comfort her, Reg returns for a forgotten item - and overhears the truth. Carol finds herself in a dilemma; she is excited to see Don home at last, but notices that he still seems ill. Flo and Dorrie are still arguing about the new furniture. Flo locks her bedroom so Dorrie can't stack furniture in it. Adam is excited after his meeting with Clinton. It is likely his concerto will be performed at the Opera House. Carol and Dudley celebrate Don's return with champagne in the wine bar. Reg returns from work with the news that his promotion has fallen through, and they will no longer be moving to Blacktown. Vera turns to Trixie for some advice: she encourages Vera to not hold back her feelings for Adam. Dorrie hears that the MacDonalds are no longer moving away. Furthermore, the $1000 wasn't Herb's to spend; the Bankcard belonged to a Herbert Evans of Oxford Street. [Episode written by Eleanor Witcombe; directed by Peter Benardos.]

723. (27/03) Don explains to Dudley and Carol that his illness is not fatal, and is actually psychosomatic. Norma invites a journalist, Mr Leon Delgardie, to her wine-tasting. Mrs Olsen comes into the deli with a handful of letters, supposedly from Patti, that have serious implications. Aldo is insistant that Arnold has a Bar Mitzvah, but Roma thinks he is too old. Lucy is making frilly curtains for the spare room and pointing out Alf's failings, such as his appearance and his manners. There is an unexpected knock at the door; the scruffy hippy turns out to be Lucy's niece, Vanessa Harrison (Wendy Hughes). Deciding to take their new house guest downstairs to the wine bar for dinner, Lucy manages to convince Vanessa to have a shower beforehand. Norma invites Don to her wine-tasting, but Les feels it would be unwise in Don's current condition. Lucy and Alf come down to the wine bar ahead of Vanessa to break the news of her appearance. Les is concerned that Norma is swallowing the wines she is tasting, rather than spitting them out, as in proper wine etiquette. Arnold visits Patti's grave. He notices a woman in a nurse's uniform. He realises it is Mrs Olsen, wearing a wig and makeup in Patti's usual style, and speaking just like Patti. [Episode written by Eleanor Witcombe; directed by Peter Benardos.]

Wendy Hughes, who portrays Vanessa Harrison, was a cast member of the TV pilot of 1971's "The Group", as Laura Bent, but was unable to commit to that show when it went to series.

724. (28/03) Mrs Olsen is convinced that she is Patti, trying to keep her memory alive. Arnold discovers, to his dismay, that it was Mrs Olsen behind all the mysterious letters and phonecalls. Vanessa does her morning exercises and demonstrates a special trance dance to Alf - and manages to put him into an actual trance. Carol requests Dudley to act; she wants him to tell Don about their relationship. In the loungeroom of Flat 2, Arnold is trying to assist a distressed Mrs Olsen to sort reality from fiction. She has no idea as to what she had been doing. He convinces her to see a doctor. Norma is fretting that she should not have invited Leon Delgardie to the wine-tasting. Vera is confused; she asks Carol if there is anything between her and Dudley. Carol admits that there is and seeks Vera's advice. Adam interrupts with the news that he can't move into Flat 5 with Marilyn and Trixie because the MacDonalds are no longer moving to Blacktown. Vanessa explains to everyone how she had to throw a bucket of water over Alf to break him out of his trance. Norma is still tasting wines in Flat 1. Les comes in to tell her that the guests have arrived and she passes out. Les tries to host the wine-tasting but no one is listening to his descriptions of the wines. Carol tells Dudley she will move out of Number 96. Norma finally awakens and attempts to take over the disastrous wine-tasting. Vanessa is teaching all the attendees how to do the Zorba the Greek dance. Mr Delgardie is really enjoying himself. Don admits to Vera that his illness was caused through his worry that Dudley was bisexual. [Episode written by Eleanor Witcombe; directed by Peter Benardos.]

This was a Good Friday screening. Previously, special Easter programming had preempted "Number 96".

725. (31/03) Reg is irate and awaits Edie's return from Norma's wine-tasting. Edie eventually arrives home, smashed, and in the company of a young Greek Evsona dancer (Harry Michaels). Marilyn has discovered her father's secret. He gave up the Blacktown promotion because of his feelings for Edie. Vera and Adam have a row over her ignoring him at the dinner party to which Don and Marilyn had been invited. She tries to disregard her attraction to him. Arnold becomes a Jew but, instead of celebrations, Aldo is unsure about the increase in tensions. Reg and Edie decide to host a party because they are staying on at Number 96. Carol realises her situation with Dudley is becoming more hopeless and decides to move out. Adam tells Vera he loves her; Vera realises that she must tell the truth: Adam is to leave her alone. In the deli, Vanessa announces that the world is ending in three weeks. Vera visits Flat 4 and tries to convince Dudley and Carol that they must not tell Don about their affair because Don's condition will deteriorate. Reg and Edie return home with their party supplies to find their flat completely bare. [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Brian Phillis.]

Harry Michaels makes an early cameo as a Greek Evsona dancer before returning in 1976 as a regular character, the Italian Giovanni Lenzi.

726. (1/04) Edie has made a terrible mistake. Not only did she neglect to cancel the removalists, Reg discovers that the electricity has been cut off. Andy abuses Tanya for being spoilt and insincere. They have a huge argument but resolve it in the bedroom. The MacDonalds decide to go ahead with the party after all. Dorrie offers them some furniture, for a small hiring fee, of course. The main topic at the party is Vanessa and her predictions about the forthcoming end of the world. Tanya must adjust to poverty, but she finds it difficult; perhaps the time has come for her to make a confession? The first of Vanessa' predictions - a thunderstorm - comes true. Dorrie and Herb go to the pictures, and arrive home to find Flo collapsed on the floor. [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Brian Phillis.]

The official Cash Harmon synopsis says that Tanya and Andy "'hop in the cot!!' Thought you'd get a laugh over that."

727. (2/04) Trixie again tells Vera that if she really wants Adam, she should "go get him". Dorrie attempts to persuade Flo from going on the cruise with Trixie. Carol tells Don she has met a great fellow and is sharing a flat with him. Maggie arrives to see Don. Her brash manner is her unique way of welcoming him back. A shocked Trixie worries about Flo, who is "feeling crook". Maggie enjoys stirring Vera and Adam. There is tension in Flat 4, with Don acting subdued and Dudley being restless and uptight. In Flat 8, there is a gathering around a telescope to view a comet that Vanessa has predicted. The drama between Vera and Adam is somewhat resolved when they express their love for each other. Arnold's intensity over Judaism is driving a wedge between himself and Aldo. Adam and Vera are off to dinner to celebrate their mutual affection. On their way out, Dudley arrives to discuss Don with Vera. Once again, she warns him not to mention his situation to Don. [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Brian Phillis.]

728. (3/04) There is great excitement when everyone witnesses Vanessa's comet through the telescope. An angry Lucy is still unmoved by the predictions. Reg and Edie spend an uncomfortable night sliding around on the polythene wrappings of the borrowed furniture. Maggie is on the rampage. She intrudes on Adam and Vera's restaurant outing. Adam loses his temper and tosses his wine in Maggie's face. Dorrie finds herself in a quandary. Her niece, Georgina, rings from Coffs Harbour, wanting "Auntie Dee" to come and look after Jeff Carter, who has had a slight stroke. Because Flo is also ill, Dorrie sends Herb to Coffs Harbour instead. Trixie needs to break the news to Flo that she shouldn't come on the cruise. Vanessa asks Adam if he would like to accompany her to a concert at the Sydney Opera House and he agrees. Reg informs Edie that there is to be a further delay on the return of their posessions. They enter their flat and it is completely empty again. Dorrie has used her spare key to retrieve the borrowed furniture. [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Brian Phillis.]

729. (4/04) Norma's Bar is strangely quiet due to the opening of The Grapevine. A distraught Tanya comes in still looking for Andy, who has gone missing. Alf and Lucy are concerned about Vera's behaviour concerning Adam. Andy finally shows up, bedraggled and confused as to where he has been. Les has developed a new scheme: he is on the hunt for items to place into a time capsule. Dudley lets it slip in front of Don that he and Carol were planning to move into the flat above The Grapevine. As he attempts to cover up his slip, Maggie interrupts him. Norma is suspicious about a case of good linen hankies she has found and Les admits they were a gift from Mrs Brewster, one of his patients. Andy tells Tanya that he was on a rough assignment when he went missing. Carol and Dudley debate about telling Don their secret. The mystery deepens: Andy is surprised by a strange, attractive woman. She interrupts him and Tanya to thank Andy for a great time the other night. Maggie is sloshed - and delights in telling Don all about Dudley and Carol. [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Brian Phillis.]

730. (7/04) Carol decides that she and Dudley should wait until Don is fully recovered before telling him about their relationship. Vera loses her temper about Adam staying out all night after the concert with Vanessa. He explains that he was at Clinton's place with Sean Hilliard, who played his concerto and loved it. Lucy has a decision to make. She wants Alf to talk to Vanessa about using their flat as a hotel. Alf should also tell Vanessa to get a job. Maggie has organised for Vince Hansen, a big clothing manufacturer, to look at Vera's designs. Vera is not very interested. Aldo devises a plan with Roma: perhaps Manny Goldman would be willing to sell them The Majestic Rooms at Bondi Junction? Dudley finally talks to Don about his relationship with Carol. Don admits he already knows but won't say who told him. Vera gives in and goes to bed with Adam. [No writer credited. Episode directed by Peter Benardos.]

731. (8/04) Norma is unsure whether to be jealous, while Dudley manages to horrify Reg. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Peter Benardos.]

732. (9/04) Andy's behaviour puzzles Tanya. Arnold's golf instructor, Jimmy, introduces him to Club Secretary Gordon Nicholson (John Stone). Gordon is Jewish, so Arnold is puzzled as to why Aldo was not admitted to the golf club? Arnold manages to hurt Aldo's feelings. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Peter Benardos.]

Gordon Nicholson is incorrectly identified as "Nicholls" in the end credits.

733. (10/04) Maggie and Reg arrange a meeting. Tanya has a terrible shock and Marilyn is horrified by some news. Arnold and Marilyn brave a meal at the run-down Majestic Rooms at Bondi Junction, where they meet the unsavoury waitress, Phyllis Pratt (Moya O'Sullivan). [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Peter Benardos.]

The distinctive voice of Moya O'Sullivan (as Phyllis Pratt) was first heard in Episode #687, as one of Brian Bury's offscreen TV interviewees.

734. (11/04) Edie is unsure about whether or not she approves of Marilyn's plan, while Les has a mysterious engagement. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Peter Benardos.]

735. (14/04) Norma is surprised by Les. Carol and Dudley burn their bridges. [Episode written by David Sale; directed by Brian Phillis.]

736. (15/04) Flo has a warning for Dorrie; Herb makes a discovery which surprises him. Adam has made Maggie furious. [Episode written by David Sale; directed by Brian Phillis.]

737. (16/04) Arnold agrees to help Roma and Aldo. Tanya's comment frightens Edie. [Episode written by David Sale; directed by Brian Phillis.]

738. (17/04) Dudley remains unforgiving. Dorrie meets up with her sister, Connie Meadows (Delore Whiteman), who has become a wealthy woman after the death of her husband, Frank. [Episode written by David Sale; directed by Brian Phillis.]

739. (18/04) Flo expresses her concern for Vera. Andy has a terrible shock. [Episode written by David Sale; directed by Brian Phillis.]

740. (21/04) Les winds up in a tight spot with Mrs Elena Brewster (Olga Dickie) and her Maltese terrier, Impetu (Itself). Dudley is unhappy, while Alf remains sceptical. [Episode written by Robert Bruce; directed by Peter Benardos.]

"Impetu" means "a force a nature", or "a force that encourages a particular action or makes it more energetic or effective".

741. (22/04) Vera has made up her mind. Don introduces her and Adam to Bernard Spaulding (Craig Ashley), a lawyer colleague who seems to be knowledgeable about music. While dining with Carol and Don, Bernard meets up with "a mad medical student" friend, Miles Cooper (Scott Lambert). According to Bernard, Miles is attempting his degree for the second time. Miles immediately makes a play with Carol, cancelling out Bernard's chances with Carol. Arnold suffers a disaster, while Aldo and Roma can't agree. [Episode written by Peter Thorburn; directed by Peter Benardos.]

742. (23/04) Edie prepares for the end of the world. Meanwhile, Marilyn is convinced that Arnold has something to tell her. [Episode written by Peter Thorburn; directed by Peter Benardos.]

In the midst of the excitement, Mr Perky, Flo Patterson's budgie, says, "This is the end of the world!" He will repeat this in Episode #829.

743. (24/04) Flo makes a confession and Andy is confused by Tanya. [Episode written by Susan Swinford; directed by Peter Benardos.]

744. (25/4) Roma makes Aldo furious. Andy is happy for Vera. [Episode written by Susan Swinford; directed by Peter Benardos.]

745. (28/04) Maggie's change of heart amazes Vera. Norma must rethink her attitude towards Dudley. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Brian Phillis.]

746. (29/04) Tanya once again puzzles Andy. Dorrie is sure she has a solution to the mystery of the dog. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Brian Phillis.]

747. (30/04) Vera is impatient with Don and Alf's advice. A nasty shock awaits Reg. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Brian Phillis.]

748. (1/05) Roma's present to Arnold horrifies Aldo. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Brian Phillis.]

This episode was preceded by the premiere of the one-hour television special, "Hasham", which launched Joe Hasham's LP record of the same name. The Network 0-10 special also gave the world a famous TV blooper, when Joe was accidentally swept off rocks, mid-song, into the ocean.

749. (2/05) Dudley attempts to face the truth. The Godolfuses have a problem to resolve. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Brian Phillis.]

750. (5/05) Don has some advice for Maggie. Arnold's brilliant idea to hire Phyllis misfires. [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Peter Benardos.]

From this episode, the location of the "Holiday Inn" is identified in the credits as being Crows Nest, no longer North Sydney. Guests appearing in the series stay in this hotel. "The Red Baron" restaurant, within the hotel, continues to be the venue for regular meetings of the series' writers.

751. (6/05) Tanya is in for a terrible shock. Marilyn decides to interfere and give Edie some assistance. [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Peter Benardos.]

752. (7/05) Old Miss Winthrop (Colleen Clifford), from a few doors down, is revealed to be the mystery dogfood can saboteur. Dorrie and Flo reminisce about performing on stage with Claude Tufnell in a school production of "The Merry Widow". Alf makes a discovery, while Aldo is in trouble with Phyllis. Dudley chats to Miss Winthrop and her pramful of six miniature poodles. [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Peter Benardos.]

753. (8/05) Doctor Pearman (Edward Lansdowne) is frank with Alf about the need for Lucy to get plenty of rest. Andy is angry with Tanya. Miles makes a muddle of his private life. [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Peter Benardos.]

The oft-mentioned Doctor Pearman is portrayed here by Edward Lansdowne. In later years, Tony Girdler takes over the role.

754. (9/5) Marilyn offers advice to Edie. Herb is full of complaints for Dorrie and Flo. [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Peter Benardos.]

755. (12/05) Maggie tries to seduce Reg and he renders her speechless. He knew what she was up to all along. The Council was not going to buy her warehouse property and he was leading her on to see to what depths she'd sink. Tanya tells Marilyn that Andy has returned to Melbourne with his wife. Les plans to go along with the agreement with Mrs Brewster but Alf calls him a fool. Marilyn informs Miles that she'd do anything for him. Reg tells Don about the property deal and Don is furious with Maggie. Lucy is feeling unwell, which is of concern to Alf. He drags her away from the laundrette and threatens to lock her up. Maggie propositions Miles. Les informs Alf he is helping the police to catch Mrs Brewster. Maggie turns up at Reg's door, smashed, and pleading for Reg to let her go to bed with him. He closes the door on her. Meanwhile, in a doublecross, security guard Jim Parnell (Robert Bruning) holds up Les with a gun. [Episode written by Eleanor Witcombe; directed by Brian Phillis.]

756. (13/05) Dorrie receives a letter from Claude, teen heart-throb of both herself and Flo, saying that he arrives in Sydney tomorrow. Carol receives a surprise call about a job with South Pacific Travel but she doesn't want to leave Miles. Arnold's attempts to fire Phyllis fail, especially when she tells him about her daughter, and how working in the deli allows Phyllis to keep Pandora at St Agnes' College. Les is a source of worry and alarm for Norma; he supposedly left the hospital at 2.00am with a security guard. Dorrie and Flo plot to get Herb out of the flat when Claude is visiting. They buy Herb a ticket to a special screening at the Sydney Opera House. Maggie gives the story about Miss Winthrop to the newspapers and Dudley and Carol threaten to resign. A detective (Don Philps) shows Norma and Alf some mugshots and Norma recognises Mrs Brewster as part of the gang! [Episode written by Eleanor Witcombe; directed by Brian Phillis.]

757. (14/05) Don settles Maggie's problem with Miss Winthrop for $5000. Edie races home for the next instalment of the TV soap opera, Natalie Faces Life. Claude Tufnell (Noel Brophy) arrives from Gulargambone. He has really let himself go: unattractive, boring and asthmatic, but he wants to stay. Reg tries to talk to Edie, but she is engrossed by her serial. Herb realises that he was tricked, but finds it amusing to see Claude coughing and spluttering everywhere. Carol considers the New York-based job. Marilyn decides that she will continue to see Miles as she has no pride. Disturbing dreams interrupt the sleep of both Dorrie and Flo. Don offers Dudley the use of the spare room. [Episode written by Eleanor Witcombe; directed by Brian Phillis.]

758. (15/05) Norma is convinced that Les has been murdered. Mr Levenson wants to buy back Romaldo's and Arnold realises it is because the business on both sides of the restaurant would be able to expand. Herb moves in with Miles, who is flat minding in Flat 7. Alf has been nagging Lucy to slow down, so she suggests a solution to Tanya. Aldo is being driven up the wall with Dorrie shopping for remedies for all of Claude's ailments. Roma worries about the future of Romaldo's. Arnold manages to sell it for $40,000 profit, but she is upset. Alf tells Marilyn that he saw Miles in the company of two blondes. Herb is unsympathetic about Dorrie's - and then Flo's - complaints about Claude always trying to put the moves on them. They are getting what they deserved, and he will stay with Miles until Claude leaves. [Episode written by Eleanor Witcombe; directed by Brian Phillis.]

759. (16/05) Edie amazes Reg, telling him that their "farce of a marriage must go on" but she will no longer sleep with him. The detective fears the worst for Les and he tells Norma. Phyllis makes Aldo feel ashamed that he wanted her fired. Norma finally receives a call from Les. Edie tells Phyllis all about Natalie Faces Life, then Edie goes out into the world "to face life". Jim and Eleanor are using Les as a hostage to travel to Orange and then leave the country in a private plane. [Episode written by Eleanor Witcombe; directed by Brian Phillis.]

760. (19/05) Flo has a bright idea, and she and Dorrie put Claude onto a starvation diet to coerce him to leave. As pensioners, they have "run out of money" and can only afford vegetable leaves. They have had to pawn their clothes and the bed linen will be next. Meanwhile, Carol has decided to take the New York position and comforts Miles. Don wonders why Carol is not particularly excited about the new job. Dorrie and Flo hide all the quality food in the bedroom but Claude doesn't seem to mind the slop they are making for him. Miles tells Carol he has no intention of settling down. Les is being kept prisoner in an old warehouse so he tries tapping out Morse Code with a fork on an old water pipe. Eventually, he receives an answering tap. [Episode written by David Sale; directed by Peter Benardos.]

761. (20/05) Maggie is again rejected by Reg and is furious. Norma is unwell and Lucy prescribes bed rest. Parnell tells Les they plan to kill him but Les is rescued by two policemen and a wino, Amos, who had reported the Morse Code message. Les arrives home to find Norma ill with shingles. The hospital plans to make a presentation to Les. Flo tells Les that Carol will be leaving the wine bar. Edie wants to go job-hunting so Maggie makes a surprising move. She gets Edie a position as Public Relations Officer for the Gay Liberation Movement. Predictably, Reg is horrified. [Episode written by David Sale; directed by Peter Benardos.]

762. (21/05) Les assumes the hospital will give him a sum of money on his presentation day. Arnold has a tough decision to make; if Phyllis can't be fired, he must be the one to go. Phyllis accidentally sets fire to the deli's newspaper stand. Vera makes a surprise return from Stuttgart, but without Adam. Arnold still can't fire Phyllis and is overcome with pity. Miles reveals that Vera had told him, in secrecy, that her flat would only be vacant for two weeks. Herb helps Miles with a plan, and Tanya invites them both to move in with her. Les returns from his presentation with an awful-looking pottery vase. [Episode written by David Sale; directed by Peter Benardos.]

763. (22/05) Vera tells Maggie that she deliberately acted like a bitch towards Adam, to convince him that their affair wouldn't work. Dorrie visits Herb and Miles to tell them that Flo seems to be sick with a runny nose and a headache. Miles promises to check in on her. Don tells Carol that Dudley is welcome back, on a purely platonic basis. Dorrie is in for a terrible shock: Miles pronounces that Flo has suspected cholera, but it is a ruse to get Claude to leave Flat 3. It works! Claude sneaks out at night. Carol arrives home drunk, having borrowed Don's car to attend a party. Aldo uncovers a truth when Phyllis spills the news that she met Manny Goldman, who boasted about Roma making $40,000 on the restaurant sale. [Episode written by David Sale; directed by Peter Benardos.]

764. (23/05) Reg finds it difficult to accept the new Edie. She is loving every minute of her new job with the Gay Libs. Reg sees the light when Edie reveals that she got the job from Maggie. Carol apologises to Don about a dent on his car after she hit a signpost. She wants to pay for the damage, but Don is unconcerned. Roma must provide some answers; Aldo is upset that she hid the fact that her restaurant sale resulted in so much profit. Roma walks out on him. Vera retreats into her hard-headed businesswoman persona and won't reveal details about Adam to Lucy. Others also notice the change. A telegram brings the Sutcliffes news that Alf's mother has had an accident and they need to travel to Perth. Marilyn is to take over the laundrette in Lucy's absence. Arnold visits Roma at the Holiday Inn, where she is staying, to tell her he invested the $40,000 on the stock market, but it made another $20,000. Roma is horrified. A policeman (Arthur Faynes) visits Don, wanting to inspect his car, but it is at the panel-beaters. It seems it wasn't a signpost the car hit on Ferguson Street, but a now-comatose pedestrian. Don admits to being the driver. [Episode written by David Sale; directed by Peter Benardos.]

765. (26/05) Norma recovers from her illness. Les is depressed; the hospital gifted him a vase instead of a cheque and he had plans for the money. Don sticks with his statement that it was him, not Carol, driving the car when it hit a pedestrian. Phyllis and Arnold try to help Aldo in his separation from Roma, but Aldo is unbending and tells them to mind their own business. Maggie organises a replacement for Carol's wine bar shifts. Dorrie gets hooked on Natalie Faces Life. Maggie tells Vera she will never get the Solange contract back again. Phyllis receives bad news about Pandora's wish for a pony. Dudley has offered advice to Don about the consequences of a statement to the police, but will Don follow it? Dorrie and Les decide to help Aldo and Roma patch up their differences. Aldo is miserable. [Episode written by Peter Thorburn; directed by Brian Phillis.]

766. (27/05) Tanya hits up Miles for the rent money. Maggie may be able to provide the solution to Norma's problem: Prue Rhinegold (Camilla Rountree), the daughter of wealthy, socialite friends of Claire, wants to work in the wine bar "for a giggle". Dorrie goes to the Holiday Inn, where Roma is staying, to attempt some marriage guidance counselling. Roma thinks Dorrie and Les are romantically involved. Vera meets Prue. Perpetually-penniless Miles wonders about accepting Maggie's new proposition: she requires an "escort" for business functions. Prue arrives for her first shift, accompanied by all of her friends. Miles tries to talk Tanya into having an affair with him, to keep Maggie away. Vera secures the Solange Fashions contract from Vince Hansen without Maggie's help. [Episode written by Peter Thorburn; directed by Brian Phillis.]

767. (28/05) Dudley and Prue have their first confrontation. He decides he can't stand her. Edie continues with her Gay Liberation Campaign. Marilyn thinks she has achieved a promotion at the laundrette and gets very business-minded. Vera is shocked about Don's involvement in Carol's car accident. Marilyn plans to marry Miles. Prue almost arrives late for work because Daddy's Volvo was in for a respray, her Aunty Grace had the Rolls Royce and Mummy was driving Prue's little Mercedes. Dudley suggested she could have caught the bus. "Luckily, 'Bunny' Pycroft called by - and he gave me a lift right to the door." Les gives Edie the vase he received from the hospital. Maggie again tries to seduce Miles. Marilyn walks in on them, but Miles gets rid of her. Tanya discovers the source of Miles's nest egg. Marilyn tells her mother that Reg was never in love with Maggie and that he gave up the job at Blacktown for Edie. [Episode written by Peter Thorburn; directed by Brian Phillis.]

"Bunny" Pycroft's son, Roger, is mentioned in Episode #877 and appears in an onscreen story arc from Episode #881. Roger Pycroft's connection to Prue Rhinegold is specifically addressed in Episode #884.

768. (29/05) Edie is still obsessed with Natalie Faces Life. A surprise overwhelms Roma: a huge bunch of flowers is delivered to her. The card has been signed by Aldo. Phyllis worries about Pandora's pony. Aldo receives a box of cigars, with a card signed by Roma. Reg goes to lunch with Rodney (Alan Faulkner) and Adrian (Sean Myers), Edie's oft-mentioned gay friends, and gets along with them like a house on fire. Rodney and Adrian are interior decorators and antique dealers. They tell Dudley that the vase, which Les gave to Edie, is a collector's item. They declare Edie's furnishings to be "kitsch taken to its sublime." Roma and Aldo are reunited. Tanya seeks Arnold's advice. Marilyn fires Tanya, then tells Miles that she plans to marry him, but will she be hurt yet again? Phyllis's sister, Millicent (Brenda Gayle), arrives with terrible news. [Episode written by Johnny Whyte; directed by Brian Phillis.]

Brenda Gayle, who portrays Millicent Scott, previously appeared as Major Duval's hotel manageress in Episode #177. She would return as a magistrate in Episode #911.

769. (30/05) Phyllis is in a quandary, while Dudley loses his temper. Don is in a predicament over Carol's accident. Flo decides to go to Mittagong to visit her daughter, Raylene. [Episode written by Johnny Whyte; directed by Brian Phillis.]

770. (2/06) Edie tells Les that Reg requires her to return the vase, but Les is distracted as he is preparing to leave for work. Maggie is pleased. Vera has apologised for not offering her a commission on the Solange deal, but Maggie refuses it, saying she never intended to take one. Dudley gives Norma an ultimatum: either Prue goes, or he does. Reg intends to take Edie to Cascades Hotel at Minnawarra Falls for a week and she is ecstatic. Tanya can't afford to keep helping out Miles She tells him to stop avoiding Maggie and ask her for money. Not knowing its value, Norma gives Dorrie the vase for the church bazaar. Don and Dudley argue about the car accident. Les needs $1000 to buy back his patent on the Wine-o-matic. Maggie tells Norma that Pol magazine will be doing a fashion shoot in the wine bar. Norma anticipates good publicity but Vera is uninspired and has not started on the Solange collection yet. Maggie orders her to "pull her socks up". Don has a court appearance and Maggie is furious about it. Reg finally gets through to Les about the value of the vase, but Norma's news leads to disappointment. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Peter Benardos.]

771. (3/06) Edie has bought the vase from the church bazaar but neglects to tell anyone, due to her excitement about Minnawarra Falls. Cascades Hotel was where she and Reg had spent their honeymoon. Phyllis tells the Godolfuses that Pandora intends to marry a man named Tom Lloyd. Phyllis worries that her daughter will be ashamed of her. She suggests that Roma go instead, pretending to be Phyllis. Roma plans to learn Origami and Aldo thinks it is a foreign language. Maggie warns Don that the court case is bad publicity. Phyllis asks Vera to impersonate her. The Pol magazine shoot is underway in the wine bar and the situation angers Dudley. Vera meets the model, Bernadette (Charne Marshall), at the shoot. She agrees to work for Vera on her new collection. Aldo is in for a shock: an encounter with the topless Bernadette. A woman enters the deli asking for a "Mrs Pratt". Phyllis is horrified and realises it is her daughter, Pandora Scott (Jennifer Cluff). [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Peter Benardos.]

According to Charne Marshall, who played Bernadette, her scene with Johnny Lockwood was described as "the longest topless scene in the history of TV", resulting in the embarrassed Charne developing hives.

772. (4/06) Phyllis has denied to the snobbish Pandora that a "Mrs Pratt" works at the deli, but Roma enters and calls Phyllis "Mrs Pratt". Les is still trying to retrieve his vase. Pandora just wants her permission to get married. Dorrie wants a reluctant Herb to help her with her marriage guidance counselling. Pandora claims to have a week off school but her Aunt Millie says that she is an uncontrollable runaway. Alf is back, but Dorrie suspects a rift because Lucy is still in Perth. The Godolfuses attempt to help Phyllis. Pandora doesn't want Phyllis to meet Tom, but is convinced to return to school. Alf creates problems. Les hears that George Turner, the injured pedestrian, is sinking fast. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Peter Benardos.]

773. (5/06) Dudley tells Don about Les ringing the hospital and Don blows his stack, first with Dudley, then with the Whittakers. Norma fears trouble with Maggie because Dudley has replaced Prue with Tanya, and Prue was Maggie's appointment. Maggie is fine with the decision and Prue finds it amusing because she is heading off to St Moritz anyway. Vera is successfully handling negotiations, much to Maggie's fury. Don apologises to Les and Norma. Maggie announces that she is now managing Bernadette's modelling career, angering Vera. Miles is expected to be available at any time in return for financial assistance. Tanya has an ultimatum for Miles and is pushing him towards Maggie. The Wine-o-matic patent is up for auction. Vera remembers that Don couldn't have been driving at the time of the accident because she saw him at home, wearing pyjamas. Don tells her off. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Peter Benardos.]

774. (6/06) There is a surprise for Alf. Tanya explains to him how Marilyn had fired her from the laundrette. Marilyn is aghast about some news; Lucy did not give her the business. Alf demands that Marilyn transfer the laundrette profits back out of her account. Roma discovers that Origami is not a language. Arnold confesses that he has been unsuccessful and Roma's investments are making even more money. She doesn't want Aldo to find out, but he is standing nearby and hears everything. To Arnold's relief, Aldo will now manage all of Roma's business affairs. Alf argues with Marilyn and fires her. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Peter Benardos.]

775. (9/06) A shock awaits Marilyn, while Maggie is up to her old tricks. Alf faces a new problem: Valerie Mason (Sally McMaster) has a new permanent job at the local Woolies' supermarket checkout and can't take on any shifts at the laundrette. [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Brian Phillis.]

Sally McMaster makes a return appearance as the oft-mentioned Valerie Mason, last seen onscreen in 1973. Her end credit reads "Sally McMasters".

776. (10/06) Alf offers Arnold a bribe and Roma agrees to keep a secret. Pandora needs Phyllis to give her permission to marry Tom Lloyd (Bruce Barry) because she is underage. A young woman, Liz Chalmers (Margaret Laurence), arrives at the door of Flat 3, looking for the vacationing Macdonalds. She collapses at Dorrie's feet. [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Brian Phillis.]

Margaret Laurence arrives as a regular character, Liz Chalmers. She claims to be Dean MacDonald's fiancée from South Australia.

777. (11/06) A medical emergency involves Dorrie and Herb: Liz has collapsed outside their door, into what Flo assumes is a diabetic coma. Pandora is horrified by how common Phyllis is, and plans to get as much money from her as she can. Maggie finds out that Don is covering for Carol. Dudley forces Don to lose his temper. A revived Liz reveals that she is Dean's fiancée from Adelaide. Edie rings Flo to find out what has been happening in Natalie Faces Life. [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Brian Phillis.]

778. (12/06) Arnold has reached the end of his tether and tells Alf. Maggie throws a spanner into Miles' plans. Don visits George Turner (Ray Bennett), the injured pedestrian, in the hospital. George remembers that it was a woman driving Don's car, but he hasn't told police. He wants $10,000 from Don to keep quiet. [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Brian Phillis.]

Ray Bennett, who portrays George Turner, was previously seen as Mr Jeffries in 1973.

779. (13/06) Tanya is furious with Miles. Les has a delightful surprise. [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Brian Phillis.]

780. (16/06) Arnold attempts to intervene in a crisis. Maggie continues to upset Miles. [Episode written by Eleanor Witcombe; directed by Peter Benardos.]

On this day, a single by Maureen Elkner (who had played Monica, Maggie Cameron's secretary, in 1972) entered the Australian pop charts at #60. "Rak Off, Normie", an "answer song" to Bob Hudson's comedic "The Newcastle Song", performed almost as well as the original. "Rak Off, Normie" peaked at #11 on 4/08/1975.

781. (17/06) The mystery surrounding Bernadette deepens. Norma is fed up with the fuss over Les and his Wine-o-matic patent. Marilyn cannot believe the stories Liz is telling about Dean. [Episode written by Eleanor Witcombe; directed by Peter Benardos.]

782. (18/06) Marilyn is agitated, while Vera is infuriated. [Episode written by Eleanor Witcombe; directed by Peter Benardos.]

783. (19/06) Don is in a quandary. Arnold makes a shattering discovery and Norma also suffers a shock. Detective Constable Roberts (Mark Kelly), a plainclothes policeman, learns about Don's perjury in the "hit and run" case. [Episode written by Eleanor Witcombe; directed by Peter Benardos.]

Mark Kelly portrays Detective Constable Roberts. Previously, he played Detective Sergeant Miller, who had investigated stolen money in relation to Flat 8 and, in Episode #239, the morphine stolen from the chemist shop. He also played Detective Inspector Mitchell in Episode #861.

784. (20/06) Reg is angry with Edie and Dudley offers a warning to Tanya. [Episode written by Eleanor Witcombe; directed by Peter Benardos.]

785. (23/06) Norma tries to be firm with Les. Don loses his temper again. Tanya is hurt and angry. [Episode written by David Sale; directed by Brian Phillis.]

786. (24/06) Edie is upset and Alf loses his temper with Marilyn. [Episode written by David Sale; directed by Brian Phillis.]

787. (25/06) Herb has an remarkable surprise for Dorrie and Flo. At the courthouse, Don introduces Vera to his Counsel, Charles Brent (Eric Wright). Bernadette loses her patience. David Palmer (Vince Martin) comes into the wine bar to meet Don and Maggie about leasing Flat 6. [Episode written by David Sale; directed by Brian Phillis.]

788. (26/06) Arnold seeks a solution to Aldo's problem, while Norma offers assistance to Tanya. Now that the lease on Flat 6 is signed, David is revealed to be a friend of Miles, thus foiling Maggie's plan to evict Tanya and Miles. [Episode written by David Sale; directed by Brian Phillis.]

789. (27/06) Flo is willing to help out Lucy. Dorrie, Herb, Flo and Edie are auditioning acts for the Ladies' Prawn Night at the Paddington Senior Citizens Club. They have a terrible shock when a performer, Count Copernicus (Himself, aka David Albert Clark), does his striptease act for them. Dorrie mistakenly calls him "Count Copper Knickers". [Episode written by David Sale; directed by Brian Phillis.]

During this episode, Pat McDonald hides a plaster cast on her forearm with a tea towel. The injury occurred during a serious real-life car accident but her character was not able to be temporarily written out for several more episodes. Count Copernicus was a notorious male stripper on the club circuit.

790. (30/06) Roma will be surprising Aldo. There may be bad news for Lucy. [Episode written by Colin Eggleston; directed by Peter Benardos.]

791. (1/07) A new event leaves Dudley agog. Dorrie is served with a writ for disturbing the peace after Count Copernicus appeared at the Ladies' Prawn Night. Miles is able to foil Maggie's plans. Ernst Bremerski (Louis Wishart) reveals grave news to Roma. [Episode written by Colin Eggleston; directed by Peter Benardos.]

During this episode, Pat McDonald hides the plaster cast on her forearm with a shawl.

792. (2/07) Roma is upset, while Maggie has harsh words for Don. Miles auditions a string of hopeful models while pretending to be David. Girl 1 is almost discovered in the bedroom by Tanya. She "wasn't interested". Girl 2 (Susan Hannaford) claims to be "very versatile" but brought her model sister, while Girl 3 (Robyn Bartley) brought along her agent (Brian Anderson). Word gets around about the auditions and soon there are nine women in the flat when David arrives. Maggie tells Don that Sir Percival Quail told her that the judge, Erickson, loathes homosexuals. A message from "ALAN" is left in lipstick on Bernadette's mirror. [Episode written by Peter Thorburn; directed by Peter Benardos.]

Brian Anderson, who portrays the theatrical agent, will return as Arnold Feather's doctor in Episode #896.

793. (3/07) Dorrie tries to remedy a situation. A strange visitor calls on Bernadette again. It is her troubled brother, Alan (Peter Weston), who accidentally pushes Dorrie down the stairs. [Episode written by Peter Thorburn; directed by Peter Benardos.]

From this episode, Dorrie's scenes were minimised to accommodate Pat McDonald's recovery from her serious car accident.

794. (4/07) Vera shares a confidence with Don. Flo and Herb are concerned. Alf has other problems. [Episode written by Peter Thorburn; directed by Peter Benardos.]

On this day, the "Mark Foy"'s heiress, newspaper owner/journalist and activist, Juanita Nielsen, disappeared from Kings Cross, in one of Australia's most notorious unsolved Underworld crimes. The incident would inspire three Australian movies: "The Killing of Angel Street" (1981), "Heatwave" (1982), and "The Beehive" (2018). The first two productions featured numerous "Number 96" alumni.

795. (7/07) Maggie embarrasses everyone and Roma mystifies Aldo. An American journalist, Ross Leggett (Brian Evis), arrives at Flat 6 and tries to interview Tanya about "Rosemary Prior" and her father, who has announced a plan to move into US politics. She tricks Miles into throwing him out. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Brian Phillis.]

796. (8/07) Production Assistant Grace "Prim" Primrose (Pamela Gibbons) arrives in time for David's deliberately-terrible TV commercial shoot for Ninotchka Vodka. Miles tries to console a very upset Tanya. Edie has a new problem. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Brian Phillis.]

Grace "Prim" Primrose was undoubtedly named for the lead character in a 1966 comedy TV series by NLT Productions, "The Private World of Miss Prim", with Dawn Lake (wife of Bobby Limb) and several "Number 96" alumni, Owen Weingott, Marion Johns and Benita Collings. Bill Harmon was closely associated with NLT, which was founded in 1961 by Jack Neary, Bobby Limb and Les Tinker (whose surname initials suggested the production company's title). Peter Benardos directed the episodes of "The Private World of Miss Prim" and Dick Barry and Stan Mars were writers. All went on to work for Cash Harmon Productions.

797. (9/07) Norma threatens Les and Vera's strange behaviour confuses her friends. Reg is consulting with Herr Humpernickel (Raymond Duparc) of the Hamburg Sanitation Department. They stumble into the craziness of David's TV commercial. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Brian Phillis.]

Raymond Duparc, who plays Herr Humpernickel, was previously Doctor Riley in 1972 and Doctor Alistair Pascall in 1973.

798. (10/07) Tanya causes troubles for Miles. Phyllis introduces the residents to her boyfriend, Cuthbert "Spider" Jones (Don Reid). A tragedy brings the Godolfuses together. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Brian Phillis.]

799. (11/07) Alf is unable to find Lucy. Norma talks about her relationship with Les and wants advice. Reg discusses effluent recycling systems with Mr Osito (Terry Woo) of Tokyo. When they arrive at Flat 5, Edie and Les have organised a special Japanese tea ceremony for the visitor. Phyllis and Spider are married in the wine bar by the celebrant, Mrs Smedley-Beaston (May Howlett). Pandora sends a congratulatory telegram. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Brian Phillis.]

800. (14/07) Tanya's situation confuses Miles. Dudley's letter causes him concern. Tanya opens to door the man she has been trying to avoid: her father, Mr J.G. Prior (Brian Adams). He enters Flat 6 and says, "Hello, Rosemary." [Episode written by Kate Harvey; directed by Peter Benardos.]

801. (15/07) Lucy tries her hand at matchmaking and Aldo has a terrible shock. A large Swastika has been daubed across the shop window. [Episode written by Kate Harvey; directed by Peter Benardos.]

This and the next three episode scripts were originally assigned to Ken Shadie, but are credited to Kate Harvey.

802. (16/07) Reg is convinced that Edie is a failure at hostessing social events, but Liz and Edie are out to prove him wrong. Miles discovers the truth about Tanya: that she's actually an American, by the name of Rosemary Prior. A policeman (Russell Jordan) challenges Edie's right to hold a fundraising fruit stall in Lindsay Street. Aldo admits that Ernst Bremerski's information, about "a man named Godolfus" being responsible for a massacre in the German town of Lindorf during World War II, is true. [Episode written by Kate Harvey; directed by Peter Benardos.]

803. (17/07) Alf is bitter towards Lucy, while the Godolfuses are beside themselves with worry. Edie encounters another policeman while running her fruit stall and she assaults him with tomatoes. Vera is wooed by Warwick Thompson (Kit Taylor) about an intriguing offer. [Episode written by Kate Harvey; directed by Peter Benardos.]

804. (18/07) Norma violently disagrees with Les's suggestion that the latest disaster is good publicity. A judge (Norton Howarth) heading the panel of three presiding over Don's case advises him that he is likely to be disqualified from practising in the legal profession. [Episode written by Kate Harvey; directed by Peter Benardos.]

805. (21/07) The Jewish Board of Deputies believes that Franz Godolfus, Aldo and Selma's brother, is still alive and living in Israel. Alf is confused by Prim's behaviour. Reg has harsh words for Edie. Susan Temple (Debbie Baile), a child psychology student at the same university as Miles, encounters him in the wine bar. Reuben Levy (George Pollak), of the Board of Deputies, arrives at the deli to interview Aldo about Franz's accusations. Mr Levy reveals that Franz is a respected export merchant in Tel Aviv and a generous contributor to Jewish charities, with a son who is a sergeant in the Israeli Army. [Episode written by Bill Simpson; directed by Brian Phillis.]

806. (22/07) Surprisingly, Maggie is in need of help. Les still refuses to notice Norma's scheming. [Episode written by Bill Simpson; directed by Brian Phillis.]

807. (23/07) Roma tries to pacify Aldo's sister, Selma Horowitz (Lea Denfield), about Franz's accusation about Aldo. Aldo confirms some horrifying news to Selma. Dudley believes that all his dreams are about to come true. Prim is left alone to run the wine bar on her very first shift. Susan confirms to Miles that she is pregnant - with his child. [Episode written by Tom MacLennan; directed by Brian Phillis.]

Lea Denfield, who previously featured in several episodes as Mrs Buchanan (from Episode #533), becomes the third actress to portray Selma Horowitz, following Marion Johns in 1972 and Hilda Scurr in 1973 and 1974.

808. (24/07) The wine bar is chaotic on Prim's first night and Edie - playing barmaid, and supported by her "Gay Lib" boys - is no help. Arnold loses his temper. Miles keeps a problem close to his chest. Maggie tries to tempt Warwick while Vera is in Melbourne. Dorrie entertains several visitors in the hospital. Maggie and Reg make front page headlines. Dorrie causes concern by living in the past and Edie manages to injure herself during a visit. [Episode written by Susan Swinford; directed by Brian Phillis.]

809. (25/07) The nursing sister (Trish Hughes) on Dorrie's ward begrudgingly allows Herb and Flo to visit her outside official visiting hours. Aldo is firm with Selma, while Vera has an eye-opener for Warwick and Maggie. [Episode written by Susan Swinford; directed by Brian Phillis.]

810. (28/07) Lucy loses her temper with Alf. Dudley springs a surprise on Don. [Episode written by Eleanor Witcombe; directed by Peter Benardos.]

811. (29/07) David receives advice from Prim. Aldo surprises an intruder in the deli. [Episode written by Eleanor Witcombe; directed by Peter Benardos.]

812. (30/07) Norma and Edie are so suspicious of Les's activities that chaos ensues. Doctor Julian Flaxman (Rob Dallas) drops into Flat 6 with a surprise for his friend Miles: Susan is three months pregnant with "a beautiful little bastard". [Episode written by Eleanor Witcombe; directed by Peter Benardos.]

813. (31/07) Dudley has a new plan. What has happened to Arnold? [Episode written by Eleanor Witcombe; directed by Peter Benardos.]

814. (1/08) Vera is unforgiving. An upset Liz confides in Lucy. [Episode written by Eleanor Witcombe; directed by Peter Benardos.]

815. (4/08) Edie has begun to feel unwanted. Alf refuses Les's help. [Episode written by Peter Thorburn; directed by Brian Phillis.]

On this day, a single by Maureen Elkner (who had played Monica, Maggie Cameron's secretary, in 1972) peaked in the Australian pop charts at #11. "Rak Off, Normie", an "answer song" to Bob Hudson's comedic "The Newcastle Song", performed almost as well as the original (#1 in March.)

816. (5/08) Miles is muddled, while Flo is suspicious of Herb's antics. A bearded Don arrives home quite enebriated, having hitched a ride with Bill the truckie. Aldo hears some shocking news from Selma: Franz is the guilty one, after all, even though he was only 14 at the time. [Episode written by Peter Thorburn; directed by Brian Phillis.]

817. (6/8) Something has happened to change Don. Liz offers her assistance again. Maggie suffers a terrible shock. Who is the mysterious caller? [Episode written by Peter Thorburn; directed by Brian Phillis.]

818. (7/08) Maggie has an accusation for Vera. Liz surprises the MacDonalds. Julian throws Miles' life into confusion again. The woman who came to him for the pregnancy test was not Susan. [Episode written by Colin Eggleston; directed by Brian Phillis.]

819. (8/08) There is a nasty surprise awaiting Miles and disappointment for Vera. Alf needs Don's help. [Episode written by Colin Eggleston; directed by Brian Phillis.]

On the weekend, in journalist Frank Fairfax's newspaper column, "Fair in the Middle", it was revealed that Executive Producer Bill Harmon and Channel TEN's General Manager, Ian Holmes, had come to an agreement to scrap 50 completed Number 96 scripts, at a cost of $70,000, to create a dramatic crisis for the characters under a veil of secrecy. This "crisis" would become the infamous bomb blast (in Episode #839) that would revamp the direction of the series over three more years, hopefully creating an upswing in the TV ratings (which it did, at least for a while). The producers wanted to combat speculation that the series was to be axed, but also bring in new "sex symbol" characters, such as Anja Seleky (as Jaja Gibson), and return of past popular cast members, including Tom Oliver (as Jack Sellars). The new contractual agreement also embedded the creation of "backdoor pilots", that would spin off popular characters. This footage could also be presented as cost-effective scenes within episodes of the parent show to gauge viewer approval. These pilots would become "Mummy and Me", "Fair Game" and "A Law To Himself" in 1976, and Hope'll Help in 1977, ultimately, all unsuccessful.

820. (11/08) Prim is firm with Miles. Arnold puts his foot in it. Alf is in trouble again. [Episode written by Ken Hayles; directed by Peter Benardos.]

821. (12/08) Vera is unable to calm a terrified Maggie. Liz has a warning. Sir Paul Cooper (Phillip Ross) promises to finance Miles' forthcoming marriage and honeymoon, so Prim is swiftly pronounced his fiancée. Maggie tells Vera about how Warwick has treated Vince Hansen (David Nettheim) of Solange Fashions. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Peter Benardos.]

822. (13/08) Herb seems to be hiding something, which puzzles Flo. Dudley has an important meeting with Francis, an advertising executive. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Peter Benardos.]

823. (14/08) Arnold's discovery angers Aldo. Liz has a shock for Lucy. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Peter Benardos.]

824. (15/08) Alf's luck seems to be changing. Prim ensures that Miles' latest plan will go awry. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Peter Benardos.]

825. (18/08) Roma surprises Alf. Don receives bad news and refuses to help out. Gilbert Barton (Don Philps) and Norma share an intimate evening. [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Brian Phillis.]

826. (19/08) Norma confides in Lucy, while Dorrie's promise of assistance leads to disaster. Doctor Pearman gives Lucy an ultimatum: with only five weeks remaining of her pregnancy, she must give up work. [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Brian Phillis.]

827. (20/08) Don delivers a shock to Maggie, while Prim has some surprises for Miles. Dudley finds a blonde, female stranger on Don's side of the bed. [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Brian Phillis.]

The blonde stranger, portrayed by Anya Saleky, will turn out to be Dudley's country cousin, Jaja, whom he hasn't seen since she was ten years old.

828. (21/08) Lucy is upset with Alf, while Dudley has a surprise. His cousin, Jacqueline "Jaja" Gibson (Anya Saleky) from Forbes, has turned up. Vera finds a note warning of a bomb in Number 96 and Sergeant Davey (David Williams) organises an evacuation of the building, leaving Edie behind in the cellar. [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Brian Phillis.]

David Williams, a former policeman, appears here, and next episode, as Sergeant Davey. Previously, he appeared in Episodes #139 and #140, and as a constable on the beat in Episode #91.

829. (22/08) There was good reason to panic at Number 96; Sergeant Davey and his partner, George, search the cellar and find an explosive device. After deactivation and analysis, the bomb from the cellar is pronounced to be real! Dorrie is worried about Flo. Aldo catches the shoplifter! [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Brian Phillis.]

Mr Perky, Flo Patterson's budgie, once again says, "This is the end of the world!" as he is being evacuated. He learned this phrase from Lucy's niece, Vanessa Harrison, during her story arc earlier in 1975.

830. (25/08) The shoplifter is revealed to be a boy named Kerry Braddon (Ashley Grenville). Jaja poses a problem for Dudley and Don. Aldo makes a horrifying discovery. [Episode written by David Brogden; directed by Peter Benardos.]

831. (26/08) Don has a proposition for the Sutcliffes. Maggie makes some accusations. A Magistrate (Les Foxcroft) presides over Kerry's case. The probation officer, Mr Parker (Rob Steele), paints a dire picture of Kerry's current circumstances. [Episode written by Tim Mitchell; directed by Peter Benardos.]

Les Foxcroft, who portrays the Magistrate, previously played Mr Holloway's office caretaker in Episode #22. He will return as Quentin Flemming in Episode #905, and the recurring character, Sir William Mainwaring, from Episode #1008.

832. (27/08) Jaja's latest escapades infuriate Prim. The new DTC, Nigel Morgan (John Allen), arrives. Norma can't understand the new mystery. [Episode written by Ross Napier; directed by Peter Benardos.]

16 consecutive colour episodes (#832-847) were released on DVD in 2012, "Number 96: The Beginning and the Bomb" (Volume 3), by Umbrella Entertainment Australia. The other 16 episodes were from the b/w era.

833. (28/08) Dudley's latest plans amaze the Sutcliffes. Maggie confronts Jaja. In the wine bar, Liz has an encounter with a strange man (Peter Morris) who is nursing a bag and talking about bombs. [Episode written by Ross Napier; directed by Peter Benardos.]

834. (29/08) The MacDonalds receive a nasty shock and Roma loses her patience with Aldo. Film producer Louis Spiro (Jeff Ashby) has advice for David. [Episode written by Ross Napier; directed by Peter Benardos.]

835. (1/09) Roma speaks harshly to Aldo. Flo's behaviour baffles Dorrie. [Episode written by Kate Harvey; directed by Brian Phillis.]

836. (2/09) Reg and Edie are unsure how to handle a situation. Maggie has strong advice for Vera. [Episode written by Kate Harvey; directed Brian Phillis.]

Vera Collins and Warwick Thompson depart Mon Coeur, an actual restaurant at 51 Moncur Street, Woollahra. This is stock footage from a scene in the movie, when Vera is out with Nick Brent. The restaurant eventually became Big Mama's Trattoria Italiana! It still has the distinctive awning.

837. (3/09) Flo is desperately unhappy, while it seems that Vera has overplayed her hand. [Episode written by Tom MacLennan; directed by Brian Phillis.]

838. (4/09) Maggie has infuriated Warwick. Some unlikely visitors call on Reg at 1.00am in the morning. [Episode written by Tom MacLennan; directed by Brian Phillis.]

This episode was later showcased in Foxtel/Austar TV1's "Television's Greatest Hits: The Best of Number 96" (2000), introduced by Andrew Mercado.

839. (5/09) The new Flo raises Dorrie's suspicions that her friend is shoplifting. Lucy and Alf think they have solved their house-hunting troubles: they decide to swap flats with Don. Les finds a note about a bomb in Number 96 and sounds a warning to all the residents, but will he have enough time? [Episode written by Derek Strahan (uncredited) and Ken Shadie; directed by Brian Phillis.]

Many of the scripts in the bomb arc were hastily rewritten by Derek Strahan, but it was too late to credit him for the work. In this episode, very few of Ken Shadie's original scenes were left intact. Instead of the traditional shot of the building and individual flats during the closing credits, the text appeared over footage of the smouldering aftermath of the bomb, and no closing theme music. This episode, also, was showcased in Foxtel/Austar TV1's "Television's Greatest Hits: The Best of Number 96" (2000), introduced by Andrew Mercado.

840, 841. (8/09) The explosion in the deli has claimed the lives of Aldo, Roma, Miles and Les. Alf is worried about Lucy and the baby, while Vera turns to Warwick for comfort. Lucy's obstetrician (John Faassen) is pleased with her progress. Norma's doctor (Graham Dixon) has grave news for Don and Dudley about her condition. Nigel takes over and Maggie is determined to solve a new mystery. Arnold is shocked by a visit from Aldo's daughter, Rose Myers (Vivienne Garrett). [Episodes written by David Sale; directed by Peter Benardos.]

Two episodes were screened back-to-back to create a sixty-minute presentation. An airbrushed photograph of the building showed the damage during the opening and closing credits sequences, much cheaper than redressing the actual Moncur Flats building in Woollahra. Closing credits for the characters of Flats 5 and 6 are accidentally transposed. John Faassen, who appears as Lucy Sutcliffe's obstetrician, previously appeared as Sir Montague Porter in Episode #277, Warren Davies in Episode #236 and Maurice Hardy in Episode #277. Vivienne Garrett returns in Episode #841 for a guest arc as the former Rose Godolfus. The character had moved to Port Moresby, Papua-New Guinea with Julian Myers and raised a family there. Episode #840 was later incorporated into an episode of "The Golden Years of Television" entitled "Salute to Australian Soaps" (1986). Both of "the bomb" episodes were showcased in Foxtel/Austar TV1's "Television's Greatest Hits: The Best of Number 96" (2000), introduced by Andrew Mercado. On the 2012 DVD, "Number 96: The Beginning and the Bomb" (Volume 3) by Umbrella Entertainment Australia, Episode #840 includes an archived audio commentary with director Peter Benardos and TV historian, Nigel Giles.

842. (9/09) Arnold tries to offer comfort and explanations to Rose. Aunt Selma's interference again! Don has some plans afoot. Norma's nurse (Josephine Townsend) can't let Liz in to visit her patient. Two more former residents return to Number 96in response to the bombing incident: Gary Whittaker (Mike Ferguson), who had been doing an Army-related course in Washington DC; and Jack Sellars (Tom Oliver), who now lives in Paris, France, with his wife, the former Helen Sheridan. Warwick's publicist, Martin (John Bennett), is keen to get Vera's finished designs so they can be photographed for the salon's campaign. [Episode written by David Sale; directed by Peter Benardos.]

Mike Ferguson and Tom Oliver return for guest arcs as Gary Whittaker and Jack Sellars respectively. [Episode written by David Sale; directed by Peter Benardos.]

843. (10/09) Dudley runs into trouble, while Reg has some explaining to do to Edie. Lucy discovers the truth about the tragic bomb blast. Mystery continues to surround Maggie. Jack lends a hand to trap the bomber. [Episode written by David Sale; directed by Peter Benardos.]

Maggie Cameron's receptionist, Angela, gets a namedrop in this episode. She was last seen onscreen in early 1972.

844. (11/09) Alf blames himself for his awful mistake. Detective Sergeant Symons (Tony Wager) questions Maggie Cameron about her role in the fatal delicatessen bomb blast. Dorrie has a mystery to solve. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed Brian Phillis.]

Tony Wager, as Detective Sergeant Symons, returns to the role he first played in 1972. The character is seen again in 1977. This episode was later showcased in Foxtel/Austar TV1's "Television's Greatest Hits: The Best of Number 96" (2000), introduced by Andrew Mercado.

845. (12/09) What is the truth behind Flo's strange secret? [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Brian Phillis.]

846. (15/09) Dudley's reaction to Jaja's adventures thrill her. Arnold makes a noble sacrifice. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Brian Phillis.]

847. (16/09) Dorrie is not sure if she approves of the changes in Flo. Alf and Lucy's baby has been placed in the Observation Ward with a chill. Some news brings out a strange reaction in Liz. Warwick tells his butler, Fletcher (David Bradley), that there will be two for breakfast in the morning; Vera is expected to stay overnight. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Brian Phillis.]

Last of 16 consecutive colour episodes (#832-847) released on DVD in 2012, "Number 96: The Beginning and the Bomb" (Volume 3), by Umbrella Entertainment Australia. The other 16 episodes were from the b/w era.

848. (17/09) Edie is suspicious of Liz. Herb and Dorrie argue over the latest disaster with Flo. Harvey Williams (John Armstrong) is being considered as a replacement tenant for Flo's room. Jack tells Norma about little Jackie Jr, his pet name for his and Helen's baby. The boy's name is actually John. [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Brian Phillis.]

John Armstrong, who plays Harvey Williams, previously appeared as Barry Deprose in Episode #134.

849. (18/09) Nigel ruffles Dudley, while Don advises Vera. Warwick's fashion photographer (Jeff Murray) is being very thorough at the salon. [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Brian Phillis.]

850. (19/09) Prim is given frightening news, via a thug (Ron Hansen), which she must pass on to David: "Louis wants to see you, like yesterday." Warwick does some straight talking. [Episode written by Susan Swinford; directed by Peter Benardos.]

851. (22/09) Reg is annoyed with the way Edie is treating Liz. Dudley chooses the wrong moment to interrupt. [Episode written by Ross Napier; directed by Peter Benardos.]

852. (23/09) Flo's latest escapade horrifies Dorrie. Don meets Jack's solicitor, Laura Trent (Mary-Ann Severne), who is nothing like he expected. Vera decides to confide in Don. Arthur Partridge (Gordon Glenwright) arrives at Flat 3, posing as "Mr Jones", to view Flo's room. It seems that Warwick already knows Laura. [Episode written by Ross Napier; directed by Peter Benardos.]

853. (24/09) Jaja manages to confuse Gary. Vera is determined to confront Warwick. [Episode written by Ken Hayles; directed by Peter Benardos.]

Mike Ferguson had returned as Gary Whittaker for an extended stint.

854. (25/09) David doesn't react according to Prim's plans. Dorrie, Herb and Flo have come up with a new scheme. Vera wants to know about Warwick's connection to Laura. He knew her bankrupt father, Patrick Trent, Warwick's first senior partner. Warwick admits that he loves Vera. At the opening of The House of Danielle, Loueena Derwent (Lorraine Bayly) thinks of Vera as "the woman who tamed Warwick Thompson". [Episode written by Ken Hayles; directed by Peter Benardos.]

855. (26/09) Vera is acting strangely, while Liz and Jaja clash. [Episode written by David Phillips; directed by Brian Phillis.]

856. (29/09) Dudley's news amazes David and Prim, while a confused Norma suffers pangs of guilt about her friendship with Gilbert. [Episode written by Peter Thorburn; directed by Brian Phillis.]

857. (30/09) Nigel and Reg disagree. Warwick has some advice for Vera. Vera is unimpressed by the efforts of the seamstress, Eileen Chester (Patti Crocker). Eileen has been with Warwick's company for 15 years, but Vera demands that Miss Townsend (Patricia Craig) fire her immediately. [Episode written by Peter Thorburn; directed by Brian Phillis.]

Patti Crocker, who portrays Eileen Chester, made a previous appearance as a hospital matron in Episode #157.

858. (1/10) Arnold is gullible, while Norma is put into a spot by Liz. Alf and Lucy's son, Jim Sutcliffe (Brendan Lunney), is back in Sydney for a surprise trip. Warwick's wife, Muriel Thompson (Rowena Wallace) finally meets Vera. Who put a bag of heroin in David's camera bag? [Episode written by Tom MacLennan; directed by Brian Phillis.]

Brendan Lunney makes his third onscreen appearance as the oft-mentioned Jim Sutcliffe. Previously he had a brief story arc from Episode #41 and another from Episode #247.

859. (2/10) David confronts Louis Spiro about the bogus Bali trip, while Dorrie disapproves of Flo's new friend, Arthur. Reg is depressed about Nigel's popularity at the TH, and is impatient to take over as DTC. Louis gives David a new assignment, which he passes with flying colours. What are Arthur's intentions regarding Flo? While outside a Paddington fruit shop, baby Emma is taken from her pram by a mysterious woman. [Episode written by Tom MacLennan; directed by Brian Phillis.]

860. (3/10) Gary has a warning for Dudley, while a distraught Lucy tries to cope with a disaster; a woman referred to as "Mad" Stella (Anne Charleston) has taken Emma. Alf has no time for the reporter (Douglas Stark) from The Clarion newspaper, who turns up at Flat 4 to do a story on Emma's kidnapping. A plainclothes member of the Vice Squad is looking for David. [Episode written by Joel Sweetenson; directed by Peter Benardos.]

Anne Charleston, who portrays Stella, previously appeared as Madame Jacqueline in Episode #600.

861. (6/10) Liz is playing a strange game with Arnold. Lucy breaks down over little Emma Sutcliffe's disappearance. Mayor Charles Gough (David Whitford) and his lover, Sandra (Peta Peter), trick Edie MacDonald into giving them the run of Flat 5 for a secret rendezvous. Detective Inspector Mitchell (Mark Kelly) attempts to resolve the kidnapping of Emma Sutcliffe and gives advice to Alf. [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Peter Benardos.]

David Whitford, who portrays Charles Gough, first appeared as Paul Mathews in Episode #228. He will return as Mayor Gough in Episode #1059. 861 Since David was a taxi driver in real life, when not acting, he can often be seen as an extra, driving his own taxi, in many Australian productions of the day. David is the brother of Peter Whitford, who will eventually play the regular character of Guy Sutton. Mark Kelly portrays Detective Inspector Mitchell. Previously, he played Detective Sergeant Miller, who had investigated stolen money in relation to Flat 8 and, in Episode #239, the morphine stolen from the chemist shop. He also played Detective Constable Roberts in Episode #783.

862. (7/10) Dudley's plans don't proceed according to his expectations. Herb believes that Dorrie may have acted in haste. Liz accepts Arnold's proposal of marriage. [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Peter Benardos.]

863. (8/10) David's situation worries Prim, while Norma gives advice to Louis. Dorrie is excited to show Flat 4 to the prospective tenants, the Reverend Mr Humphries (Robert Eagen), a retired Borneo-based minister, and his wife. Flo realises that she has been duped. Tomorrow's trip to Melbourne is actually for the christening of Kingsley Parker, Dorrie and Herb's grandson. [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Peter Benardos.]

864. (9/10) Gary causes David to lose his temper, with disastrous results. Arnold makes a special announcement about his and Liz's future. [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Peter Benardos.]

865. (10/10) Gary attempts to convey the truth to Arnold but Liz is always a step ahead. Arthur proses marriage to Flo. Eileen moves into the vacant Flat 4 with her youngest daughter, Debbie Chester (Dina Mann). Flo meets Cookie (Himself), Arthur's pet cockatoo. Gary overhears Gilbert talking to Norma and takes action. [Episode written by Richard "Dick" Barry; directed by Brian Phillis.]

Future regular script and synopsis writer, Dick Barry, is credited here as Richard Barry.

866. (13/10) Don has some advice for Vera. Prim is positive that David is hiding something. [Episode written by Richard "Dick" Barry; directed by Brian Phillis.]

Future regular script and synopsis writer, Dick Barry, is credited here as Richard Barry.

867. (14/10) Debbie's older sister, Jane Chester (Suzanne Church), arrives at Flat 4 to find that Eileen has finished unpacking. Reg is outraged, while Don's suggestion horrifies Laura. What is the strange hold that Celia Palmer (Margaret Christensen) has over her son, David? [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Brian Phillis.]

868. (15/10) Arthur's model trains and Cookie take over much of Flat 3. Gary has his suspicions about Gilbert and Norma. Prim finds out the truth about David's relationship with Celia: she is actually his wife, not his mother. Arnold's latest news is a surprise to Flo, but she and Arthur agree to witness a marriage. Vera is baffled by Muriel's actions. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Brian Phillis.]

869. (16/10) Don and Laura have a plan, while Edie is distressed by Liz's announcement. The marriage celebrant (May Howlett) officiates at Arnold and Liz's wedding. Debbie's school friend, Teresa (Julieanne Newbould), introduces her to a new thrill: a hypodermic of heroin. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Brian Phillis.]

Jane Chester references a boyfriend, Bill Degotardi, presumably a namedrop for commercial real estate agents, Graeme and Brian Degotardi, who have operated on Sydney's North Shore since the 1960s. Debbie Chester was shown mainlining heroin, in a scene made with police participation. The censors decreed that Rose Godolfus had to be shown to dislike the effects of smoking a marijuana cigarette in Episode #19. Chris Benaud and Angela Punch-McGregor had portrayed cannabis-smoking teenagers, in more graphic scenes, in Episode #523.

870. (17/10) Prim has a proposal for Vera; she would like to be a boarder in Flat 7. Gary makes Liz furious; she then begins acting very strangely. Jaja moves in with Laura. [Episode written by Susan Swinford; directed by Peter Benardos.]

871. (20/10) Edie is told to take a good, hard look at herself. Eileen is still oblivious to what is going on with her younger daughter, Debbie. [Episode written by David Sale; directed by Peter Benardos.]

872. (21/10) David can't see a way out of his dilemma. Warwick is angry with Muriel. David finds Celia in the bathtub - with her wrists slashed. [Episode written by David Sale; directed by Peter Benardos.]

873. (22/10) Reg receives a mysterious telephone call from his son, Dean. David is threatened by Celia. [Episode written by David Sale; directed by Peter Benardos.]

874. (23/10) Edie is the recipient of some harsh words from Arnold. Laura is concerned about Jaja. [Episode written by David Sale; directed by Peter Benardos.]

875. (24/10) Muriel makes a suggestion to Warwick. Flo must come to a decision. Vera tells Don that she is pregnant to Warwick. [Episode written by Ross Napier; directed by Peter Benardos.]

876. (27/10) Edie is forlorn over Reg's oversight. Mr Mandelburg's fur shop has a Persian lamb coat in the window, which Edie covets, and had believed that Reg would buy for her as a 25th wedding anniversary gift. Eileen fails to notice Debbie's ill health, and is called into the school to speak with the headmistress, Mrs L. Macreadie (Lynne Murphy). Teresa's drug pusher, Nick (Terry Camilleri), has been lurking on Lindsay Street and threatens Debbie about monies owed for services rendered. [Episode written by Ross Napier; directed by Brian Phillis.]

Lynne Murphy, who plays Headmistress Macreadie, will return as the regular character, Fay Chandler, from Episode #989.

877. (28/10) Don's first new client with Sir Percival Quail is one Roger Pycroft, a young man charged with multiple traffic offences. The local "garbos", Frank "Weppo" Smith (Roger Ward) and his colleagues, "Chinka", "Armpits" and Clarence, aka "Nutsy", are celebrating with lunch in the Norma's Bar, instead of their usual pub venue. It is the last day on the truck for "Chinka". Muriel demands to see Laura immediately and Don wonders what the problem might be. Arnold attempts to smooth things with Edie. [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Brian Phillis.]

The Pycrofts (in Episode #767) were said to be high society friends of the Rhinegolds (Ozzie, Rita and daughter Prue). Roger Ward portrays Weppo Smith. Previously, he had played a licensing inspector posing as a deli customer, in Episodes #87 and #89.

878. (29/10) Dorrie plays the part of Flo's fairy godmother. Liz threatens Gary. Athol (Brian Barrie) and his wife (Betty Cheal), tourists from Auckland who are staying at a nearby motel, wander into the deli looking for toiletries. They are stunned to recognise Liz, calling her "Beckie Wilson". They offer condolences on the fate of Beckie's husband, but Liz is perplexed, denies knowing them, and warns that it is almost closing time. [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Brian Phillis.]

879. (30/10) Debbie loses control in front of Dorrie and Flo. Gary makes a promise to his mother. [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Brian Phillis.]

880. (31/10) Prim attempts to help Vera. Gary ignores his promise and seeks a showdown. [Episode written by David Phillips; directed by Peter Benardos.]

881. (3/11) Jane tries to reason with Debbie. Arthur takes charge of Dorrie's landscaping plans... and the Sunshine Patio takes shape at the rear of Number 96. Debbie, using the alias "Joan Thomas of Smith Street, Paddington", tries to pawn Eileen's engagement ring with a local Pawnbroker (Noel Mitchell). Roger Pycroft (Andrew Grant) gets physical with Don when it is suggested that Roger should plead "Guilty" in court. [Episode written by David Phillips; directed by Peter Benardos.]

Roger Pycroft is finally seen onscreen, played by Andrew Grant. Previously, Andrew played Detective Sergeant Wellington in a story arc from Episode #335.

882. (4/11) Gary is playing games with Liz. Debbie's proposition stuns Dudley. [Episode written by David Phillips; directed by Peter Benardos.]

883. (5/11) Gary's news startles Prim. Liz threatens the garage mechanic (Don Goldenburg) about having Arnold's car repaired after all. Reg has a suggestion for Weppo: he should move into Flat 5 as a boarder. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Peter Benardos.]

884. (6/11) Jaja believes that she has found true love. Arnold unexpectedly returns to Liz's chagrin. Roger confirms that he knows Prue Rhinegold and her parents, Ozzie and Rita. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Peter Benardos.]

885. (7/11) Don is mystified about an incident. Roger is sure that he has an inoperable brain tumour. There is a shock in store for Debbie. Teresa's mother (Jennifer West) tells her that her daughter is in hospital, following an overdose. [Episode written by David Sale; directed by Brian Phillis.]

886. (10/11) Liz continues with her strange game. Prim tries to comfort Vera. Jaja meets a scantily-dressed tart named Victoria (Terry Herlihy) coming out of Flat 6 and realises that David is not just setting up an escort agency, but a high-class prostitution racket, just as Prim had said. [Episode written by David Sale; directed by Brian Phillis.]

Terry Herlihy, who portrays Victoria, will return as Naked Lady in Episode #1149.

887. (11/11) Don is in trouble, but Debbie is in deeper trouble. While waiting to meet her pusher, one of Debbie's schoolgirl friends (Wendy Horton) warns her not to be late for roll call. Jane tries to get Dudley to see reason. [Episode written by Lynn Foster; directed by Brian Phillis.]

On this day, after a series of dramatic political events, including a 1974 double dissolution of Federal Parliament, the "Khemlani Loans Affair" and a budgetary supply crisis, the Gough Whitlam-led Labor Government became the first (and only) government in Australian history to be dismissed by the Governor-General (Sir John Kerr). Malcolm Fraser was installed as caretaker Prime Minister. While this constitutional crisis overshadowed the Whitlam years, his administration left a lasting legacy of social and political reform. Many of the cast members of "Number 96" had participated in the "It's Time..." winning election campaign that had seen Whitlam first rise to power as Prime Minister.

888. (12/11) Dorrie places some blame solely on Reg's shoulders. Muriel makes her move; she is divorcing Warwick. Vera's obstetric specialist, Doctor Hunter (John Charlton), delivers grim news after the miscarriage of her baby. A previous history of abortions, including a badly botched one, means that she will never be able to bear children. Portrayed by [Episode written by Lynn Foster; directed by Brian Phillis.]

889. (13/11) Debbie loses her temper with Arnold, while David makes a stand. Jaja is offered a job for the evening by a visiting Dubbo businessman (Hugh Sawkins) who can't find a suitable escort from David's listings. On the recommendation of her pusher, Debbie gets "tarted up" and heads to Kings Cross, but has little success raising drug money. [Episode written by Lynn Foster; directed by Brian Phillis.]

The plotlines for an original paperback novel, "Number 96" (Stag, 1976), take place around the time of this episode. There is even a reference to the ongoing garbage strike happening in the series. The story arcs feature Jaja Gibson and Grace "Prim" Primrose prominently, but no actors from the series appear on the cover. Uncredited, this novel was supposedly written by Carl Ruhen, who did the "Neighbours" paperbacks a decade or so later. He is also credited with novelisations for "Alvin Purple", "Mad Max 2", "The Young Doctors", "Sons and Daughters" and "Melvin, Son of Alvin".

890. (14/11) Dudley is worried about his sexual prowess. Reg seeks Weppo's help to resolve the problem of "The Dustbin Dispute". In Kings Cross, a prostitute (Jinx Huber) castigates Debbie and points out the nearby Wally, the protector of her interests. A sinister man (Robert Driscoll) tells David about the protection racket; they are holding Jaja hostage until David agrees to pay 50% of his agency's earnings. [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Peter Benardos.]

Jinx Huber (now Jinx Lootens), who portrays the Kings Cross prostitute, was the then-wife of Executive Producer Bob Huber. Jinx had previously appeared as Samantha Vanderhum (from Episode #235), and as a nurse in 1973. She would return in other roles, Mrs Hadley in Episode #1149, and several appearances as Coral Fuller (aka Olga Medcalf) from Episode #1187.

891. (17/11) Don is furious with Dudley. Vera breaks down and makes a confession to Prim. [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Peter Benardos.]

892. (18/11) Gary makes a suggestion to Liz. Arnold receives an unexpected windfall. Reporter Brian Proud (Himself) attempts to cover the story of the garbage dispute for TV's Eyewitness News. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Peter Benardos.]

Brian Proud, an actual Network 0-TEN reporter, returns to present stories on a Randwick bank robbery in Episode #931, Herb Evans' skyjacking incident in Episode #1136, and to interview Opal Wilkinson on TV in Episode #1207.

893. (19/11) David has a warning for Jaja. Meanwhile, Arnold gives Liz a nasty shock. A hood (Jim Clifford) from the protection racket collects his cut - $325 - from David, but then complains that it doesn't seem enough for an agency with 12 girls on the books. He insists on taking Jaja for the evening, to receive his 30% share. David reluctantly agrees that she should go with him. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Peter Benardos.]

894. (20/11) Norma enters the fray of the strike and Debbie is in trouble again. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Peter Benardos.]

895. (21/11) Liz's move fails to concern Debbie. Dorrie sets out to defeat the council after Weppo is attacked by three of his former friends. [Episode written by Susan Swinford; directed by Brian Phillis.]

896. (24/11) Norma loses her patience with Gary. David needs comforting. Dorrie and Weppo appear as guests on The Mike Walsh Show, to be interviewed by Mike Walsh (Himself), about the garbage strike in Paddington. Don tries to get Laura to see reason. Arnold's doctor (Brian Anderson) thinks that he has a virus and writes a prescription for antibiotics. Liz tells the doctor that she believes her husband "is being slowly and systematically poisoned". [Episode written by Susan Swinford; directed by Brian Phillis.]

Mike "Shirley Temple" Williams makes a brief appearance as himself on "The Mike Walsh Show" set. He had previously been an extra in Episode #353. Brian Anderson, who portrays Arnold Feather's doctor, previously appeared as a theatrical agent in Episode #792. Note that antibiotics are no longer considered a suitable treatment for a virus, only secondary symptoms.

897. (25/11) Reg sides with Weppo. Jane has a shocking confession for Eileen. Three of Weppo's angry garbo colleagues come to Flat 5 looking for him, as a result of what was said on The Mike Walsh Show. One of them, Dunleavy (Ray Meagher), is keen to hang Dorrie "on a meat-hook and leave her for the crows". Weppo soon calms the situation and ends up sharing beers with them. One of Debbie's schoolgirl friends (Terrie Lynn) seems unapproachable about hard drugs, but would be interested in getting some pot. [Episode written by Ross Napier; directed by Brian Phillis.]

Ray Meagher, who plays Dunleavy the garbo, returns in 1977 as the recurring character, Fred Shrimpton.

898. (26/11) Jane does not think too highly of Dudley's idea of discretion. Muriel is plotting to destroy Warwick's happiness. Simon Thompson (Sean Hinton), Warwick's young son, delivers a disturbing message to Vera at the penthouse. [Episode written by Ross Napier; directed by Brian Phillis.]

Sean Hinton, who portrays the oft-mentioned Simon Thompson, is the real life son of actor Phillip Hinton. Phillip Hinton appears as a faux K.G.B. spy in Episodes #1208 and #1209.

899. (27/11) Gary has a tirade of harsh words for Norma and remains unforgiving. The police have been called in to investigate Arnold's health situation. Senior Sergeant Murphy (Max Osbiston, credited as "Orbiston") and Detective Johns (Alan McGuiness) find a bottle of potassium antimony tartrate in Gary's pocket and insist on taking him to the police station for questioning. [Episode written by Ross Napier; directed by Brian Phillis.]

Max Osbiston, who portrays Senior Sergeant Murphy previously appeared as Charles in Episode #5. Alan McGuiness, who portrays Detective Johns, returns as a fisherman in Episode #1110 and as Mark in Episodes #1209, 1210 (credited as "McGuinness").

900. (28/11) Gary refuses to go to the police station. Debbie feels trapped: Nick refuses her $40, telling her that the price is $50 unless she agrees to push drugs for him. David warns Jaja about the tour to the Far East once again, but she won't take him seriously. Gary is charged with poisoning Arnold. He tells Laura that it was Liz. Edie intends to be a candidate in the local council elections. Jaja signs a contract with Oscar Barry (Redmond Phillips), believing his theatrical agency is for showgirls and hostesses to travel to Singapore and perform in shows. [Episode written by Lynn Foster; directed by Howard Scrivener.]

Redmond Phillips, who portrays Oscar Barry, would return to play the recurring role of Mr Bingham in 1976.

901. (1/12) Liz feigns surprise about Gary's arrest. Jane inadvertently triggers a disaster. After Simon's visit, Vera breaks down and confesses a secret to Warwick. $50 is missing from the delicatessen's till and Jane has found Debbie's heroin implements. Prim reluctantly incriminates Gary. Reg arrives home to find a gathering of councillors, including Aldermen Sinclair and Palfrey, and Alderman Mrs April Bullock. They are meeting to discuss tactics to defeat Clem Benson in the local elections. Jane tries to help Debbie go "cold turkey", without success. [Episode written by Lynn Foster; directed by Howard Scrivener.]

902. (2/12) Debbie's doctor (John Larking) tells Jane what to expect regarding her sister's recovery. The latest scandal about Gary has not met with Dorrie's approval. Liz makes an accusation about Debbie to Eileen. Jaja tells David that she has signed the contract for the tour, which instigates another row. Eileen blames Jane for Debbie's condition. David proposes to Jaja. No barrister is willing to take on Gary's case. Detective Cord (John Vale) from Police Headquarters visits David about the reports he has given them about the white slave racket. Cord is concerned that David and Jaja are continuing to involve themselves. Dorrie searches for bodies in the Sunshine Patio and is overheard by Senior Sergeant Murphy. A disappointed Oscar Barry orders a taxi for Jaja, who has backed out of the tour. David has walked into a deadly trap - and is quickly joined by Jaja. She sees David, bound and gagged, in the back seat of the taxi. The bogus Detective Cord pushes her inside and the vehicle drives off. [Episode written by David Sale; directed by Howard Scrivener.]

John Larking, who portrays Debbie's doctor, previously appeared as Mr Pelham in Episode #183, and will return as Mr Hogan in Episode #1046.

903. (3/12) Muriel does some fast talking and Warwick is left feeling confused. Norma is resigned to the fact that Gary is going to prison. Eileen is unforgiving. Reg acts as MC for Dorrie's grand opening of the Sunshine Patio, but nobody turns up. After a trip to the zoo, Warwick's daughter, Caroline Thompson (Belinda Grose), and son, Simon, tell their father exactly how they feel about his relationship with Vera. [Episode written by David Sale; directed by Howard Scrivener.]

In the leaderstrip to the episode compile, the audio transmission date has a homage to Weppo's appearances. "As Shakespeare would say, 'Whenever and however...'" can be heard, instead of the usual "TBA" ("To Be Announced").

904. (4/12) Dudley and Prim share concern over David and Jaja's welfare. Don has questions for Liz, but she manages to bluff her way through. Edie and April plan a political rally. Don visits the oft-mentioned Eunice Springer, who supports Liz's story, but Gary knows that the woman is lying. Warwick wants to make plans for a trip to Europe with Vera. Dorrie is annoyed that Edie's rally on the patio interrupts her peace and quiet. Muriel asks Laura to hold off the divorce proceedings for the time being. At the police station, Dudley is told by the desk sergeant (Digby Thomas) that a body of a girl fitting Jaja's description has been found, washed up on rocks at Turimetta Head. Dudley then identifies a body at the morgue: it is Jaja's. [Episode written by David Sale; directed by Howard Scrivener.]

In the leaderstrip to the episode compile, the audio announcement is accompanied by a resounding theatrical echo. Digby Thomas, who plays the desk sergeant, will portray Henry Dunmore's chauffeur in Episode #985.

905. (5/12) Don realises that something has upset Dudley. He must now organise for his Uncle Vern and Aunt Elsie, Jaja's parents, to travel to Sydney from Forbes. Eunice Springer (Anne-Marie Wiles) sticks to her story. Edie puts Reg in a quandary; should he be worried or elated about her political aspirations? Alderman Mrs Bullock introduces the asthmatic "Bill Stickup", who will be responsible for pasting Edie's campaign posters all over Paddington. Don has lunch with a barrister, Quentin Flemming (Les Foxcroft), "a top QC" and a friend of Bunny Pycroft. He urges Don to drop Gary's case or, at least, get more tangible evidence. Journalist Oliver Hobbs (Reg Gorman) does not instill confidence about the accuracy of the article he is writing. Arnold threatens to lodge a formal complaint about Don's treatment of Liz. Muriel realises that Laura, too, is in love with Warwick. [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Brian Phillis.]

Quentin Flemming mentions that Bunny Pycroft is up for Commodore at his local yacht club. Flemming is played by Les Foxcroft, who was last seen as the Magistrate overseeing Kerry Braddon's case in Episode #831. Previously, he was Holloway's office caretaker in Episode #22, and will return as the recurring character, Sir William Mainwaring, from Episode #1008. Reg Gorman, seen here as Oliver Hobbs, previously played Constable Wyatt and Irate Father in 1972, and Bert Kelly in 1974. The episode has a running gag of characters being referred to by their incorrect names ("Rex", "Ron", "Rob" and "Ray" MacDonald, "Bill Stickup", Alderman Mrs "Bollocks", Edie "McDougall", especially by journalist Mr Hobbs. The joke extends to the end credits: the actors for the characters of Hobbs and Flemming are actually switched. Quentin Flemming is miscredited to Reg Gorman. Oliver Hobbs is incorrectly attributed onscreen to John Cobley, an actor who would play Zeke Bolton in "The Young Doctors".

906. (8/12) Warwick undergoes a change of mind. A funnelweb spider is an uninvited guest at Dorrie's barbecue. Vera tries to bring Warwick and the children closer together. Arthur finds an advertisement in a Queensland paper asking for Herb to contact a solicitor and Dorrie is convinced he will receive an inheritance. Arnold gives Don a piece of his mind. Liz threatens Eunice; she has to stick to their story, after all, Eunice was the one who obtained poison for Liz last time, during an incident in New Zealand. [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Brian Phillis.]

907. (9/12) Arnold makes a confession to the police, claiming that he poisoned himself, but Detective Sergeant Murphy doesn't believe him. Eileen does her best to cover up for Debbie, but Jane is furious. Jaja's funeral takes its toll on Dudley. Vera refuses to give Eileen time off to visit Debbie. The police ask Norma about Gary's attempt to shoot his estranged wife, Anna Maria, years before. Edie goes missing while campaigning. During a family outing to the beach, Warwick finds Muriel floating face down in the water. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Brian Phillis.]

908. (10/12) Herb is thrilled by news of an inheritance, which will require a plane trip to Brisbane. Vera hears grim news about Muriel. Prim tries to help Dudley. Dorrie causes an accident and Arthur may never be the same. While seeing Herb off at the airport, Flo meets faded Hollywood actor, Trevor Banks (Kev Golsby) and he kisses her hand. Later, and his manager, Scott Taylor (Robert Davis), seek out Norma's Bar, where Trevor asks for his "little lost baby", whom he hasn't seen for over 20 years. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Brian Phillis.]

Kev Golsby, who portrays Trevor Banks, previously appeared as the recurring character, Rudi Savanto, from Episode #605. That time he was credited as "Kevin" Golsby.

909. (11/12) Reg is frantic over Edie's disappearance on polling day. Arthur is suffering from a concussion. Eileen prepares for Debbie's hearing with the magistrate. Despite a plea from Scott, Prim refuses to forgive her unexpected visitor: her alcoholic father, Trevor. Will Magistrate Breverton (John Rayner) recommend that Debbie be placed in a detention centre for delinquents? Arthur needs a wife to take up a job at the train museum in Bowral. Edie defeats Clem Benson in the election. Muriel's operation has been only partly successful. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Brian Phillis.]

John Rayner returns to the magistrate character he first played in Episode #92. He is given the surname "Breverton" in dialogue used in Episode #911. Over the years, John Rayner also portrayed a lawyer, Mr Locksley, an attorney, and the recurring role of TC Ian Duncan. In Adelaide, scheduling had fallen behind. This episode would be aired in a one-hour timeslot with Episode #910, but not until Thursday 13/05/1976. (Episodes in South Australia were being played at 9.35pm, following a one-hour compilation of episodes of "The Box" at 8.35pm.)

910. (12/12) Prim still has no time for Trevor, and throws him out before he can tell his side of the story. Don is coopted as a waiter in the wine bar. Dorrie announces that she and Herb have great expectations but, instead of money, Herb inherits a 51-year old son from the deceased Gladys Winthrop's will. He and Flo desperately try to hide the truth. Liz shows Don an incriminating letter which Norma confirms as being in Gary's handwriting. Vera learns that Muriel will never walk again. In private, Liz tells Gary that she wishes he would hang. Inexplicably, Jaja is back from the dead. [Episode written by Johnny Whyte; directed by Peter Benardos.]

This episode's cliffhanger endings would not be resolved until the 1976 ratings season, when episodes would be screened twice weekly, in one-hour blocks. On Saturday 13/12/1975, a federal election would be held. After a bitter campaign, the conservative Fraser Government is confirmed in power.

Number 96 synopses © 1994, 2020 Ian McLean and Lindsay Street Productions. They have been rewritten and annotated from information derived from Sydney and Melbourne editions of TV Week and TV Times, cross-referenced with original Cash Harmon documentation (including synopses by Peter Pascoe) and viewings of episodes. No text may be reproduced without the express permission of the author. To use this material in research, you are requested to inform the author and credit his contribution accordingly. Thank you.

Page last updated January 2025.