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) Marilyn's news about Reg shatters Edie. Arnold cannot accept that Patti is dead. Carol makes serious accusations. Dudley is unable to establish an alibi. Michael's motive for lying to Lucy may have been revenge over his mother's death. [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.

671. (14/01) Dorrie is jealous about Flo's election to president and Flo finds herself homeless. Les is found with pantyhose around his neck, but he is just conducting an experiment. Andy's plan misfires. Arnold must face grim reality. [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Peter Benardos.]

672. (15/01) Flo makes a sacrifice. Carol ends her disagreement with Don. Dudley's wallet reveals a strange secret. [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Peter Benardos.]

673. (16/01) Marilyn and Carol are both scared, but for different reasons. The mysterious Tanya Schnolskevitska (Natalie Mosco) and her comrade, Joseph, hide out in the wine bar, thinking that the disguised Les is a KGB informant. Andy must prepare Vera for a shock: Harry Collins is still alive! [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Peter Benardos.]

674. (17/01) Dudley tells Don that he has found another photograph, this time in his shirt pocket: and it is a photo of Marilyn! Vera is unable to attend Patti's funeral because she is needed at the police station. At the climax of a very sad day for the tenants, Detective Sergeant Short arrives - to arrest Dudley for murder! [Episode written by Ken Shadie; directed by Peter Benardos.]

A stray end credit for the already-departed character of Brad Hilton (Terry Bader) appears onscreen.

675. (20/01) The Sutcliffes have arranged for Arnold to stay with their son, Jim, in Perth. Vera explains that Harry did not die in the car crash after all. Dorrie's babysitting duties precludes her attendance at Claire Houghton's luncheon, but Les provides a solution by dressing in drag. Don's attitude has everyone puzzled. Tanya considers taking a job in the wine bar. Vera's dream may have revealed the killer's identity. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Brian Phillis.]

676. (21/01) Marilyn and Michael try to console Edie over Reg's absence. Freda wants Tanya to work in the deli and she takes up the offer. Lucy takes Vera's dream seriously and wants her to tell the police that she "saw" Marilyn's murder. Flo discovers that Dorrie had actually been waitressing for Claire, not socialising, at her luncheon. Reg returns from a week's sojourn in Woy Woy, which he did to punish Edie for neglecting her domestic duties. He wants Marilyn to stay with her Aunt Evelyn to evade the Pantyhose Strangler. Michael reaches a most important decision: he and Marilyn have eloped at the Registry Office. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Brian Phillis.]

677. (22/01) Edie takes Marilyn's news better than Reg. Tracey tells Vera that she thinks Peter is the killer. Reg realises that a marriage cannot be annulled if it has already been consummated. Vera's health is a concern: she has been poisoned. Tracey lets out a secret that upsets Marilyn. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Brian Phillis.]

678. (23/01) Les considers a career as a nanny. Dudley is hiding out in a hotel. Carol has resigned her job and seeks work in the wine bar. The Whittakers have an increase to the family when Norma's mother, Mrs Anne Florentine (Aileen Britton), comes to stay. Les greets her at the door dressed as Dorrie. The trap is closing in on the murderer. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; directed by Brian Phillis.]

A prominent scuff mark on the wall behind the couch in Flat 1 is also in the same location in Flat 3. Alf Sutcliffe's beer can has a promotion for "The America's Challenge" yacht race. Aileen Britton, who portrays Anne Florentine would return as two different characters in 1977, Miss Gumble in Episode #1167 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's lunch is a complete disaster. Andy raises suspicions. There is a happy reunion for Norma when Dudley returns, but terror for Marilyn in the laundrette when the murderer is revealed to her. [Episode written by Derek Strahan; 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.

680. (27/01) 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. Tracey tells Andy how she escaped from the police, but leaps to her death from a Flat 6 window. [Episode written by David Sale; directed by Peter Benardos.]

This episode was broadcast in colour. It was also 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.

681. (28/01) Vera is released from hospital, only to learn of the news about Tracey. She realises that Tracey must have been the one who poisoned her. Les commences teaching Dorrie to drive. Freda offers Arnold the job of manager of the deli. Don's health is still a cause for concern. Dorrie finds that her driving lessons are not incident-free. [Episode written by David Sale; directed by Peter Benardos.]

32 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) Alf's taxi causes a disturbance in Norma's Bar. Trixie O'Toole returns from Brisbane and moves into Vera's spare room. Carol and Dudley wonder why Don has chosen not to confide in them. Dorrie wants to work as a fashion model for Vera to earn the money she owes Alf. Norma can't believe what her own eyes tell her: Aldo and Roma Godolfus have returned home. [Episode written by David Sale; directed by Peter Benardos.]

683. (30/01) The MacDonalds plan a surprise celebration for Marilyn and Michael, but Reg has given a budget of only $15. Arnold breaks the news to Aldo and Roma about Patti and Tracey. Marilyn and Michael consider moving out of Flat 5, while the Godolfuses move into Flat 6. Don receives some shocking news. According to Doctor Langton (John Keithley), Don's health is not good; he may have only only six months to live. [Episode written by David Sale; directed by Peter Benardos.]

This episode was broadcast in colour.

684. (31/01) Reg has invited the TC to the party and raises the budget by $40. Arnold can see a glimmer of hope. Dorrie applies for a job advertised in the paper for a showbiz assistant - and is almost skewered by a professional knife-thrower named Leroy Larue (Paul Faranda). Edie's fruit punch has been laced with several different additives. TC Buchanan (Brian Moll) adds life to the party. Marilyn and Michael reach the right decision. A change of luck is in store for Alf: he has won the lottery! [Episode written by David Sale; directed by Peter Benardos.]

Paul Faranda, who portrays Leroy LaRue, previously play a different character, Angelo, in Episode #301. Brian Moll returns to his role of TC Edward "Eddie" Buchanan. In the final year, Brian Moll returns as a different TC, Mr Duncan.

685. (3/02) Freda refuses to pay Tanya and Arnold their wages. Roma and Aldo's new plan to go into the restaurant business will involve Arnold. Alf lets Dorrie off the hook regarding the damage to his taxi after his lottery win, but his joy soon turns into rage. His partner, "Chiller" Thomas, had put the winning ticket into his own name only and is refusing to share the winnings. [Episode written by Susan Swinford; directed by Brian Phillis.]

686. (4/02) Trixie continues to be an object of attraction fo the randy TC - even when she is wearing a gorilla costume. Les has arranged a piano for "Happy Hour" in the wine bar, to be played by Flo. Lucy hears from Tom Bartlett in New Zealand, who can't understand Michael's silence. Dorrie's financial situation is desperate again, while Alf's attitude is unrelenting. [Episode written by Susan Swinford; directed by Brian Phillis.]

This episode was broadcast in colour. Trixie O'Toole's costume was named Ermintrude, the roller-skating Orangutan. (The mask was actually of a gorilla.) She used to perform at the Tivoli opposite a Vaudevillian named Enery.

687. (5/02) Life is much brighter for Flo, but storm clouds are gathering over Aldo's shop. Freda fires all her staff. Marilyn and Michael are bickering. Will Dorrie become the new tea lady at the Paddington Town Hall? Freda has put the deli up for sale. [Episode written by Michael Lawrence; directed by Brian Phillis.]

688. (6/02) Norma wants her own bed back, but Les assures her that a Murphy bed is on order for Mrs Florentine. Dudley is very concerned about Don, so Carol decides to take the initiative; she discovers that Don's illness may be terminal. The Godolfuses try to turn back time. Andy horrifies Arnold; he wants to move back into Flat 6. [Episode written by Michael Lawrence; directed by Brian Phillis.]

This episode was broadcast in colour.

689. (7/02) Trixie continues to fight off the attentions of the TC. Vera is angry about some unusual overnight visitors: two near-naked young unicyclists. Les creates havoc with the Murphy bed he installs for Norma's mother. Marilyn makes some accusations which silence Michael; a phone call from New Zealand has revealed the existence of a secret wife and child. [Episode written by Michael Lawrence; 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.

690. (10/02) Michael claims that Fiona, in New Zealand, is unlikely to be pregnant because she is not that sort of girl. His father, Tom, is doing whatever he can to get Michael back home. Reg is promoted to ADTC. Lucy lends Dorrie $500 to pay for the damage to Alf's taxi. Changes are planned for the deli, but Tanya may lose her job. Reg's plan to surprise Marilyn and Michael works perfectly, to their horror; he knows they are not married. Dorrie has a shock of her own for Flo. [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 Panyhose Strangler storyline. The new series had premiered on the Sunday night at 7.30pm and featured Josephine Knur and other "Number 96" alumni, including John Paramor (a Pantyhose Strangler suspect), Patrick Ward, Max Cullen, Brian Moll and Toni Lamond. The series ran for only three weeks and then vanished. Scott Lambert moved across to "Number 96" when "The Unisexers" came to its abrupt end. Camilla Rountree and Redmond Phillips would also later appear in "Number 96".

691. (11/02) The TC proposes to Trixie. Alf threatens Chiller about the lottery money. Les's attempts at matchmaking Norma's mother with the TC result in disaster. The sausage machine causes trouble again in Flat 1. Edie has a wedding to plan, but Marilyn and Michael decide to elope instead. Alf has a surprise when Chiller's wife (Kitty Greenwood) brings him a substantial cheque. [Episode written by Stan Mars; directed by Peter Benardos.]

692. (12/02) Don's high calorie diet is of concern, but he is following doctor's orders. 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, while Vera has strange visitors once again. [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. She had been working as Casting Director for Cash Harmon since her two stints on the series (from Episode #383, and from Episode #536).

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 "TV Week" Logie Award 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. Just before midnight on the last day of February 1975, Channel Ten broadcast a short b/w scene 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 TEN-10 cheated that night, too, with its Dudley skit. Network Ten was thus 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.]

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.]

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) of the CIB (Commonwealth Investigation Branch). He is looking for Andy. [Episode written by Michael Lawrence; directed by Brian Phillis.]

Stuart Finch previously played Tim Grose, a porno film creator, in episodes aired in 1973, and would return as the recurring character, Ian Chester, in 1976.

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.]

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 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 Mr 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.

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.]

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.]

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 "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, an old school friend and heart-throb of both herself and Flo, saying that he arrives 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 Phillis 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.

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.]

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.]

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.]

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 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. 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. Phillis 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. Phillis 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 in 1974, becomes the third actress to portray Selma Horowitz, following Marion Johns in 1972 and Hilda Scurr in 1973.

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.]

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.]

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.]

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. 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. 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. Both Gary and Jack return to the devastated Number 96. 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-mention 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.

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 Barry; directed by Brian Phillis.]

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

867. (14/10) Reg is outraged, while Don's suggestion horrifies Laura. What is the strange hold 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.

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, in 1976.

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 friends of the Rhinegolds (Ozzie, Rita and daughter Prue).

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.]

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 the original paperback novel, "Number 96" (Stag, 1976), take place around the time of this episode. (The book features Jaja and Prim prominently, but no actors from the series appear on the cover. There are also references to the ongoing garbage strike.) 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.]

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 interview Opal Wilkinson on TV in 1977.

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.]

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.

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 son, Simon and his daughter, Caroline Thompson (Belinda Grose), tell him 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 1972, and will return as the recurring character, Sir William Mainwaring, in 1976. 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. (8/11) 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. (9/11) 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. (10/11) 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.]

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 Buchanan.

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.

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.

Page last updated November 2023.