Minna lives with strict German-born parents who privately hope their young daughter's friendship with the well-to-do Owen children - Toby, Harold and Adelaide - will do her some good.
Dan is on patrol to the Botany Bay area when he's asked to capture a native dog to take back to the colony's Governor. Only trouble is the dog in question belongs to Waruwi, the girl Dan befriended last time he was in the area.
Bertie wants to raise money to buy a present for his brother Eddie who's coming home from the war and steals his friend's pet rabbit for his magic show.
Johanna is aware of a lot of whispering about her parentage and becomes determined to find out who her father really is. She starts to investigate but is unprepared for a shocking discovery.
Bridie just wants to hang out with her big sister Kath and best friend Lorna, and be in on their secrets. After talking her way into tagging along, and wheeling her baby brother in his pram, Bridie sets off for what is meant to be a day of harmless fun and relaxation.
Sarah, though still a child, works as a servant for the cold and demanding Mrs Owen. As if being bossed around by the lady of the house isn't bad enough, Sarah has to deal with Mrs Owen's sly and sickly daughter, Alice.
Despite one failed invention after another, Henry knows that he's a brilliant inventor. Against the advice of his friend, Franklin, Henry conducts his biggest experiment ever - but succeeds only in blowing up the local schoolhouse.
Charles and his older brother John are both expected to work on their parents' farm. Charles loves it but John is lazy, evading his work at every turn. Both boys will soon be sent to England to learn how to be refined young gentlemen.