The Hamilton and Oatley families are the owners of massive cattle stations in Australia's Northern Territory, relying on the annual monsoons to restore their parched land after the long dry season. As the rains approach, the outback families prepare to leave for coastal Darwin, looking forward to a few months of relaxation. But this year the ominous storm clouds only serve to remind them of trouble brewing - an Aborgine guerilla fighter is in the district with some of his men, causing havoc indiscriminately and placing both Zack Hamilton and William Oatley in great danger. As the days drag on, the Aborigines' struggle for survival involves them all in a vicious waiting game until they have to face the truth about themselves.