The famous Matt McGregor finds himself drawn to a beautiful young widow who has returned to Australia, while at the same time a mysterious and dangerous young American lad challenges him.

When the sadistic new school teacher savagely punishes his daughter Danni, Matt is forced to take action. His son and nephew, Rob and Luke play dangerous games to win the affections of the beautiful Victoria Blackwood.

A competitor arrives to challenge Matt for the affections of Kathleen O'Neil until Matt and Kathleen have a romantic encounter while snowbound

Their romantic affair takes a comedic turn when Rob rescues Victoria after she is stranded in the outback.

Seeking revenge against Matt for supposedly abandoning her, his old flame returns home to Paterson's Ridge. Luke strikes gold and becomes a serious threat to Matt.

Kathleen feels rejected by Matt and decides to end the relationship while Danni and Michael are lost in the mountains.