Wednesday, July 13, 2011

THE REUNION - T V drama


THE REUNION - SHORT TREATMENT

Baby boomers behave badly at boys'school reunion. Blakely?

* * *

The 1969 Class of Pine Grove Boys' High meet for their thirtieth anniversary reunion. Some have kept in touch over the years; at least one seems to have been forgotten entirely. Has the event occasioned regression or have many of them simply never got past the old school ethos? Old antagonisms surface, petty mindedness and bad play come into effect. However all are not as they were, nor as they present. Nostalgia, politics, prejudice and alcohol take their toll on the joy and dignity of the reunion. Conflicts erupt and a desperate predator moves in on his prey.

We see a cross section of those who run Australia at play.




THE REUNION































 CHARACTERS

Major - all late forties - fifty

Geoffrey Blakeley/Brother Anthony - good looking
Timothy Reginald Oates ('Daisy') - self-important
'Orbo' Roy Mackeith - the President of the Old Boys'
'Comet' Martin Haley - fussy admin type
Steve Donaldson - Secretary, less fussy
'Steel' John Rudd
'Laddie' Lachlan Ladd
'Wino' Horace McWilliams
'Tommo' Peter Tomlinson
'Tipper' Hans Truck - wannabe stud
Tony Passmore - Treasurer
'Richo' Richard Richardson - once had killer looks; desperate
Chris Macklin - drinker, bushie
Leon Smith - peacemaker
'Rocky' now Giovanni Graziano - resentful in a dignified way
Robyn Field - somewhat unlikely transsexual
'Tugger' Greg Teague - decent doctor, big bloke
Barmaid  - been around the block
Waiter Sven - eighteen to twenty year old god, backpacker
Bishop Colin Bradley
Vietnam Goshawk
Sabre Toothed Lyons - ancient retired music teacher


Minor

Hotel Employee
Queeny V/O
Indignant V/O
Irreligious V/O
Huge Yawner V/O
Waiter 1
Head Waiter
Vegan
Goshawk Father
Concerned Goshawk
Badnews Goshawk
Shocked Goshawk
1st Tugger Greeter
2nd Tugger Greeter
Tale Teller
Interrupting Goshawk (V/O)
Football Goshawk
Scrum Goshawk
Suggestion Goshawk (V/O)
Good Idea Goshawk (V/0)
Fighter 1
Fighter 2
Melanesian School Child - about ten years old

Extras

Few Guests in Hotel Lobby
Non-Speaking Goshawks
Waiters
2 smoking Kitchen Hands
Receptionist
Melanesian School Children (V/O)






1         INT.                  HOTEL LOBBY                           EVENING 1

GEOFFREY'S POV as he enters hotel and crosses lobby towards the Stanley Chasm Room. He sees the placard announcing
STANLEY CHASM ROOM
OLD GOSHAWKS THIRTIETH ANNIVERSARY REUNION
DRINKS 7 -7.30 PM
FOLLOWED BY DINNER
GUEST SPEAKER
PROFESSOR T R OATS DISTINGUISHED SURGEON
A uniformed hotel employee, stood over by an indignant DAISY OATES and a patient ORBO ORBISON,  is adding an 'e' to 'Oats'. The 'e' is a different sort of lettering and the addition looks ridiculous.

DAISY (V/O
Jesus, who chose this place? It can't even get a name right? Couldn't we have had it at -
(the Intercontinental?)

ORBO (V/O)
         It was a committee decision, Daisy, not everyone could afford ... (the Intercontinental).

2         INT.                  STANLEY CHASM ROOM                       SAME 2

Still Geoffrey's POV. The Reception Room is set up for dinner. The tables are festooned with awful blue, pink and white crepe paper swathes and mismatched blue paper serviettes. There is an official table with a mike on it for the after dinner speech. The mike is trailing ribbons of the blue, pink and white. Some of the GOSHAWKS are looking on while another of their number pins a newspaper cutting to a notice board already festooned with cuttings and photos. The bar is grotesque; it is of inconvenient papier mâché boulders lit with red and yellow lights. Some of the guests are milling around in front of it, the others are in huddles or moving from one group to another around the room. Nearly all wear dinner suits and name tags, about four are in special sports blazers. One rebel is in sixties boys' school uniform with the blue, pink and white tie and badge, several are in jeans, the VIETNAM GOSHAWK is in a defiant Hawaiian shirt. We notice BISHOP BRADLEY in his purple vest, sipping an orange juice. CHRIS MACKLIN, at the bar, is in not very good R M Williams bush drag. Geoffrey's POV alights on a registration table near at hand. 'COMET' MARTIN HALEY AND STEVE DONALDSON are sitting behind it, chatting to 'STEEL' JOHN RUDD, 'LADDIE' LACHLAN LADD, 'WINO' HORACE MCWILLIAMS and 'TOMMO' PETER TOMLINSON. THEY do not take any notice of Geoffrey.

COMET HALEY
         Didn't you see him explaining why we have to legalise heroin on television? No wonder he couldn't show his face here. We did get a reply, more than we got from His Excellency in Zimbabwe, he couldn't even bother replying.

LADDIE LADD
         Who's that?

STEVE  DONALDSON
         Bob O'Brien, he's the ambassador there.


LADDIE LADD
         How'd you know that?

COMET HALEY
         I told him.

STEVE  DONALDSON
         Everyone knows. Don't you watch the news?

COMET HALEY
         My niece's boyfriend is in External Affairs, he said - (Bob O'Brien is a hoot at a dinner party).



WINO MCWILLIAMS
         Look who's over there! That's got to be Greg Teague. (Exiting) Got to see what he's been up to.
Laddie Ladd follows.

COMET HALEY
         [RISING, TO STEVE DOANLDSON)] You can watch this. I've got to be in on this. (EXITING) Look at Tugger, he's the size of a Sherman.

Steve Donaldson  goes to protest in vain, glances up at Geoffrey Blakeley but can't resist urge to be with the rest of the boys as Comet, Steel and Tommo exit.

STEVE  DONALDSON
         [RISING AND EXITING. TO GEOFFREY BLAKELEY] Be back in a minute [DOESN'T RECOGNISE HIM] um ... mate. [INDICATING DESK TOP] The name cards are there ...          Alphabetical. Help yourself. Be back in a moment.

3         INT.                  REGISTRATION DESK                       SAME 3

Geoffrey Blakeley goes behind desk and runs his finger down the guest list. He pauses at some names, looks up as if remembering, continues.

4         INT.                  REGISTRATION DESK                       SAME 4
C U of list shows most names have been ticked.

Geoffrey picks up a pen and begins to write his name at the bottom of the list.

5         INT.         REGISTRATION DESK                                SAME 5

Comet Haley and Steve Doanldson enter.

COMET HALEY (V/O O/S)
         What are you doing?

GEOFFREY BLAKELEY
         Adding my name to the list.

STEVE  DONALDSON
         Everyone's on the list. What was your name again?

GEOFFREY BLAKELEY
         Geoff Blakeley.

COMET HALEY
         [NUDGING GEOFFREY OUT OF THE WAYAND SITTING DOWN; RUNS FINGER DOWN LIST] No Blake.

GEOFFREY BLAKELEY
         Blakeley.

STEVE  DONALDSON
         Blakeley ... I don't remember any Blakeley.

COMET HALEY
         [TO GEOFFREY BLAKELEY] Did you pay? Tony Passmore said he banked all the  cheques, we made up the list from the names he gave us. This is quite an expensive venue, the committee decided it couldn't bankroll ... We've catered for eighty.

GEOFFREY BLAKELEY
         The money was taken out of my account.

COMET HALEY
         [TO STEVE  DONALDSON] You better go and get him.

STEVE  DONALDSON
         [RESENTFULLY] I can't see him.

COMET HALEY
         He's at the bar.

STEVE  DONALDSON
         I can't see him, you'd better go. I'll keep an eye on this.


6                  INT.                           BAR AREA                  SAME      6

Bar Area POV of what has just occurred so that we get a sense of simultaneity, a segue between previous scene fading out as we pick up on this one. The previous exchange is just finishing, then we see Comet Haley leaving the group to walk towards us, Steve Donaldson moving behind registration desk and Geoffrey Blakeley going back around in front of it. Steve Donaldson is asking Geoffrey how he spells his name and is checking down the list.

TIPPER TRUCK (V/O O/S)
         [TO BARMAID]They've got you working pretty hard behind there, they should've put another girl on.

7                  INT.                  BAR AREA                           SAME         7

TIPPER TRUCK is smooching the BARMAID, beside him TONY PASSMORE is in a group of Goshawks including RICHO RICHARDSON, LEON SMITH, AND CHRIS MACKLIN.

BARMAID
         They would've if you lot had paid for it.
         What would you like?

TIPPER TRUCK
         [NOT VERY EXPERTLEY PLAYING IT FOR ITS EROTIC          VALUE]
         Oh ... now that's something I like to work out as I go along but as you're asking, nothing too fancy.

BARMAID
         So we're talking another whisky on the rocks?


COMET HALEY
         [COMING UP TOTHE GROUP. TO TONY PASSMORE] Tony, Tony mate, we've - (got a bit of a problem at the desk).


RICHO  RICHARDSON
         [TO TIPPER, WAVING A NOT SO EMPTY BEER GLASS]
         While you're at it Tipper ....

TIPPER TRUCK
         [GLANCING FROM RICHO  RICHARDSON THEN BACK TO BARMAID] Get your own, this one's mine.

Ribald laughter from the Bar Area group. The Barmaid moves to other end of bar.

         Now see what you've done.

More laughter. The Barmaid lets them see she's smiling, that she's a good sport but this is calculated, she's done this number hundreds of times. Tipper looks very pleased with his riposte. Richo Richardson moves towards Barmaid to buy another beer.

COMET HALEY
         Tony, we've got a bit of a problem over there, this bloke ... um, Geoff someone - any of you blokes heard of him?

The Bar Group looks across at the Registration Desk, draw blanks.

LEON SMITH
         Isn't he the one who was the wicket-keeper that time we - (played Harold Park High?).

COMET HALEY
         [TO TONY PASSMORE]
         Says he put it on his card but we haven't got his name.


TONY PASSMORE
         Somebody's was denied - (LOOKING AT REGISTRATION DESK AGAIN) What's his name again?


COMET HALEY
         Geoff ... that one - (standing in front of the registration desk).

TONY PASSMORE
         Bastard booked into the hotel too.

Richo Richardson arrives back with a fresh glass of beer.

CHRIS MACKLIN
         Where's mine? Gees you haven't changed.

RICHO  RICHARDSON
         What do you mean by that?

CHRIS MACKLIN
         You were always a tight bastard. Haven't you heard of shouting a mate?

RICHO  RICHARDSON
         What time did you get here? Someone told me you've been propping up the bar since five. I just thought you'd better slow down, the evening's just begun.

CHRIS MACKLIN
         I got here a bit early, my flight ... What the fuck's it got to do with you?

RICHO  RICHARDSON
         All I'm saying is - (you'd better slow down). 

CHRIS MACKLIN
         I thought we were here to have a good time. There's always some wowser who wants to put the knockers on things. Who told - (you that? ie that I've been here since five).

RICHO  RICHARDSON
         The what? (SMILING) The knockers, did you say?

LEON SMITH
         Come on you guys. [To CHRIS MACKLIN] What's your  poison?

CHRIS MACKLIN
         [SULKILY, ALMOST TEARILY] Thanks mate. Anything will do. [AS LEON SMITH MOVES AWAY TO THE BAR] Oh, I usually drink Gold Classic - they might have it on tap.

GIOVANNI GRAZIANO
         You seemed to be making an impression over there, Tipper.

RICHO  RICHARDSON
         Turned into a bit of a ladies' man, have you Tipper?

TIPPER TRUCK
         Don't know about 'turned'. How're you going on that score Richo? I hear you and Carolyn parted ways.

COMET HALEY
         Steve, what are we going to do about this bloke? We don't - (have any record of him).

TONY PASSMORE
         Not now Haley. We've got enough funds. I'll see to it later. There's bound to be some empty spaces, I heard Jacko Williams can't make it.

CHRIS MACKLIN
         Jack off. What's his excuse?

Comet Haley goes off towards registration rather huffily.

8                  INT.                  RECEPTION ROOM                  SAME         8

Registration table POV.

We see Comet Haley approaching. He turns from a bit insulted to self-possessed, regains his air of officiousness as he does so.

9                  INT.                  REGISTRATION TABLE         SAME      9

COMET HALEY
         [ARRIVING AT TABLE, TO STEVE DONALDSON] I'll deal with it. [TAKING HIS PLACE BEHIND TABLE. TO GEOFFREY BLAKELEY] I'll just add ... (your name to the list).
         [T0 STEVE  DONALDSON] It's already started over there. Macklin's been at the bar since the middle of the afternoon. He made such a fuss they opened it up for him.
         Truck's upset the Barmaid. Where have they been? We'll be lucky to get out of this without a sexual harassment case. The Old Boys' Union won't like the publicity. Tony's useless, he doesn't even know who's paid and who's staying in the hotel.

STEVE  DONALDSON
         That's bad. That could cause nasty trouble.

COMET HALEY
         [GLANCING UP, WORRIED THAT GEOFFREY BLAKELEY'S  OVERHEARING THIS] Don't get carried away, I can sort it out.
         (TO GEOFF BLAKELEY) What was the name again?

GEOFF BLAKELEY
         Blakeley - it's not there.

COMET HALEY
         Just spell it for me, we'll fix it up later. You paid by credit card you say?

GEOFF BLAKELEY
         It was deducted.

Comet Hatley looks at Steve Donaldson and nods with a 'he's hopeless' look towards Tony Passmore at the bar. He writes as Geoff Blakeley speels his name

         It's 'Geoff with a 'G' and B-L-A-K-E-L-E-Y.

STEVE  DONALDSON
         Geoff Blakeley, I don't remember any Blakeley. Are you sure you've got the right year?


COMET HALEY
         [LOOKING PAST THEM, ACROSS THE TABLE] Can I help you, Miss?

ROBYN FIELD is in a black suit with a red blouse. She totes an enormous red patent leather shoulder bag and is shod in matching shoes. Her defiantly red lipstick and nail polish match her accessories.

ROBYN FIELD
         Have I got to sign on or something?

COMET HALEY
         Is there a problem? Stacey - Stacey Nguyen's been looking after us.

ROBYN FIELD
         I'm not a member of staff. No problem, I'm a guest.

TONY PASSMORE
         I think there's been a mistake, this is the Pine Grove Boys' thirtieth anniversary reunion. What were you looking for?

ROBYN FIELD
         There's no mistake Tony. (TO COMET HALEY) Do they still call you 'COMET'?
         (COMET  NODS).
         Good ... I suppose. I haven't changed my name much - just the spelling.

Robyn leans over the desk and ponts to a name on the registration sheet.

         There we are 'Robin Field', only now I spell it with a 'y'.
         [TURNING TO LOOK AROUND THE ROOM, SETTLES GAZE ON BAR AREA]. Bit of luck eh? There's Ladd, isn't it? Lachlan? Laddie, they used to call him and McWilliams - Wino.          Looks like they're still mates.

Steve Donaldson looks horrified, flustered, Comet Haley keeps checking the name and looking up at Robyn Field. Robyn nods at Geoffrey, who nods back. Robyn continues to search room for familiar faces.

COMET HALEY
         We can't have this, there must be some mistake. I'm a father of ... I've got my reputation to think of, I'm Deputy Commissioner - (if the papers heard about this ...).

STEVE  DONALDSON
         This is a joke, right?
         [TO ROBYN FIELD] I don't remember you. Who'd you say you were?

ROBYN FIELD
         Robin Field. I just changed the 'i' to 'y'. God, there's Truck, he used to call me Robin Redbreast. Do they still call him 'Tipper'?

STEVE  DONALDSON
         [ICY HOSTILITY] He's over there, by the bar.

ROBYN FIELD
         [RETURNING THE HOSTILE LOOK THEN GLANCING ACROSS TOWARDS THE BAR] That'd be right.

10                  INT.                  BAR AREA                         SAME     10

Group at the Bar POV. GREG TEAGUE, a burly man, approaches Robyn Field and kisses her on both cheeks. Greetings, reunions ... Comet and Steve look on dumbfounded. Robyn Field inquires of Geoffrey's name and introduces him to Tugger Teague who seems to be saying politely 'Of course, of course I remember you' and shakes Geoffrey's hand.

11                  INT.                  BAR AREA                  SAME            11

The Group is looking at the scene at the Registration Desk.

CHRIS MACKLIN
         I thought this was to be a no chick zone. Who's Tugger Teague smooching?

TIPPER TRUCK
         He must've forgotten his lunch.

CHRIS MACKLIN
         Look at the size of her, she must weigh nearly as much as he does.

RICHO  RICHARDSON
         Shit, take a look at her! It can't be ... Is this a joke or ...?

12                  INT.                  RECEPTION ROOM                  SAME    12

Bar POV. Robyn and Tugger start towards the bar, taking Geoffrey Blakeley with them. Tugger chats to him.

TIPPER TRUCK (V/O O/S)
         Shit, they're coming over here.

RICHO  RICHARDSON
         You can handle it Tipper, Bob Field might be your type.

13                  INT.                  BAR AREA                  SAME            13

Robyn, Tugger and Geoffrey join bar group - Richo, Tipper, Tony, Chris, Leon, Giovanni, Wino, Laddie, Steel, Tommo. The Barmaid moves back to be in on it and ready to serve.


ROBYN FIELD
         ]APPROACHING] Which one of you gentlemen is going to buy a wom- (an) a lady a drink? It's vodka and tonic.

Tugger continues towards the bar, turns to Geoffrey ...


TUGGER TEAGUE
         What's yours ... ?

GEOFFREY BLAKELEY
         Geoffrey Blake- (ley). I'll have the same.

Tugger looks a little surprised, turns back to the bar.

RICHO  RICHARDSON
         Macklin was just saying who's that hot chick.

CHRIS MACKLIN
         Shit, Richo, you blokes ....

ROBYN FIELD
         And who was it?

Steel Rudd is outraged, wants to get away, nudges Leon Smith to join him but Leon ignores him so Steel Rudd stalks off by himself. Robyn Field watches him go.

LEON SMITH
         So you're batting for the other team now, Fieldie?

ROBYN FIELD
         Robyn. Well, that's one way of putting it, fighting on the other side could be another.

GIOVANNI GRAZIANO
         Isn't it the era of team work?


ROBYN FIELD
         That's the rhetoric. (HOLDING OUT HER HAND) Good to see you again, Rocky.

GIOVANNI GRAZIANO
         It's Giovanni, always was.


ROBYN FIELD
         [SHRUGGING WHAEVER ... BUT UNDERSTANDING] Tugger and I met up with Geoff at registration, you all remember him?

GEOFFREY BLAKELEY
         Geoffrey. Geoffrey Blakeley.

He nods at the the bar crowd.

RICHO  RICHARDSOn
         Anyone else changed anything?

LEON SMITH
         That's really interesting. [TO ROBYN] Now, what made you change your (mind) - change? Decide to change?


ROBYN FIELD
         Who knows?

Tugger Teague is at her side with a drink. He has one in each hand, he gives the other to Geoffrey Blakeley and returns to the bar for his own.

         Oh, thanks. My shout next.

         [TO LEON SMITH] Haven't you changed ... um, I know it's Smith but ... What's your given name?

LEON SMITH
         Leon. Leonard Smith - Leon.
CHRIS MACKLIN
         [LOUD ASIDE TO EVERYONE] Some change. It'd be hard to beat that one.

GIOVANNI GRAZIANO
         So what've you done with your life, Macklin?

CHRIS MACKLIN
         I'm on the land, Rocky.

GIOVANNI GRAZIANO
         Giovanni. Oh yes, doing what?

CHRIS MACKLIN
         A bit of this, a bit of that. Run a few cattle - mainly for the vealers. I've got some lovely dogs.

RICHO  RICHARDSON
         Who's looking after them?

CHRIS MACKLIN
         They're being looked after, I'm only away a few days.


RICHO  RICHARDSON
         You leave Suse up there by herself? That's gallant.

CHRIS MACKLIN
         Haven't seen Sue for a few years now.

RICHO  RICHARDSON
         Oh?

CHRIS MACKLIN
         We went our separate ways.

RICHO RICHARDSON
         Where is she now?


CHRIS MACKLIN
         Last I heard she was back at uni.

TIPPER TRUCK
         What went wrong?

CHRIS MACKLIN
         Shit mate, I don't know! Who can figure them? I heard you and Penny found a fork in the road.

RICHO  RICHARDSON
         Tipper found a fork in any case, so I heard.

TIPPER TRUCK
         Shut up, Richo. You didn't do so well with Lynette. At least I didn't leave a couple of kids in the lurch. Still a high roller, are you?

RICHO  RICHARDSON
         Listen Tipper, watch what you're saying. I paid ... I took my kids out. You don't know what you're talking about. Lynette became a raving feminist and if my mother had stayed out of it ... (we might have made a go of it). Anyway, how is the child bride going?

TIPPER TRUCK
         What child bride?

RICHO  RICHARDSON
         Lisa. Lisa, wasn't it? The blond. The blond who went with the Daiwoo.

TIPPER TRUCK
         It was a Lexus. Lisa and I have separated.

RICHO  RICHARDSON
         Sorry to hear it.


CHRIS MACKLIN
         I reckon the fucking feminists have a lot to answer for. Last I heard Sue was - (running with a pack of feral feminists).

ROBYN FIELD
         Oh please.

TIPPER TRUCK
         You should talk! You were married, weren't you? What happened there?

TUGGER TEAGUE
         Come on fellas - and Robyn - we're not here to rake over the ashes, are we?


LEON SMITH
         That's right, we're here to .... (TO GEOFFREY BLAKELEY) Geoff ... Geoffrey... didn't you come up from the seconds to play in that match against Manly when Tommo was away? I remember some bloke ....

From the other side of the room comes a chant -

         Tigger, wigger, rum pa pa,
         Hin-ie slather carapaaa.
         Ra! Ra!

Some around the bar join in.

         Ootoo wall-ie batter tam,
         kreut-zer bar, give them bam.
         Here comes Pine Grove
         Ra! Ra! Ram!!

14                  INT.                  RECEPTION ROOM            LITTLE LATER 14

About eighty are seated at the tables in the Reception Room. Orbo Mackeith sits in the centre of the rectangular Official Table, to his right is Daisy Oates, Bishop Colin Bradley is to Orbo's left, Steve Doanldson should be at that end of the table but he is standing, in conference with Orbo. On the other side of Daisy is a vacant place then Tony Passmore, is at the end of the table. Steve Donaldson and Orbo Mackeith decide something and Steve leaves the Official Table and approaches Tugger Teague's (round?) Table. Geoffrey is the central camera reference point for this table. Geoffrey is seated between Tugger and Robyn Field. On the other side of Tugger is Richo Richardson then Giovanni, Tipper, Tommo, Comet, Leon Smith and Chris Macklin is on the other side of Robyn from Geoffrey (see illustration for both table set-ups).



15                  INT.                  TUGGER'S TABLE         LATER        15

STEVE  DONALDSON
         [APPROACHING TUGGER] Excuse me Tugger, could I have a word with you?

Tugger rises and falls into conference with Steve a little way away. It is clear Tugger is rejecting an offer Steve is making for Tugger to take the vacant space at the official table. Tugger returns to his place and Steve returns to official table.

COMET HALEY
         [PEEVED] What was that all about, Tugger?

TUGGER TEAGUE
         Oh nothing much. They're worried Andy Swan mightn't make it.

COMET HALEY
         What's that got to do with you?


TUGGER TEAGUE
         Christ knows, mate.

COMET HALEY
         Don't know why they're worried about him, just because he's a judge, doesn't mean all that much these days. He got into a bit of trouble over that comment he made ... [LOOKING          AROUND] remember? The thing he said about property settlement when the wife's been working. Remember that?

No-one wants to discuss it.

         Very old-fashioned attitude. It wasn't my decision to put him at the official table. Steve's hopeless. Don't know what they've got him up there for, he's just the Secretary.


GEOFFREY BLAKELEY
         He organised this, didn't he?

COMET HALEY
         So he's telling - (everyone).

O/S ringing of a bell.

16         INT.                  OFFICIAL TABLE                      SAME            16

President Orbo Mackeith is on his feet, Steve Donaldson is ringing the bell.

ORBO MACKEITH
         Good evening ... Good - Could we have a bit of shush please?

There are a few Shhh's from the audience but most people carry on their conversations.

         (LOUDER) Could I have your attention please? As most of you know, this is - (the thirtieth anniversary of the 1969 HSC class from Pine Grove High).

Steve Donaldson rings the bell violently.

         (IRRITATED GLANCE AT STEVE) I'd like to welcome you all to          ...

The audience noise is gradually subsiding through the following ...

         ... the thirtieth anniversary of the 1969 Chapter of the Pine Grove Old Boys Association. I'd like to welcome you all and wish a good evening of catching up with old mates some of whom you mightn't have seen for quite some time. I'd like to just extend a special welcome to our distinguished Old Boy          Timothy - [GLANCES AT DAISY OATES] Dr Timothy Oates - [AFFECTED, SELF-DEPRECATING GESTURE FROM DAISY OATES, WHO SAYS SOMETHING TO ORBO MACKEITH]. Sorry, that's Mr Oates these days. He seems to have risen above being Doctor to being a mere mortal again. [DAISY LOOKS ANNOYED AT THIS] Daisy, as some of you may remember him has made quite a reputation for himself as an plastic surgeon, following on from his  experiences in Vietnam as a dentist. But I'll leave all that to Mr Oates himself for his post prandial address.

17                  INT.                  TUGGER'S TABLE                  SAME          17

A WAITER with a bottle in each hand is offering white or red wine.

CHRIS MACKLIN
         [LEANING ACROSS GIOVANNI MARTINEELI TOWARDS TUGGER TEAGUE] What's his rep, Tugger?

ROBYN FIELD
         To the right of Genghis Khan. [TO WAITER] Excuse me, just a minute ...

She dives under the table and surfaces with her shoulder bag from which she pulls a bottle of red wine.

         [TO WAITER] Would you have this opened for me?

The Waiter takes the wine and exits.

18                  INT.                  OFFICIAL TABLE         SAME            18

ORBO MACKEITH
I'm sure I'm speaking on your behalf in extending our thanks to those who put the hard yakka into setting up this evening for us - our Secretary, Steve here, Steve Donaldson [THERE IS          A SPRINKLING OF APPLAUSE] ... We'll keep our applause till          the end thanks ... Um Treasurer Tony Passmore  [ANOTHER SPRINKLING AT WHICH ORBO MACKEITH RAISES HIS HAND] and all the other members of the committee who have          worked so hard to make this night a succ- happen. Gentlemen, I ask you to be upstanding. 

His table all stand, there is the sound of the room getting to its feet.

[ADDRESSING WAITERS] Everyone got a glass? Gentlemen, the Queen.

The Official Party raises its glass.

There is a mixture of shocked silence overlain with a few voices murmuring 'The Queen', 'Her Majesty'.

QUEENY VOICE (V/O O/S)
         Oh thank you.

INDIGNANT VOICE (V/O O/S)
         Bullshit!

CHORUS OF INDIGNANT VOICES (V/O O/S)

         Yeah, bullshit.}
         On the Republic.}
         Get rid of her.}
         Republic, yes, Monarchy no.}
         You've got to be kidding.

ORBO MACKEITH
         [LOOKING ALARMED] While you're all upstanding I'll just get the Bishop Colin Bradley here to perform the necessaries.

Bishop Bradley rises, he raises his hands to still the room, this is not immediately effective.

IRRELIGIOUS VOICE (V/O O/S)
         Got religion did you Bradley?

Bishop Bradley scans crowd in alarm. Composes himself, closes his eyes, bows his head.

BISHOP BRADLEY
         Dear Lord, thank you for bringing us together tonight in witness to your goodness and grace in preserving our lives and allowing us to prosper in peace and happiness.
         We would like you to extend your ...

19                  INT.                  THE RECEPTION ROOM         SAME   19

As Bishop Bradley intones the camera pans the Reception Room. Waiters are still filling glasses, some of the Goshawks are sitting down, Chris Macklin and Robyn Field included. The Waiter returns with her bottle opened and she pours herself some wine, offers some to Chris who raises his glass to find it's already got wine in it. He downs that and proffers his glass to Robyn. Other Goshawks are looking around, one is waving across the room at someone he's spotted, one is glaring angrily ... most have their heads bowed in prayer.

BISHOP BRADLEY
(V/O O/S)
         ... mercy to those of us unable to attend through misadventure or illness. We thank you for extending your forgiveness for our sins and ask that you bless all those gathered here and their own ...

YAWNING VOICE (V/O O/S)
         Huge melodramatic yawn.

Titters of laughter.
BISHOP BRADLEY
(V/O O/S)
         ... We thank you for your bounty in our lives, for bringing us together ...  and for the food we are about to receive.

20                  INT.                  TUGGER TEAGUE'S TABLE         SAME   20

BISHOP BRADLEY (V/O O/S)
         Amen.

Chorus of Amens. A bread roll flies across and hits Chris Macklin on the head. Immediately, he is on his feet, roll snatched up, arm back ready to fling it, eyes scanning the room for his attacker.

21                  INT                  RECEPTION ROOM                  SAME   21

Chris Macklin's POV. The Official Table is sitting down, Orbo Mackeith is leaning across Daisy Oates to console Bishop Bradley, everywhere others are sitting, pouring wine, turning to talk to their neighbours, random faces are staring straight ahead or at the floor as if wondering at the mistake they've made in coming. Chris Macklin's POV rests on his own table, Tugger rises and goes towards a waiter, inquires about something. Waiter points to Gents and Tugger heads in that direction. Robyn Field is observing Tugger Teague. Chris Macklin's POV goes back to scanning the room for his attacker. We see the HEAD WAITER hurrying the waiters out with the food to get things under way.

22                  INT.                  TUGGER TEAGUE'S TABLE         SAME   22

CHRIS MACKLIN
         [TO ROBYN FIELD] Did you see who it was Fieldsy?
Robyn Field shrugs.
         Well, did you?
ROBYN FIELD
         No. It was probably aimed at me. Forget it.

Chris Macklin has a 'not bloody likely' expression.

GIOVANNI GRAZIANO
         [TO ROBYN FIELD] So you've stayed in touch with Tugger?

ROBYN FIELD
         No, not exactly. We work in the same area. He's a Senior Registrar.

GIOVANNI GRAZIANO
         Where?

ROBYN FIELD
         St. Francis's.

GEOFFREY BLAKELEY
         What do you do these days, Giovanni?

GIOVANNI GRAZIANO
         I'm still in Law.

TOMMO TOMLINSON
         What area?

GIOVANI MARTINEELI
         I'm a barrister. Family law.

RICHO  RICHARDSON}
         [SARCASTIC] Oh nice.

TIPPER TRUCK}
         [TO GIOVANNI] Shit, mate.

23                  INT                  TOILET CUBICLE         SAME             23

We see hands manipulating a pethidine phial and syringe, drawing pethidine into syringe. Then Tugger seated on the toilet injecting himself.

24                  INT.                  TUGGER'S TABLE         SAME             24

Richo Richardson's POV - Geoffrey Blakeley is clearly smitten by WAITER SVEN. As Geoffrey raises his hand to take a sip of wine C U of his cufflinks, they are plain square gold worn smooth with a large ruby in them.

25                  INT.                  TUGGER'S TABLE         SAME             25

WAITER SVEN
         Good evening sirs, my name's Sven, I'm your waiter for tonight. For entrées we have a choice of beef ravioli with a rich tomato sauce or stir fried medallions of emu with bok choy and oyster sauce. (HIS PENCIL POISED OVER A PAD, TO GEOFFREY) You first, sir ...?

TOMMO TOMLINSON
         What was that again?

CHRIS MACKLIN
         I'll have a dozen oysters.

COMET HALEY
         [TO GEOFFREY] Did he say oysters? I thought he said 'emu'.          [LAUGHS].

WAITER SVEN
         [TO CHRIS MACKLIN] Sir, the choice is ... (rich tomato sauce or stir fried medallions of emu with bok choy and oyster sauce).



26                  INT.                  RECEPTION ROOM                  SAME   26

Tugger Teague enters, Tugger proceeds aross room, tables greet him as he passes - he's a very popular fellow. All over the Reception Room the Waiters are in trouble over entrée choices.

27                  INT                  RECEPTION ROOM                  SAME   27

Tugger's stoned POV as he crosses Reception Room. V/O's to emphasise Tugger's distance from the turmoil.

A Waiter is standing by as the Head Waiter deals with this.

VEGAN (V/O)
         But I'm a vegan.

HEAD WAITER (V/O)
         [TO VEGAN] Sir, we weren't given any special dietary considerations. I'd ike to suggest the stir fried emu - it has vegetables with it.

Another table.

GOSHAWK FATHER (V/O)
         [TO A TABLE OF GOSHAWKS] The littlest tacker's going next  year. I want him to go.

CONCERNED  GOSHAWK (V/O)
         But it's a two hour train ride from your place.

GOSHAWK FATHER (V/O)
         He'd better get used to it.

Another table.

1ST TUGGER GREETER (V/O)
         Tug, come and have a drink. Where are you sitting?

Another Table.

BAD NEWS GOSHAWK (V/O)
         He fell off a roof.

His table looks shocked.

SHOCKED GOSHAWK (V/O)
         Where was this? When?

Another table.

2ND TUGGER GREETER (V/O)
         Tug, mate ... There's room here.

TALE TELLER
         Yeah, he's retired to Cairns. Made a packet in health foods.

28                  INT                  TUGGER'S TABLE         LATER            28

Tugger arrives back looking blissed.  Robyn Field casts him a worried look. As he sits ...

RICHO  RICHARDSON
         You look happy, Tug.

TIPPER TRUCK}
         Emu or ravioli, mate?

TOMMO TOMLINSON}
         We've got emu for dinner, mate.

TUGGER TEAGUE
         [TAKING IT ALL IN IN ONE STONED GLANCE - TO WAITER SVEN] Emu'll be fine.

CHRIS MACKLIN
         [TO SVEN] I'll have a beer - Gold Classic. I can't eat any of that. [INDICATING BOTTLES PROVIDED] I can't drink that either.
WAITER SVEN
         At the bar, sir, I can't serve alcohol.

CHRIS MACKLIN
         Well send someone who can, for fuck's sake. What sort of a dump is this?
COMET HALEY
         Unbelievable! If you don't do a thing yourself ... [RISING] I'm going up to see Orbo about this, it's ridiculous. EXITS.

29                  INT.                  TUGGER'S TABLE         SAME            29

Richo Richardson's POV so his predatory focus on Geoffrey Blakeley's cufflinks is established. At the end of the scene Richo is startled to find all attention has shifted to his attention.
Waiter Sven looks at Robyn Field for her order

ROBYN FIELD
         Ravioli.

Waiter Sven cannot get Chris Macklin's attention, he's again searching the room for his attacker. Waiter Sven continues writing down choices. In the background we hear Leon then Tommo and Tipper order ravioli, Gionvanni Graziano orders emu as the following takes place.

C U of Geoffrey Blakeley.

RICHO  RICHARDSON (V/O O/S)
         [TO GEOFFREY BLAKELEY] Nice cufflinks.

LEON SMITH (V/O O/S)
         I'll have the ravioli.

GEOFFREY BLAKELEY
         Oh. (LOOKING AT THEM). Yes. I hardly ever get to wear them.

TOMMO TOMLINSON (V/O O/S)
         Ravioli.
RICHO  RICHARDSON (V/O O/S)
         Rubies, are they?

GEOFFREY BLAKELEY}
         My uncle left them to me.

TIPPER TRUCK (V/O O/S)
         The same.

RICHO RICHARDON (V/O O/S)
         Did pretty well for himself, did he?

GEOFFREY BLAKELEY
         He did O K for himself. He was a mining engineer - never made a fortune - not for himself in any case.

RICHO  RICHARDSON (V/O OS)
         It's often the way.

GIOVANNI GRAZIANO (backgroundV/O O/S)}
         I'll try the emu.

Silence as ...

GEOFFREY BLAKELEY
         He got these on a gig up in Mianmar - it's big gem country.

RICHO  RICHARDSON (V/O O/S)
         [ GLANCES AT GEOFFREY'S LAP, CHUCKLES IN AN EROTICALLY          INSINUATING WAY] I can see that.

Robyn Field clears her throat to draw everyone's as well as Richo's attention to the situation.

Richo's POV swings to Waiter Sven. He has finished taking the others' orders and unknown to Richo, the table has fallen quiet as Sven waited for Richo's attention; everyone has tuned into his conversation with Geoffrey.
LEON SMITH
         [TO GEOFFREY] Is he still up there? 

30                  INT.                  TUGGER'S TABLE         SAME         30

Richo Richardson looks sprung for a second and then covers it by giving Sven his attention.

RICHO  RICHARDSON
         [TO WAITER SVEN] Oh, sorry mate, deep in conversation. I'll have the ... What was it again?

WAITER SVEN
         Ravioli in a rich tomato sauce or stir fried emu - (with bok choy and oyster sauce)

RICHO  RICHARDSON
         The raviolo'll do.
ROBYN FIELD

         [TO GEOFFREY] I've been promising myself some saphire studs since I got my promotion.

TIPPER TRUCK
         I reckon you'd need a few.

ROBYN FIELD
         What do you mean by that? I think you've got a bit of a misunderstanding running there, Tip Truck you fuck, I'm a woman4women type transexual.

TIPPER TRUCK
         A what?

CHRIS MACKLIN
[NOW DRUNK AND HELPING HIMSELF TO ROBYN'S WINE] Don't listen to them Rob mate, get some Aussie saphires. They've got beauties up in the Kimberley, diamonds too, yellow diamonds. Yellow as piss.

31                  INT.                  RECEPTION ROOM 30 MINS LATER  31

The Waiters are clearing up after the entrée. The Goshawks have settled down. Some are table hopping. Some of the tables have tarnished or polished sporting trophies on them. Pennants for sporting prowess are lying here and there. There is an old cricket bat autographed by the team and a worn football on another table. The notice board has a crowd gathered in front of it, pointing and talking. Chris Macklin is at the bar with a few others. Comet Haley has ensconced himself in the empty place at the Official Table where he is boring Tony Passmore to death. Richo is giving his attention to Giovanni, Tommo and Tipper. Geoffrey is on the outside of this group.

32                  INT.                  TUGGER'S TABLE MOMENT LATER  32

Richo, Giovanni, Tommo and Tipper.

GIOVANNI GRAZIANO
         [ANSWERING TOMMO'S INQUIRY] She's finished uni now. She's practising Law - Company. What are yours up to?

TOMMO TOMLINSON
         Mike's settled down to retail, he's got a steady girlfriend, calls  her his 'partner'. The girl's not much good at the moment.

RICHO  RICHARDSON
         What's she doing?

TOMMO TOMLINSON
         Finished doing Medicine, now she's backpacking in Asia.

TIPPER TRUCK
         By herself?

TOMMO TOMLINSON
         No. Her no-hoper boyfriend's with her. Says she wants to practice in that part of the world. I told Shena we oughtn't to let her do her work - (experience) what do they call it? - intern thing in Thailand. They had her working with ... AIDS people and the like.

Tipper Truck gets up and starts towards the bar.

RICHO  RICHARDSON
         [TO TIPPER] Where're you off to?

TIPPER TRUCK
         Looking for some old mates, that's what we're here for, isn't          it?

Tipper continues on his way.

GIOVANNI GRAZIANO
         [GETTING UP AND CALLING AFTER TIPPER] I'll join you! I  thought I saw Piet Hals. (TO OTHERS) Remember him? Turned out to be a fantastic architect, did my (cousin's husband's          extensions) - Is old Sabre Tooth really here? Wino told me - (he'd had a word with him).

TOMMO TOMLINSON
         Yeah, he's here. The old bastard gave me the cane for not  doing my homework. Music! What homework? (Getting up) I'll come with you.



33                  INT.                  NOTICE BOARD         SOON AFTER             33

Group of Goshawks including VIETNAM GOSHAW, Steel Rudd and Wino McWilliams discussing items pinned on it.

STEEL RUDD

         [POINTING TO A FACE IN AND OLD SCHOOL PHOTOGRAPH] What happened to ... What's his name again?

WINO MCWILLIAMS
         [LOOKING] Louis Galbraith, isn't it?

VIETNAM GOSHAWK
         Vietnam.

WINO MCWILLIAMS
         What's he doing now?

VIETNAM GOSHAWK
         Not a lot.

The group looks puzzled, then appalled as they realise Louis Galbraith is dead.

34                  INT.                  THE BAR                           SAME             34

Group at the Bar includes Chris Macklin, of course.

Tipper approaches the bar.

CHRIS MACKLIN
         (To TIPPER) Here you are you fucking shagging bastard. (TO BARMAID) He was always talking about the sheilas he'd got to do this and that. Remember that time you told me you got          your uncle's secretary to pull you off? I believed you. (TO BARMAID) I believed the bastard! I didn't know he was a windbag. I was naive.

TIPPER TRUCK
         You were the last cab off the rank, mate. So shut up.

CHRIS MACKLIN
         At least ... You know what Sue told me Penny told her?

TIPPER TRUCK
         Shut the fuck up Macklin! Or I'll job ya.

35                  EXT.                  OUTSIDE HOTEL KITCHEN         SAME   35

A couple of KITCHEN HANDS and a Waiter are smoking. Near them a group of three Goshawks are doing the same - desperately, furtively, one has cigarette cupped by his hand, they seem to be on the look out for teachers who might spring them.

36                  INT.                  WOMEN'S TOILET         SAME             36

Robyn Field She dumps her bag in front of the mirror. C U - examines her make-up, runs fingers over beard area, takes out a cosmetic case, dabs at her face with a foundation sponge, takes out lipstick, applies it determinedly, rolls her lips together, dabs at her eye lashes with mascara applicator. Examines herself. Sighs. Packs it all away. Gives herself a hard look.

ROBYN FIELD
         It's now or never. Just say it.

Exits.

37                  RECEPTION ROOM                  MOMENT LATER           37

ORBO MACKEITH (V/O O/S)
         Could you return to your places please gentlemen? We've arranged for a half hour between the main course and sweets and coffee for mingling and catching up.

No-one takes any notice of him

Tugger's table POV. Robyn cutting a swathe in her path as she makes her way from the Ladies back to the table. The Goshawks turn and stare after her, pass comments. She continues towards Tugger's table oblivious, she looks very determined.

38                  TUGGER'S TABLE                  MOMENT LATER            38

Tugger is talking to Richo and Geoffrey. Tugger and Geoffrey go to stand as Robyn approaches, Richo looks puzzled, smiles his sly, sardonic smile and goes to stand too.



ROBYN
         [SITTING DOWN] Oh please, I'm not the kind of woman who expects gallantries.

As the three men are sitting Waiter Sven approaches the table and stands behind Robyn, she doesn't see him but the others do.

         (TO RICHO AND GEOFFREY) Could you give Tugger and me a moment please?

Tugger looks alarmed, Geoffrey and Richo puzzled. Then Geoffrey gets she wants a private word with Tugger. As he goes to stand indicating for Richo to come with him, Tugger indicates Waiter Sven to Robyn. She turns to Sven who hands her a bill on a saucer.

ORBO MACKEITH (V/O O/S)
         [GETTING IRRITATED] Gentlemen! Return to your seats. The staff are waiting to take your orders for the main course - fish or chicken.

There are scattered (V/O O/S) groans from the Goshawks.

Robyn Field casts a frustrated glance towards the Official Table then returns her attention to Sven.

ROBYN FIELD
         [TO SVEN, INDICATING BILL] What's this?

WAITER SVEN
         Your account. For corkage.

ROBYN FIELD
         For what? For opening a bottle of wine? You've got to be joking.

WAITER SVEN
         I am not joking.

ROBYN FIELD
         Neither am I and I'm not paying it. Where's your supervisor?

Richo gets up and leads Geoffrey away. Tugger also escapes.

39                  INT.                  RECEPTION ROOM         LATER             39

Richo and Geoffrey are part of a group, including Tommo Tomlinson and Vietnam Goshawk, talking to an ancient man, this is SABRE TOOTHED LYONS, their old music teacher.

SABRE TOOTHED LYONS
         [TO GEOFFREY] Oh yes, you were the one with the religious parents who wouldn't let you join the cadet corps. -}We couldn't have that sort of thing.

ORBO MACKEITH (V/O O/S)
         Gentlemen, if you don't return to your seats some of you will miss out on your main (course) - Come on you blokes, get a move on!

         Tigger, wigger, rum, pa pa,
         Hin-ie slather, caraparaa
         ...

40                  INT.                  OFFICAL TABLE                           SAME   40

Orbo Mackeith is holding the mike towards himself. Comet Haley is ineffectually ringing a fork against a wine glass in time with the chant. Bishop Bradley is glaring at the room and Daisy Oates, Tony Passmore and Steve Donaldson are conspicuous by their absence.

41                  RECEPTION ROOM         FOLLOWING ON      41

SABRE TOOTHED LYONS
  ... Only boys who joined the cadets could learn a band instrument. (TO GEOFFREY) What were they, Quakers? I  always said if a man wasn't prepared to fight to protect his - (country).

VIETNAM GOSHAWK
Oh shut it, you pathetic old war monger, you don't know what  you're talking about.

Turns on his heel and exits.

TOMMO TOMLINSON
         [JONING VIETNAM GOSHAWK] Yeah, and you caned me for nothing too, you old fool.

42                  INT.                  RECEPTION ROOM         LATER             42

The Goshawks have finished the main course. The Waiters are gathering up the plates in an attempt to hurry proceedings. As the camera pans over them we can just hear the ringing of Comet's fork against his wine glass.

43                  INT.                  TUGGER'S TABLE         SAME          43

Chris Macklin's plate is almost untouched, he is pouring himself more wine. A Waiter leans forward to ask if he's finished, he waves 'yes, get rid of the plate'. Richo is talking winningly to Geoffrey across Tugger, who is chatting to Giovanni. Tugger is about to get up to change places with Richo so the crossing conversations are freed when Robyn touches him on the elbow.

ROBYN
         (TO TUGGER) We either have an informal chat now or it'll have to be an official one in my office.

Tugger sinks back in his chair.

44                  INT.                  OFFICIAL TABLE MOMENT LATER  44

Steve Donaldson's POV. Robyn and Tugger get up and start to walk across the Reception Room.

STEVE  DONALDSON (V/O O/S)
         [TO DAISY OATES - OF ROBYN] Look at that! I can't stand that sort of thing.

45                  INT.                  OFFICIAL TABLE         SAME             45

Steve Donaldson has just made his comment to Daisy. Orbo is standing, leaning over, tapping the mike, trying to get everyone's attention. Comet is still ringing his glass.

A sort of attention is gained as Orbo introduces Daisy Oates.

ORBO MACKEITH
         Brother Old Goshawks, I'm sure we've had a fine time. We'd like to thank the staff of the Stanley Chasm Room for their fine service, particularly Miss Tracey Nguyen who unfortunately couldn't be in attendance herself personally tonight. I'm sure you've all enjoyed yourself and caught up. I know there's a lot to say but there is a time limit - oh, the man in charge asked me to remind you that the bar closes          and any of you wishing to take more refreshment ... He advises there are several bars at nearby hotels, the Intercontinental - that might be a bit pricey - which stay open late or the Taxi Club. Some of you can probably tell us where that is.

         Now I'd like to introduce our Guest Speaker, someone you all remember I'm sure and someone who's done very well for  himself in the distinguished field of ... surgery.
         Most of you will know him as Daisy - not because he's [FLAPPING WRIST] 'like that' but ... (LEANING OVER DAISY) how'd you get the nickname, Daisy?

Daisy rises, shrugging the question off. Orbo pushes the mike in front of him and starts to fiddle around adjusting the height but Daisy pushes the mike firmly aside.

DAISY OATES
         I won't be needing that.

         Some of you blokes missed out on a great opportunity. You might remember I joined the army so they could put me through Dentistry. Now, I've copped some flack because Vietnam was on and there were a lot of these protesters about stirring up trouble. All you had to do was a basic training and I wasn't a burden on my olds, not as much as some others. You met great mates too. That didn't make me          popular in some quarters. But you learn to be tolerant. Up in Saigon I got to help out with some reconstruction - we did the basic bolting and screwing. -
INTERRUPTING GOSHAWK (V/O O/S)
         I bet.

Some laughter.

DAISY OATES
         And then we'd send then down to Sydney or Adelaide - fine work being done in Adelaide - for the tidying up. Now I saw an opportunity. This bloke - old Mike, Colonel Mike Farrell ...

46                  INT.                  GENT'S TOILET                  SAME             46

Tugger and Robyn are taking a piss at the trough, Robyn has her skirt hoiked up in front. They move to the basins to wash their hands. This time Robyn brushes down the front of her dress. She scrutinises Tugger in the mirror.

TUGGER TEAGUE
         [GLANCING AT ROBYN IN THE MIRROR] Well what?

R0BYN FIELD
         You know what.

TUGGER TEAGUE
         I'm not sure I do.

ROBYN FIELD
         You're going to make me spell it out, are you?

Tugger looks down, turns tap off, goes over to hand-drier.

Robyn turns around to face him, she waits for the drier to finish.

         They're onto you.

TUGGER TEAGUE
         [STILL NOT TURNING AROUND] Who's 'they'?


ROBYN FIELD
         Probably everyone Tugger but what counts is Administration.

Silence

         Don't force the issue.

TUGGER TEAGUE
         What - (issue)? [TURNING TO FACE HER] What's it got to do with Administration? I'm doing my job, nobody's complained ... have they?

ROBYN FIELD
         Not yet Tugger. But I'm running the hospital now and I'm not having it.

She moves towards him.

         You can beat it, I've seen it done. There are programs.

Silence.

         I'm not having it in my hospital.

47                  INT.                  RECEPTION ROOMMOMENT LATER  47

Daisy Oates' POV.

DAISY OATES (V/O O/S)
         So if any of you blokes have wives or girlfriends who could do with a bit more bounce in their bust remember -

Robyn Field walks out of Gents and across the Reception Room.

Daisy spots Robyn.

         We could talk about mates' rates. (CALLING OUT TO ROBYN) I'm sure Matron Field wouldn't mind personally giving me a recommendation if any - (of you blokes need reassurance).

The football flies at Robyn and knocks her wig off. She picks it and the football up.

A few guffaws.

FOOTBALL GOSHAWK (V/0)
         You were supposed to catch it!

Robyn Field hauls back and is about to hurl it back when she changes her mind and drops it. SCRUM GOSHAWK pounces on ball and hurls it at Daisy Oates as Robyn Field continues on her way towards Tugger's table.

48                  INT.                  OFFICIAL TABLE         SAME          48

The football smacks Daisy Oates in the face.

Shock then some cheers.

Comet Haley rushes to see if Daisy is O K.

SUGGESTION GOSHAWK (V/O O/S)
         Now you can get one of your mates to straighten your nose, Daisy.

GOOD IDEA GOSHAWK (V/O O/S)
         While he's at it he can give you a facelift

Daisy pushes Comet aside, retrieves football and hurls it back into the Reception Room.

49                  INT.                  RECEPTION ROOM         SAME             49

Robyn Field goes over to Tugger's table gathers up her bag, waves good-bye to her table mates and exits in a composed way, still carrying her wig.
A Goshawk throws a chicken drumstick at another table. Chris Macklin is missing this because he has passed out on the table.

The Head Waiter is hurrying the Waiters out with trays of sweets and jugs of coffee.

50                  INT.                           LOBBY         LATER                    50

Tugger is walking  out, he is a very solitary figure.

51                  INT.          RECEPTION ROOM                  SAME             51

Steve Donaldson is leaving with Steel Rudd, Comet is fussing while Tony Passmore closes the registration table. Tony gives the registration sheet to Comet and heads towards the bar. Richo is looking on while Geoffrey tries to rouse Chris Macklin at Tugger's table. Daisy is mixing with some other Goshawks, looking relaxed and happy for the first time. Giovanni Graziano is showing Wino McWilliams some family photos.

52                  INT.                  TUGGER'S TABLE         SAME             52

Tipper approaches Geoffrey, Richo and an awakening Chris.

TIPPER
         Come on, let's get this bastard to his room. [HELPING CHRIS TO HIS FEET] What room number you drunken bastard?

O/S from other side of the room low chorus of Fight! Fight! Fight!.

53                  INT.                  OTHER SIDE OF ROOM         SAME   53

Leon Smith is trying to separate two of the smokers who are now unsteadily shaping up for a fight - they are drunk.

LEON SMITH
         Come on you blokes, we can sort this out, you're making fools - (of yourselves).

FIGHTER 1
         [DRUNKEN - TO OTHER FIGHTER] Outside!


54                  INT.                  TUGGER'S TABLE                  SAME  54

Tipper is helping Chris away. They exit.

RICHO  RICHARDSON
         [TO GEOFFREY BLAKELEY] What's your room number?

Geoffrey looks surprised.

GEOFFREY BLAKELEY
         I don't know. Why?

RICHO  RICHARDSON
         I was just wondering ...[PULLING OUT KEY] Mine's 706. I think they put us all on the same floor.

Geoffrey pulls out his key.

GEOFFREY BLAKELEY
         No, I'm not on the seventh floor.

55                  INT.                  BAR                  MOMENT LATER                      55

The Barmaid is finishing her packing up. She looks up as Tony Passmore approaches.

TONY PASSMORE
         How'd it go?

Barmaid shrugs.

         No trouble?

BARMAID
         Nothing I couldn't handle.

TONY PASSMORE
         Good. They can be a rough bunch.
         How're you getting home?

BARMAID
         The usual way. Why?

TONY PASSMORE
         I don't like to think of an attractive woman like you out there alone.

56                  INT.                  HOTEL RECEPTION         LATER             56

Richo is talking to the Receptionist who is clearly impressed by his looks.

RICHO  RICHARDSON
         He left his mobile.

RECEPTIONIST
         [CHECKING SCREEN] It's 802, Mr Richardson.

57                  EXT.                  OUTSIDE HOTEL KITCHEN         SAME   57

The fight is in progress. It is a pathetic ballet of drunken lurches and hopelessly judged swipes.

WINO MCWILLIAMS
         This is pathetic, I'm getting out of here.

58                  EXT                  BACK ALLEY         MOMENT LATER  58

A taxi pulls away.

C U Wino - he looks astonished.

59                  INT.                  TAXI                  MOMENT LATER             59

The Barmaid and Tony Passmore are in the back seat.
TONY PASSMORE
          A lovely girl like you might have a close friend - you know, an intimate girlfriend, wouldn't she?

WAITRESS
         [CONSIDERS THIS] I might. But my ... close girlfriend has rather expensive ... she's exclusive.

TONY PASSMORE
         We could talk about that together. I'm rather flush at the moment.

BARMAID
         [GETTING OUT MOBILE] Yes, I heard you did well out of tonight.

60                  INT.                  OUTSIDE ROOM 802                  LATER 60

Richo Richardson is knocking softly. He glances to both sides then tries door. Knocks more loudly.

61                  INT.                  CAR                           SAME                      61

Two pairs of dinner suit trouser clad knees, one driving.

STEVE  DONALDSON (V/O O/S)
         That was a disgrace! Can't believe ... Bloody terrible! That was the last time. I tell you, you won't catch me at - (another of those things).

A hand comes across from driving seat and squeezes knee.

         I'm resigning as Secretary.

Close up of Steve Donaldson and Steel Rudd. Steel is driving, one hand on Steve Donaldson's knee



62                  EXT.                  ROOM 802                  MOMENT LATER  62

Geoffrey Blakeley just from shower, towel wrapped around his waist, opens the door, looks surprised.
RICHO  RICHARDSON
         [GLANCING UP AND DOWN GEOFFREY] Found you. I thought you might have some whisky in your fridge, they seem to have forgotten to fill mine. Felt like a nightcap.

Geoffrey hesitates, stands back to let Richo in.

GEOFFREY BLAKELEY
         I don't know, I haven't looked, maybe ... (they don't supply whisky).

Retreating towards bathroom ...

Indicating fridge.

         You have a look, I'll just put something on.

63                  INT.                  ROOM 802         MOMENT LATER             63
        
Richo enters the room. The bathroom door shuts. He is immediately keenly alert. He glides across the room towards the dinner jacket lying on the bed, frisks it for wallet - not there. He turns, sees it on coffee table, gets to it, opens it - it has about thirty-five dollars in it. He looks annoyed but pockets this, replaces wallet on table. Looks around again, sees the dinner shirt with the cufflinks still in them on the bed, gets to them, extracts one from its sleeve, steps back from bed as bathroom door opens. Geoffrey emerges in a hotel terry towelling bathrobe. He looks surprised to see Richo near the bed.

RICHO  RICHARDSON
         [AGAIN TRYING THE SEDUCTIVE UP AND DOWN THE BODY GLANCE) Just having a look. Nice room.  Mine's a bit different.


GEOFFREY BLAKELEY
         What's your game?

RICHO  RICHARDSON
         I could ask you the same thing.

64                  INT.         PACIFIC CLASSROOM  AFTERNOON     64

Melanesian children looking at the board and copying things down.

Sound of a motor boat.

C U Child looking out the window.

PACIFIC CHILD
         [S/HE SMILES] Brother Patrick! Brother Patrick has returned

65                  EXT.                   WHARF                  AFTERNOON             65

Motorised canoe with Melanesian at tiller pulls into wharf. Geoffrey gets out. He is wearing travel clothes. The canoe man hands him a bag. Geoffrey thanks him and waves as the canoe pulls away. Then he turns to walk up to the school.

SCHOOL CHILDREN(V/O O/S)
         [CALLING] Hullo. Hullo Brother Anthony.

Brother Anthony aka Geoffrey Blakeley smiles radiantly and waves to the children.

66                  EXT.                  GRAVE NEAR LAGOON      SUNSET     66

The wooden cross has ...

BROTHER GEOFFREY BLAKELEY
1952  2001

on it.

Geoffrey, now Brother Anthony in a white surplice is sitting, communing with the tomb.

BROTHER ANTHONY (aka GEOFFREY BLAKELEY)
         Well Geoffrey, they were like you said.
         Cost me a few dollars and a cufflink.
         [PATS THE CROSS] It was worth it.

FIN