Ep 2. Stop for a Bite

Stop for a Bite is the second episode of the third season of the popular Australian police drama series Blue Heelers. The episode revolves around the story of a young girl who goes missing while on a family trip. Constable Maggie Doyle, played by Lisa McCune, takes the lead in investigating the case.

The episode begins with a family of three, the Palmer family - father Dave, mother Kate, and daughter Sarah - taking a road trip. They stop at a roadside diner for lunch where they meet a friendly waitress named Pam. After eating, they continue on their journey, but as soon as they get back on the road, they discover that Sarah is missing.

The local police are notified, and the search for Sarah begins in earnest. The Blue Heelers, led by Senior Sergeant Tom Croydon (John Wood), are called in to assist with the search. Constable Maggie Doyle, who has a background in child welfare, is assigned to the case. As she speaks to the parents and witnesses, it becomes clear that Pam, the waitress, knows something about Sarah's disappearance.

Maggie's gut instinct tells her that Pam is hiding something, and she sets out to find out what it is. The investigation leads her to a small house on the outskirts of town, which belongs to Pam's nephew, who is a known criminal. Maggie suspects that Sarah may be held captive there, and with the help of her fellow officers, she sets out to investigate.

As the Blue Heelers approach the house, they hear Sarah's voice, and they rush inside to rescue her. They find Sarah locked in a small room, scared and hungry. Pam's nephew is nowhere to be found, but the Blue Heelers do find evidence that suggests he was involved in Sarah's kidnapping.

The episode concludes with Sarah being reunited with her parents, who are overjoyed to have her back. The Blue Heelers continue their investigation to find Pam's nephew and bring him to justice for his crimes.

Overall, Stop for a Bite is a tense and emotional episode that showcases the skills of the Blue Heelers, specifically those of Maggie Doyle. The episode is steeped in tension as the audience is left wondering if Sarah will be found alive, and if the Blue Heelers will be able to catch the culprit responsible for her kidnapping. The episode also highlights the importance of community policing, with the Blue Heelers working closely with local businesses, witnesses, and residents to solve the case.