Ep 30. The Civil Dead

The Civil Dead is the thirtieth episode of the fifth season of Blue Heelers, a popular Australian police procedural drama that aired from 1994 to 2006. The episode is set in the fictional town of Mount Thomas, located in the state of Victoria, and focuses on the lives and work of the local police officers.

The episode begins with the shocking discovery of a dead body in a shallow grave on the outskirts of town. The victim is a young woman who has been missing for several weeks, and her death sends shockwaves through the community. The local police, led by Sergeant Tom Croydon (played by John Wood), immediately launch an investigation to find the perpetrator and bring them to justice.

As the investigation gets underway, the police discover that the victim had been involved in a local protest group that was campaigning against a new prison being built in the area. The group, known as the Civil Liberties Defence Committee, had been holding regular protests and rallies, and had gained a reputation for being quite vocal and sometimes confrontational.

As the police delve deeper into the victim's background, they uncover a web of secrets and lies that suggest there may be more to her death than meets the eye. Suspicions start to fall on various members of the protest group, as well as on some of the local residents who had been opposed to the prison being built.

Meanwhile, personal dramas start to unfold among the police officers themselves. Tom's daughter, Kelly (played by Jane Allsop), is struggling to deal with a recent rejection from her boyfriend, while Constable Wayne Patterson (played by Grant Bowler) tries to keep a lid on his growing feelings for a fellow officer.

As the investigation reaches its climax, the police are forced to confront some uncomfortable truths about the community they are sworn to protect. Ultimately, the killer is brought to justice, but not before the police are left questioning their own moral compasses and their place in a society that seems increasingly divided and troubled.

The Civil Dead is a gripping and thought-provoking episode that explores themes of justice, community, and human nature. Through its compelling storyline and well-drawn characters, it raises questions about the role of the police in society, the impact of social activism, and the complexities of human relationships. With its strong performances and engaging narrative, it remains one of the most memorable and powerful episodes of Blue Heelers, a show that has become a beloved part of Australian television history.