Ep 1. Mates
- February 14, 1991
- 49 min
Police Rescue is a thrilling Australian drama series that follows the lives of a dynamic bunch of cops. The series focuses on the highly trained members of the New South Wales Police Rescue Squad as they go about their high-pressure work, responding to all manner of emergencies ranging from natural disasters to hostage situations.
In season 1 episode 1, titled "Mates", we are introduced to the key members of the Police Rescue team. The episode begins with a call to the squad regarding a young man named Brian, who has become trapped in a stormwater drain. The team quickly mobilizes and rushes to the scene.
The viewer is first introduced to the squad's fearless leader, Sgt. Steve 'Mickey' McClintock, played by Gary Sweet. Mickey is a seasoned veteran and the heart of the team. He is responsible for making quick, strategic decisions on the spot and ensures that the squad is always one step ahead. Mickey's deputy, Constable Georgia Rattray (Sonia Todd), is new to the squad and is eager to prove herself. She is an intelligent, determined woman who is willing to take on any challenge.
The other members of the team include Rescue Operator Sam (Steve Bastoni), the charming and charismatic jack-of-all-trades who excels at all aspects of rescue work. Also on the team is the seasoned veteran Kevin (Peter Browne), who has a reputation for being the most experienced member of the squad when it comes to dealing with desperate situations.
As the team arrives on the scene, they discover that Brian is deep in the stormwater drain, unable to move. The team must work quickly to locate and dig up the drain, all while dealing with unexpected wet weather. Mickey takes charge and delegates tasks to his team members, who must work in tandem to ensure that Brian is rescued safely and efficiently.
As the rescue mission unfolds, the various personalities and dynamics of the team members are revealed. We see the quick thinking and teamwork that the job requires, and the bravery and commitment that the squad members possess in order to accomplish their goals.
Throughout "Mates", we see the team bond together while working under intense pressure. They not only come together to save Brian's life but also to support each other emotionally and provide a sense of camaraderie throughout the episode. Their friendship and trust in each other are integral to the success of their often dangerous and overwhelming work.
The episode is full of action and suspense, but also features lighter moments that reveal the personalities and quirks of the various characters. We see the bonds of friendship that run deep within the team, making the series not only thrilling, but also heartwarming.
Overall, "Mates" is a strong opening episode for Police Rescue. It sets the tone for the series, highlighting the intense, fast-paced nature of rescue work, while also developing the characters and the relationships between them. It showcases the role that the police play in the community and demonstrates the commitment and sacrifice that they make on a daily basis to keep people safe.