Ep 3. Ghost of Things Past

The Sea Patrol season 1 episode 3 is named "Ghost of Things Past". In this episode, the crew of HMAS Hammersley is sent to investigate the disappearance of a fishing trawler, the "Leah Marie". The trawler was last seen in the waters off an island called Dagger Bay, which is known to be a hotbed of illegal activity.

As they arrive on the scene, the crew discovers that the island's fishermen are all fearful and refuse to talk to them out of fear of retaliation from gangs that control the area. They soon realize that something is not quite right on this island and that the disappearance of the Leah Marie may be more than a simple case of piracy.

As they continue to investigate the Leah Marie's disappearance, two crew members, Charge and Buffer, go undercover to gather information from the locals. Meanwhile, Lieutenant Commander Mike Flynn is drawn to a mysterious woman named Kate, who he meets on the island and is drawn to her enigmatic personality. They begin to develop a romantic relationship, but Mike's duties as a naval officer soon reveal another side of Kate, making him question her true intentions.

As the investigation deepens, the crew discovers a serial killer targeting women on the island, and Kate’s true identity is revealed as the sister of the latest victim. Her intentions with Mike were to use him to find the killer to avenge her sister's death. With their tireless efforts and courage, the team manages to apprehend the serial killer, bringing him to justice, and resolving the case of the Leah Marie's disappearance.

As the episode ends, Mike realizes the truth behind Kate's facade, understanding the importance of maintaining boundaries as a naval officer and the need to follow protocols without any emotional judgment. The investigation into the disappearance of the Leah Marie comes to a conclusion, and the navy team departs from Dagger Bay, ready for their next mission.

Overall, "Ghost of Things Past" in the first season of Sea Patrol is a thrilling episode that brings together the excitement of naval action and a murder mystery that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats. The episode highlights the importance of teamwork, courage, and following protocols in solving a case while also delving into the personal lives of the show's characters, making them more relatable. It's a great watch for fans of crime drama and action-adventure shows.