Ep 8. Red Sky Morning

In Sea Patrol season 3 episode 8, titled "Red Sky Morning," the crew of HMAS Hammersley face their biggest challenge to date as they try to save a group of hostages from a ruthless gang of pirates. The episode takes place in the Coral Sea, where the Hammersley is sent to intercept a fishing vessel suspected of smuggling drugs. However, when they board the ship, they discover a group of hostages who have been kept onboard for days.

The hostages are a mix of tourists and locals who were on a chartered boat that was hijacked by the pirates. They are being held for ransom, and the pirates are demanding millions of dollars in exchange for their release. The situation is made worse by the fact that there is a major storm approaching, and time is running out for the Hammersley crew to mount a rescue operation.

As the storm intensifies, the Hammersley is forced to take evasive action. They are in constant communication with the hostages and the pirates, who are growing increasingly desperate. The pirates are threatening to kill the hostages if their demands are not met, and the Hammersley crew must find a way to neutralize the threat without putting any of the hostages in danger.

Meanwhile, tensions are running high onboard the Hammersley as the crew deals with a number of personal issues. Navcom Charge Ben Durant is struggling with his feelings for Able Seaman Rebecca "Bomber" Brown, and Captain Mike Flynn is struggling to maintain order in the face of the growing crisis. The crew must put aside their personal issues and work together if they hope to save the hostages and bring the pirates to justice.

Throughout the episode, there are a number of tense standoffs between the Hammersley crew and the pirates. The crew must use all of their skills and training to outwit the pirates and prevent any harm from coming to the hostages. The storm continues to rage around them, adding to the sense of urgency and danger.

As the situation comes to a head, the Hammersley crew must make a daring and risky move to neutralize the pirates and free the hostages. The plan is a success, but not without cost. The crew must come to terms with the consequences of their actions and deal with the aftermath of the crisis.

Overall, "Red Sky Morning" is a gripping and intense episode of Sea Patrol that showcases the bravery and resourcefulness of the HMAS Hammersley crew. The episode is filled with action, drama, and suspense, and is a must-watch for fans of the series.