Hugh is facing his biggest crisis yet when his love life, career and family are all in desperate need of a help. Charlie plays dirty to win back Matt, while Meryl's election as town Mayor is overshadowed by fraud.

Hugh and the hospital staff use blackmail to get rid of their incompetent boss Norah. Meanwhile, Penny faces family and romantic dilemmas that will change her future. Hayley struggles with a guilty conscience over her relationship with Ajax.

Hugh creates havoc for Charlie when he reveals her secret talent. Penny's first day back in Whyhope is headed for disaster until she joins forces with Hugh. Hayley makes a fateful decision to fix Meryl's election fraud problem.

Hugh comes to blows with Penny's new boyfriend, while Meryl plays dirty to win the re-count of the Mayoral election. Ajax gets a new perspective on life and death when he does work experience in the hospital.

Penny's sister causes havoc for Hugh and Ken when she visits Whyhope to defend Meryl against corruption charges. Betty uses her hidden talents to solve a medical mystery involving backpackers, sardines and farm machinery.

Penny makes an unexpected choice when Hugh and Toke turn up the romantic pressure. When Charlie is unfairly sacked by the Headmaster, Meryl resorts to blackmail to get her reinstated.