Banished

A compelling drama from the Emmy award-winning writer Jimmy McGovern. In 1787 Britain banished its unwanted citizens – orphans, petty thieves, prostitutes and highwaymen – to Sydney in Australia. They found it to be so hot, barren and hostile that very few Englishmen wanted to set foot there. Yet these rejects, overseen by a small number of British officers and marines were expected to establish a colony. Somehow, in spite of famine, drought, escapes, hangings and floggings, the colony thrived. This drama shows how a group of misfit characters established a new society, following their friendships and love stories, their struggles and successes.