The Dirtwater Dynasty

The Dirtwater Dynasty is a five-part Australian drama miniseries, first screened on Network Ten in 1988. The Dirtwater Dynasty was directed by Michael Jenkins and John Power. The Dirtwater Dynasty is the story of embittered rivalry, triumph and despair, spanning three generations and eight decades. Born in the London slums in 1878, Richard Eastwick comes to Australia at age 20, with nothing but a handful of courage and a dream. He acquires land, marries and raises a family, makes loyal friends and bitter enemies. Two world wars and the economic depression take their toll on his family and his land and cattle ranching empire but his dream to create a dynasty gives him a reason to continue.

Directed by —, The Dirtwater Dynasty leans on a strong ensemble — Hugo Weaving, Victoria Longley, Bruce Spence — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The series landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about drama titles of 1988.