1942: Japan threatens northern Australia. The only defence the Australians possess is the vastspace of their continent and a 'scorched earth' policy is adopted. In the small township of Wyndham, orders are given to destroy the meat-works. Cattle drover Dan McAlpine refuses to kill his 1000 steers, intending instead to 'overland' them, drive them across 2000 mile of the most rugged terrain in the world.