Incident of the Boomerang

This Australian-themed show was filmed some 25 years before the movie Crocodile Dundee hit the theaters. It was filmed long before Outback Steakhouse opened its doors.

Actor Michael Pate was born in Australia, he gets some of the writing credit for this story.

After a somewhat slow beginning (slapstick silliness with Wishbone and Mushie), the story cranks up. Gil Favor and Pete Nolan are scouting; they come upon what appears to be a damsel in distress (character Ruthanne Harper, played by actress Patricia Medina).

But in a moment the Australian hero (character Richard Goffage) rides up with his gun drawn. Backing him up is a very large Aborigine (character Binnaburra).

The situation is explained to Favor and Nolan, but complications begin when a Comanche Indian appears on a ridge. And it gets even more complicated when the motivations of Miss Harper become clear.

Other great actors in this story include James Drury (The Virginian), and Frank DeKova as Comanche Chief Tawyawp.

There is plenty of action, including a run through the Comanche gauntlet. The story does get a bit soapy at the end; the female viewers will love it! (Okay, I loved it too - have a handkerchief ready).

I rate "Incident of the Boomerang"

* * * * * * * * * 9 Stars * * * * * * * * *

Florida Fred.

Going through possible Comanche country Sheb Woolley spots Patricia Medina, Michael Pate, and Woody Strode driving a small herd ahead of them. Woolley and Eric Fleming persuade them to join the Gil Favor herd for security.

Pate is for once playing a native Australian and aborigine Woody Strode works for him. Medina is someone he asked to marry him and according to Pete Nolan she has a shady past. Part of that past comes calling when James Drury who is part Comanche with whom Medina has history. She's also flirtatious by nature and Clint Eastwood gives her the once over.

Add to this Frank DeKova as the Comanche chief and you have a fine guest cast for this good Rawhide story.