It is World War II: the colonial masters of the Netherlands East Indies an their surviving forces have fled to Australia to avoid capture by the Japanese. Most wash up in wartime Sydney where something remarkable happens: Indonesians living in White Australia are accepted as more than just 'natives'. Among them are former political prisoners and educated Christians, like ship's purser Anton Maramis. Their Australian supporters are wharfies, radicals, businessmen, anthropologists, clergymen and many strong women, like 16-year-old Charlotte (Lottie) Reid.
Her story encapsulates the political drama that unfolds as Australia turns away from its affinity with colonial powers to support the indonesian struggle, a critical moment in its emerging engagement with its Asian neighbours.