Sick of poverty and wanting a better life for his family, James is determined to change his son’s future and tells him he must leave the village in country Ireland and puts the sixteen year old on a cart for Belfast.

Swept along by fate and determination, William, leaving his girlfriend behind, uses his wits in Belfast to obtain work. Hearing that gold is there for the taking, he finds his way onto the steam sailing ship Lady Grace bound for Australia - and the gold rush. Threatened onboard by bullies, and learning to cope with the unpredictable and savage elements during the voyage, his courage and patience are tested as he heads to the unknown new colony of Australia, and a new life.

Never easy, sometimes funny, and often dangerous, William’s adventures show how one determined man can change his future.