Sam’s Luck

1 9 8 0 (Australia)
6 x 30 minute episodes

Over six episodes, the ABC series Sam’s Luck told the story of three children who set up house by themselves in suburban Melbourne after their mother (Sue Jones) went off to Singapore with her boyfriend who was in trouble with the law.

Sam (played by 15-year old newcomer David Clencie), Janny (13-year old Dena McAbee) and Daniel (13-year-old Paul Colombani) were to stay with their (unpopular) Aunty June (Marion Edwards) until they were sent for.

A few white lies – and an unexpected gambling windfall – changed all that and, unknown to mum, the children took affairs into their own hands.

Hiding out in their house by themselves was tricky for the kids, with nosey neighbours watching their every move.

The unknown young actors struggled with a dull, slow-moving script in scenes that were mostly about turning on the TV, answering the phone and opening the front door.

Sam Parkes
David Clencie
Benno
Ernie Bourne
Janny Parkes
Dena McAbee
Daniel Parkes
Paul Colombani
Dave Bristow
Michael Carman
Christine
Ursula Olejnik
Mr Kaminski
Lloyd Cunnington
Uncle Harry
Colin McEwan
Aunty June
Marion Edwards
Lindy Parkes
Sue Jones