 During a mudslide that destroys several homes, Joel is on hand to rescue Alf's wife Ailsa (Judy Nunn) and their son Duncan (Brendan McKensy), together with Shauna Bradley (Kylie Watson) and Jade Sutherland who are trapped inside.Joel's leg is crushed and he is hospitalised.Natalie returns and offers to care for him in Queensland, but Joel rejects her offer and agrees to stay with Judith.