On 27 February 1979, one of Australia’s most addictive soap operas debuted on Network Ten.

It finally came to an end after nearly eight years and 692 episodes, on 11 December 1986.

Actress Maggie Kirkpatrick, interviewed by Andrew Mercado, talks about her work on the Australian soap opera PRISONER, playing corrupt officer Joan 'The Freak' Ferguson.

Gerard Maguire (Jim Fletcher), Patsy King (Erica Davidson), George Mallaby (Paul Reid) shooting a scene at the Wentworth Detention Centre gate.

This special edition of Open Air focused on the success of Australian soap operas in the United Kingdom.

On the Inside is the main title theme from the 1979-1986 Australian soap opera Prisoner.

Officer Joan Ferguson (Maggie Kirkpatrick) has been arrested for her complicity in the bank robbery executed by Rita Connors (Glenda Linscott).

Kate Randall (Kris McQuade) visits her boyfriend Rick Munro (Mel Gibson) in prison.
Kate: Enjoying your vacation?
Rick: Yeah. There is only one thing wrong with it.
Kate: What's that?

In this scene Tim Jarrett (David Spencer) meets Rick Munro, played by Mel Gibson. In the first scene of this episode, Tim was arrested for a murder he did not commit.

The opening credits of Punishment, episode 1. The first shot is reminiscent of its Prisoner counterpart, showing one of the characters walking amongst a crowd.

Joan Ferguson is transferred to another prison, as the Wentworth immates witness in silence.