The Character: Tess is a vivacious firebrand ready to take on the world. She was born at Drovers Run to Jack’s second wife Ruth and was the product of a passionate but doomed relationship. Following Jack’s death Tess returns to Drovers Run thinking she’ll sell her share and become wealthy, only to realise the property is in debt.But Tess is endlessly resourceful and self–reliant and adapts to her surroundings, realising she must work with her sister to free Drovers Run of financial trouble.Tess is not someone who can be ignored. Everything is big, loud and full on, with never a dull moment. Her optimism and “can do” philosophy are infectious and she injects passion and energy into daily life at the property.What Tess gets in return is what she has always been looking for and gone without – a sense of belonging which forms a poignant counterpoint to the strength and resilience she presents to the world.

The Actor: Its no surprise that the actor cast in the part of Tess Silverman McLeod attended clown classes at the early age of five. Bridie Carter has an infectious enthusiasm, a cheeky sense of humour, and throws herself into the role of Tess with conviction. She says that Tess’s “vibrancy, love of life and endless optimism” made the part appealing. Bridie loves to rummage through markets and vintage clothing stores and often chooses garments for Tess.Bridie grew up in Melbourne in and around art galleries – her mother was a gallery director – so has a real passion for the arts. And like Tess she is an advocate for people in need, offering her spare time to charity organizations. Bridie said that despite Tess being fun and cheeky, she is also “incredibly strong – she’s not a ditz, and neither am I”. Bridie graduated from NIDA in 1994 and has worked consistently in film, television and theatre. Bridie played the lead role in the feature film Fresh Air, and her television credits include: My Husband My Killer, Going Home, Above the Law, All Saints, Murder Call, Water Rats and Simone De Beauvoir’s Babies.