‘Look, I couldn’t give a brass razoo what they do in their countries,’ Rex said. ‘Just don’t bring that kind of behaviour here. It’s un-Australian.’

‘What behaviour is that?’ asked Manolis.

‘Bloody hell it’s hot,’ said Sparrow.

‘They’ve got everything you could possibly imagine in the brown house,’ Rex said. ‘The joint’s totally refurbished, they spent millions. There’s air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, cable, gym equipment, prescription medicines…’

‘Meanwhile, we sit and roast in old caravans, watching static and drinking snake oil,’ said Vera.

‘Hot,’ Sparrow repeated.

‘They come out here and demand all these freedoms,’ said Rex. ‘It’s a bit much, don’t you think?’

‘They’re your evildoers, Detective,’ said Vera. ‘Focus your energies there. That’s what they do, isn’t it? Torment women? Stone women?’

Her face and mood darkened. It was an energy that permeated the air and blackened Manolis’s thoughts like a squid with its ink.

Rex shook his head. ‘Multiculturalism is the greatest failed experiment.’

‘I just hope no one tries to stone me,’ said Vera, half speaking and half cringing. ‘But I know that God will help us through this difficult time.’

‘Oh, I’m sure he will,’ Sparrow said with a smile.

‘My heart breaks for the women especially, the way the men treat them in those cultures,’ Vera added. ‘Bring ’em to justice, Detective.’

Manolis pretended to check his watch before forcing a yawn. ‘I’m sorry, it’s been a long day. And you’ve both been very hospitable – thank you again for the delicious meal.’

Rex apologised, stood. ‘We do go on. Let me show you to your cabin. It’s a pleasure to have you stay with us.’

‘Thank you,’ said Manolis. ‘I’m happy to be here too.’

Vera hugged him with genuine warmth he wasn’t expecting. ‘Sorry again for your loss, love. Lamb curry next time.’

‘Can’t wait,’ he said with a sigh.

Chapter 6

Chapter 6

THE THREE MEN strolled at a leisurely pace in the disappearing light, their bellies straining with beef and beer. Manolis swung his arms lethargically as if they were full of warm oil. The tourist park’s main street was disturbingly quiet.

Rex walked tall, back straight. He took great pleasure in describing his pride and joy, which he had built from the ground up. But he admitted it had seen better days; it had fallen on hard times and out of memory.

‘No one holidays in the outback anymore,’ he grumbled. ‘People want exotic destinations, international locations. No one drives, they all fly.’