King of the Coral Sea

When Ted King, captain of a pearling lugger discovers a body floating in the Torres Strait, he becomes unwittingly embroiled in a people smuggling plot. Determined to get to the bottom of the mystery he is joined by his first mate, Jack Janiero and the recently arrived owner of the pearling company, city playboy Peter Merriman. Merriman has to prove himself worthy, not only to the crew but also to win the affections of Ted’s daughter, Rusty.

Produced by and starring Chips Rafferty, this romantic action packed adventure features Rod Taylor in his first film role, Ilma Adey and Charles ‘Bud’ Tingwell as the dashing Merriman.

The film was beautifully shot around the exotic locations of Queensland’s Thursday Island and the Torres Strait, including scenes of underwater diving and the pearling industry. It was a box office success on first release and stands the test of time as an exciting matinee thriller.

Distributed by the National Film and Sound Archive of Australia. For home use only. © Penn Robinson