In 1929 Reg Rae was born in Toongabbie, Sydney. Being small for his age he was nicknamed "Skeet" by his father. At 13 not academically inclined he leaves school to find work as a bread carter and Blacksmith, confronting the challenges and conflicts of the job. He recalls the stories of his mum, dad, brothers and sisters through the depression and World War 2. At 16 stricken with Polio, he finds the courage in overcoming the debilitation effects of the disease and goes on to live a normal life. Then In 1952 after tragically losing both his wife and home, rising from the ashes he keeps going and starts again.