The Pioneers follows the Cameron family, free settlers who establish a cattle operation in the rugged Gippsland region of Victoria. The novel explores the challenges of pioneering life, including encounters with escaped convicts, devastating bushfires, and the struggles of raising a family in isolation. The narrative shifts focus to the son, Davey, as he navigates the complexities of growing up in a harsh environment and his desire for independence against his father's controlling nature. His burgeoning romance with Deirdre, however, is threatened by the advances of Thad McNab, a powerful and influential figure in the community. Through themes of family, love, and the clash of personalities, the story delves into the struggles and triumphs of carving a life in the Australian wilderness.