In 1874 Australia, debonair outlaw Stingaree, aided by his sidekick, Howie, uses his wily charm to take what he wants from the ruling class, with or without permission. When he meets composer Sir Julian Kent, who2s on his way to see a promising opera singer Mrs. Clarkson, Stingaree abducts Kent and decides to take his place at the audition. He quickly realizes the real talent is Clarkson2s servant, Hilda and not Mrs. Clarkson, so he promises Hilda that he'll make her a star.