Played by Pamela Rabe.
Inmate number: 580132
Time at Wentworth: one year as Governor
Charges: On remand for murder of Bea Smith
Served: Approx three months at Sinclair institute (psych facility) before three months in Wentworth
Joan’s strength is her determination to succeed against the odds. She found a career in corrections and started as an officer. Her no-nonsense attitude won her fans in high places and she was fast-tracked to Deputy Governor of Queensland’s most troublesome prison, Blackmoore, (a prelude to her appointment at Wentworth in Season 2).
Bea Smith’s escape in Season 2 had the powers that be questioning Ferguson’s ability to keep Wentworth under control in Season 3 and set in motion the Freak’s demise as Governor. In desperation Ferguson tried to cover up the murder of Jess Warner by setting fire to Wentworth at the end of Season 3.
Charged with conspiracy to murder, Ferguson returned on remand to Wentworth. After being acquitted of all charges, within seconds of freedom, Bea Smith executes her own suicide by impaling herself on a weapon held by Ferguson – revenge for Ferguson’s attack on her lover Allie who Bea believes has died.
Ferguson returns in Season 5 with two goals – to become top dog and bring down Vera Bennett.
