Stern barriers to remote country (10)

I believe the answer is:

backblocks

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'to remote country' is the definition.
I can't judge whether this defines the answer.

'stern barriers' is the wordplay.
'stern' becomes 'back' (stern is the back of a boat).
'barriers' becomes 'blocks' (I am not sure about this - if you are sure you should believe this answer much more).
'back'+'blocks'='BACKBLOCKS'

Can you help me to learn more?

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.