Audrey Long (Home and Away)
| Company type | Television series |
|---|---|
| Industry | Television soap opera |
| Founded | January 17, 1988 |
| Headquarters | Australia |
Area served | Australia |
Home and Away is a long-running Australian soap opera that premiered on the Seven Network on 17 January 1988. This compilation highlights characters introduced throughout 2009, all under the guidance of executive producer Cameron Welsh. The show's twenty-second season spanned from 19 January to 27 November 2009. Notable new characters included Gina and Hugo Austin in January; Robert Cruze, Trey Palmer, Freya Duric, and Joey Collins arriving in February; Liam Murphy and John Palmer debuting in March; Lachie Cladwell and David Gardiner introduced in April; May Stone appearing in June; the birth of Harry Holden alongside the Walker family (Sid, Dexter, and Indigo) joining in July; Detective Robert Robertson arriving in August; and finally, the entrance of Romeo Smith in September.
Gina Austin
Gina Austin, brought to life by Sonia Todd, made her first appearance on 27 January 2009 and departed on 18 April 2013. The official series description portrays her as a committed mother who has endured difficulties with both her eldest and youngest sons. Gina embodies strength and acceptance of her life’s challenges. Industry commentary emphasizes her warmth and grounded nature, noting her dedication to family above personal ambitions. Todd highlights Gina’s role as a mother to three sons as central to her character.
Hugo Austin
Hugo Austin, portrayed by Bernard Curry, was introduced on 27 January 2009, leaving the show on 26 January 2010, with a brief reappearance from 6 May to 9 June 2010. Curry, who had previously acted on rival soap Neighbours, expressed that his time on Home & Away was the most enjoyable experience of his career. Hugo is depicted as an outdoors enthusiast, sporting a fit physique and sun-kissed complexion.
Robert Cruze
Robert "Robbo" Cruze, enacted by Aidan Gillett, debuted on-screen on 1 February 2009. Robbo was employed aboard a boat alongside Aden Jefferies and Joey Collins. His character frequently antagonized Joey due to her sexual orientation, escalating to sexual assault and coercing her into silence until she reported him. Despite his denials and attempts at intimidation—including physical assault and an attempted drowning—he was ultimately apprehended and charged, concluding his narrative arc by 31 March 2009.
Trey Palmer
Trey Palmer, played by Luke Bracey, first appeared on 9 February 2009. Though described as having "the face of an angel," his conduct was notably mischievous, quickly attracting viewer attention. Trey became known for stirring trouble, particularly targeting characters such as Geoff Campbell (Lincoln Lewis) and Nicole Franklin.
A prominent storyline featured Trey recording a private video with Nicole that was subsequently leaked—reflecting a real-life incident involving actor Lincoln Lewis. This plotline garnered significant attention due to its controversial timing. Critics also labeled Trey a "neurotic wolverine."
Within Summer Bay, Trey is introduced as a schoolboy who bullies local youths including Jai Fernandez (Jordan Rodrigues) and frequently clashes with educators. He harbors resentment toward his stepfather, John Palmer, which perpetuates ongoing tension. Trey also develops animosity toward Miles Copeland but reveals vulnerability through his affection for Kirsty, who rejects him and reconciles with Miles. Following a violent altercation, Trey initially files charges against Miles but later retracts them.
Trey's relationship with Nicole evolves from dating to intimacy, culminating in the creation and unauthorized distribution of their sex tape—a retaliatory act that deeply embarrasses Nicole. His mounting anger culminates in a critical event where he holds up a school bus during an excursion, discloses he planted an explosive device, and causes serious injury to Hugo Austin. Ultimately, Trey is arrested on charges of attempted murder.
Freya Duric
Freya Duric, brought to life by Sophie Hensser, made her first appearance on 10 February 2009.
In 2009, the series featured two lesbian narratives, one involving Freya sharing a kiss with Nicole Franklin (Tessa James), which led to viewer complaints. James described their relationship by saying Freya embodies Nicole's untamed side—a part Nicole recognizes but tends to downplay. The kiss from Freya serves as an expression of her attraction and acts as a catalyst for Nicole to see herself as having become somewhat mundane.
Freya arrives with the intent of reigniting a romance with Xavier Austin, but she encounters opposition due to his involvement with Ruby Buckton. She persistently attempts to seduce Xavier and causes disruption in the community, including distributing drugs at Summer Bay High. Following a confrontation with Nicole, Freya publicly kisses her, which annoys those around them. She manipulates Xavier to gain favors but soon grows disinterested and kisses his brother Hugo, unaware that Xavier witnesses this. After Hugo ends their brief relationship, Freya departs swiftly.
Joey Collins
Joey Collins, portrayed by Kate Bell, was introduced on 12 February 2009.
The producers created Joey's character to facilitate a lesbian storyline with Charlie Buckton (Esther Anderson) aimed at increasing viewership. Over the course of five weeks, their friendship develops into a romantic connection that includes intimate moments. Executive producer Cameron Welsh acknowledged Joey's popularity and hinted at the possibility of her returning.
Joey works aboard a boat alongside Aden Jefferies and Robbo Cruze, who subjects her to harassment. After Robbo pushes her into the water, she confides in Aden about her sexual orientation and begins developing feelings for Charlie. Joey’s brother Brett disapproves of her being a lesbian and forces her out of his home, prompting her to move in with Charlie.
Robbo's harassment intensifies, culminating in sexual assault and threats to keep quiet. With encouragement from Aden and Belle Taylor, Joey files a formal complaint despite Robbo’s denial and Brett’s skepticism. Robbo’s former partner Tanya tries to support the case but is hit by a vehicle in a hit-and-run incident. Later, Robbo attempts to drown Joey but is stopped by Charlie and subsequently arrested. Charlie then shares a kiss with Joey.
Their clandestine relationship faces hostility and gossip fueled by homophobia within the community. Charlie wrestles with her own sexuality and professional pressures, which strains their bond. Eventually, Joey tearfully departs for another job opportunity after bidding farewell to Charlie.
Liam Murphy
Liam Murphy, enacted by Axle Whitehead, first appeared on 5 March 2009. Whitehead, known as both a musician and presenter, earned the role through auditioning and was initially contracted for fifteen episodes. He described Liam as a rebellious rock musician and drew upon his personal experiences to portray the character's struggles with drug use.
Brendan Austin
Brendan Austin, played by Kain O'Keeffe, debuted on 25 March 2009. Having previously worked alongside other cast members, O'Keeffe joined the show as part of the Austin family storyline, revealing Brendan's mental disability which created tension between him and his brothers Xavier and Hugo.
Brendan arrives in Summer Bay accompanied by his mother Gina, disclosing that he has autism. Prior to Brendan’s arrival, Xavier had been his main caretaker, causing friction within the family. Brendan initially finds social interactions challenging but receives support from Xavier's girlfriend Ruby Buckton, aiding his adjustment.
While under Martha MacKenzie's supervision, Brendan runs away several times. On one occasion, he throws a brick at Roman Harris's blue car—triggered by trauma linked to a previous accident involving a similar vehicle—resulting in Roman losing his sight. After learning about Brendan's condition, Roman opts not to press charges.
Brendan later mentions having a girlfriend named Ruby Leeds who has Down syndrome. Although initially doubtful about Brendan's independence, Gina eventually supports his transition into sheltered housing alongside Ruby. Demonstrating unexpected courage, Brendan saves Xavier from drowning despite his own challenges, helping Gina feel confident about his independence.
After mistakenly attending what he believes is Hugo’s funeral—later revealed to be alive—Brendan continues to play an important role in the family’s story. Following Gina’s death in 2013, it was noted that Brendan did not attend her funeral due to emotional distress.
John Palmer
John Palmer, brought to life by Shane Withington, made his first appearance on 27 March 2009 as the stepfather of Trey Palmer. Withington, known for his previous work on A Country Practice, joined Home and Away in a recurring guest capacity. The character was characterized as a "strict father" figure who was also actively involved in the surf lifesaving community.
Claudia Hammond
Claudia Hammond, portrayed by Alexandra Park, entered the series on 10 April 2009. She was introduced through her romantic involvement with Geoff Campbell, revealing her pregnancy amidst complicated circumstances. Their initial intimate moment leads to a caravan fire, symbolizing the chaos within their relationship. Series producer Cameron Welsh emphasized the narrative’s complexity, particularly Claudia’s deceit regarding the baby's paternity and its dramatic consequences.
Claudia starts working alongside Geoff on the farm, which sparks their romantic connection. Following their encounter and the caravan blaze, her former partner Lachie confronts Geoff aggressively. Claudia initially denies that Lachie is the father but admits the truth after Lachie is injured and Geoff reacts harshly. Lachie's abusive behavior towards Claudia ultimately drives her to leave both men behind, relocating with her cousin Dubbo to begin afresh.
Lachie Cladwell
Lachie Cladwell, enacted by Jackson Heywood, debuted on 4 May 2009. Lachie is Claudia Hammond’s (Alexandra Park) former boyfriend, having maintained an intermittent relationship with her over six months. While Claudia develops feelings for Geoff Campbell (Lincoln Lewis), Lachie returns in an attempt to reclaim her affection, later promising to stay away. Claudia announces her pregnancy, initially stating Lachie is not the father. A confrontation between Geoff and Lachie during a rugby match leaves Lachie hospitalized and facing possible paralysis; subsequently, Claudia reveals Lachie is indeed the father. Geoff responds by expelling Claudia from his life. As Lachie recovers, he hopes to establish a family with Claudia, but she refuses and permanently departs Summer Bay.
The Daily Record observed that Geoff’s usually kind nature was severely tested by misfortune, leading to his anger directed at Lachie.
David Gardiner
David "Gardy" Gardiner, played by Jeremy Sims, first appeared on 13 May 2009. Sims received acclaim for his convincing portrayal of Gardy as an intimidating antagonist whose psychological manipulation of Roman Harris (Conrad Coleby) was described as "truly unsettling". The Daily Record referred to Gardy as a "villain" despite his charismatic demeanor.
Gardy invades Roman’s household, causing concern for Roman’s daughter Nicole Franklin (Tessa James) and her friend Ruby Buckton (Rebecca Breeds). Although recently blinded, Roman recognizes Gardy’s voice and permits him to stay. Early in Gardy’s storyline, he joins Roman and Hugo Austin (Bernard Curry) in a fight against John Palmer (Shane Withington) and his associates. Gardy attempts dangerous feats, including a parachute jump, aiming to help restore Roman’s vision but fails.
Once Roman regains sight, Gardy coerces him into committing a liquor store robbery; although successful, an elderly woman suffers a heart attack during the crime. Overcome with guilt, Roman performs CPR on her and avoids suspicion. When Nicole rejects Gardy’s advances, he threatens to implicate Roman in the robbery. Gardy escalates his criminal actions by robbing the Palmer residence and taking Trey Palmer (Luke Bracey) and Jenena Palmer (Anna Lise Phillips) hostage.
Roman confronts Gardy but chooses to protect him by covering up his actions. It is revealed that Gardy is blackmailing Roman over a wartime killing in Afghanistan. Gardy plans a warehouse heist in Mangrove River but aborts when police arrive unexpectedly. After discovering that Roman tipped off law enforcement, Gardy assaults him and threatens Nicole to ensure compliance.
During the robbery, Gardy intends to eliminate witnesses; however, Roman refuses and confronts him instead, resulting in Roman being shot. A shootout ensues; Xavier Austin (David Jones-Roberts) arrives but is taken hostage. Hugo demands Xavier’s release; when ignored, he fires a spear gun at Gardy but misses. Gardy attempts to shoot Hugo but is stopped when Roman shoots him in the leg. Despite his injury, Gardy escapes into a creek and vanishes.
May Stone
May Stone, brought to life by Alin Sumarwata, made her first appearance on 12 June 2009 as an educator at Summer Bay High. She soon enters into a romantic relationship with Angelo Rosetta, unaware that he is secretly involved with Charlie Buckton. Esther Anderson, who portrays Charlie, revealed that while Charlie partly aimed to stir trouble, the affair was largely fueled by unresolved emotions. The Daily Record highlighted Angelo’s lack of sensitivity toward May and her emotional turmoil following their breakup.
May quickly becomes part of the local community and begins dating Angelo. However, Angelo’s lingering feelings for Charlie and her jealousy result in a clandestine affair. When May starts to take their relationship seriously, Angelo admits the truth, ending things between them. Feeling betrayed, May decides to resign from her teaching role and promptly leaves Summer Bay.
Harry Holden
Harry Jack Holden, the child of Rachel Armstrong and Tony Holden, was introduced on 30 July 2009 and has been portrayed by several young actors. After his birth, Rachel faces challenges managing Harry’s persistent crying and struggles to bond with him, even contemplating smothering him before seeking assistance. Following accusations from Jane Avent that Rachel caused her stillbirth and Jane’s subsequent abduction of Harry, a police search is launched. Jane’s husband Rex reacts with shock to her behavior. Eventually, Harry is found safe and returned to his parents.
In August 2010, Harry moves to Boston alongside Rachel and Tony, making a brief stop at his half-brother Jack’s gravesite before leaving.
Sid Walker
Sid Walker, played by Robert Mammone, arrived on screen on 30 July 2009 under a five-week guest contract. Due to positive audience reception, Sid, along with Indigo and Dexter, returned as permanent characters in June 2010.
Dexter Walker
Dexter Walker, originally portrayed by Tom Green starting 30 July 2009, was recast in 2010 with Charles Cottier. Cottier mentioned that the character had undergone development and chose not to view Green’s earlier portrayal. Among Dexter’s significant storylines was his romantic involvement with Marilyn Chambers (Emily Symons), which Cottier described as both awkward and thrilling given their considerable age gap.
Indigo Walker
Indigo Walker, enacted by Samara Weaving, first appeared on 30 July 2009 as a member of the newly introduced Walker family—including Sid, Jody (Victoria Haralabidou), Dexter, and Indigo. Although the family departed in September 2009, they made a comeback in June 2010. Weaving expressed relief at being able to balance her acting commitments with her academic studies during this return.
Robert Robertson
Robert Robertson, portrayed by Socratis Otto, debuted on 2 August 2009. Created by James Walker specifically for a murder plotline, Robertson was designed to inject humor into a storyline that did not focus on traditional police drama. Walker characterized him as a versatile figure with a distinctive wit, adept at deception to reveal truths and capable of interacting with various characters during investigations. Otto drew upon his comedic skills for the role and regarded it as one of his most fulfilling performances. The Daily Record described Robertson as "ruthless," noting concerns voiced by characters such as Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher).
Robertson serves as a detective investigating the murder of Grant Bledcoe, who is Ruby Buckton’s (Rebecca Breeds) biological father. He initially suspects Ruby’s mother Charlie and arrests her before uncovering that her father Ross (David Downer) is responsible. Quirky yet effective, Robertson briefly dates Leah Patterson-Baker (Ada Nicodemou), who ultimately rejects further involvement.
He later returns to investigate the disappearance of Penn Graham (Christian Clark), working alongside Detective Graves (Eryn Jean Norvill). Focusing suspicion on Alf as the main suspect, he collects evidence and pressures confessions but fails to obtain definitive proof. Attempting once more to pursue Leah romantically, he faces rejection due to her unresolved feelings for ex-boyfriend Elijah Johnson (Jay Laga'aia). Robertson coerces Will Smith (Zac Drayson) into implicating Alf, leading to Alf’s arrest; however, Morag Bellingham (Cornelia Frances) challenges the validity of this evidence while Charlie threatens to take over the investigation. Morag exposes Will’s dishonesty, forcing Robertson to release Alf and charge Will instead. Feeling professionally compromised, Robertson confides in Leah about his loss of identity; she comforts him by reminding him that errors are human. Offered a promotion requiring relocation, he invites Leah and her son to join him, but Leah declines.
Romeo Smith
Romeo Smith, played by Luke Mitchell, made his first appearance on 10 September 2009. Mitchell landed the part after moving to Sydney without employment. Romeo is depicted as charming, mischievous, humorous, and courteous. His family on-screen includes his sister Mink Carpenter (Matylda Buczko) and mother Jill Carpenter (Josephine Mitchell). Romeo's main romantic arc centers around his relationship with Indigo Walker (Samara Weaving).
Additional Characters
23–28 April 1–2 June 13 June–13 July 14 July–18 August 14 July–18 August 14 July–26 January 2010 20–21 July 23 July–18 August 29 July-27 November 30 July–17 August 2011 20 August 24 August–8 July 2010 'Sophia McLeod' 'Madeline Andrews' 'Andy’s daughter diagnosed with hearing impairment.' 1–16 September 'Grant Bledcoe' 'Clayton Watson' 'Ruby’s biological father accused of rape by Charlie Buckton; later found dead under suspicious circumstances.' 8 September 'Tracey Bledcoe' 'Mary Anne Byrne' 'Grant Bledcoe’s wife shocked by allegations against him.' 15 September–1 March 2012 'Patrick Avery' 'Clayton Williams' 'Police constable involved in multiple cases, including bailing Sid Walker on assault charges.' 18–22 September 'Ruby Leeds' 'Tracie Sammmut' 'Brendan’s girlfriend advocating for his autonomy.' 18 September 'Pheobe' 'Alisha Burton' 'A brief acquaintance of Jai Fernandez.' 30 September 'Jim' 'Mark Richardson' 'A hotel manager appearing briefly.' 1 October–27 January 2010 Bambang Rahardjo Joft Prastowo Son of Wayan Rahardjo, assists Martha MacKenzie on the farm and is used by Angelo to expose human trafficking. 3 October–26 January 2010 Suzy Sudiro Tasneem Roc Ex-wife of Hugo Austin involved in human smuggling; kidnaps Martha MacKenzie demanding ransom before being subdued. Riley Radcliffe Tani Edgecombe School bully targeting VJ Patterson, resulting in conflict involving his father Ian. Ian Radcliffe Ben Simpson Father covering up his son's bullying by injuring Riley and attempting bribery; exposed and disappears. 9–24 November Poppie Merrin Elouise Blair Complicates Liam Murphy's relationship with Nicole Franklin through false rumors and drug-related issues. 17–24 November Reg Merrin Dane Carson Manager of The Sands who hires Aden Jefferies but dismisses him after a misunderstanding involving his daughter Catie. 18–24 November Catie MerrinTess Haubrich Reg Merrin’s daughter who manipulates situations involving Aden Jefferies and Nicole Franklin, leading to Aden’s termination. 19–23 November Orson CardilloMark Lee Longtime gardener for Donna De Bono, implicated in a gun-planting incident but maintains innocence despite health challenges. 20 November Bonita Cardillo Suzi Dougherty Orson’s wife defending his innocence during investigations. 25 November–18 February 2010 Hazem KassirBen Kermode Dates Leah Patterson-Baker; suffers racially motivated assault resulting in paralysis and eventual breakup. 26 November Prison Guard Joe Tarena On duty during Derrick Quaid’s escape from custody.| Date(s) | Character | Actor | Role Summary |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30 January | Bank manager | Christopher Saunders | Detects Bridget Simmons' attempt to unlawfully access Leah Patterson-Baker's finances and informs Leah. |
| 30 January–6 October | Don Gibson | Steve Anderson | Collaborates with Aden on the boat; involved in illegal abalone harvesting; arrested after trying to frame Aden; discloses details about Hugo. |
| 2–6 February | Steve Hogan | Damien Freeglass | Police officer conducting a short investigation in Summer Bay. |
| 3 February | Lawyer | Blair Cutting | Provides legal representation for Angelo Rosetta. |
| 4 February–25 January 2010 | Lou De Bono | David Roberts | Dates Irene Roberts; later dies at sea; Irene is initially suspected but later cleared of his murder. |
| 9–10 February | Archie Maddock | Tim Phillipps | Homeless individual who defends Melody Jones from attackers; supplies information about her location. |
| 10 February | Thug | Zen Ledden | Assaults Melody Jones and Archie Maddock. |
| 19 February | Mryll Ramsay | Kim Hillas | Initially declines an interview to protect her aged care facility; persuaded by Melody Jones to participate. |
| 19–25 February | Audrey Long | Wendy Playfair | Melody Jones' grandmother who passes away from a stroke during the storyline. |
| 3–19 March | George | Benjamin O'Donnell | Attends a speed dating event; briefly connects with Leah before she chooses Roman. |
| 9 March–29 July | Brett Collins | Toby Levins | Older sibling of Joey Collins; initially rejects her sexual orientation but reconciles following traumatic experiences. |
| 16 March–26 January 2010 | Derrick Quaid | John Atkinson | Survivor of a shipwreck involved in illegal human trafficking alongside Hugo Austin and Suzy Sudiro; antagonizes Geoff Campbell and Nicole Franklin; ultimately apprehended. |
| 19 March–13 November | Jerry Thibault | Nicholas Cassim | Newspaper employer engaged in an affair with Paula Gill; promises Belle a promotion but withdraws it. |
| 19 March | Tanya Gannon | Hayley McCarthy | Robert Cruze's former partner who files a complaint against him; suffers a hit-and-run incident upon arrival. |
| 20 March | Paula Gill | Paula Arundell | Colleague of Belle involved in an affair with Jerry Thibault; bullies Belle over her addiction struggles. |
| 23 March–23 November | Donna De Bono | Suzie MacKenzie | Estranged wife of Lou De Bono; attempts to implicate Irene in Lou’s death. |
| 23 April | Chelsea Murphy | Georgia Gorman | Wife of Liam Murphy; faces media scrutiny due to Liam’s drug problems; divorces and relocates to Paris with their son Ash. |
| ' Ash Murphy | ' Dusty Piper | ' Son of Liam and Chelsea Murphy.' | |
| ' Jenena Palmer | ' Anna Lise Phillips | ' Mother of Trey and spouse of John.' | |
| ' Clint Mailer | ' Matt Zeremes | ' Rugby coach who pressures Aden Jefferies into sabotaging Geoff Campbell’s career.' | |
| ' Jane Avent | ' Felicity Price | ' Grieving mother blaming Rachel Armstrong for her stillborn child; kidnaps Rachel’s son Harry before seeking assistance.' | |
| ' Rex Avent | ' Sandy Winton | ' Jane Avent’s husband who initially defends her but acknowledges she requires help.' | |
| ' Wayan Rahardjo | ' Dorje Swallow | ' Hospital patient who does not speak English, connected to Hugo Austin’s criminal activities.' | |
| ' Paul | ' Thomas Norrie | ' Minor role as an extra.' | |
| ' Squirt | ' Ben Davy-Thorburn | ' Aden Jefferies’ friend and coworker.' | |
| ' Marine Officer Bryant |
Water police officer assisting Angelo Rosetta in combating human trafficking.' | ||
| ' Jody Walker | ' Victoria Haralabidou | ' Sid Walker’s wife who attempts reconciliation but departs following infidelity.' | |
| ' Michelle | ' Michelle Pettigrove | ' Charlie Buckton’s aunt who reveals Ruby is Charlie’s daughter.' | |
| ' Therese | ' Rose Ashton | ' Nurse involved in a brief romantic relationship with Sid Walker, causing workplace tension.' | |
| ' Andy McLeod | ' Paul Winchester | ' Provides parenting advice to Rachel Armstrong; friendship ends due to boundary concerns.' |