Bianca Zeboat
| Company type | Television soap opera |
|---|---|
| Industry | Television |
| Founded | January 17, 1988 |
| Headquarters | Australia |
Area served | Australia |
| Website | 7plus |
Home and Away is a long-running Australian soap opera that premiered on the Seven Network on 17 January 1988. Below is a compilation of characters introduced during 1999, all under the direction of then-executive producer John Holmes. The show's twelfth season commenced broadcasting on 11 January 1999. The initial character introduced was Nick Smith, portrayed by Matt Juarez in March. His father, Ken, played by Anthony Phelan, followed in April. In May, Aleetza Wood joined the cast as Peta Janossi. Cameron Welsh appeared as Mitch McColl starting in July. August saw the arrival of Bianca Zeboat and lifeguard Shauna Bradley, with Kylie Watson in the latter role. Science educator Harry Reynolds, enacted by Justin Melvey, was introduced in September. Finally, in October, Anna Hruby and Stephen James King came on board as acting principal Judith Ackroyd and her son, Edward Dunglass, respectively.
Nick Smith
Nick Smith made his debut on 18 March 1999, initially portrayed by Matt Guarez in a guest capacity before becoming a regular character in 2000 with Chris Egan assuming the role. Nick's character exited the series on 9 September 2003. Additionally, Aaron Puckeridge portrayed Nick in flashback scenes during 2003. Chris Egan received a nomination for "Best New Male Talent" at the Logie Awards in 2001 for his portrayal.
Peta Janossi
Peta Janossi, played by Aleetza Wood, first appeared on 27 May 1999 and departed on 14 July 2000. Wood was cast while still attending university. Series Producer Russell Webb chose her for her "fresh-faced" appearance. For this role, Wood earned a nomination for "Most Popular New Female Talent" in 2000.
Mitch McColl
Mitch McColl, enacted by Cameron Welsh, was introduced on 15 July 1999. Welsh originally auditioned for a guest part. In 2000, after being diagnosed with a herniated disc, he took a six-week hiatus during which Mitchell McMahon temporarily assumed the role of Mitch. Welsh returned to portray Mitch on 3 April 2000. In 2005, he made a guest appearance to celebrate the show's 4000th episode, marking Mitch’s return for Alf Stewart’s birthday. Later, Welsh transitioned into producing Home and Away, crediting his acting tenure as Mitch with enhancing his understanding of production work. He was also nominated for the "Best New Male Talent" at the Logie Awards in 2000.
Critics praised Mitch’s impactful introduction and highlighted his romantic storyline with Hayley as captivating and eagerly awaited by viewers. His departure from the show was also recognized as a significant television moment.
Bianca Zeboat
Bianca Zeboat, brought to life by Lara Cox, first appeared on 11 August 1999. Cox secured this recurring guest role shortly after completing work on Heartbreak High, managing to appear concurrently in both series. She described Bianca as a "nasty, nasty piece of work," characterizing her as manipulative and assertive, which contrasted sharply with Cox’s previous role as Anita Scheppers.
An Inside Soap journalist remarked that Bianca’s arrival at the Summer Bay Diner foreshadowed trouble.
Bianca is an actress and model aiming to land the lead role in the film adaptation of Alan Fisher’s novel On the Crest of a Wave. She befriends Jesse McGregor (Ben Unwin) to gain insight into the part. Jesse, who is searching for both a partner and a maternal figure for his daughter, becomes infatuated with Bianca but remains unaware of her true intentions. After being dismissed by director Roger Landowne (Tony Bonner), Bianca ends her relationship with Jesse and departs from Summer Bay.
Shauna Bradley
Shauna Bradley, portrayed by Kylie Watson, made her debut on 16 August 1999 and exited the series in July 2002. Watson secured the role shortly after returning to Canberra, initially uncertain about her prospects but eventually winning the part. Home and Away marked her first acting experience, supported by acting lessons arranged through her agent. She received a nomination for Most Popular New Female Talent at the 2000 Logie Awards.
Shauna was characterized as "sassy" by Karman Kregloe of AfterEllen and described as "feisty" by The People. Andrew Mercado referred to her as a "sexy lifesaver". Her romantic involvement with Harry was marked by frequent fluctuations, while her connection with Gavin was viewed as precarious. In 2012, Channel 5 featured an episode highlighting Shauna confronting Margaret about her adoption in their viewer-selected "From Day One" segment.
Harry Reynolds
Harry Reynolds, played by Justin Melvey, first appeared on 13 September 1999 and departed on 26 January 2001. Prior to joining Home and Away, Melvey worked as a model and developed his acting abilities. After obtaining the role, he relocated from Los Angeles to Sydney. In 2000, he earned the "Most Popular New Male Talent" Logie Award for his portrayal of Harry.
Judith Ackroyd
Judith Ackroyd, enacted by Anna Hruby, was featured from 21 October 1999 until 21 November 2000. Hruby had previous experience acting in Prisoner Cell Block H. Judith took over as principal of Summer Bay High during Donald Fisher's leave. Initially met with doubt regarding her appointment, she gained respect after assisting Donald with his novel.
Her narrative involved managing her son, Edward Dunglass, who inherited Huntington's disease from his deceased father, Edward Dunglass Sr. Judith dealt with Edward’s rebellious tendencies and his relationship with Peta Janossi, whom she permitted to move in despite some hesitation.
Professionally, Judith clashed with Gypsy Nash by preventing her from becoming school captain, which sparked rumors about an affair between Judith and Donald Fisher. Following personal losses, Judith grew close to Donald but ultimately pursued a relationship with Joel Nash. This ended when Joel reunited with his ex-wife Natalie Nash and moved away.
Before leaving for a position in Switzerland, Judith advised that Donald should resume his role as principal and appointed Sally Fletcher as her successor.
Edward Dunglass
Edward Dunglass, portrayed by Stephen James King, appeared from 28 October 1999 to 14 July 2000. King balanced his high school education alongside acting; this role marked his television debut after previous theatre experience. He described the cast as welcoming and noted that Edward’s goth style distinguished him in Summer Bay, contrasting with the usual blonde surfer image.
Edward’s introduction occurs on the beach where Will Smith (Zac Drayson) mocks his gothic appearance, eliciting a sarcastic reply. After rescuing Duncan Stewart (Brendan McKensy) from bullies, Edward participates in go-kart trials with local youths, setting the fastest lap time. The event is interrupted by new principal Judith Ackroyd (Anna Hruby), who is revealed as Edward’s mother.
Donald Fisher (Norman Coburn) recognizes Edward due to his late father, Edward Sr (Peter Sumner), who succumbed to Huntington's disease, a condition Edward fears he has inherited. Edward quickly forms friendships with Peta Janossi (Aleetza Wood) and Mitch McColl (Cameron Welsh). He assists Peta in honoring her late grandmother by lighting candles at a grave site, which draws suspicion from Colleen Smart (Lyn Collingwood) about possible occult involvement.
Edward’s friendship with Duncan creates tension with Alf and Ailsa Stewart (Judy Nunn). His candid remarks about Byron Fisher's death upset Donald until Edward reveals his own illness. Facing a grim prognosis, Edward engages in risky behavior that concerns those around him, including Peta who briefly ends their relationship after he dives off Jump Rock. They reconcile and begin self-defense classes following harassment incidents on the beach. As Huntington’s symptoms develop—such as muscle spasms and temporary paralysis—Edward chooses to live life fully; he attempts to seduce Peta but is caught by her foster father, Joel Nash (David Woodley). The couple privately marries, consummates their relationship, and plans to cohabit; Judith supports their decision despite Joel’s objections. Conflicts arise when they try to set up Judith romantically with Donald and Joel respectively.
Upon turning eighteen, Edward tests positive for Huntington’s disease but initially minimizes its impact until experiencing an emotional breakdown triggered by laughter. Judith provides him with a video message from his father recorded before death; although initially upset about receiving it late, Edward finds solace in it. He then removes his gothic makeup and requests access to his trust fund for travel plans with Peta. Judith arranges their stay with her sister in Rome. In the days leading up to their departure, Edward becomes fatigued and irritable but is comforted by Peta’s dedication. They leave after a heartfelt farewell; Will visits them the following year confirming that Edward’s condition has deteriorated.
Others
| Date(s) | Character | Actor | Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 January–3 March | Dr. Noble | Mariette Rups-Donnelly | Serves as psychiatrist for Gypsy Nash (Kimberley Cooper) following her abduction by David D'Angelo (Toni Poli); subsequently provides support to Joey Rainbow (Alex O'Han) during his struggles with schizophrenia. |
| 14–25 January | Mr Gilkey | Ben Ager | Aggressive driver involved in a road rage incident with Ailsa Stewart (Judy Nunn) after a collision, demanding compensation; Ailsa refuses to apologize. |
| 14 January–21 May | Troy | Lucas Sinkovic Luke Jacobz |
Classmate in Year 12 and cricket teammate of Tom Nash (Graeme Squires). |
| 18–19 January | Rhonda | Samantha Braniff | Utilized by David D'Angelo (Toni Poli) as bait to facilitate the kidnapping of Joel Nash (David Woodley). |
| 21 January–10 February | Brian Matthews | Scott Swalwell | Companion of Sam Marshall and Hayley Smith, participates in graffiti tagging; suffers fatal fall during the activity. |
| 3–12 February | Geraldine Peterson | Anna Lee | Member of The Wednesday Club; falsely claims success in charity fundraising, leading to tension with Rebecca Nash (Belinda Emmett) who resigns from the group. |
| 5 February | Mo Matthews | Pat Sands | Father of Brian Matthews; discovers Brian and Sam Marshall tagging a tower. |
| 8–18 February | Kaia Stokes | Blazey Best | Supports Joey Rainbow during episodes of schizophrenia but departs when his hallucinations intensify. |
| 19 February–6 October | Bob Playford | Tony Morgan | Real estate agent employed by Diana Fraser to develop the caravan park; local residents prevent development by purchasing the property. |
| 4–23 March | Brooke Taylor | Bridie Carter | Sister to Mara Taylor; attracted to Travis Nash due to resemblance to her deceased fiancé; discloses family secrets prior to departure. |
| 4–5 March | Mara Taylor | Ann Burbrook | Brooke's sibling; nearly causes a boating accident involving Travis Nash; pursues Joel Nash unaware he is married. |
| 10–17 March | Denise Hennessy | Lauren Clair | Former prison cellmate of Kylie Burton under an alias; involved romantically with Jesse McGregor; flees town when authorities suspect her escape. |
| 11 March | Eleanor Mace | Deborah Piper | Candidates interviewed by Donald Fisher (Norman Coburn) for Byron Fisher’s nanny role. |
| Patsy Little | Jillian O'Dowd | ||
| Skye | Karren Lewis | ||
| 16 March–11 May | Ellen Porter | Anne Grigg | Nanny for Donald Fisher's infant son Byron; despite a past manslaughter charge, she earns Donald’s confidence but eventually leaves after admitting her feelings for him. |
| 17–22 March | Jim Woods | Nick Hogan | "Local police officer who suspects Denise Hennessy as an escaped convict and investigates drug-related activities involving Nick Smith." |
| 19–23 March | "Johnno" | "Drug dealer pressuring Nick Smith over debt; assaults Nick but later considers the debt settled." | |
| 24 March | "Ted Williams" | "Kim Knuckey" | "Foster father of Nick Smith, arrives to pick him up from the beach house." |
| 24 March 1999–26 April 2000 | "Wendy Williams" | "Monette Lee / Lisa Cameron" | "Foster mother of Nick Smith; returns him to live with his biological father due to behavioral problems." |
| 26 March–20 April | "Miranda Porter" | "Lauren Hewett" | "Daughter of Ellen Porter, an HIV-positive student concerned about discrimination; briefly dates Joey Rainbow." |
| 29 March–7 April | "Claire Andrews" | "Kate Beahan" | "Half-sister to Travis and Joel Nash; causes disturbances including theft before leaving town." |
| 21 April–14 June | "Jack" | "Eamon Davern" | "Friend of Duncan Stewart involved in an incident with a homemade bomb injuring Alf Stewart." |
| 4–5 May | "Organist" | "Gregg Arthur" | "Performs at the wedding of James Fraser and Chloe Richards." |
| 7 May–19 August | "Wendy Collins" | "Jayne Leslie" | "Mother of Ruby Collins; falsely accuses childminder Justine Welles of abuse, leading to wrongful imprisonment." |
| 11 May–19 August | "Steve Collins" | "Don Halbert" | "Ruby Collins' father; initially supports his wife’s false allegation against Justine Welles before admitting guilt himself." |
| 11–19 May | "Ruby Collins" | "Kiara Bleskas et al." | "Child whose death results in Justine Welles' wrongful conviction, later overturned." |
| 24–25 May | "Guy North" | "Drayton Morley" | "Friend to Marilyn Fisher during her post-natal depression; clarifies his relationship with Donald Fisher." |
| 3 June 1999, 8 November 2004 |
"Father O'Hearn" | "Alan Russell" | "Catholic priest officiating Marilyn Fisher’s confession and conducting Owen Dalby’s funeral." |
| 7 June–2 July | "Hope Benedict" | "Brooke Harmon" | "Member of church group pursued by Duncan Stewart, who exploits the situation." |
| 9–23 June | "John Russell" | "John Moore / Marbuck Khan (flashback)" | "Indigenous Studies teacher at Summer Bay High seeking reconciliation with estranged family members." |
| 16 June–20 July | "David Janossi" | "Philip Edwards" | "Older brother of Peta Janossi living off their late grandmother’s pension; departs after securing employment in the city." |
| 28 June–9 September | "Roger Lansdowne" | "Tony Bonner" | "Film producer attempting to acquire rights for Alan Fisher’s autobiography; manipulates locals for casting before leaving town." |
| 28 June | 'Reverend Lee' | 'Stewart Reade' | 'Conducts Lachlan Fraser’s funeral.' |
| 28 June–19 July | 'Annie Matthews' | 'Carole Skinner' | 'Homeless woman impersonating Peta Janossi’s grandmother; reunites with estranged daughter Frances Kennedy.' |
| 12 July–20 August | 'Angus Halliday' | 'Gabriel Andrews' | 'University peer of Sally Fletcher, sparking jealousy from Vinnie Patterson.' |
| 19 July | 'Frances Kennedy' | 'Alice Livingstone' | 'Estranged daughter of Annie Matthews who reconciles with her mother.' |
| 28 July–26 August | 'Sharon Welles' | 'Shayne Francis' | 'Estranged mother of Justine Welles; heroin addict who assists journalist in obtaining confession that leads to Justine's conviction.' |
| 28 July–9 August | 'Leon Watson' | 'David Webb' | 'Attorney defending Justine Welles during trial concerning Ruby Collins’ death.' |
| 30 July–31 August | 'Jeff Berger' | 'Jonathon Speer' | 'Journalist offering payment for confession related to Ruby Collins’ death, which Justine rejects.' |
| 6–9 August | 'Kelly McCane' | 'Laurie Foell' | 'Prosecutor in Justine Welles’ trial.' |
| 10–18 August | 'Gemma' | 'Alyssa McClelland' | 'Cellmate sharing a prison cell with Justine Welles.' |
| 23 August | 'Mrs. Brown' | 'Jan Merriman' | 'Farmer Jack Brown’s wife who hosts local teenagers for fruit-picking work.' |
| 24 August 1999–26 February 2000 | 'Jack Brown' | 'Paul Chubb' | 'Local farmer employing teens for orchard labor; sells farm following environmental concerns.' |
| 31 August–30 September | 'Anthony Doyle' | 'Kim Knuckey' | 'Dates Irene Roberts; relationship ends after foster son participates in a car joyride.' |
| 10–22 September | 'Jillian Williams' | 'Alexandra Davies' | 'Former flatmate stalking Shauna Bradley under the alias "Amber"; arrested after exposure.' |
| 14 September | 'Darryl' | 'Jeremiah Tickell' | 'Shauna Bradley's ex-boyfriend who vandalizes Adam Cameron’s vehicle over stalking allegations.' |
| 23 September 1999–16 June 2003 | 'Ralph Patterson' | 'Alan Cinis' | 'Vinnie Patterson’s father and con artist who frames Vinnie for fraud before seeking forgiveness.' |
| 27 September–8 October | 'Gazza Boyd' | 'Sebastian Huber' | 'Friend of Duncan Stewart who uncovers stolen money connected to escaped convict David D'Angelo.' |
| 11–13 October | 'Lauren Healy' | 'Merridy Eastman' | 'Accomplice in kidnapping Duncan Stewart alongside David D'Angelo.' |
| 14 October 1999–24 March 2000 | 'Claire Rogers' | 'Talia Marmount / Jaime Mears' | 'Student infatuated with Harry Reynolds causing multiple conflicts among residents.' |
| 15 October 1999–21 February 2000 | 'Danielle McCarthy' | 'Claire Paradine' | 'Nursing Unit manager interested in James Fraser, briefly dating him.' |
| 20 October 1999–5 April 2000 | 'Juliette Bellatti' | 'Nicole Nabout' | 'Nurse at Northern Districts Hospital who develops a relationship with James Fraser and departs together with him.' |
| 2 November 1999–31 January 2000 | 'Mick Dwyer' | 'John Brumpton' | 'Ex-criminal pressuring Jesse McGregor into illegal dealings; arrested following investigation into a crash.' |
| 3 November 1999–27 March 2000 | 'Rosemary Myers' | 'Anita Bochnik' | 'Student competing for school captaincy and protesting Edward Dunglass's newsletter.' |
| 4–9 November | 'Christian' | 'John Atkinson' | 'Hitman hired to assassinate Harry Reynolds but subdued by Harry and Shauna Bradley.' |
| 24 November 1999–2 February 2000 | 'Alison' | 'Jenny Apostolou' | 'Harry Reynolds’ former fiancée from America whose arrival prompts his temporary departure before returning to Summer Bay.' |
External links
- Cast and characters on the Official AU Home and Away site
- Cast and characters on the Official UK Home and Away platform
- Cast and characters listed on the Internet Movie Database