Bob Playford
| Company type | Television soap opera |
|---|---|
| Industry | Television |
| Founded | January 17, 1988 |
| Headquarters | Australia |
| Parent | Seven Network |
Home and Away is an Australian television soap opera that premiered on the Seven Network on 17 January 1988. Below is a compilation of characters introduced in 1999, listed according to their initial appearances, all under the direction of then-executive producer John Holmes. The show's twelfth season commenced broadcasting on 11 January 1999. The year’s first new character was Nick Smith, portrayed by Matt Juarez, who appeared in March. His father, Ken, played by Anthony Phelan, was introduced the following month in April. In May, Aleetza Wood took on the role of Peta Janossi. Cameron Welsh joined the cast as Mitch McColl in July. August saw the arrival of Bianca Zeboat and lifeguard Shauna Bradley, played by Kylie Watson. September brought in science teacher Harry Reynolds, enacted by Justin Melvey. Finally, in October, Anna Hruby and Stephen James King were cast 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 series regular in 2000 with Chris Egan assuming the role. His character exited the show on 9 September 2003. Additionally, Aaron Puckeridge depicted Nick during flashback scenes in 2003. For his portrayal, Egan earned a nomination for "Best New Male Talent" at the Logie Awards in 2001.
Peta Janossi
Peta Janossi, played by Aleetza Wood, first appeared on 27 May 1999 and left the series on 14 July 2000. Wood was cast while still attending university. Series Producer Russell Webb chose her for her "fresh-faced" appearance. Her performance garnered a nomination for "Most Popular New Female Talent" in 2000.
Mitch McColl
Mitch McColl, portrayed by Cameron Welsh, entered the series on 15 July 1999. Welsh originally auditioned for a guest spot. In 2000, after being diagnosed with a herniated disc, he took a six-week hiatus during which Mitchell McMahon temporarily filled in as Mitch. Welsh returned to the role 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 (Ray Meagher) birthday festivities. Welsh eventually transitioned into producing Home and Away, crediting his acting experience as Mitch with deepening his understanding of production processes. He also received a "Best New Male Talent" nomination at the Logie Awards in 2000.
James Joyce from The Newcastle Herald praised Mitch’s impactful introduction and noted the much-anticipated first kiss between Mitch and Hayley, highlighting viewers’ strong interest in their relationship. A columnist from the Daily Record included Mitch’s departure among notable television moments that week.
Bianca Zeboat
Bianca Zeboat, enacted by Lara Cox, was introduced on 11 August 1999. Cox secured this guest role shortly after completing work on Heartbreak High, simultaneously appearing in both shows. She characterized Bianca as a "manipulator" and "nasty," presenting a stark contrast to her prior role as Anita Scheppers. Bianca is depicted as a model and actress vying for the lead role in the cinematic adaptation of Alan Fisher’s novel On the Crest of a Wave. Before filming begins, she arrives in Summer Bay and befriends Jesse McGregor (Ben Unwin) to acquire insider knowledge. Jesse, who desires both a partner and maternal figure for his daughter, becomes infatuated with Bianca but remains oblivious to her true intentions. Following her dismissal by the film’s 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 soon after relocating back to Canberra, overcoming initial uncertainties during her audition. This marked her acting debut, prompting her to enroll in acting classes to hone her craft. For her performance, Watson earned a nomination for Most Popular New Female Talent at the 2000 Logie Awards. Shauna was characterized as "sassy" by Karman Kregloe from AfterEllen and described as "feisty" by The People. Author Andrew Mercado referred to her as a "sexy lifesaver." Her tumultuous relationships, particularly with Harry and Gavin, attracted commentary from Inside Soap. In 2012, Channel 5 included an episode featuring Shauna confronting her adoption in their viewer-selected "From Day One" lineup.
Harry Reynolds
Harry Reynolds, brought to life by Justin Melvey, first appeared on 13 September 1999 and departed on 26 January 2001. Prior to joining the cast, Melvey had experience in modelling and formal acting training. After auditioning in Sydney, he was cast and subsequently moved from Los Angeles for the role. His portrayal of Harry earned him the "Most Popular New Male Talent" award at the 2000 Logie Award ceremony.
Judith Ackroyd
Judith Ackroyd, enacted by Anna Hruby, featured on the show between 21 October 1999 and 21 November 2000. Hruby had previously acted in Prisoner Cell Block H. Judith took over as principal of Summer Bay High during Donald Fisher's (Norman Coburn) sabbatical. Her storyline involved navigating school politics, including clashes with student Gypsy Nash (Kimberley Cooper), while also assisting Donald with revising his novel.
A significant plotline centered on Judith's son Edward Dunglass, born from an affair with a deceased lecturer who succumbed to Huntington's disease, raising concerns about Edward’s genetic health risks. Judith tolerated Edward’s rebellious nature and managed complex family situations, including his controversial private marriage to Peta Janossi (Aleetza Wood). Despite initial hesitations, she eventually permitted Peta to live with them.
Following personal losses and shifting dynamics, Judith developed a closer bond with Donald but ultimately began a relationship with Joel Nash, who had recently separated. Their partnership faltered amid disagreements over having children and Joel’s injury; Joel later reconciled with his ex-wife Natalie and moved to Queensland. Judith accepted a position in Switzerland, advised Donald to reassume his principal duties, hired Sally Fletcher (Kate Ritchie) as his replacement, and then left Summer Bay.
Edward Dunglass
Edward Dunglass, portrayed by Stephen James King, entered the series on 28 October 1999 and departed on 14 July 2000. King juggled his high school education alongside this first television role following theatre experience. He praised the cast’s supportiveness and described the set atmosphere as welcoming. Edward was notable within Summer Bay for his goth aesthetic, contrasting with the typical blonde surfer image, which initially led to judgment from others. The official website highlighted Edward as a "refreshing change" among residents. Jackie Brygel of the Herald Sun dubbed him "a young chap who may possibly wear more lipstick and eyeliner than an Avon saleslady."
Edward’s introduction occurs on the beach where Will Smith (Zac Drayson) mocks his goth style; Edward responds with sarcasm. After defending Duncan Stewart (Brendan McKensy) from bullies, Edward is invited to participate in go-kart trials at the caravan park, impressing with the fastest lap time. Their new principal, Judith Ackroyd (Anna Hruby), is revealed to be Edward’s mother.
Donald Fisher (Norman Coburn) recognizes Edward’s surname, having known his father, Edward Snr (Peter Sumner) at university. Edward Snr died from Huntington's disease—a condition Edward fears he has inherited. He quickly forms friendships with Peta Janossi (Aleetza Wood) and Mitch McColl (Cameron Welsh). To honor Peta’s late grandmother, Edward helps organize a memorial service that raises concerns from Colleen Smart (Lyn Collingwood) about possible occult involvement.
Edward’s association with Duncan causes friction with Duncan’s parents, Alf and Ailsa (Judy Nunn). His candid comments about illness upset Donald upon learning of Edward’s condition. Seeking excitement amid uncertainty about his future, Edward engages in risky behavior that alarms those around him; Peta briefly ends their relationship after he jumps off Jump Rock but they later reconcile and begin self-defense classes following harassment incidents.
As symptoms of Huntington's disease emerge—muscle spasms and temporary paralysis—Edward remains resolute about living life fully. He attempts to seduce Peta but is caught by her foster father, Joel Nash (David Woodley). The couple privately marries and consummates their relationship, choosing to cohabit despite Joel's objections; Judith supports their decision.
Upon turning eighteen, Edward tests positive for Huntington's disease but initially minimizes its impact until a breakdown leads Judith to provide him with a video message from his late father. Though initially upset that it was withheld earlier, he finds solace in it. Edward then removes his gothic makeup and requests access to his trust fund to travel abroad with Peta; Judith consents and arranges for them to stay with her sister in Rome. Before leaving, Edward becomes fatigued and irritable but is reassured by Peta's commitment. They depart after an emotional farewell. Will visits them the following year and reports Edward’s condition has deteriorated.
Others
| Date(s) | Character | Actor | Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 January–3 March | Dr. Noble | Mariette Rups-Donnelly | Following Gypsy Nash's abduction by David D'Angelo, Noble serves as her psychiatrist and later provides counseling to Joey Rainbow during his struggle with schizophrenia. |
| 14–25 January | Mr Gilkey | Ben Ager | After a traffic accident, Gilkey, a driver with aggressive tendencies, confronts Ailsa Stewart, insisting on compensation despite her refusal to accept his apology. |
| 14 January–21 May | Troy | Lucas Sinkovic Luke Jacobz |
Troy is both a Year 12 peer and cricket teammate of Tom Nash. |
| 18–19 January | Rhonda | Samantha Braniff | David D'Angelo uses Rhonda as bait in his scheme to abduct Joel Nash. |
| 21 January–10 February | Brian Matthews | Scott Swalwell | Brian, who is a friend of Sam Marshall and Hayley Smith, dies while tagging a building. |
| 3–12 February | Geraldine Peterson | Anna Lee | Geraldine, a member of The Wednesday Club, falsely claims success in charity work, prompting Rebecca Nash to leave the group. |
| 5 February | Mo Matthews | Pat Sands | Mo, Brian Matthews' father, discovers Brian and Sam engaged in tagging a tower. |
| 8–18 February | Kaia Stokes | Blazey Best | Kaia supports Joey Rainbow throughout his schizophrenic episodes but departs as his hallucinations worsen. |
| 19 February–6 October | Bob Playford | Tony Morgan | Bob acts as an estate agent hired by Diana Fraser to purchase and redevelop the caravan park; however, locals raise funds to buy it themselves and prevent the sale. |
| 4–23 March | Brooke Taylor | Bridie Carter | Brooke and her sister Mara encounter Joel and Travis Nash; Brooke pursues Travis due to his resemblance to her deceased fiancé but leaves after disclosing family secrets. |
| 4–5 March | Mara Taylor | Ann Burbrook | Mara nearly causes a boating mishap while meeting Joel and Travis Nash; she shows interest in Joel without knowing he is married. |
| 10–17 March | Denise Hennessy | Lauren Clair | Denise, an alias-using fugitive, grows close to Jesse McGregor but escapes when police begin suspecting her true identity. |
| 11 March | Eleanor Mace | Deborah Piper | Donald Fisher interviews nanny candidates for Byron Fisher's care. |
| Patsy Little | Jillian O'Dowd | ||
| Skye | Karren Lewis |
| Date(s) | Character | Actor | Context |
|---|
|- ! scope="row" |16 March–11 May |'Ellen Porter' |'Anne Grigg' |'Despite a manslaughter acquittal, Ellen becomes Byron Fisher’s nanny; she assists Marilyn in settling before departing after confessing affection for Donald Fisher. |- ! scope="row" |17–22 March |'Jim Woods' |'Nick Hogan' |'Jim is a police constable suspicious of Denise Hennessy; although she evades capture, he also investigates drug-related issues among local youth. |- ! scope="row" |19–23 March |'Johnno' |'Josef Ber' |'Johnno is a drug dealer confronting Nick Smith over debts but leaves after reaching an agreement. |- ! scope="row" |24 March |'Ted Williams' |'Kim Knuckey' |'Ted Williams and his wife Wendy act as foster parents who pick up Nick Smith from the beach house. |}
| Date(s) | Character | Actor | Context |
|---|
|- ! scope="row" |24 March 1999–26 April 2000
|'Wendy Williams'
|'Monette Lee
Lisa Cameron'
|'As Nick Smith’s foster mother, Wendy returns him to live with his father when his behavior becomes challenging.
|- ! scope="row" |26 March–20 April
|'Miranda Porter'
|'Lauren Hewett'
|'Miranda, Ellen Porter’s daughter, stays at Donald Fisher’s residence; after disclosing her HIV-positive status and fearing discrimination, she briefly dates Joey Rainbow before leaving.
|- ! scope="row" |29 March–7 April
|'Claire Andrews'
|'Kate Beahan'
|'Claire, half-sister to Travis and Joel Nash, stays with Rebecca Nash but steals from Travis’ home; charges are dropped before she departs town.
|- ! scope="row" |21 April–14 June
|'Jack'
|'Eamon Davern'
|'A friend of Duncan Stewart who assists in creating a homemade bomb that injures Alf Stewart.
|- ! scope="row" |4–5 May
|'Organist'
|'Gregg Arthur'
|'Performs at the wedding of James Fraser and Chloe Richards.
|- ! scope="row" |7 May–19 August
|'Wendy Collins'
|'Jayne Leslie'
|'Wife of Steve Collins and mother to Ruby; falsely accuses childminder Justine Welles of abuse leading to wrongful imprisonment before admitting guilt.
|- ! scope="row" |11 May–19 August
|'Steve Collins'
|'Don Halbert'
|'Supports Wendy in framing Justine Welles for their daughter Ruby's death but later confesses the truth.
|- ! scope="row" |11–19 May
|'Ruby Collins '
|'Kiara Bleskas
Tara McKellar
Brittany Jones
Sian Tierney'
|'Daughter of Steve and Wendy Collins; dies under Justine Welles’ care resulting in trial and Justine’s release following confessions.
|- ! scope="row" |24–25 May
|'Guy North'
|'Drayton Morley'
|'Friend to Marilyn Fisher during her post-natal depression; expresses unreturned affection but remains supportive.
|- ! scope="row" |3 June 1999,
8 November 2004
|'Father O'Hearn'
|'Alan Russell'
|'Catholic priest who hears Marilyn Fisher’s confession and officiates Owen Dalby's funeral.
|- ! scope="row" |7 June–2 July
|'Hope Benedict'
|'Brooke Harmon'
|'Member of church group attended by the Stewarts; rejects Duncan Stewart’s romantic advances.
|- ! scope="row" |9–23 June
|'John Russell'
|'John Moore
Marbuck Khan (flashback)'
|'Aboriginal educator at Summer Bay High delivering anti-racism lessons; searches for estranged mother with Joel Nash's assistance before departing town.
|- ! scope="row" |16 June–20 July
|'David Janossi'
|'Philip Edwards'
|'Older brother of Peta Janossi; they survive on their late grandmother's pension without reporting it; leaves town after securing employment in the city.
|- ! scope="row" |28 June–9 September
|'Roger Lansdowne'
|'Tony Bonner'
|'Film producer attempting to obtain rights for Alan Fisher’s autobiography; manipulates locals into contracts but departs after disputes over casting.
|- ! scope="row" |28 June
|'Reverend Lee'
|'Stewart Reade'
|'Conducts Lachlan Fraser's funeral service.
|- ! scope="row" |28 June–19 July
|'Annie Matthews'
|'Carole Skinner'
|'Homeless woman impersonating Peta Janossi’s grandmother; eventually reunites with estranged daughter Frances Kennedy.
|- ! scope="row" |12 July–20 August
|'Angus Halliday'
|'Gabriel Andrews'
|'University peer of Sally Fletcher whose presence incites jealousy from Vinnie Patterson.
|- ! scope="row" |19 July
|'Frances Kennedy'
|'Alice Livingstone'
|'Annie Matthews’ estranged daughter who reconciles with her mother through Peta Janossi’s intervention.
|- ! scope="row" |28 July–26 August
|"Sharon Welles"'
|"Shayne Francis"'
|"Estranged mother of Justine Welles; former addict who obtains Justine’s confession leading to conviction but is later rejected by her daughter."
|- ! scope="row" |28 July–9 August
|"Leon Watson"'
|"David Webb"'
|"Attorney representing Justine Welles during her trial concerning Ruby Collins’ death."
|- ! scope="row" |30 July–31 August
|"Jeff Berger"'
|"Jonathon Speer"'
|"Journalist who motivates Sharon Welles to secure Justine’s confession."
|- ! scope="row" |6–9 August
|"Kelly McCane"'
|"Laurie Foell"'
|"Prosecutor during Justine Welles’ trial."
|- ! scope="row" |10–18 August
|"Gemma"'
|"Alyssa McClelland"'
|"Cellmate of Justine Welles."
|- ! scope="row" |23 August
|"Mrs. Brown"'
|"Jan Merriman"'
|"Spouse of local farmer Jack Brown who accommodates teens responding to his fruit-picking advertisement."
|- ! scope="row"|24 August 1999–26 February 2000
|"Jack Brown"'
|"Paul Chubb"'
|"Local farmer employing teens for fruit harvesting; dismisses workers for poor performance, hires then fires Ken Smith due to alcoholism; sells farm following chemical contamination linked to grandson’s death."
|- ! scope="row"|31 August–30 September
|"Anthony Doyle"'
|"Kim Knuckey"'
|"Dates Irene Roberts; relationship ends after foster son Will Smith admits joyriding in Anthony's vehicle."
|- ! scope = "row"|10-22 September
|"Jillian Williams"'
|"Alexandra Davies"'
|"Former flatmate stalking Shauna Bradley; frames Adam Cameron resulting in eviction before being arrested."
|- !scope = "row"|14 September
|"Darryl"'
|"Jeremiah Tickell"'
|"Shauna Bradley’s ex-partner who vandalizes Adam Cameron’s car accusing him of stalking."
|- !scope = "row"|23 September 1999 –16 June 2003
|"Ralph Patterson"'
|"Alan Cinis"'
|"Vinnie Patterson’s father and conman who offers financial aid then frames Vinnie for fraud before fleeing."
|- !scope = "row"|27 September –8 October
|"Gazza Boyd"'
|"Sebastian Huber"'
|"Friend of Duncan Stewart who discovers money belonging to fugitive David D'Angelo."
|- !scope = "row"|11 –13 October
|"Lauren Healy"'
|"Merridy Eastman"'
|"Accomplice of David D’Angelo involved in kidnapping Duncan Stewart."
|- !scope = "row"|14 October 1999 –24 March 2000
|"Claire Rogers"'
|"Talia Marmount
Jaime Mears"'
|"Student infatuated with Harry Reynolds causing tension among classmates."
|- !scope = "row"|15 October 1999 –21 February 2000
|"Danielle McCarthy"'
|"Claire Paradine"'
|"Nursing Unit manager showing romantic interest in James Fraser."
|- !scope = "row"|20 October 1999 –5 April 2000
|| Juliette Bellatti
|| Nicole Nabout
|| Nurse attracted to James Fraser; they briefly date before departing Summer Bay together."
|- !scope = "row"|2 November 1999 –31 January 2000
|| Mick Dwyer
|| John Brumpton
|| Former criminal associate pressuring Jesse McGregor into unlawful activities; arrested following an accident involving Joel Nash."
|- !scope = "row"|3 November 1999 –27 March 2000
|| Rosemary Myers
|| Anita Bochnik
|| Student competing for school captain and participating in protests alongside peers."
|- !scope = "row"|4 –9 November
|| Christian
|| John Atkinson
|| Hitman hired by US company targeting Harry Reynolds; apprehended after hostage situation."
|- !scope = "row"|24 November 1999 –2 February 2000
|| Alison
|| Jenny Apostolou
|| Harry Reynolds’ former fiancée from America prompting Harry's decision regarding relationships."
|}
External links
- Cast and characters on the Official AU Home and Away website
- Cast and characters on the Official UK Home and Away website
- Cast and characters at the Internet Movie Database