Britt Hobart

Home and Away

Company type	Television soap opera
Industry	Television
Founded	January 17, 1988 (1988-01-17)
Headquarters	Australia
Website	7plus.com.au/home-and-away

Home and Away is an Australian soap opera that premiered on the Seven Network on 17 January 1988. The following section outlines the characters introduced during 2010, all under the direction of series producer Cameron Welsh. The show's 23rd season commenced on 25 January 2010. Two days later, Mitzi Ruhlman made her debut portraying Rabbit. In February, Mink Carpenter and Elijah Johnson were introduced, followed by Justin Jefferies in March. Mink’s mother, Jill, appeared in May. June saw Christian Clark and Rhiannon Fish join the cast as Penn Graham and April Scott, respectively. April’s sister, Bianca, was added in July, with Paolo Rosetta arriving in August. The month of September brought new characters Mitzy Fraser, Vittorio Seca, and Daria Hennessy into the storyline.

Rabbit

Amber "Rabbit" Copeland, played by Mitzi Ruhlman, made her first appearance on 27 January 2010, marking Ruhlman’s debut on television. Rabbit was created to introduce an element of "fun" into Miles Copeland’s (Josh Quong Tart) narrative, aiming to revive the enchanting qualities originally associated with his character. Tart highlighted that the storyline explores themes of psychology and mental health while maintaining engagement for younger audiences through Rabbit’s spirited yet innocent demeanor.

Rabbit appears to a hungover Miles following a night spent at the beach, declaring her intention to stay with him for some time. She shares visions involving fire and peril, which Miles initially dismisses until he witnesses an arson attack at the Pier Diner. Rabbit cautions Miles that sleeping will lead to his death; after dozing off in class, he narrowly escapes injury from a falling ceiling fan. A series of graffiti incidents occur around Summer Bay featuring writing connected to Rabbit’s alias, Amber. Marilyn Chambers (Emily Symons) experiences dreams about Rabbit and receives visions concerning her late son Byron Fisher.

It is later disclosed that Rabbit is actually the spirit of Miles’ deceased daughter, who perished alongside her mother Louise during the Boxing Day Tsunami. Miles has been experiencing these apparitions for several months. Following psychiatric evaluation and medication, Rabbit vanishes but reappears when Miles discontinues treatment. His difficulties managing these hallucinations result in his suspension from school.

Rabbit’s concluding vision involves a gas leak endangering multiple children; Miles intervenes by breaking down a door to rescue them. The storyline ends with Miles seeing Louise at the beach; Rabbit informs him that Louise will care for her before disappearing beneath the waves.

The character was positively received; a Daily Record critic commended Rabbit for injecting new energy into the series. The episode featuring Miles’ release from his visions earned the Australian Writers' Guild Award for "Best Episode in a Television Serial" in 2010, credited to writer Sam Meikle.

Mink Carpenter

Mink Smith (formerly Carpenter), portrayed by Matylda Buczko, first appeared on 1 February 2010. Buczko and Luke Mitchell—who played her on-screen brother Romeo Smith—shared representation and relocated to Sydney to pursue acting opportunities. While Mitchell quickly secured his role, Buczko initially auditioned unsuccessfully for a goth character before being cast as Mink, a professional surfer and Romeo’s sister. To authentically depict a pro surfer, she enhanced her physical fitness and took surfing lessons. Buczko briefly returned to the role in November 2011.

Mink is depicted as a skilled surfer recently released from juvenile detention for an unspecified offense. Buczko described her as both tough and vulnerable, possessing a rebellious streak. Having been separated from Romeo for several years, she arrives in Summer Bay seeking him out. Media outlets characterized Mink as a "mysterious," "stroppy surf chick" with attitude, street savvy, and an underlying gentle nature. She reappeared unexpectedly a year later requesting money from Romeo.

Her backstory reveals that Mink served time for killing their abusive stepfather, taking responsibility to protect their mother Jill, who was actually responsible. Xavier Austin offers Mink accommodation with his family; however, she steals money from his brother Hugo before returning it after Romeo confronts her. She shares a kiss with Xavier but feels hurt when her past is revealed to others; she eventually forgives him prior to leaving.

Upon returning, Mink borrows $2,000 from Romeo, causing friction with his wife Indigo Walker. She competes in a surfing contest but performs poorly and nearly drowns. Another competitor exposes that Mink has been surfing while intoxicated and struggling due to Ménière's disease—a condition threatening to end her competitive career. Despite Indi’s invitation to stay longer, Mink departs after leaving a note for Romeo.

Elijah Johnson

Elijah Johnson, played by Jay Laga'aia, made his first appearance on 11 February 2010 as a local minister and a potential romantic partner for the established character Leah Patterson-Baker (Ada Nicodemou). Laga'aia's casting was revealed in November 2009. Although he departed the show in 2010, he later resumed filming after Nicodemou advocated for his return. Laga'aia characterized Elijah as a non-traditional reverend, often mistaken for a rugby player when dressed casually. Reports from February 2012 indicated that Laga'aia had completed filming the previous year. In an Inside Soap poll regarding favorite clergymen, Elijah garnered nine percent of the votes.

Justin Jefferies

Justin Jefferies, portrayed by Matthew Walker, first appeared on 19 March 2010 as the elder brother of established character Aden Jefferies (Todd Lasance). Walker’s initial scenes were filmed early on in the bush alongside Marilyn Chambers (Emily Symons), marking his debut on set. He expressed excitement about collaborating with Symons, whom he described as a "legend."

Producers were impressed with Walker’s portrayal and contemplated offering him a recurring role. Justin is introduced as Aden’s older sibling, discovered injured and confused by Marilyn, who takes him to hospital. He remembers a car crash but little else. Justin urges Aden to enlist in the army, which Aden refuses due to their grandfather Stan's abusive history.

It is revealed that Justin was responsible for their father Larry's (Paul Gleeson) death in the accident. Though Justin wants to confess, Aden convinces him to conceal the body. Later, Justin admits the truth; Aden moves the body and tells authorities he found Larry alone. Both face conspiracy charges but are defended by Morag Bellingham (Cornelia Frances), leading to the charges being dropped. The brothers then depart for the city without notifying anyone.

Jill Carpenter

Jill Carpenter, played by Josephine Mitchell, arrived on 14 May 2010. Mitchell, who had previously appeared in the soap in 1990, was cast as Jill, a "high functioning alcoholic" and mother of Romeo Smith (Luke Mitchell). Jill relies financially on a life insurance payout from her late abusive husband, which she frequently spends on alcohol. She comes to Summer Bay intending to reconnect with Romeo, who feels conflicted due to her behavior and desires a more stable relationship.

To portray Jill’s struggles authentically, Mitchell researched alcoholism extensively. Jill is described as "flirtatious" and "fun-loving," yet deeply troubled due to her addiction. The storyline explores the complicated mother-son relationship, highlighting Romeo often assuming the adult role. Jill’s relapse following rejection by John Palmer (Shane Withington) escalates tensions, prompting Romeo to seek support from Irene Roberts (Lynne McGranger), herself a recovering alcoholic.

Jill’s arrival creates conflict within the community, especially between John and Gina Austin (Sonia Todd), impacting Romeo’s relationships. Despite promising to attend an AA Meeting, Jill ultimately leaves Summer Bay suddenly, leaving unresolved issues for Romeo and others behind.

Penn Graham

Penn Tiberius Graham, played by Christian Clark, made his first appearance on 14 June 2010. Clark’s casting was revealed on 7 June 2010, with Penn described as "an enigmatic newcomer who captivates hearts." After being offered the role, Clark decided against relocating to Los Angeles, praising the character’s dynamic traits and effortless cool.

Penn’s ties to Summer Bay stem from his father. Known for his mysterious aura and rebellious streak, he carries a strong sexual confidence and tends to provoke conflict. Clark emphasized Penn’s distinctiveness on the series, likening his charisma to iconic figures such as James Dean and Steve McQueen.

Before Penn’s introduction, it was announced that he would enter a relationship with Nicole Franklin (Tessa James). Clark spoke about their immediate bond and Nicole’s fragile side, which drew Penn in. In October 2010, Penn became central to a suspenseful plot when he vanished under dubious conditions following disputes with locals; blood discovered in his hotel room sparked suspicions of foul play. Several characters, including Alf Stewart, were considered suspects.

Upon arriving in Summer Bay, Penn quickly begins dating Nicole. However, tensions escalate when Romeo Smith witnesses him kissing another woman. Penn stirs trouble by falsely accusing Colleen Smart of theft and creating rifts concerning Nicole’s relationships. After being expelled from the Caravan Park, Penn injures Nicole using a concealed syringe, resulting in her hospitalization and their eventual breakup. When Penn is assaulted later on, Alf Stewart becomes a suspect but is ultimately cleared.

It is revealed that Penn is the son of Tulip O'Hare, a woman involved with Alf in 1987. After seeing Alf and Tulip together, Penn ended the affair; Tulip subsequently took her own life. Holding Alf responsible for her death, Penn taunts him before disappearing; blood is found in his hotel room but no body is recovered.

Weeks later, Penn’s corpse washes up on shore, making Alf the main suspect due to previous threats witnessed by others. Alf is arrested but released after six weeks in custody. Will Smith admits to stabbing Penn in self-defense; Daria Hennessy helped dispose of the body. Will is then taken into custody following his confession. Later, Nicole gives birth to Penn’s son, George.

A writer from Holy Soap highlighted Penn’s standout moment as "Getting to grips with teen temptress Nicole." The Sunday Mercury labeled him a "mysterious, nasty newcomer." After the conclusion of his murder storyline, the Daily Record remarked on its extended investigation, while Channel 5 included it among their "Top 20 Aussie Soap Moments of 2011."

April Scott

April Scott, portrayed by Rhiannon Fish, first appeared on 15 June 2010. Fish was cast in May 2010 and began filming soon after. April is depicted as "worldly, intelligent and quick-witted," embodying a "fun-loving" and passionate spirit. She maintains a fiery yet supportive bond with her older sister, Bianca (Lisa Gormley).

Bianca Scott

Bianca Scott, portrayed by Lisa Gormley, made her debut on 9 July 2010. Gormley was cast shortly after completing her studies at the National Institute of Dramatic Art. Created as the sister of April, Bianca is characterized by her assertiveness and spirited nature, yet she also harbors a tender side beneath her bold exterior. She comes to Summer Bay seeking healing from a recent heartbreak and subsequently begins a romantic involvement with Liam Murphy (Axle Whitehead). Gormley’s performance earned her a place on the long list for Most Popular New Female Talent at the 2011 Logie Awards.

Paulie Rosetta

Paolo "Paulie" Rosetta, brought to life by Ryan Johnson, first appeared on 24 August 2010. His introduction was revealed shortly before his arrival in Summer Bay. Paulie is the younger sibling of Angelo Rosetta (Luke Jacobz) and surprises Angelo with his unexpected visit. Their relationship is tense due to a past event in which Paulie caused a fire at their parents' restaurant, an incident for which Angelo took the blame, resulting in his exclusion from the family business. Though Paulie inherited ownership of the restaurant, he faced challenges managing it successfully.

Johnson described Paulie as an idealistic dreamer whose rash decisions often lead to complications, frequently requiring Angelo’s intervention. Angelo remains suspicious of Paulie’s intentions, particularly when Paulie attempts to charm his girlfriend, Charlie Buckton (Esther Anderson). Paulie's arrival uncovers deeper issues as he owes $30,000 to loan sharks.

Upon arriving, Irene Roberts and Colleen Smart mistakenly believe Paulie is a food critic. He confides in Angelo about his financial troubles, and despite his own difficulties, Angelo agrees to assist him. Tensions escalate when Charlie offers an illegal loan but later retracts it. The loan sharks threaten Angelo's restaurant if debts remain unpaid. The brothers place a wager at the races; they win once but lose money after Paulie continues gambling. When Angelo finds out Paulie used their parents’ business as collateral, he confronts him. Charlie encourages Paulie to accept responsibility for both the fire and his financial obligations. Their parents offer to settle Paulie's debts. After ongoing disputes, the brothers reconcile, with Angelo driving Paulie back to the city.

Mitzy Fraser

Mitzy Fraser, portrayed by Helen Dallimore, arrived on 3 September 2010. Mitzy is a psychic who forms a friendship with Marilyn Chambers (Emily Symons) and provides spiritual support as Marilyn deals with her son’s death and cancer diagnosis. Mitzy comes to Summer Bay following a vision foretelling Marilyn’s death; however, her somber predictions are met with doubt, especially from Marilyn’s partner, Sid Walker (Robert Mammone). Dallimore described Mitzy as Marilyn’s closest friend from London—a solitary figure due to her psychic reputation—who finds acceptance in Marilyn.

Mitzy suffers a fatal stroke during an argument about her dubious forecasts. On her deathbed, she admits to Marilyn that she fabricated the prediction about Marilyn's end date but tells Sid otherwise. Yvette Chegwidden of TV Week referred to Mitzy as "eccentric."

Mitzy visits Summer Bay House to warn Marilyn about her imminent death, which Sid dismisses. She offers cryptic counsel to Romeo Smith (Luke Mitchell) regarding his relationship and attempts to dissuade Dexter Walker (Charles Cottier) from pursuing Marilyn, even going so far as to kiss him for emphasis. After revealing Marilyn’s lung cancer diagnosis, Mitzy collapses and learns she has an inoperable brain tumor with only weeks left to live. Sid accuses her of deceiving Marilyn and withdraws as her physician.

Before passing away, Mitzy confesses fabricating the end date prediction to Nicole Franklin (Tessa James), but Marilyn overhears this admission and questions her. Following a stroke, Mitzy apologizes and admits the lie directly to Marilyn while telling Sid the opposite before dying.

Vittorio Seca

Prince Vittorio Seca, brought to life by Richard Brancatisano, made his first appearance on 17 September 2010. Brancatisano had previously held minor roles in Home and Away. Vittorio is depicted as an Italian prince and the former fiancé of Bianca Scott (Lisa Gormley), who betrayed her trust in Italy, leading to her return to Australia. Upon arriving in Summer Bay, he seeks Bianca's forgiveness and strives to rekindle their relationship, becoming entangled in a romantic rivalry involving Bianca and Liam Murphy (Axle Whitehead).

Although initially spurned, Bianca eventually agrees to Vittorio's marriage proposal. He cautions Liam to keep his distance, convinced that Bianca still harbors feelings for him. However, on the day of the wedding, Bianca abandons Vittorio at the altar after realizing her true love is Liam. Vittorio attempts to coerce her into staying but is intercepted by Romeo Smith (Luke Mitchell) before departing from the Bay.

Daria Hennessy

Daria Hennessy, portrayed by Samantha Tolj, first appeared on 30 September 2010. Initially introduced under the alias Shandi Ayres, it was later uncovered that her actual name is Daria. Tolj described her character as warm-hearted, straightforward, and a carefree hippie living in the moment. Daria arrives in Summer Bay in search of her father and quickly makes an impact on locals, including Angelo Rosetta (Luke Jacobz) and other men.

She briefly dates Miles Copeland (Josh Quong Tart), a relationship characterized as "quirky" due to their shared laid-back, philosophical outlooks.

Daria is revealed to be a con artist who assumes her friend Shandi's identity. After her van breaks down, Angelo offers help, and she flirts with him. She deceives John Palmer (Shane Withington) into believing she is his estranged daughter and later becomes involved with Will Smith (Zac Drayson), causing friction with his daughter Lily.

Eventually, Daria departs Summer Bay but is later apprehended for fraud by Charlie Buckton (Esther Anderson) and Angelo during an investigation into Penn Graham's (Christian Clark) murder. It emerges that Penn assaulted Daria; Will Smith stabbed Penn, and they disposed of his body at sea.

Additional Characters

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Role Description
27 January	Priest	Gary Woods	Officiates at the funeral service for Hugo Austin (Bernard Curry).
1 February	Drunks	Dean Jeffrey	A group of racist drunks assault Hazem Kassir (Ben Kermode) and companions before setting fire to the pier diner.
		Joshua Griffin
3 February	Patrick Grady	Gary Woods	Provides coverage on the aftermath of the Australia Day riots; his superior Kristina Cantar (Mel Grob) requests improved edits and an interview with Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher).
	Kristina Cantar	Mel Grob
18 February	Nira Kassir	Lenita Vangellis	Mother of Hazem Kassir; meets with Leah Patterson-Baker (Ada Nicodemou) at hospital and invites Leah and her son to stay with her, expressing gratitude to John Palmer (Shane Withington) for assisting Hazem.
8 March–15 April	Britt Hobart	Diana Glenn	Instructor of a fashion course who plagiarizes student Nicole Franklin's designs, threatening legal action; resigns following student protests.
25 March–13 April	Michael Patton	Jack Campbell	Counsellor to Charlie Buckton; prescribes medication for Miles Copeland (Josh Quong Tart) experiencing hallucinations.
21 April–22 June 2011	Bishop Pitt	Danny Adcock	Superior clergy member overseeing Elijah Johnson, opposes his relationship with Leah Patterson-Baker, eventually withdrawing church support.
5 May	Louise Copeland	Uncredited	Deceased wife of Miles Copeland, appears in a vision; perished alongside daughter Amber during the 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami.
27 May–4 June	Killer	Mirko Grillini	Criminal seeking vengeance against Hugo Austin; kidnaps family members and attempts murder; ultimately fatally shot by Detective Gordon Eaves.
4–9 June	Gordon Eaves	Lewis Fitz-Gerald	Senior detective investigating Killer; kills Killer in confrontation; later arrested following violent incidents.
4–29 June	Lijuan Johnson	Mémé Thorne	Adoptive mother of Elijah Johnson, employs traditional methods to evaluate compatibility with Leah Patterson-Baker; ultimately grants approval.
5–29 June	Song Johnson	Jon-Claire Lee	Adoptive father of Elijah Johnson.
30 June	Gordon Stewart	Ray Meagher	Deceased father of principal characters; appears in flashbacks revealing family secrets.
	Debra Stewart	Madison Hopkins	Younger sister of Alf Stewart; appears in flashback sequences.
	Clown	Troy Carlson	Entertainer hired for flashback scene; brings ventriloquist dummy that startles Alf.
8–9 July	Hayley Doven	Bonnie Sveen	Guest at caravan park who dies during childbirth; comforted by Sid Walker posing as her husband.
9 July	David Stone	Hamish Briggs	Husband of Hayley Doven; informed about her death during labor.
2 September	Councillor Leary	Victor Kline	Local council member who approves John Palmer’s water bottle initiative, reallocating funds from the Highway to Summer Bay project.
10–16 September	Tulip O'Hare	Kimberly Hews	'Penn Graham’s mother who had an affair with Alf Stewart following his wife's passing; her suicide influences Penn’s storyline.

External links

• Cast and characters featured on the Official AU Home and Away site
• Cast and characters available on the Official UK Home and Away platform
• Complete cast list provided by the Internet Movie Database