Byron Fisher
Home and Away is a well-known Australian soap opera. This section lists characters who made their initial appearances in 1998, introduced under the guidance of executive producer John Holmes. The 11th season premiered on the Seven Network on 12 January 1998. The first new addition that year was Will Smith, portrayed by Zac Drayson. Soon after, the Nash family arrived, consisting of parents Joel and Natalie, along with their children Tom and Gypsy. April saw the arrival of Olivia Fraser Richards through birth. In September, both Byron Fisher and Will’s sister Hayley, played by Bec Cartwright, were introduced. October featured the entrance of armed robber Murray, played by Scott Major, followed by the appearance of David D'Angelo in November.
Will Smith
Will Smith, brought to life by Zac Drayson, made his debut on 13 February 1998. He was a mainstay from 1998 through 2002, with several guest spots until 2005, and returned again in 2010 accompanied by his daughter. Initially, Drayson was cast as Tom Nash, but was reassigned to portray the more rugged character of Will. His storyline concluded after he married Gypsy Nash (Kimberley Cooper). Will was first characterized as a "hot-tempered troublemaker" reconnecting with his siblings Hayley (Rebecca Hewitt) and Nick (Chris Egan). Over time, he evolved into a dependable "good bloke" before departing Summer Bay.
Natalie Nash
Natalie Nash, portrayed by Angelica la Bozzetta, first appeared on 18 February 1998. Following Debra Lawrance’s exit as Pippa Ross in 1997, the production team introduced the Nash family to take over management of the caravan park, a key location within the series. This family included Natalie and Joel Nash (David Woodley), alongside their children Gypsy (Kimberley Cooper) and Tom (Graeme Squires). La Bozzetta left the role late in 1998 to prioritize her daughter’s care; Antoinette Byron stepped in as her replacement for the start of the 1999 season. Channel 5 in the UK recognized the episode marking the Nash family’s return to Summer Bay as one of the finest moments in the show’s 25-year history.
Joel Nash
Joel Nash, enacted by David Woodley, first appeared on 18 February 1998 and departed on 11 October 2000. Prior to his acting career, Woodley served as a federal police officer in Melbourne. He had previously made a guest appearance on the series in 1996 portraying Barry, Finlay Roberts’ partner.
Gypsy Nash
Gypsy Nash, played by Kimberley Cooper, debuted on 18 February 1998 and left in 2002; she briefly returned in September 2011. The creation of the Nash family was intended to fill gaps left by departing characters, featuring parents Natalie and Joel alongside their children Gypsy and Tom. The family relocated from Hong Kong to Summer Bay seeking a fresh start. In 2011, Cooper reprised her role, describing Gypsy’s comeback as "dramatic." She returned accompanied by her daughter Lily.
At the 41st Logie Awards, Cooper earned "Most Popular New Female Talent," becoming the inaugural winner of this accolade. Her character’s kidnapping plotline received a nomination for "Most Dramatic Storyline" at the Inside Soap Awards in 1999. In 2000, Cooper secured "Best Aussie Actress." The soap opera website Holy Soap ranked Gypsy among the "Sexiest Home and Away girls ever," highlighting iconic moments such as her abduction and her having a child with Will Smith.
Tom Nash
Tom Nash, brought to life by Graeme Squires, made his first appearance on 18 February 1998. Initially, the role was intended for Zac Drayson, who was later reassigned to portray Will Smith, which opened the opportunity for Squires to take on Tom Nash. After a two-year tenure, Squires departed from Home and Away in early 2000, with his final episode airing on 16 May 2000. He briefly reprised the role for the show's milestone 3,000th episode special in 2001.
Squires regarded this role as his breakthrough in acting, having previously worked in modelling. The official Home and Away website described Tom as a quintessential sporty character, excelling in cricket during summer and rugby in winter, while also being notably charming. Squires mentioned that although he shares Tom’s imaginative nature and fondness for outdoor activities, Tom is notably more extroverted compared to his own reserved personality.
For his portrayal, Squires received a nomination for Most Popular New Male Talent at the Logie Awards of 1999. The character attracted positive reviews; Robin Oliver from The Sydney Morning Herald referred to Tom and Gypsy as "attractive youngsters," while Steven Murphy of Inside Soap highlighted the chemistry between Tom and Terri as one of the series’ most captivating romances. Claire Brand and Annette Dasey described Tom as "Summer Bay’s favourite," and Tina Baker from Soaplife affectionately called him "tasty Tom."
Olivia Fraser Richards
Olivia Fraser Richards was introduced on-screen on 20 April 1998 as the daughter of Lachlan Fraser (Richard Grieve) and Chloe Richards (Kristy Wright). Upon her return in 2005, the character was portrayed by Ivy Latimer. Following Chloe's passing, Olivia left Summer Bay accompanied by her uncle James (Michael Piccirilli). In October 2015, Olivia reappeared in the series with Raechelle Banno assuming the role. She returns to Summer Bay seeking support from her mother’s former foster carer Irene Roberts (Lynne McGranger) after facing difficulties at her school in London. Upon arrival, Olivia displays a forward attitude by flirting with VJ Patterson (Matt Little).
Hayley Smith
Hayley Smith was played by Rebecca Cartwright from September 1998 until September 2005, with Ella Scott Lynch briefly taking over after Cartwright's exit. Described by The Sun-Herald as among Australian drama’s "most beloved characters," Cartwright earned the 2005 Logie Award for Most Popular Actress for this role and also received a nomination for a Gold Logie that same year. Hayley was characterized as "trouble-prone" and an "artistic young widow who overcame a graffiti issue," contributing depth to the series through intricate storylines.
Byron Fisher
Byron Fisher, portrayed by various child actors, first appeared on 16 September 1998 as an apparition during his mother Marilyn's pregnancy. Born on 16 February 1999, Byron was initially played by Brittany Jones and Joel Sanders-Aguius. Later, Nathanial Davey portrayed an older Byron at age eleven during a vision sequence.
He is the son of Marilyn and Donald Fisher (Norman Coburn), receiving the middle name Vincent after an emergency hospital trip arranged by Vinnie Patterson (Ryan Kwanten). Marilyn experienced post-natal depression following Byron’s birth, creating distance between herself, Byron, and Donald. Upon her return months later, she developed a close bond with Byron after his nanny, Ellen Porter, left. The family faced turmoil when Byron was diagnosed with cancer requiring treatment abroad. Marilyn and Byron relocated to America for his care; Donald financed this by selling a valuable Streeton painting—though it was later returned by the buyer. Before Donald could join them overseas, he was informed of Byron’s passing. He attended Byron’s funeral abroad but came back alone after Marilyn departed once more. Donald subsequently wrote Letter to Byron, which featured illustrations by Hayley Smith (Bec Cartwright).
Byron reappeared as an eleven-year-old in a dream experienced by Marilyn during visions involving the late Amber Copeland. This particular episode was recognized by Channel 5 as one of their "Best Ever" broadcasts.
Murray
Murray, brought to life by Scott Major, made his first appearance on 20 October 1998. A television reviewer characterized him as "a young man armed and dangerous" who shoots Sally Fletcher (Kate Ritchie) following a job denial. Channel 5 recognized Murray's diner hostage incident as one of the standout episodes of the series.
Murray enters the Bayside diner and orders breakfast but soon admits he lacks funds. When Ailsa Stewart (Judy Nunn) attempts to alert the authorities, he secures the door and takes her captive. Her spouse, Alf (Ray Meagher), discovers the situation; Ailsa distracts Murray by handing over the till money, allowing Alf to try disarming him, though he is prevented from doing so.
As Murray readies to escape, officers Joel Nash and Terri Garner arrive for coffee. After they depart, Murray becomes alarmed when Terri returns, shooting Sally Fletcher in the leg. He then holds several patrons hostage before fleeing to a cave where he captures Sam Marshall and Hayley Smith. Hayley’s brother Will and his partner Gypsy Nash are also taken prisoner. Their escape attempts fail until Will negotiates Gypsy’s release by surrendering himself. Murray is eventually apprehended by Joel and Constable Barry Dennis.
Later, Murray appears as a figment in Ailsa’s mind when she encounters a diner customer resembling him.
David D'Angelo
David D'Angelo (also known as Robert Perez) first appeared on 9 November 1998. Initially portrayed by Valentino Arico, with Ross Pennissi credited as Mr. X in shadow form, Tony Poli later assumed the role until David’s departure on 13 October 1999.
David’s narrative revolves around his vendetta against Joel Nash (David Woodley), who had imprisoned him for 15 years in Hong Kong. He deceives Joel’s daughter Gypsy (Kimberley Cooper) by masquerading as her tutor before abducting her. Cooper described working with Poli as "quite frightening" yet enjoyable, highlighting his supportive nature despite portraying a menacing character.
Entering Summer Bay under the alias Robert Perez, David clandestinely records conversations involving the Nash family to fuel his revenge. He takes up residence at the Caravan Park, advertises tutoring services in mathematics, and is hired by Joel and Natalie to assist Gypsy. David sends Natalie a tape exposing Joel’s private talks, creating family discord. Suspicious relatives investigate and uncover David’s criminal background. He kidnaps Gypsy for three weeks, sending cryptic messages to the Nashes, later holding Joel hostage while assuming his identity and assets. David escalates matters by setting fire to the Nash residence with family members inside but is ultimately captured thanks to Natalie’s help.
Following his incarceration, David escapes custody to retrieve stolen money hidden in the bush but discovers it has been taken by locals Duncan Stewart and Gazza Boyd. He threatens Duncan and his mother Ailsa, taking Duncan hostage while attempting to flee with accomplice Lauren Healy. Joel intervenes during their pursuit, preventing David from falling to his death. Despite David falsely accusing Joel of assault, he is returned to prison.
David’s revenge plot was listed among 1998’s top television cliffhangers by The Sun-Herald. Prior to the 1999 season, he was described as a "Hooded Psycho driven by vengeance." His abduction of Gypsy and stalking of the Nash family earned a nomination for "Most Dramatic Storyline" at the 1999 Inside Soap Awards.
Others
| Date(s) | Character | Actor | Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| 19–20 January | Gordon Macleay | Danny Adcock | Unlawful arms trader discovered adrift by Travis Nash (Nic Testoni); hospitalized due to illness. |
| 22 January | George Baker | James Hagan | Legal counsel for Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher); recommends settling with Jesse McGregor (Ben Unwin) out of court for $10,000. |
| 23 January–2 February | Sludge | Steve Pate | Associate of Sam (Ryan Clark); serves as alibi during involvement with a ram-raiding group. |
| 22 January | Warren Hickson | Andrew Marshall | Childcare Services official advising Pippa Ross (Debra Lawrence) on foster care arrangements as she prepares to leave. |
| 30 January | Christine McKenzie | Linda Newton | Conservative politician promoting immigrant deportation; incites protests within the community. |
| 2 February–30 October 2000 | Barry Dennis | Mark Shaw | Local police officer frequently working alongside Joel Nash (David Woodley). |
| 3 February | Darren | Jordon Askill | Drummer auditioning to join band established by Joey Rainbow (Alex O'Han) and Aaron Welles (Ritchie Gudgeon). |
| 25–27 February | Carol Williams | Diana Davidson | Neighbour creating friction for Lachlan Fraser (Richard Grieve) and Chloe Richards (Kristy Wright). |
| 10–11 March | Ralph Marchant | Nicholas Garsden | Tour guide whose group is involved in a boating accident with Vinnie Patterson (Ryan Kwanten) and Travis Nash (Nic Testoni). |
| 18 March–24 April | Jason Duncan | Paul Kelman | Manager of Bonza Burger; entangled in an affair leading to marital issues; employs and clashes with Vinnie Patterson. |
| 18–25 March | Tamara Duncan | Sarah Aubrey | Wife of Jason Duncan; leaves him after uncovering his infidelity; denies him contact with their unborn child. |
| 26 March | Chris Brown | Luke Jacobz | Soccer player at Summer Bay High deliberately injured by jealous rival Will Smith (Zac Drayson). |
| 30 March | Geoffrey Burns | Ben Price | Assists Selina Roberts (Tempany Deckert) in malaria recovery in Africa, subsequently bringing her to Ironbridge. |
| Bill Burns | Michael Carter | Geoffrey’s father; briefly shows interest in visitor Irene Roberts (Lynne McGranger). | |
| Waitress | Lorraine Brown | Serves Bill Burns and Irene Roberts at a café in Ironbridge. | |
| George | Richard Clohessy | Colleague of Geoffrey Burns who invites him on a trip to the Greek Isles following relationship developments. | |
| 31 March–2 April | Pam Edmonson | Rebecca O'Dare | Competitor in surf carnival who wins the girls' under-18 race; meets Sam Marshall. |
| 3–6 April | George Berry | Rhiannon Mason | Crisis care foster child temporarily placed with Travis and Rebecca Nash; displays challenging behavior before moving on. |
| 8 April–28 May | Bruce "Chook" Fowler | Shannon Cooper | Friend of Sam Marshall involved in drug-related troubles; nearly expelled but saved by Donald Fisher. |
| 9–21 April | Sugar O'Donnell | Brooke Gissing | Pursues a relationship with Tom Nash despite maternal objections; relationship ends when she leaves him for band leader Ben. |
| 9–17 April | Candy O'Donnell | Bianca Gissing | Sugar’s twin sister interested in Aaron Welles, adding to interpersonal conflicts. |
| 15–24 April | Nigel Whittaker | Stephen Holford | Interior decorator hired to renovate Bayside Diner for Ailsa Stewart. |
| 17 April | Ben | Tony Gibson | Lead singer of the band who becomes Sugar O'Donnell’s new partner, ending her relationship with Tom Nash. |
| 20–21 April | Dr Matthew | Alan Lock | Doctor delivering baby Olivia to Lachlan Fraser and Chloe Richards. |
| 22 April | Christina | Marina Finlay | Editor of Cheeky Magazine who awards Joey Rainbow $1000 for an essay contest, assisted by Isabella. |
| Isabella | Kylie Watson | Assistant to Christina during the essay award ceremony. | |
| 22–23 April | Policeman | Reg Cribb | Pulls over Kylie Burton for speeding; Kylie uses alias Rebecca Nash while avoiding police detection. |
| 1–20 May | Harry MacKintosh | Sam O'Dell | Year 12 student dealing drugs; intimidates Gypsy Nash and Will Smith, leading to intervention by Natalie Nash. |
| 12 May–5 June | Leila | Michelle Fondacaro | Iranian Year 11 student courted by both Aaron Welles and Tom Nash; dates each alternately but ultimately chooses neither. |
| 20–25 May | Professor Dunstan | David Nettheim | Neurosurgeon managing Lachlan Fraser's brain tumor surgery, including complications requiring reoperation. |
| 22 May–18 February 2000 | Emily O'Kane | Rochelle Eardley | Community friend of Rachel McGregor. |
| 22 May–12 June | Mardi O'Kane | Kelly Cawley | Mother of Emily O'Kane; briefly dates Jesse McGregor before ending the relationship due to unresolved feelings for Kylie Burton’s mother, Rachel. |
| 19 June–22 October | Daria Ellis | Tamra Williams | Surfer and girlfriend of Sam Marshall; struggles with revealing epilepsy diagnosis; disapproves of father’s younger partner; relationship ends when Sam leaves her for Hayley Smith. |
| 19 June–4 September | Sean Ellis | Mark Gerber | Daria Ellis's father; opens surf shop and dates Sally Fletcher despite age difference; relationship ends after wife returns and arguments ensue; departs Bay thereafter. |
| 24 June–17 March 2003 | John Wilson | Bryan Wiseman | Physician at Northern Districts Hospital involved in multiple medical storylines over several years. |
| "1 July" | Mark Hollis | Matt Juarez | Kidnaps Rachel McGregor from a shopping mall with accomplice Jason under supervision of their mother. |
| 'Jason' | 'Shaun Losesby' | 'Accomplice in Rachel McGregor's abduction.' | |
| 'Mrs Hollis' | 'Felicity Soper' | 'Mother overseeing the abduction plan.' | |
| '9 July–14 August' | 'Colt' | 'Brendan Cowell' | 'Leader of rock band Monkey Jam recruiting Aaron Welles against family and foster carers’ wishes; romantically involved with Tiegan Brook who tours briefly before returning.' |
| '13–29 July' | 'Phil Flatley' | 'Benjamin Hawker' | 'Drummer critical of Aaron Welles’ musical style within Monkey Jam.' |
| '15–30 July' | 'Judith Wade' | 'Lyn Lovett' | 'Shop owner frustrated by local youths; accuses Will Smith of assault but later retracts charges after realizing mistake.' |
| '16-27 July' | 'Mr. Wade' | 'David Whitford' | 'Husband of Judith Wade explaining her past trauma contributing to paranoia about teenagers.' |
| '20 July-6 August' | 'Douglas Dawson' | 'Ivar Kants' | 'Conducts computer classes attended by Irene Roberts, surprising her by being openly gay.' |
| '23 July 1998 – 26 October 2003' | 'Mike Carter' | 'Stephen Leeder' | 'Detective Inspector handling investigations alongside Joel Nash before being replaced.' |
| '13 August' | 'Max' | 'Steve McCarthy' | 'Douglas Dawson’s boyfriend introduced to Irene Roberts at a diner.' |
| 'Margaret Burton' | 'Lynne Turner' | 'Mother of Kylie Burton attending her daughter’s funeral.' | |
| '20 August –3 September' | 'Eddie' | 'Tim McCunn' | 'Boyfriend engaged in blackmail against Marilyn Fisher, resulting in arrest.' |
| '24 August –3 September' | 'Tanya Ellis' | 'Antonia Murphy' | 'Sean Ellis’s ex-wife and mother to Daria; brief attempt at reconciliation fails leading to departure.' |
| '21 –30 September' | 'Catherine Clements' | 'Belinda Giblin' | 'Blind caravan park guest who befriends Alf Stewart and rescues him during fire before leaving.' |
| '22 September –29 October' | 'Suzie Morris' | 'Lauren Dubois' | 'Year 11 student competing romantically with Justine Welles for Tom Nash's attention, heightening school drama tensions.' |
| '24 September –13 October' | 'John Simpson' | 'Bryan Marshall' | 'School inspector who exerts control over Irene Roberts, later revealed to have framed her before being arrested.' |
| '25 November' | 'Dana' | 'Uncredited' | 'New partner of Lachlan Fraser appearing at family events; later marries Lachlan until his passing.' |
| 'Charlie' | 'Ben Read' | ||
| 'Father' | 'Jim Converse' |
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 at the Internet Movie Database