Caroline Stewart

Home and Away

Company type	Television series
Industry	Entertainment
Founded	January 17, 1988 (1988-01-17)
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 section details the characters introduced during 2016, listed chronologically by their debut. All new characters were brought in under the guidance of executive producer Lucy Addario. The series' 29th season commenced broadcast on 1 February 2016. The character Dylan Carter made his first appearance in the opening episode of the season. In March, Isla Schultz and Lindsay Ford were introduced. May saw the arrival of Mick Jennings and Tori Morgan, followed by her brothers—Brody, Justin, and Mason Morgan—who joined in June. Tabitha Ford was added to the cast in July, while September brought the introductions of Hope Morrison and Raffy Morrison. In November, Jeannie Woods made her debut, and December featured the arrival of Justin's daughter, Ava Gilbert.

Dylan Carter

Dylan Carter, portrayed by Jeremy Lindsay Taylor, made his initial appearance on 1 February 2016. His casting was publicly announced on 5 August 2015. Taylor characterized Dylan as a multifaceted detective with connections to Summer Bay. He returned to reprise this role in 2017, appearing in a storyline involving Robbo (Jake Ryan), who was suffering from amnesia, and later made a guest appearance in September 2019.

Dylan spearheads the probe into Charlotte King's (Erika Heynatz) murder case, collaborating with his former fiancé Katarina Chapman (Pia Miller) and Mike Emerson (Cameron Stewart). Despite their complicated history, Kat welcomes Dylan’s involvement in the investigation. They interrogate several suspects including Martin Ashford (George Mason), Zac MacGuire (Charlie Clausen), and Hunter King (Scott Lee). Dylan’s forceful approach results in Ash’s arrest, but an alibi eventually exonerates him. When a secondary phone belonging to Charlotte is uncovered, revealing a call to Kyle Braxton (Nic Westaway) before her death, suspicion shifts towards Zac, who is subsequently charged with murder.

During bail hearings, Zac’s attorney Morag Bellingham (Cornelia Frances) challenges Dylan over unethical behavior, revealing that Dylan coerced a judge to refuse Zac bail. This misconduct leads to Dylan’s suspension following intervention by Phillip McCarthy (Nicholas Cassim). The situation intensifies as Dylan tries to intimidate Kat and later assaults Ash; he then takes Kat and Billie hostage at gunpoint. Kat confronts Dylan about his unresolved grief linked to the death of his son Anton, culminating in Dylan’s arrest.

In later storylines, police connect Dylan to a vessel tied to Robbo’s amnesia case. Surveillance footage captures Dylan holding Robbo at gunpoint before a violent confrontation where Dylan is presumed dead but is later found alive. Subsequently, Dylan kidnaps Robbo while denying any involvement in his family’s deaths. After a struggle, Robbo hands Dylan over to gang leader Victor (Patrick Thompson), after which both are detained by the Australian Federal Police. Weeks later, reports emerge that Dylan was murdered while incarcerated.

Isla Schultz

Isla Schultz, brought to life by singer Samantha Jade, made her debut on 3 March 2016. Jade's involvement was revealed on 5 September 2015, with filming commencing soon thereafter. She wrapped up her portrayal in November 2016. Jade characterized Isla as somewhat mischievous—a "bad girl" with a troubled history, though ultimately possessing good intentions.

Isla arrives in Summer Bay harboring dubious motives and soon becomes entangled with Kyle Braxton (Nic Westaway). Employed by Dave Rogers, she is tasked with collecting a debt Kyle owes from a poker game. Following threats and a kidnapping incident involving Dave, Isla remains with Kyle, and the two develop a romantic connection. Her ex-partner, Harry Kingswood (Wayne Bradley), later brings their daughters to visit her in Summer Bay.

When Harry plans to relocate interstate, Isla attempts to rob the Reefton Lakes golf club using a firearm she acquired. Kyle intervenes, persuading her to escape moments before the police arrive. Kyle is apprehended for armed robbery but takes the blame to shield Isla, resulting in a thirteen-year prison sentence. Before leaving, Isla vows to honor Kyle's sacrifice by striving to create a better future for her daughters.

Lindsay Ford

Lindsay Ford, played by Georgia Flood, first appeared on 17 March 2016. Flood's casting was announced in October 2015, with the character unveiled in March 2016. Despite initial hesitation, Flood embraced the role, describing Lindsay as "really cool" and enjoyed her guest appearance.

Lindsay tries to reconnect with Hunter King (Scott Lee), who initially avoids her. She visits the caravan park, introduces herself to Hunter's girlfriend Olivia (Raechelle Banno), and reveals she had supported Hunter after his departure from Summer Bay. Although Lindsay claims she does not intend to disrupt Hunter and Olivia’s relationship, she later confesses to Olivia that she and Hunter shared a kiss. As tensions rise, Lindsay hosts a beach party and orchestrates a scenario to photograph Olivia with Drew Panton (Govinda Roser-Finch), contributing to the breakup of Hunter and Olivia. Lindsay provokes Olivia at the diner and subsequently pursues Hunter, who rejects her advances. She then steals Alf Stewart's (Ray Meagher) ute; during an attempt to stop her, Hunter is injured, prompting Lindsay to flee. Olivia warns Lindsay that she must leave town or face legal consequences for the incident.

Mick Jennings

Mick Jennings, portrayed by Kristian Schmid, made his first appearance on 5 May 2016 as the long-lost son of established character Irene Roberts (Lynne McGranger). Irene had disclosed that she was raped as a teenager, resulting in Mick’s birth and subsequent adoption. Mick was later revealed as the assailant who raped Billie Ashford (Tessa de Josselin), marking one of the show's darker storylines. Critics labeled Mick as a "twisted villain," sparking widespread calls for his removal from Summer Bay.

Mick arrives under false pretenses, claiming to be Chris Harrington's uncle. Irene grows suspicious when Mick mentions private family information. He kidnaps Irene while asserting he is her son; police intervention prompted by Olivia Fraser Richards (Raechelle Banno) allows Irene to escape and leads to Mick’s arrest. DNA testing confirms his identity. Billie identifies Mick as her attacker through a tattoo; despite this, Mick is released early from psychiatric care.

After returning, Mick violates an AVO against Irene and is arrested following an incident where Kat Chapman (Pia Miller) uses a taser on him. He kidnaps Billie's newborn daughter Luc Patterson but eventually surrenders after apologizing and seeking forgiveness from Irene. Months later, Mick applies for parole but faces hostility from Billie's brother Martin Ashford (George Mason) and rejection from Irene.

Upon receiving parole, Mick moves into a halfway house but is assaulted there; Irene then relocates him to a motel in Summer Bay. After assisting Maggie Astoni (Kestie Morassi) with a flat tire, he is exposed as a rapist by Olivia and expelled by Maggie’s husband Ben Astoni (Rohan Nichol). Irene cuts ties with him and arranges for Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher) to secure him employment at a Western Australian mine; Mick initially refuses this offer.

Mick attempts to gain custody of Luc amid ongoing conflicts involving family members. Following VJ Patterson’s abduction of Luc, Mick flees but is rescued after falling during an altercation with Martin Ashford. He hires legal representation for custody proceedings but faces obstacles due to his mental health issues and community distrust. Ultimately persuaded by Alf, Mick accepts the mining job in Western Australia; Irene joins him there to support his adjustment. Several months later, following an accident at the mine, Irene travels to assist him.

Tori Morgan

Tori Morgan, portrayed by Penny McNamee, made her first appearance on 5 May 2016. The casting announcement was made on 22 November 2015. McNamee described landing the role as her "dream job" and commenced filming in early November, expressing gratitude for the support from co-star Georgie Parker. Tori is a physician seeking a new beginning in Summer Bay, carrying "dark secrets." She is the first of the Morgan siblings to arrive, tasked with determining if it is safe for her brothers to join her there.

Brody Morgan

Brody Morgan, played by Jackson Heywood, debuted on 7 June 2016. Heywood, who had a previous role in 2009, was cast alongside James Stewart and Orpheus Pledger as his on-screen brothers, with production starting in December 2015. While anticipating comparisons to the Braxton brothers, Heywood highlighted that Brody’s family dynamic is unique. Brody is depicted as a driven chef with ambitious aspirations.

Justin Morgan

Justin Morgan, enacted by James Stewart, first appeared on 7 June 2016. His casting, revealed on 5 December 2015 alongside Jackson Heywood and Orpheus Pledger as his brothers, marked Stewart’s return to a regular role after taking a year off to care for his daughter. Filming began during the week of 7 December. Stewart focused on developing the new family’s chemistry rather than drawing parallels to previous characters, emphasizing the intention to establish an original identity rather than replace former favorites. In August 2017, he was longlisted for Best Daytime Star at the Inside Soap Awards but did not make the final shortlist.

Mason Morgan

Mason Morgan, portrayed by Orpheus Pledger, appeared for the first time on 7 June 2016. Announced alongside his television brothers in December 2015, Pledger relocated from Melbourne to Sydney to undertake the role. Mason is characterized as a medical student who maintains an optimistic attitude while balancing demanding academic commitments with an active social and fitness lifestyle.

Tabitha Ford

Tabitha Ford, played by Eliza Scanlen, featured as a recurring character and student from 21 July to 27 September 2016. Known for her antagonistic presence at Summer Bay High, Tabitha engaged in manipulative tactics against fellow student Olivia Fraser Richards, including impersonation and sabotage of academic work. Her narrative arc included blackmail and deception, ultimately concluding with her departure to boarding school following police involvement and parental intervention.

Hope Morrison

Hope Morrison, portrayed by Jessica Falkholt, made her debut on 19 September 2016.

Hope attempts to assault Justin Morgan after overhearing him outside her residence but is prevented by Martin Ashford and Kat Chapman. Justin informs her that her uncle Atticus Decker is hospitalized due to an intentional car crash. Spike Lowe and his accomplices attempt to abduct Hope and her sister Raffy; Ash rescues Raffy, but Hope is taken hostage. Spike impersonates Hope’s husband to gain access to Decker’s hospital room and tries to administer a fatal injection but is apprehended.

Hope and Raffy move into Kat and Phoebe Nicholson’s home. Hope creates friction by wearing Phoebe’s clothing and consuming her food. After breaking her phone, she falsely accuses John Palmer of causing damage and demands compensation, which he denies. Justin offers Hope part-time employment at the garage, where she steals customers’ credit card information. She is arrested for embezzlement when attempting to flee Summer Bay.

Following her release, Justin reveals that Raffy is Decker’s daughter and Hope’s half-sister. Hope steals Mason’s car intending to escape with Raffy but injures her liver after falling down an embankment. Nate Cooper provides treatment before surgery. While recovering, Hope cautions Raffy against trusting the Morgans; however, Raffy later discovers their familial connection. The sisters plan to leave Summer Bay; Hope steals money from Salt but is caught and placed in custody. Struggling with isolation, she is prescribed diazepam by Nate but overdoses on stolen sleeping pills requiring hospitalization.

Hope apologizes to Phoebe and requests she care for Raffy. Upon discharge, she bids farewell before returning to prison, encouraging Raffy to trust the Morgans and urging Justin to look after her. A year later, Hope sends Raffy a handmade birthday card.

Raffy Morrison

Raffy Morrison, played by Olivia Deeble, made her first appearance on 19 September 2016. Deeble moved from Melbourne to Sydney for the role and committed to a three-year contract. She exited the show in 2019, with her final episode broadcast on 12 September, choosing not to extend her contract.

Raffy's narrative begins amidst family drama: she overhears a discussion regarding her uncle Atticus Decker's hospitalization and narrowly escapes an abduction attempt by associates of Spike Lowe, although her sister Hope is kidnapped. After Hope is safely returned, Raffy relocates to the Farmhouse alongside several others and enrolls at Summer Bay High, where she builds important friendships. It is later uncovered that Raffy is the half-sister of the Morgan siblings, a revelation that initially causes upheaval but eventually leads to her acceptance within their family.

In the wake of family tragedies—including the murder of their parents and entering witness protection—Raffy faces instability, moving between different homes and contending with her brothers’ struggles with substance abuse. She ultimately settles with John Palmer and Marilyn Chambers, where she confronts bullying and academic difficulties but also forms new bonds, particularly with Coco Astoni and Ryder Jackson.

Raffy faces peril when a former student attempts to kidnap her; however, Robbo intervenes and saves her. Her social circle broadens as she reconciles with Coco and manages complex relationships, including a romantic involvement with Ty Anderson that ends after he reveals he is gay.

A significant turning point in Raffy's story is her epilepsy diagnosis following an accident. Despite this health challenge, she continues to pursue relationships and supports friends through serious events such as Maggie Astoni's cancer diagnosis. Raffy’s ties to the Morgans strengthen as she learns about Tori's pregnancy and deals with family issues like Brody's infidelity.

Her academic journey culminates in acceptance into a medical trial in Victoria, which leads to her departure from Summer Bay. Prior to leaving, Raffy entrusts John and Marilyn with a farewell letter, closing her important chapter within the series.

Jeannie Woods

Jeannie Woods, portrayed by Anna Bamford, appeared from 1 November 2016 for approximately six weeks. Introduced as a potential romantic interest for Brody Morgan (Jackson Heywood), Jeannie arrives in Summer Bay after being invited by Evelyn MacGuire (Philippa Northeast) to participate in a charity volleyball match.

Jeannie helps Brody when he drops barbecue supplies and signs up for the volleyball event, initially teaming with Matt Page (Alec Snow). Brody offers Evelyn $1000 to partner with Jeannie in the final game. After briefly disappearing, Jeannie returns for a job interview at Brody’s restaurant. Despite a shaky start, Brody hires her, leading to a flirtatious dynamic at work. When Jeannie initially rejects Brody’s advances, she quits but later agrees to return after his invitation.

Jeannie confides in Brody that her parents are doomsday preppers following her eviction from home. Her father, Randall (Paul Ceaser), visits and meets Brody. They decide to date secretly, but conflict arises when Randall discovers them together. After disagreements over Randall’s beliefs and Brody’s insensitive remarks, Jeannie ends their relationship and leaves the restaurant for employment in Yabbie Creek.

Ava Gilbert

Ava Gilbert made her debut on 8 December 2016 as the daughter of Justin Morgan (James Stewart). Initially played by Grace Thomas and subsequently by Alice Roberts, the character was recast with Annabel Wolfe in February 2023 to better portray Ava’s transition into adolescence. Her storyline upon returning to the Bay centers on rebuilding her relationship with Justin and dealing with complicated interactions, including a crush on his apprentice Theo Poulos (Matt Evans). Wolfe commented on Ava’s development both in appearance and maturity, which has led to friction and misunderstandings with Justin, especially concerning her online behavior. Ava’s defiant nature is anticipated to create considerable difficulties for Justin. She is slated to return for Justin’s wedding to Leah in April 2024.

Ava’s narrative began when she identified Justin after returning his cap, confirming their father-daughter connection. She formed bonds with Justin’s fiancée Phoebe Nicholson and sister Raffy Morrison. After disputes involving her stepfather Brian Gilbert (Tom O'Sullivan), Ava ran away and was hit by a vehicle but eventually allowed Justin more involvement in her life. During the absence of her mother Nina and Brian, Ava stayed with Justin and became friends with Scarlett Snow. Her story also involved meeting Willow Harris, who assisted in rescuing her from kidnappers Boyd Easton and Hazel Easton. Following Justin and Willow’s breakup, Nina temporarily limited Ava’s contact with her father.

When Ava moved back in with Justin, initial tensions arose between her and his new partner Leah Patterson; however, they soon developed a rapport through shared experiences. Family conflicts emerged as Nina and Brian separated, prompting Justin and Leah to provide support to Ava during this period. Justin also navigated Ava’s complicated relationship with Brian amid imposed restrictions. After being diagnosed with a spinal tumor requiring surgery, Justin focused on spending quality time with Ava before sending her back to the city, highlighting the emotional depth of their evolving family bond.

Others

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Description
11 February	Louisa O'Brien	Claudia Cranstoun	Louisa invites Josh Barrett to join her and friends for the afternoon. When Josh cares for Casey Braxton, Louisa along with Glen Day and Adriana Kerr visit his home. Louisa switches off the baby monitor to have private time with Josh.
	Glen Day	Logan Stevenson	Glen spends the afternoon with Louisa, Adriana, and Josh before leaving for work; Louisa encourages Adriana to follow him so she can be alone with Josh.
	Adriana Kerr	Hana Lee Woodbridge
	Psych Nurse	Angie Diaz	The Psych Nurse permits Skye Peters to visit her mother Carol and informs Skye that Carol can hear despite her condition.
18 February	Destiny Starr	Lara Schwerdt	Destiny's initial date with Chris Harrington ends when she realizes he remains emotionally attached to his former girlfriend.
25 February	Coach McKinnon	Warren Ekermans	Coach McKinnon intervenes to stop a fight during a high school basketball game and sends VJ Patterson off the court.
2 March	Zara Leonard	Georgia Nichols	Oscar MacGuire notices Zara at Angelo's; they discuss their university course and are later seen sharing a kiss on the balcony.
2–17 March	Claire Lewis	Anita Hegh	Claire claims to be Irene Roberts' daughter; after DNA testing disproves this, Claire departs but forms a connection with Irene during her stay.
15 March–11 April	Harry Kingswood	Wayne Bradley	Harry brings his daughters Florence and Lulu to visit their mother Isla Schultz. After Isla takes the girls without permission, Kyle Braxton steps in to return them.
	Florence Kingswood	Charlee Kwintner
	Lulu Kingswood	Mia Kwintner
17 March	Alessia De Luca	Bridgette Hollitt	Alessia attends a university party where she flirts with Oscar MacGuire; they are later seen kissing on the balcony.
	Tanya Hardy	Ashleigh O'Brien	Tanya meets Oscar at the university party but walks away after discovering he was involved with another girl.
22–31 March	Drew Panton	Govinda Roser-Finch	Drew attends Lindsay Ford's beach party where Lindsay hires him to provoke Olivia Fraser Richards by making advances and capturing a photo.
19 April–8 June	Dom Loneragan	Lindsay Farris	Photographer friend of Ricky Sharpe; hired for various events including a hospital fundraiser. Dom supports Phoebe Nicholson following an explosion; they begin dating but split when Phoebe discovers Dom still harbors feelings for his estranged wife Tess.
20 April	Womma	Dean Kyrwood	Kat Chapman and Martin Ashford confront Womma after discovering Dylan Carter paid him to intimidate witnesses and vandalize properties.
21 April–9 March 2020	"Sergeant Phillip McCarthy"	"Nicholas Cassim"	"Replaces Sergeant Mike Emerson in Summer Bay. Handles workplace incidents such as Dylan Carter's assault case, advising staff accordingly."

"Marco"	"James Caitlin"	"Raffy Morrison overhears Marco and Steve criticizing her family's involvement in witness protection. Phoebe Nicholson defends the Morgans as good people caught in difficult circumstances."
"Steve"	"Lance Rice"	""
"Frank"	"Oliver Cooney"	"Firefighter attending Summer Bay Auto fire; instructs Matt Page to stay clear of flames."
"Carl"	"George Banders"	"Follows Tori Morgan attempting abduction on behalf of drug syndicate but foiled by Mason Morgan."
"Jessica Mauboy"	"Herself"	"Performs at Summer Grooves music festival organized by Evelyn MacGuire."
"Garbo"	"Luke Quinton"	"Henchman for Ranae Turner involved in assaulting Justin Morgan before escaping."
"Festival DJ"	"Flexmami"	"Performs between sets at Summer Grooves festival alongside Phoebe Nicholson’s band."
"Phoebe's Band"	"Interim"	"Provides live music backing Phoebe Nicholson’s performance."

"Nurse Gretchen"	"Vanessa Buckley"	"Hospital nurse assisting Nate Cooper and Tori Morgan; manages minor injuries during arrest situations."
"Beau Mitchell"	"Andrew Den"	"Paid by Andy Barrett to help Josh Barrett evade police custody."
"Blaine Varden"	"Ashley Lyons"	"Threatens Morgan family demanding a book related to their past; arrested after confrontation."
"Atticus Decker"	"John Adam"	"Federal police officer overseeing Morgan family’s witness protection; survives multiple attacks but ultimately dies from gunshot wounds while investigating corruption within the force."
"Doctor Genner"	"Jennifer White"	"Hospital doctor treating key characters including Brody Morgan, Tori Morgan, Maggie Astoni, and Willow Harris during various medical emergencies."
"Aaron Walsh"	"Justin Smith"	"Jordan Walsh’s father who struggles with reconciliation; commits vandalism but later apologizes and regains son's trust."
"Professor Calabra"	"Grant Lyndon"	"Offers then withdraws university lecturing position from Kat Chapman due to her past associations."
'Kate Lee'	'Lucia Mastrantone'	'Mother of Morgan siblings; deceased due to drugs syndicate violence but appears in hallucinations influencing family dynamics.'

'May'	'Kelly Butler'	'Caretaker aunt who abuses Elly Page leading Elly to run away.'
'Brian Dyson'	'Sean Hawkins'	'Set up on blind date by Chris Harrington; date ends awkwardly.'
'Derek Babcock'	'Patch May'	'Blind date arranged by Chris Harrington.'
'Mia Whyte'	'Debra Ades'	'Flirts with Chris Harrington but relationship ends as he is not over late girlfriend.'
'Jeremy Glanville'	'Adam Franklin'	'Harasses Kat Chapman at Salt; incident resolved without police charges due to counter-threats.'
'Caroline Stewart'	'Nicole Shostak'	'Ex-wife of Duncan Stewart involved in custody battle complicated by drug use and Huntington's disease diagnosis.'
'Bryce Stewart'	'Jack and Ace Long'	'Son of Caroline and Duncan Stewart.'
'Juliette Ford'	'Rose Marel'	'Lunch companion of Olivia Fraser Richards and Hunter King; sister of Tabitha Ford.'
'Damien Grogan'	'Aaron Cottrell'	'Car trouble leads to interaction with Phoebe Nicholson and Justin Morgan; interest in dating Phoebe discouraged by Justin.'
'Richard Legrande'	'Peter Tregilgas'	'Food critic featuring Brody Morgan after sampling his cuisine.'
'Guitarist'	'Nick Perjanik'	'Performs at Salt restaurant allowing Justin Morgan to showcase musical talent.'
'Mrs Day'	'Kerry Woods'	'Collects car from Summer Bay Auto managed by Martin Ashford.'
'Stephanie Suttle'	'Georgia Blizzard'	'Flirts with Mason Morgan despite being set up with Matt Page.'
'Rebekah Pops'	'Sophie Cox'	'Offers exam papers for sale to Hunter King.'
'Samantha Webster'	'Cheree Cassidy'	'Book editor developing complex relationship with Zac MacGuire involving professional boundaries and personal advances.'

'HSC Examiner'	'Christopher Galletti'	'Denies Hunter King entry into exam room due to tardiness.'
'Shenae'	'Zoe Jensen'	'Girlfriend of Burt "Simmo" Simmons found asleep during police search of Simmo’s house.'
'Zoe Gardner'	'Kat Risteska'	'Dates Matt Page before relationship ends.'
'Randall Woods'	'Paul Ceaser'	'Opposes daughter Jeannie Woods’ relationship with Brody Morgan based on differing beliefs.'
'Ranae Turner'	'Sacha Horler'	'Morgan family's temporary witness protection officer revealed as syndicate member responsible for multiple attacks before arrest.'

'Detective Geddes'	'Julia Billington'	'Investigates human remains case involving Heath Braxton but later clarifies victim identity.'
'Prosecutor'	'Alan Dukes'	'Oversees trial against Ranae Turner supporting Justin Morgan’s testimony.'
'Defence Lawyer'	'Leof Kingsford-Smith'	'Challenges prosecution evidence during Ranae Turner trial.'
'Judge'	'Martin Portus'	'Presides over Ranae Turner trial resulting in guilty verdict.'
'Bailiff'	'Kelly Blanco'

-Date(s)	Character	Actor	Description	-8 December 2016 – 25 April 2018	Nina Gilbert	Zoe Naylor	-} External links Cast and characters on the official Home and Away site Cast and characters at the Internet Movie Database