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Cheryl Braxton

From Alfawiki
Home and Away
Company typeTelevision series
IndustryTelevision soap opera
FoundedJanuary 17, 1988; 38 years ago (1988-01-17)
Headquarters
Australia
Area served
Australia

Home and Away is a long-running Australian soap opera that debuted on the Seven Network on 17 January 1988. This compilation highlights characters introduced during 2011, all under the leadership of series producer Cameron Welsh. The show's twenty-fourth season commenced broadcasting on 24 January 2011. In February, the Braxton siblings—Darryl, Heath, and Casey—made their first appearances. April saw the introductions of Miranda Jacobs and Kieran Monroe, followed by Marty Jones in June, and Tegan Callahan in July. Actor Fletcher Humphrys joined the cast as gang member Jake Pirovic in July. August brought new characters including Harvey Ryan, Hammer, Stu Henderson, and Sasha Bezmel. In September, Shane Emmett appeared as Mark Gilmour, with lawyer Hayley O'Connor arriving in October.

Darryl Braxton

Darryl "Brax" Braxton, portrayed by Steve Peacocke, made his debut on 16 February 2011. Announced on 9 January 2011, Peacocke described his audition experience as highly enjoyable. As the eldest of the Braxton brothers, Brax belongs to a surf gang called The River Boys, known for their questionable reputations. A celebrated surfer with a tough demeanor, Brax commands authority among his peers and uses this to his advantage. Peacocke noted that Brax is determined to leave behind a troubled history and establish a stable family environment. He also aims to protect his younger siblings, Heath (Dan Ewing) and Casey (Lincoln Younes), from trouble. Shortly after his arrival, Darryl began a romantic relationship with Charlie Buckton (Esther Anderson). For his portrayal, Peacocke earned the 2012 Logie Award for Most Popular New Male Talent.

Heath Braxton

Heath Braxton, played by Daniel Ewing, first appeared on 16 February 2011, departed on 29 July 2014, and returned briefly on 23 September 2014. As the middle Braxton brother, Heath was recognized for his volatile temper and was notorious among Mangrove River’s law enforcement. Ewing's casting was revealed on 24 September 2010, marking his second role in Home and Away, having previously portrayed Reuben Humphries in 2007. To prepare for the part, Ewing enhanced his physical fitness to meet the producers’ preference for an athletic surfer look, although he admitted he had limited surfing ability.

Casey Braxton

Casey Braxton, portrayed by Lincoln Younes, made his first appearance on 17 February 2011 and exited on 16 September 2014. The youngest of the Braxton trio, Casey struggled to break free from the River Boys’ notorious image and had been expelled from his former high school. Upon securing this role, Younes canceled plans to travel to London and relocated to Sydney. Described as a contemporary Rebel Without a Cause, Casey faced difficulties fitting in and defining his path amid the shadow of his brothers. He later became involved romantically with Ruby Buckton (Rebecca Breeds), who had previously dated Romeo Smith (Luke Mitchell).

Miranda Jacobs

Miranda Jacobs, played by Ashley Cheadle, made her first appearance on 6 April 2011. She comes to Summer Bay to take part in the Surf Carnival and soon starts a romantic relationship with Xavier Austin.

Cheadle, who is a professional surfer, was cast in Home and Away as a love interest for one of the main characters. Miranda breaks away from the usual beach blond stereotype by being highly competitive, challenging Ruby Buckton (Rebecca Breeds) in the Surf Carnival, with both actresses performing their own surfing stunts. Her arrival causes Xavier to reflect on his level of maturity.

Although Miranda dates Xavier for a short time, she becomes upset upon discovering he lied about attending university. Even after giving him another chance, Xavier’s continued dishonesty ultimately leads to their separation.

Xavier first encounters Miranda when delivering pizza to her house, sparking mutual flirtation. They attend social events together and assist April Scott (Rhiannon Fish) following an incident at a pool party. Miranda invites Xavier to an art show and later agrees to coach him for the Surf Carnival after learning he is still enrolled in school. However, when she catches him deceiving her once more, she ends their relationship.

In the Surf Carnival competition, Miranda emerges victorious after forcefully knocking Ruby into the water during intense rivalry. Xavier stands up for Miranda when accusations of cheating arise.

Kieran Monroe

Kieran Monroe, portrayed by Andrew Hazzard, appeared from 6 April 2011 as a recurring figure on Home and Away. He is introduced as a potential partner for Indigo Walker, though his advances are seen as disturbing.

Hazzard described Kieran as a driven student focused on academic success and planning for a future that includes owning a farm and being a devoted family man. Despite his goals, Kieran faces emotional difficulties and obstacles. He meets Indigo at a party, quickly develops feelings for her, and attempts to impress her family to strengthen their bond.

Aware of Indigo’s former boyfriend, Romeo Smith, Kieran views him as a rival. While Hazzard noted that Kieran has a "dangerous streak," he clarified that his actions are motivated by love rather than ill intent. Even during tense situations—such as when he tries to get Indigo into his car against her wishes—his intentions are framed as protective.

After their initial encounter, Kieran persistently pursues Indigo despite her hesitation. He assists her and her brother with various tasks and frequently seeks opportunities to spend time with her. His behavior intensifies when he drives Indigo and friends but attempts to steer her away without consent, leading to a confrontation involving Romeo.

Critics labeled Kieran as "freaky," "a stalker," and "an intense suitor," emphasizing the unsettling nature of his role in the plot.

Marty Jones

Marty Jones, played by Matty Lui, was introduced on 27 June 2011. Lui earned the role following an audition held in Hawaii. As a five-time Hawaiian surfing champion, Lui’s real-life experience was woven into Marty’s character. During filming, Lui also taught co-star Samara Weaving how to surf.

Within the storyline, Roo Stewart, Romeo Smith, and Indi Walker travel to Hawaii to participate in a tourism event. Marty is portrayed as a business contact of Roo and Romeo, with Indi helping to gain his trust. Marty offers Indi employment, which she declines. He supports Indi and Romeo’s marriage while they are in Hawaii. Roo spends time with Marty as a way to avoid Sid Walker but comes to realize her true feelings for Sid after Marty encourages her to pursue him.

Tegan Callahan

Tegan Mary Callahan, portrayed by Saskia Burmeister, made her debut on 4 July 2011 as the former girlfriend of Darryl Braxton (Steve Peacocke), intent on rekindling their relationship. Announced in April 2011, Burmeister described Tegan as a "mischievous" and manipulative figure—a role that contrasted with her typical characters and attracted her to the part. For authenticity, she lightened her hair to blonde.

Tegan arrives in Summer Bay at the behest of Darryl's mother, Cheryl, to check on him amid ongoing family conflicts. Despite their past connection, Darryl remains suspicious, particularly after discovering Tegan’s plan to interfere with his relationship with Charlie Buckton. Tegan issues threats toward Charlie and is commanded to leave town but refuses to back down.

Her narrative includes intense clashes with both Darryl and Charlie, unveiling complicated relationships such as the revelation that Darcy is Darryl’s daughter, though Heath Braxton is her biological father. Tegan becomes entangled with Jake Pirovic and is drawn into drug-related disputes. After a vehicular accident during a storm, she is hospitalized and ultimately succumbs to her injuries, disclosing vital information about Darryl and Charlie before her death.

Harvey Ryan

Harvey Ryan, brought to life by Marcus Graham, first appeared on 10 August 2011. Initially hired for a short guest stint, Graham extended his role through the end of 2012 after expressing a desire to continue. Harvey is depicted as a seasoned sailor and boating expert who operates a local fishing charter in Summer Bay. His charisma and maritime skills make him a prominent community member, though he occasionally finds himself at odds with residents like Romeo Smith (Luke Mitchell).

Graham wrapped up filming by mid-2013, with his departure described as mutually agreed upon and amicable. He remained open to future appearances.

Harvey’s commercial activities frequently led to disputes, notably with Romeo over client poaching and mooring access. Following vandalism of Romeo’s boat, suspicion fell on Harvey, prompting police inquiries; however, he was exonerated. Harvey then utilized council regulations to contest Romeo and Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher) over unauthorized moorings, seeking prime marina spots for his own business endeavors.

In an effort to secure a marina contract, Harvey took investors out during harsh weather conditions, causing his boat to sink and resulting in injuries that required hospitalization. Later, he collaborated with Alf by combining Harvey’s mooring rights with Alf’s vessel, enhancing their commercial prospects.

Harvey’s personal relationships were intertwined with his business goals. He dated Roo Stewart (Georgie Parker), though their romance faced challenges due to trust issues related to the Blaxland boat deal and Harvey’s manipulative tactics. Politically active, Harvey successfully campaigned against Alf for council, using his position to block a proposed resort development—raising corruption suspicions from locals like John Palmer (Shane Withington).

Family matters affected Harvey’s business priorities when his ex-wife Melissa (Allison Cratchley) and daughter Lottie appeared. Past tragedies—including the death of Harvey’s son Ben—intensified custody disputes and public scrutiny. After allegations of election tampering led to legal penalties such as community service and fines, Harvey sold his home and moved in with Roo and Lottie.

Harvey proposed marriage to Roo; they wed and jointly managed the local caravan park. They also became guardians for teenage runaways Maddy Osborne and Spencer Harrington, deepening their involvement in community affairs.

A fishing expedition with best friend Winston Markman (John Batchelor) ended with Harvey disappearing for several months. Upon his return, visibly changed by the experience, tensions arose between him and Roo, resulting in plans for divorce that permitted him to leave Summer Bay while maintaining contact with Spencer.

Jake Pirovic

Jake Pirovic, played by Fletcher Humphrys, made his debut on 22 July 2011 and exited on 23 January 2012, with a subsequent reappearance in 2014. His character was described by co-star Tai Hara (Andy Barrett) as a "shady" individual who provides Andy with false reassurance during his lowest moments. Jake’s return storyline ultimately leads to a homicide.

Jake heads a competing surf gang that opposes the River Boys. He is romantically involved with Tegan Callahan (Saskia Burmeister). Following an arrest alongside Heath Braxton (Dan Ewing) amid a crackdown on their drug enterprise, Jake is released and demands the return of his narcotics from Heath’s brother, Darryl (Steve Peacocke). He subsequently kidnaps their younger sibling Casey (Lincoln Younes) and Ruby Buckton (Rebecca Breeds). Brax returns the drugs as agreed, but upon discovering some are missing, Jake stabs him. This leads to Jake’s arrest and imprisonment; meanwhile, his brother Hammer (Benedict Samuel) assumes leadership but is later killed by Charlie Buckton (Esther Anderson). After serving his sentence, Jake avenges Hammer's death by killing Charlie, engages in multiple fights with Brax, and is resentenced following a confession.

Two years onward, Jake reemerges as the leader of a drug trafficking ring to which Andy Barrett owes money. Together with his deputy, Cody Dalton (Aaron Glenane), he orchestrates assaults and abductions to coerce Andy. Holding Brax responsible for Hammer’s demise, Jake manipulates Andy into participating in schemes against Brax. When Andy refuses, Jake kidnaps Josh MacGuire and uses him as leverage. During an attempt to rescue Josh, Jake shoots Casey, who later succumbs to his wounds.

Despite Andy’s pleas to cease targeting Brax, Jake remains relentless. A high-speed pursuit ends with Jake suffering serious injuries after crashing due to Brax’s actions. He is hospitalized and placed in a medically induced coma under psychiatric supervision after being transferred from prison because of diminished responsibility for shooting Charlie.

Brax urges Dr. Nate Cooper (Kyle Pryor) to allow Jake to die; when declined, Brax tries to disconnect life support but is detained. Subsequently, Andy unlawfully removes Jake’s life support, resulting in his death.

Hammer

Harman "Hammer" Pirovic, portrayed by Benedict Samuel, first appeared on 22 August 2011. Announced on 30 July 2011, Hammer belongs to a gang rivaling the River Boys. Characterized as a "big, tough guy with plenty of attitude," he serves as the enforcer and is the younger sibling of gang leader Jake Pirovic (Fletcher Humphrys).

During Jake’s incarceration, Hammer assumes control of the gang and intensifies hostilities with the Braxton brothers. After discovering that Heath Braxton (Daniel Ewing) testified against him leading to Jake’s early release, Hammer threatens and assaults Heath. This sparks retaliatory violence between the gangs involving arson and assaults. Despite police intervention, tensions persist as Hammer’s faction targets Stu Henderson (Brenton Thwaites), forcibly removing his tattoo.

Hammer also clashes with law enforcement when pulled over for speeding by Charlie Buckton (Esther Anderson) and Georgina Watson. Following the death of Jake's girlfriend, Tegan Callahan (Saskia Burmeister), Hammer warns Brax about upcoming violence. He orchestrates an attack during which Charlie is shot while in her car but denies involvement when questioned by police.

At Tegan's funeral, Hammer demands Brax relinquish his territory and escalates matters by abducting Charlie to bait Brax into a fatal showdown. The confrontation ends with Charlie shooting and killing Hammer, concluding his reign of terror in Summer Bay.

Stu Henderson

Stuart "Stu" Henderson, brought to life by Brenton Thwaites, made his first appearance on 23 August 2011. After moving from Cairns to Sydney, Thwaites landed a recurring role spanning five months on Home and Away, which he described as an enriching opportunity supported by a welcoming cast. Stu’s character played a pivotal role in a major narrative arc throughout the rest of that year.

Stu became part of the River Boys gang in the Bay, characterized by the Gold Coast Mail as a provocative element introduced to "shake things up in The Bay." Although perceived as "too attractive to fit the tough River Boy image," Stu found himself embroiled in violent confrontations with Hammer (Benedict Samuel), leader of a rival gang, who targeted him by forcibly removing his "Blood & Sand" tattoo. This act ignited a large-scale fight between the factions. Actor Steve Peacocke (Darryl Braxton) highlighted that casting the youngest member as a warning signal heightened the storyline’s tension.

In February 2012, Stu was found dead at the caravan park, prompting an extensive police inquiry involving several suspects from among the Bay’s residents. Robert Mammone (Sid Walker) remarked that the investigation would be comprehensive and full of unexpected developments.

Stu’s plotline involved intensifying gang rivalries, beginning with him and Heath Braxton vandalizing Hammer’s vehicle, which triggered a gang war eventually broken up by law enforcement. After Hammer’s group attacked Stu by removing his tattoo and leaving him near Darryl and Heath’s residence, Stu required surgery. He then entered into a romantic relationship with Sasha Bezmel (Demi Harman), despite initial resistance from her father Sid.

The relationship soon deteriorated amid growing strains: Stu demanded intimate photographs, professed his love, but reacted aggressively when feeling ignored or jealous—striking Sasha multiple times. Despite attempts at making amends, Sasha ultimately ended their relationship following further abuse. Stu’s behavior escalated as he stole Xavier Austin’s car to confront Sasha, who later experienced complications from an infected tattoo connected to Stu’s influence.

During the Year 12 formal event, Stu harassed and physically assaulted Sasha; Sid intervened forcefully, resulting in Stu being hospitalized. Charged with assault, Stu later met with Sasha to discuss their fathers’ actions but was forcibly removed by his father Alan Henderson (Peter Phelps). Stu disclosed that Alan had also abused him before deciding to leave Summer Bay.

After Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher) discovered Stu’s body, Sasha admitted to killing him in self-defense during an argument where he accidentally hit his head on a rock. It was revealed that Dennis Harling (Daniel Roberts) moved Stu’s body after the incident. Ultimately, Sasha was acquitted.

Sasha Bezmel

Sasha Bezmel, portrayed by Demi Harman, first appeared on 31 August 2011. Although Isabelle Cornish initially auditioned for the part, Harman secured the role and relocated from Brisbane to Sydney for filming. Sasha is introduced as the fifteen-year-old illegitimate daughter of Sid Walker (Robert Mammone). Following her mother’s fatal car accident, she moves to Summer Bay to live with her father and half-siblings. Harman described Sasha as "feisty, angry, stubborn and rebellious." The official show profile highlighted her independence and tendency toward being "unruly" and "mischievous," typical traits of a defiant teenager. Harman received a nomination for "Most Popular New Female Talent" at the 2012 Logie Awards for this performance.

Mark Gilmour

Mark Gilmour, portrayed by Shane Emmett, made his debut on 22 September 2011 in a substantial guest capacity. Emmett, who is the brother of the late Home and Away star Belinda Emmett, spoke about the difficulty of joining a series so closely associated with his sister. Mark is introduced as the wealthy partner of Gypsy Nash (Kimberley Cooper). His arrival causes friction with Gypsy's daughter, Lily Smith (Charlie Rose Maclennan), who finds it hard to accept him. Mark proposes sending Lily to boarding school, a suggestion Gypsy rejects. Their relationship unravels after Lily reveals Gypsy’s one-night encounter with Liam Murphy (Axle Whitehead), prompting Mark to confront Liam and leading Gypsy to terminate her relationship with Mark.

Hayley O'Connor

Hayley O'Connor, enacted by Alyssa McClelland, first appeared on 10 October 2011. McClelland had previously taken on the role of Brooke MacPherson in Home and Away. Hayley is a lawyer representing Casey Braxton (Lincoln Younes) and offers support to his brother, Darryl "Brax" (Steve Peacocke), while he is imprisoned. Peacocke described Hayley as "shrewd," recognizing Brax’s vulnerability and capitalizing on it to engage with him. Their association causes jealousy for Brax’s intermittent girlfriend, Charlie Buckton (Esther Anderson), who becomes envious upon seeing their interactions.

Hayley's reasons for being in Summer Bay carry an element of mystery, shrouding her motives in intrigue. After initially leaving, she returns on 30 April 2012. McClelland faced difficult filming conditions, including cold weather during beach scenes.

Within the storyline, Hayley defends Casey against arson allegations; despite her efforts, he is convicted and sent to Juvenile Detention. She later leads Charlie to believe she is romantically involved with Brax, heightening tensions. Hayley spends time with Brax, including teaching him to surf and sharing an overnight stay. When Brax is questioned about a robbery, he uses Hayley as his alibi; however, she eventually admits to providing false testimony before departing town.

Hayley reappears when Heath Braxton (Dan Ewing) hires her to prevent Bianca Scott (Lisa Gormley) from leaving with his child. She encounters Brax once more, resulting in a confrontation regarding Charlie's death. Hayley confesses to framing Brax and facilitating the release of Jake Pirovic (Fletcher Humphrys) due to her prior drug addiction. Although Brax blames her for Charlie’s death, he ultimately lets her go.

Others

Date(s) Character Actor Role Details
24 January – 5 October Judge/Magistrate Hanson Rhett Walton Presides over Alf Stewart's court case and sentences Casey Braxton to juvenile detention.
24 January Clerk Anthony Milne Court clerk appearing during Alf Stewart's hearing.
27 January – 21 November Summer Horgan-Jones Jaimee Taylor-Nielsen New student at Summer Bay High involved in social interactions with Xavier Austin, Dexter Walker, and Casey Braxton; sustains injuries from a bicycle accident.
27 January – 25 January 2012 Jase McKenzie Nick Bartlett Bully targeting VJ Patterson and others; clashes with Dexter Walker and April Scott.
31 January, 5 October–19 November 2013, 19 May 2014, 17 March 2015 – 5 May 2016 Constable Nader/Neal Stevenson Michele-Antonio Mattiuzzi Police officer managing various investigations including noise complaints, robbery cases, and custody disputes involving members of the Braxton family.
31 January–1 February, 18 August–7 October 2014 Shandi Ayres Elizabeth Blackmore (2011), Tess Haubrich (2014) John Palmer’s daughter whose identity was stolen; returns for John's wedding following earlier estrangement.
1 February Park Worker Peter Cridland Bribed by Angelo Rosetta to assist with an investigation.
1 February Lifesaver Christian Miranda Beach lifeguard collaborating with John Palmer.
2 February René Lisle Akos Armont French friend of April Scott who interacts through webcam communications.
9 February Stephanie Jacinta Acevski University tour guide providing reassurance to pregnant student Nicole Franklin.
9 February Simone Bollen Angela Bauer University lecturer advising Nicole Franklin on managing course load during pregnancy.
9 February Evan Ryan Oliver Gelbart Student who briefly dates Nicole Franklin but ends the relationship upon learning about her pregnancy.
18–21 February Rick Curtis Oakes Member of the River Boys involved in a prank kidnapping targeting Dexter Walker.
18 February–20 June Pee Wee Ty Hungerford Accomplice in Dexter Walker’s kidnapping; later involved in hospital incident and attempted drug deal aboard Romeo Smith’s boat.
21 February–31 May Brodie Upton Guy Edmonds River Boys member participating in harassment, drug cultivation for the Braxtons, hostage situation, and seeking assistance from Darryl Braxton for escape.
23 February–31 May Emily Logan Madison Kerry Student at Summer Bay who teases classmates and briefly dates Romeo Smith; contracts chlamydia from him.
23 February–26 March 2012 Rob Mitchell Matty Burn River Boy engaged in local disturbances including defacing election posters.
25 February – 15 March Leo Haydn Robertson River Boy appearing alongside main gang members.
24 February – 4 April Grace Johnson Clare Chihambakwe Arrives with son Thabo and husband Elijah Johnson under a sham marriage; faces personal tragedy and immigration scrutiny.
24 February – 21 March Thabo Manthenga Joshua Mbakwe Son of Grace Johnson undergoing medical treatment; dies following complications after surgery.
2 March 2011 – 15 December 2016 Cheryl Braxton Suzi Dougherty Mother of Darryl, Heath, and Casey Braxton; appears during significant family events including Heath's wedding and marital conflicts.
10 March Bill Lawson Ian McPhee Contacted by Charlie Buckton seeking information about Darryl Braxton.
10 March Cameron Sangster Jo Turner Lawyer representing Darryl Braxton; requests dismissal of charges from Charlie Buckton.
14 March – 2 June Keith Irwin Alan Lovell Runs victims of crime support group attended by Colleen Smart; relationship ends after drug raid at his residence.
14 March Teena Paige Gardiner Victim sharing her hostage experience during support group sessions.
14 March Mick Michael Howlett Member of victims of crime group attending sessions alongside Colleen Smart.
18–29 March Angus McCathie Tim Pocock University student dating Nicole Franklin; learns about her decision to place her baby for adoption and withdraws from the relationship.
5 April Janelle Riley Dina Gillespie Runs Bayside Mission and employs Elijah Johnson for community outreach work.
22–26 April Billy McVeigh Dallas Bigelow Seeks accommodation at Bayside Mission; involved in conflicts leading to arrest but later reconciles with Elijah Johnson.
27 April – 2 June Vanessa Unley Sarah Chadwick Old friend of Gina Austin; participates in local events such as music festivals and camping trips.
27 April – 21 June George (multiple actors)' Son of Nicole Franklin and Penn Graham; central figure in adoption storyline involving Marilyn Chambers and Nicole's eventual custody decision.
9–10 May Gary O'Connor Grant Dodwell President of Wilson's Bay Surf Club; rival to John Palmer; experiences heart attack amid competitive tensions.
24 May Carla Rosetta Cris Parker Mother of Angelo Rosetta; visits hospital and interacts with local residents Roo Stewart and Nicole Franklin.
3 June – 19 July Laura Carmody Roxane Wilson Friend of Roo Stewart; partners in fundraising activities; dates Elijah Johnson before departing town under difficult circumstances.
9 June Douglas Graham Shane Porteous Grandfather of Penn Graham; visits Summer Bay to meet great-grandson George.
16–22 June Kate Hanlon Mikayla Southgate Student who accuses Dexter Walker of cheating; assists with social dynamics involving April Scott.
15 July – 9 August Dean O'Mara Rick Donald Brother of Kelly O'Mara; implicated in sexual assault and hit-and-run incidents leading to arrest.
15 July – 2 September Kelly O'Mara Martika Sullivan Sister of Dean O'Mara; develops relationship with Xavier Austin; leaves town following Dean’s arrest.
21 July – 27 October, 25 November 2015 – 27 April 2016 David Joyce, Don Halbert Police inspector overseeing investigations involving River Boys; later promoted to superintendent suspending Katarina Chapman.
22–26 July Mick (River Boy) Ben Barber Engages in criminal acts including threats and arson connected to drug busts affecting local residents.
25–29 July 2014, 1 December 2016 – 2 February 2017 Darcy Callahan, Alea O'Shea Daughter of Tegan Callahan; involved in custody disputes, school bullying incidents, and family conflicts related to Heath Braxton’s marriage.


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