Claire Andrews
| Company type | Television series |
|---|---|
| Industry | Television soap opera |
| Founded | January 17, 1988 |
| Headquarters | Australia |
Area served | Australia |
| Website | 7plus |
Home and Away is a long-running Australian soap opera that premiered on the Seven Network on 17 January 1988. The following section lists the characters introduced during 1999, all under the guidance of then-executive producer John Holmes. The series' twelfth season commenced broadcasting on 11 January 1999. The first new character that year was Nick Smith, portrayed by Matt Juarez in March. His father, Ken, played by Anthony Phelan, was introduced in April. In May, Aleetza Wood joined the cast as Peta Janossi. Cameron Welsh took on the role of Mitch McColl starting in July. August saw the arrival of Bianca Zeboat and lifeguard Shauna Bradley, played by Kylie Watson. Science teacher Harry Reynolds, enacted by Justin Melvey, appeared in September. In October, Anna Hruby and Stephen James King were cast as acting principal Judith Ackroyd and her son, Edward Dunglass, respectively.
Nick Smith
Nick Smith made his first appearance on 18 March 1999, initially portrayed by Matt Guarez in a guest capacity before returning as a regular character from 2000, this time played by Chris Egan. He remained on the show until 9 September 2003. Additionally, Aaron Puckeridge took on the role of Nick in flashback sequences during 2003. Egan earned a nomination for "Best New Male Talent" at the Logie Awards in 2001 for his portrayal.
Peta Janossi
Peta Janossi, brought to life by Aleetza Wood, debuted on 27 May 1999 and exited the series on 14 July 2000. Wood was cast while she was still attending university. Series Producer Russell Webb chose her for the part due to her "fresh-faced" appearance. For her work in this role, Wood received a nomination for "Most Popular New Female Talent" in 2000.
Mitch McColl
Mitch McColl, played by Cameron Welsh, first appeared on-screen on 15 July 1999. Welsh originally auditioned for a guest role before securing this part. In 2000, after being diagnosed with a herniated disc, Welsh took a six-week hiatus during which Mitchell McMahon temporarily assumed the role of Mitch. Welsh resumed playing Mitch on 3 April 2000. He later made a brief return in 2005 for the show's 4000th episode, marking Mitch's appearance at Alf Stewart's birthday celebration. Subsequently, Welsh transitioned into producing Home and Away, crediting his acting tenure as Mitch with enhancing his production capabilities.
For his portrayal of Mitch, Welsh was nominated for "Best New Male Talent" at the Logie Awards in 2000. Critics remarked that Mitch had an immediate and strong presence upon debuting, particularly highlighting his relationship with Hayley as a significant storyline that engaged viewers. The character’s departure was also recognized as a memorable television moment by the Daily Record.
Bianca Zeboat
Bianca Zeboat, portrayed by Lara Cox, first appeared on 11 August 1999. Cox secured this guest role shortly after completing work on Heartbreak High, managing to appear in both shows concurrently. She described Bianca as a "manipulative" and "unpleasant" individual, which contrasted sharply with her previous character Anita Scheppers, whom she found more relatable. Bianca was depicted as confident and strong-willed, though Cox expressed personal dislike for the character.
Bianca is an actress and model who arrives in Summer Bay to prepare for starring in a film adaptation of Alan Fisher’s 1989 novel On the Crest of a Wave. During her stay, she befriends Jesse McGregor (Ben Unwin) to obtain insider knowledge about the project. Jesse, who is looking for both a romantic partner and a maternal figure for his daughter, quickly becomes infatuated with Bianca and overlooks her negative traits. However, when the film’s director Roger Landowne (Tony Bonner) dismisses Bianca from the production, she ends her relationship with Jesse and departs from Summer Bay.
Shauna Bradley
Shauna Bradley, portrayed by Kylie Watson, made her debut on 16 August 1999 and exited the series in July 2002. After relocating back to Canberra in early 1999, Watson auditioned for Home and Away; initially reluctant, she was persuaded by her agent to proceed. This role marked her first acting experience, prompting her to take acting lessons to enhance her performance. Watson received a nomination for Most Popular New Female Talent at the 2000 Logie Awards.
Shauna was characterized as both "sassy" and "feisty," with Andrew Mercado referring to her as a "sexy lifesaver." Her narrative arc involved a turbulent romance with Harry, marked by numerous ups and downs, alongside a perilous connection with Gavin. In 2012, Channel 5 featured an episode revealing Shauna's adoption in their viewer-selected "From Day One" segment.
Harry Reynolds
Harry Reynolds, enacted by Justin Melvey, first appeared on 13 September 1999 and departed on 26 January 2001. Prior to joining the cast, Melvey concentrated on modelling and refining his acting abilities. He secured the role after returning to Sydney for an audition, subsequently moving from Los Angeles to Australia for filming. In 2000, Melvey was awarded the "Most Popular New Male Talent" Logie Award for his portrayal of Harry.
Judith Ackroyd
Judith Ackroyd, played by Anna Hruby, premiered on 21 October 1999 and exited on 21 November 2000. Hruby had earlier appeared in Prisoner Cell Block H. Judith steps in as principal of Summer Bay High during Donald Fisher's leave of absence. She faces professional hurdles including speculation about her relationship with Donald and clashes with students such as Gypsy Nash.
Her son, Edward Dunglass, arrives carrying concerns about Huntington's disease inherited from his late father, Edward Dunglass Sr. Judith supports Edward despite his rebellious nature and manages his relationship with girlfriend Peta Janossi, eventually permitting Peta to live with them.
Following Marilyn’s departure from Donald after their son's death, Judith develops a closer bond with him but eventually begins a relationship with Joel Nash. When Joel suffers an injury and reconciles with his former wife Natalie, Judith opts for a career opportunity in Switzerland. Before leaving, she advises Donald to resume his role as principal and appoints Sally Fletcher (Kate Ritchie) as her replacement.
Edward Dunglass
Edward Dunglass, portrayed by Stephen James King, first appeared on 28 October 1999 and left on 14 July 2000. King juggled his high school education alongside acting duties; this was his inaugural television role following theatre performances. He described the cast as welcoming and noted Edward’s distinctive goth style made him stand out from typical Summer Bay residents, providing a "refreshing change." The character was recognized for challenging conventional stereotypes within the show's audience.
Edward’s introduction occurs on the beach where he is teased by Will Smith (Zac Drayson) due to his goth appearance but responds with sarcasm. He gains acceptance after defending Duncan Stewart against bullies and impressing at go-kart trials before revealing that his mother is the new principal, Judith Ackroyd (Anna Hruby).
Donald Fisher (Norman Coburn) recognizes Edward’s surname, recalling his father Edward Sr (Peter Sumner), who passed away from Huntington's disease—a condition Edward fears he has inherited. He quickly befriends Peta Janossi (Aleetza Wood) and Mitch McColl (Cameron Welsh), assisting Peta in honoring her late grandmother, which arouses local curiosity about his motives.
Edward’s frankness about illness causes strain in relationships with local families, especially after disclosing his diagnosis to Alf Stewart. His pursuit of adrenaline intensifies as Huntington's symptoms emerge, including muscle spasms and paralysis. This creates tension between him and Peta; however, they reconcile and attend self-defense classes together. Their bond strengthens, culminating in a private wedding ceremony and cohabitation despite objections from Joel Nash.
Upon reaching eighteen, Edward tests positive for Huntington's disease. Following an emotional breakdown, Judith presents him with a video message from his deceased father. Edward then removes his gothic makeup and requests access to his trust fund to travel abroad with Peta. Judith arranges accommodation with her sister in Rome. Before leaving Summer Bay, Edward experiences fatigue and mood fluctuations but finds reassurance in Peta’s dedication. They depart together, with Will visiting the next year to confirm Edward’s condition is deteriorating.
Others
| Date(s) | Character | Actor | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 January–3 March | Dr. Noble | Mariette Rups-Donnelly | Serves as psychiatrist for Gypsy Nash (Kimberley Cooper) following her abduction, later providing therapy to Joey Rainbow (Alex O'Han) during his schizophrenia diagnosis. |
| 14–25 January | Mr Gilkey | Ben Ager | Aggressive driver who confronts Ailsa Stewart (Judy Nunn) after a collision, persistently demanding compensation despite her refusal to accept his apology. |
| 14 January–21 May | Troy | Lucas Sinkovic Luke Jacobz |
A cricket teammate of Tom Nash (Graeme Squires) during their Year 12 season. |
| 18–19 January | Rhonda | Samantha Braniff | Utilized by David D'Angelo (Toni Poli) as a lure in the kidnapping of Joel Nash (David Woodley). |
| 21 January–10 February | Brian Matthews | Scott Swalwell | Acquainted with Sam Marshall and Hayley Smith (Bec Cartwright); involved in graffiti vandalism and dies after a fall. |
| 3–12 February | Geraldine Peterson | Anna Lee | Part of The Wednesday Club; invites Rebecca Nash (Belinda Emmett) but creates tension over charity recognition, departing after Rebecca resigns. |
| 5 February | Mo Matthews | Pat Sands | Brian Matthews' father; discovers Brian and Sam tagging a tower. |
| 8–18 February | Kaia Stokes | Blazey Best | Provides support to Joey Rainbow during his schizophrenic episodes but leaves as his hallucinations worsen. |
| 19 February–6 October | Bob Playford | Tony Morgan | Real estate agent employed by Diana Fraser to develop the caravan park; project halted when locals purchase the property. |
| 4–23 March | Brooke Taylor | Bridie Carter | Sister to Mara Taylor; attracted to Travis Nash due to resemblance to her deceased fiancé; exposes family secrets before leaving. |
| 4–5 March | Mara Taylor | Ann Burbrook | Brooke's sister; nearly causes boating accident with Travis Nash; pursues married Joel Nash unaware of his status. |
| 10–17 March | Denise Hennessy | Lauren Clair | Former cellmate of Kylie Burton using alias "Maggie Crowley"; visits Jesse McGregor but escapes when police suspect her fugitive status. |
| 11 March | Eleanor Mace | Deborah Piper | Candidates interviewed by Donald Fisher for Byron Fisher's nanny role. |
| Patsy Little | Jillian O'Dowd | ||
| Skye | Karren Lewis |
| Date(s) | Character | Actor | Description |
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| Date(s) | Character | Actor | Description |
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| Date(s) | Character | Actor | Description |
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| Date(s) | Character | Actor | Description |
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| Wendy Williams, foster mother of Nick Smith, responsible for returning him to live with Ken Smith and Irene Roberts following behavioral challenges. Portrayed initially by Monette Lee, later by Lisa Cameron. |
| Miranda Porter, daughter of Ellen Porter, stays at Donald Fisher's residence; HIV-positive and anxious about stigma; briefly dates Joey Rainbow. Played by Lauren Hewett. |
| Claire Andrews, half-sibling to Travis and Joel Nash, involved in theft and troublemaking before leaving town after charges are dismissed. Portrayed by Kate Beahan. |
| Jack, friend of Duncan Stewart who assists in creating a homemade bomb that injures Alf Stewart. Played by Eamon Davern. |
| Organist, musician performing at James Fraser and Chloe Richards' wedding ceremony. Portrayed by Gregg Arthur. |
| Wendy Collins, mother of Ruby Collins, implicated in concealing child abuse leading to Justine Welles' wrongful conviction. Played by Jayne Leslie. |
| Steve Collins, husband of Wendy Collins, shares culpability for Ruby's death and Justine Welles' imprisonment. Portrayed by Don Halbert. |
| Ruby Collins, child whose demise triggers legal issues involving Justine Welles. Played by multiple actresses including Kiara Bleskas. |
| Guy North, companion to Marilyn Fisher during her postnatal depression, reassures Donald Fisher regarding Marilyn’s condition. Portrayed by Drayton Morley. |
| Father O'Hearn, Catholic priest conducting confessions and funerals including that of Owen Dalby. Played by Alan Russell. |
| Hope Benedict, member of church group pursued romantically by Duncan Stewart who withdraws after rejection. Portrayed by Brooke Harmon. |
| John Russell, Indigenous Studies educator confronting racial issues and searching for his mother with assistance from Joel Nash before departing town. Played by John Moore. |
| David Janossi, elder brother of Peta Janossi living off grandmother’s pension unlawfully; leaves after securing city employment. Portrayed by Philip Edwards. |
| Roger Lansdowne, film producer attempting to acquire rights for Alan Fisher's autobiography; manipulates locals including Donald Fisher and Marilyn Chambers; characterized as a disreputable B-movie producer. Played by Tony Bonner. |
| Reverend Lee, officiates Lachlan Fraser's funeral service. Portrayed by Stewart Reade. |
| Annie Matthews, homeless woman impersonating Peta Janossi’s grandmother; reunites with estranged daughter Frances Kennedy who takes her home. Played by Carole Skinner. |
| Angus Halliday, university peer of Sally Fletcher causing jealousy in Vinnie Patterson leading to his eviction from shared accommodation. Portrayed by Gabriel Andrews. |
| Frances Kennedy, estranged daughter of Annie Matthews reunited through efforts of Peta Janossi and Will Smith. Played by Alice Livingstone. |
| Sharon Welles, mother of Justine Welles, former addict whose testimony contributes to Justine’s wrongful conviction; later rejected by Justine upon release. Portrayed by Shayne Francis. |
| Leon Watson, attorney defending Justine Welles during trial concerning Ruby Collins’ death; assists in preparation despite initial conviction outcome. Played by David Webb. |
| Jeff Berger, journalist offering financial incentives for confessions from Sharon Welles against Justine Welles; later offers money to Justine post-release which she declines. Portrayed by Jonathon Speer. |
| Kelly McCane, prosecutor during Justine Welles’ trial, rigorously cross-examines witnesses and defendant alike.
Portrayed by Laurie Foell. |
| Gemma, inmate sharing cell with Justine Welles during imprisonment.
Portrayed by Alyssa McClelland. |
| Mrs Brown, spouse of local farmer Jack Brown who hosts teenagers for fruit-picking work.
Portrayed by Jan Merriman. |
| Jack Brown, farmer employing local youth for orchard labor; confronts family challenges including son's death linked to pesticides; sells farm and reconciles with son Ken Smith.
Portrayed by Paul Chubb. |
| Anthony Doyle, dates Irene Roberts but ends relationship after foster son Will Smith admits joyriding in his vehicle.
Portrayed by Kim Knuckey. |
| Jillian Williams, former flatmate stalking Shauna Bradley, frames Adam Cameron resulting in his eviction; arrested following Shauna’s exposure of her false identity Amber.
Portrayed by Alexandra Davies. |
| Darryl, Shauna Bradley’s ex-boyfriend accusing Adam Cameron of stalking Shauna and vandalizing his car.
Portrayed by Jeremiah Tickell. |
| Ralph Patterson, Vinnie Patterson's father involved in financial fraud and tax evasion causing family conflict; appears posthumously in dreams confessing wrongdoing but ultimately abandoned Vinnie financially.
Portrayed by Alan Cinis. |
| Gazza Boyd, friend of Duncan Stewart who discovers money linked to escaped prisoner David D'Angelo who later takes Duncan hostage before being stopped.
Portrayed by Sebastian Huber. |
| Lauren Healy, accomplice to David D'Angelo in kidnapping Duncan Stewart thwarted through intervention from Joel Nash and law enforcement.
Portrayed by Merridy Eastman. |
| Claire Rogers, student infatuated with Harry Reynolds causing false scandal then engaging in relationship with Sam Marshall; involved in disputes resulting from family issues including sexual harassment allegations against her father Brian Rogers.
Portrayed by Talia Marmount and Jaime Mears. |
| Danielle McCarthy, Nursing Unit Manager at Northern Districts Hospital briefly involved romantically with James Fraser without further development; denies being secret admirer sending birthday balloon.
Portrayed by Claire Paradine. |
| Juliette Bellatti, nurse at Northern Districts Hospital harboring affection for James Fraser who eventually dates him before both depart Summer Bay.
Portrayed by Nicole Nabout. |
| Mick Dwyer, former criminal associate pressuring Jesse McGregor into repairing stolen vehicles leading to crash injuries and arrest following Joel Nash's intervention.
Portrayed by John Brumpton. |
| Rosemary Myers, Summer Bay High student unsuccessfully competing for school captain position; protests against Edward Dunglass’s newsletter alongside Peta Janossi.
Portrayed by Anita Bochnik. |
| Christian, hired assassin attempting to kill Harry Reynolds while holding Shauna Bradley hostage before being subdued and arrested.
Portrayed by John Atkinson. |
| Alison, Harry Reynolds’ ex-fiancée arriving from America causing romantic tension before Harry chooses to remain with Shauna Bradley; Alison returns alone to the U.S..
Portrayed by Jenny Apostolou. |
External links
- Cast and characters on the Official AU Home and Away site
- Cast and characters on the Official UK Home and Away site
- Cast and characters at the Internet Movie Database