Claire Rogers
| 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. This list focuses on characters introduced in 1999, all of whom were brought into the series under the guidance of then-executive producer John Holmes. The show's twelfth season commenced broadcasting on 11 January 1999. The initial character introduced that year was Nick Smith, portrayed by Matt Juarez in March. His father, Ken, played by Anthony Phelan, made his first appearance in April. In May, Aleetza Wood joined the cast as Peta Janossi. July saw the arrival of Cameron Welsh in the role of Mitch McColl. August introduced both Bianca Zeboat and lifeguard Shauna Bradley, played by Kylie Watson. Science teacher Harry Reynolds, enacted by Justin Melvey, debuted in September. October featured the addition of Anna Hruby and Stephen James King 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 series regular in 2000 with actor Chris Egan taking over the role. Nick's character exited the show on 9 September 2003. Additionally, Aaron Puckeridge played Nick in flashback scenes during 2003. For his performance as Nick, Egan received a nomination for "Best New Male Talent" at the Logie Awards in 2001.
Peta Janossi
Peta Janossi, played by Aleetza Wood, was introduced on 27 May 1999 and remained until 14 July 2000. Wood was cast while still attending university, with Series Producer Russell Webb selecting her due to her "fresh-faced" appearance. Her portrayal earned her a nomination for "Most Popular New Female Talent" in 2000.
Mitch McColl
Mitch McColl, enacted by Cameron Welsh, debuted on-screen on 15 July 1999. Welsh originally auditioned for a guest role before securing this part. In 2000, following a diagnosis of a herniated disc, Welsh was granted a six-week hiatus; during this period, Mitchell McMahon temporarily stepped in to portray Mitch. Welsh resumed filming in April 2000. He returned briefly in 2005 for a cameo celebrating the show's 4000th episode, coinciding with Alf Stewart's (Ray Meagher) birthday. Subsequently, Welsh transitioned to a production role within Home and Away, citing his acting background as beneficial to his responsibilities as producer.
Welsh's depiction of Mitch earned him a "Best New Male Talent" nomination at the Logie Awards in 2000. Critics highlighted Mitch's impactful introduction and praised the chemistry between Mitch and Hayley, particularly emphasizing their much-anticipated first kiss as a standout moment that captivated audiences. Mitch’s departure was also recognized among notable television highlights.
Bianca Zeboat
Bianca Zeboat, portrayed by Lara Cox, first appeared on 11 August 1999. Cox secured this extended guest role shortly after completing work on Heartbreak High, appearing concurrently in both series. She characterized Bianca as assertive and manipulative, which contrasted sharply with her previous role as Anita Scheppers. An Inside Soap journalist remarked on Bianca’s disruptive influence upon her arrival at the Summer Bay Diner.
Bianca is depicted as a model and actress pursuing the lead role in a film adaptation of Alan Fisher's novel On the Crest of a Wave. She arrives in Summer Bay ahead of filming and befriends Jesse McGregor (Ben Unwin) to obtain insider information. Jesse develops feelings for Bianca, unaware of her scheming nature. After being dismissed by the film’s director Roger Landowne (Tony Bonner), Bianca ends her relationship with Jesse and leaves Summer Bay.
Shauna Bradley
Shauna Bradley, portrayed by Kylie Watson, made her debut on 16 August 1999 and departed in July 2002. Watson secured the role soon after returning to Canberra, despite initial hesitation about auditioning. Home and Away marked her acting debut, prompting her to undertake acting lessons to enhance her abilities. She was nominated for Most Popular New Female Talent at the 2000 Logies.
Media outlets characterized Shauna as "feisty" and "sassy," while author Andrew Mercado referred to her as a "sexy lifesaver." Her romantic relationships, especially with Harry, were marked by frequent fluctuations, whereas her involvement with Gavin was viewed as precarious. In 2012, Channel 5 highlighted an episode in their "From Day One" fan-voted features where Shauna confronts Margaret about her adoption.
Harry Reynolds
Harry Reynolds, enacted by Justin Melvey, first appeared on 13 September 1999 and exited on 26 January 2001. Prior to joining the series, Melvey concentrated on modelling and refining his acting craft. After auditioning in Sydney, he won the role and relocated from Los Angeles. His portrayal of Harry earned him the "Most Popular New Male Talent" Logie Award in 2000.
Judith Ackroyd
Judith Ackroyd, played by Anna Hruby, was featured from 21 October 1999 until 21 November 2000. Hruby brought previous experience from Prisoner Cell Block H. Judith took over as principal of Summer Bay High during Donald Fisher's (Norman Coburn) sabbatical.
Her storyline involved managing her son Edward Dunglass, who was diagnosed with Huntington's disease inherited from his late father, Edward Dunglass Sr. (Peter Sumner). Judith's narrative also included a romantic relationship with Joel Nash (David Woodley) and professional challenges with students like Gypsy Nash (Kimberley Cooper), who often contested her authority as principal.
After coping with personal losses and Edward’s health issues, Judith supported Edward and his partner Peta Janossi (Aleetza Wood) in their decision to travel overseas. Her relationship with Joel ended when his ex-wife returned, prompting Judith to accept a career opportunity in Switzerland. Before leaving, she recommended Donald Fisher resume his role as principal and appointed Sally Fletcher (Kate Ritchie) as her replacement.
Edward Dunglass
Edward Dunglass, portrayed by Stephen James King, made his first appearance on 28 October 1999 and departed on 14 July 2000. Balancing high school studies alongside filming, this was King’s initial television role after theatre experience. He commended the senior cast members for their guidance and noted that Edward’s distinctive goth style set him apart within Summer Bay, challenging conventional stereotypes.
Edward initially appears at the beach where Will Smith (Zac Drayson) mocks his goth fashion; Edward replies with sarcasm. Later, he rescues Duncan Stewart (Brendan McKensy) from bullies, which leads to an invitation to join local teens for go-kart trials. Edward impresses by achieving the fastest lap before the arrival of their new principal, Judith Ackroyd (Anna Hruby), who is revealed to be his mother.
Donald Fisher (Norman Coburn) recognizes Edward’s father, Edward Dunglass Sr. (Peter Sumner), who passed away due to Huntington's disease. Aware of possibly inheriting the condition, Edward quickly befriends Peta Janossi (Aleetza Wood) and Mitch McColl (Cameron Welsh). He assists Peta in organizing a memorial service that draws suspicion from Colleen Smart (Lyn Collingwood) regarding occult activities.
Edward’s friendship with Duncan causes friction with Alf and Ailsa Stewart. His controversial remarks about Byron Fisher’s death upset Donald until Edward’s illness is disclosed. Facing an uncertain future, Edward pursues risky thrills that concern those around him. After breaking up and reconciling with Peta, they begin self-defence classes following harassment incidents. Symptoms of Huntington’s emerge gradually, including muscle spasms and paralysis; however, Edward embraces life enthusiastically. He and Peta privately commit to each other and move in together with Judith’s blessing, despite disagreements over parental matchmaking efforts.
Upon turning eighteen, Edward tests positive for Huntington's but initially minimizes its impact until an emotional crisis occurs. Judith presents him with a video message recorded by Edward Sr. prior to his death. After calming down, Edward removes his gothic makeup and requests access to his trust fund to travel abroad with Peta. Judith arranges for them to stay with her sister in Rome. As Edward’s condition deteriorates, he becomes fatigued and irritable before departure; Peta reassures him of her support, and they leave together. The following year Will visits them, confirming Edward’s health decline.
Others
| Date(s) | Character | Actor | Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 January–3 March | Dr. Noble | Mariette Rups-Donnelly | Serves as psychiatrist for Gypsy Nash (Kimberley Cooper) following her abduction; subsequently provides support to Joey Rainbow (Alex O'Han) during his struggle with schizophrenia. |
| 14–25 January | Mr Gilkey | Ben Ager | Aggressive driver involved in road rage incident with Ailsa Stewart (Judy Nunn); demands compensation and causes distress despite later issuing an apology. |
| 14 January–21 May | Troy | Lucas Sinkovic Luke Jacobz |
Teammate of Tom Nash (Graeme Squires) on the Year 12 cricket team. |
| 18–19 January | Rhonda | Samantha Braniff | Utilized by David D'Angelo (Toni Poli) as bait in the kidnapping of Joel Nash (David Woodley). |
| 21 January–10 February | Brian Matthews | Scott Swalwell | Companion to Sam Marshall and Hayley Smith (Bec Cartwright); involved in graffiti vandalism and suffers a fatal fall. |
| 3–12 February | Geraldine Peterson | Anna Lee | Member of The Wednesday Club who fabricates success stories about charity work, leading to tension with Rebecca Nash (Belinda Emmett) who subsequently leaves the group. |
| 5 February | Mo Matthews | Pat Sands | Father of Brian Matthews; discovers Brian and Sam Marshall engaged in tagging activities. |
| 8–18 February | Kaia Stokes | Blazey Best | Provides support to Joey Rainbow during his schizophrenic episodes but departs as his hallucinations worsen. |
| 19 February–6 October | Bob Playford | Tony Morgan | Real estate agent employed by Diana Fraser to explore caravan park development; local residents raise funds to prevent the sale. |
| 4–23 March | Brooke Taylor | Bridie Carter | Sister of Mara Taylor; attracted to Travis Nash due to resemblance to her deceased fiancé; reveals family secrets before departing. |
| 4–5 March | Mara Taylor | Ann Burbrook | Brooke's sister; reckless boat operator who pursues Joel Nash unaware of his marital status. |
| 10–17 March | Denise Hennessy | Lauren Clair | Former prison cellmate of Kylie Burton; adopts an alias and befriends Jesse McGregor before fleeing due to police suspicion. |
| 11 March | Eleanor Mace | Deborah Piper | Candidates interviewed by Donald Fisher for the role of Byron Fisher’s caretaker. |
| Patsy Little | Jillian O'Dowd | ||
| Skye | Karren Lewis | ||
| 16 March–11 May | Ellen Porter | Anne Grigg | Nanny employed for Donald Fisher’s infant; past manslaughter charge revealed but trusted; departs after confessing affection for Donald. |
| 17–22 March | Jim Woods | Nick Hogan | Police officer investigating Denise Hennessy; contacts foster son Will Smith regarding issues with his brother Nick's drug problems. |
| 19–23 March | Johnno | Josef Ber | Drug dealer pursuing Nick Smith over outstanding debt; assaults Nick but later accepts payment as settlement. |
| 24 March | Ted Williams | Kim Knuckey | "Foster father of Nick Smith; arrives alongside wife Wendy to take custody." |
| Date(s) | Character | Actor | Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24 March 1999–26 April 2000 | 'Wendy Williams' | 'Monette Lee Lisa Cameron' |
'Foster mother to Nick Smith; initially cares for him but returns him to his biological father due to behavioral challenges.' |
| 26 March–20 April | 'Miranda Porter' | 'Lauren Hewett' | 'Daughter of Ellen Porter; HIV-positive student who fears discrimination, supported by Joey Rainbow before leaving town.' |
| 29 March–7 April | 'Claire Andrews' | 'Kate Beahan' | 'Half-sister of Travis and Joel Nash; causes familial conflict and departs after a theft incident.' |
| 21 April–14 June | 'Jack' | 'Eamon Davern' | 'Assists Duncan Stewart in constructing a homemade bomb that results in injury.' |
| 4–5 May | 'Organist' | 'Gregg Arthur' | 'Performs music at the wedding ceremony of James Fraser and Chloe Richards.' |
| 7 May–19 August | 'Wendy Collins' | 'Jayne Leslie' | 'Mother who, along with her husband Steve, falsely accuses childminder Justine Welles of abuse, leading to wrongful imprisonment.' |
| 11 May–19 August | 'Steve Collins' | 'Don Halbert' | 'Husband involved in false allegations against Justine Welles following the death of their daughter Ruby.' |
| 11–19 May | 'Ruby Collins' | 'Kiara Bleskas Tara McKellar Brittany Jones Sian Tierney' |
'Daughter of Steve and Wendy Collins whose suspicious death triggers legal proceedings.' |
| 24–25 May | 'Guy North' | 'Drayton Morley' | 'Supportive friend to Marilyn Fisher during her postnatal depression; reassures Donald Fisher about her condition.' |
| 3 June 1999, 8 November 2004 |
'Father O'Hearn' | 'Alan Russell' | 'Catholic priest officiating Marilyn Fisher’s confession and conducting Owen Dalby’s funeral.' |
| 7 June–2 July | 'Hope Benedict' | 'Brooke Harmon' | 'Member of church group who rejects Duncan Stewart’s romantic advances.' |
| 9–23 June | 'John Russell' | 'John Moore Marbuck Khan (flashback)' |
"Aboriginal educator confronting racism and reconnecting with his mother through Joel Nash's assistance." |
| 16 June–20 July | 'David Janossi' | 'Philip Edwards' | "Older sibling of Peta Janossi who leaves town after evading authorities over pension fraud allegations." |
| 28 June–9 September | 'Roger Lansdowne' | 'Tony Bonner' | "Film producer attempting to acquire rights to Alan Fisher's autobiography; uses manipulative tactics before departing." |
| 28 June | 'Reverend Lee' | 'Stewart Reade' | "Conducts Lachlan Fraser's funeral service." |
| 28 June–19 July | 'Annie Matthews' | 'Carole Skinner' | "Homeless woman impersonating Peta Janossi’s grandmother, later reunited with estranged daughter Frances Kennedy." |
| 12 July–20 August | 'Angus Halliday' | 'Gabriel Andrews' | "University peer of Sally Fletcher whose presence incites jealousy." |
| 19 July | 'Frances Kennedy' | 'Alice Livingstone' | "Estranged daughter of Annie Matthews who reconciles with her mother." |
| 28 July–26 August | 'Sharon Welles' | 'Shayne Francis' | "Estranged mother of Justine Welles involved in obtaining a confession that leads to Justine’s conviction." |
| 28 July–9 August | 'Leon Watson' | 'David Webb' | "Attorney defending Justine Welles during trial concerning Ruby Collins’ death." |
| 30 July–31 August | 'Jeff Berger' | 'Jonathon Speer' | "Journalist facilitating Sharon Welles’ confession and offering payment for Justine’s story." |
| 6–9 August | 'Kelly McCane' | 'Laurie Foell' | "Prosecutor during Justine Welles’ trial." |
| 10–18 August | 'Gemma' | "Alyssa McClelland" | "Cellmate sharing incarceration with Justine Welles." |
| 23 August | "Mrs. Brown" | "Jan Merriman" | "Spouse of farmer Jack Brown hosting local teenagers for seasonal fruit picking." |
| 24 August 1999–26 February 2000 | "Jack Brown" | "Paul Chubb" | "Local farmer employing teens for orchard work; sells farm following environmental concerns." |
| 31 August–30 September | "Anthony Doyle" | "Kim Knuckey" | "Romantic partner of Irene Roberts whose relationship ends after foster son’s joyride incident." |
| 10–22 September | "Jillian Williams" | "Alexandra Davies" | "Former flatmate stalking Shauna Bradley and framing Adam Cameron before being apprehended." |
| 14 September | "Darryl" | "Jeremiah Tickell" | "Shauna Bradley’s ex-boyfriend who accuses Adam Cameron and vandalizes his vehicle." |
| 23 September 1999–16 June 2003 | "Ralph Patterson" | "Alan Cinis" | "Vinnie Patterson’s father involved in fraudulent activities impacting Vinnie’s life and legal issues." |
| 27 September–8 October | "Gazza Boyd" | "Sebastian Huber" | "Friend to Duncan Stewart who discovers stolen money linked to escaped convict David D’Angelo." |
| 11–13 October | "Lauren Healy" | "Merridy Eastman" | "Accomplice in David D’Angelo’s kidnapping plot against Duncan Stewart, foiled by police." |
| 14 October 1999–24 March 2000 | "Claire Rogers" | "Talia Marmount Jaime Mears" |
"Student infatuated with Harry Reynolds, causing tension among peers including Sam Marshall and Gypsy Nash." |
| 15 October 1999–21 February 2000 | "Danielle McCarthy" | "Claire Paradine" | "Nursing Unit manager briefly involved romantically with James Fraser at Northern Districts Hospital." |
| 20 October 1999–5 April 2000 | "Juliette Bellatti" | "Nicole Nabout" | "Nurse at Northern Districts Hospital who begins a relationship with James Fraser before leaving town together." |
| 2 November 1999–31 January 2000 | "Mick Dwyer" | "John Brumpton" | "Ex-criminal coercing Jesse McGregor into car theft leading to an accident and arrest." |
| 3 November 1999–27 March 2000 | "Rosemary Myers" | "Anita Bochnik" | "Student competing for school captaincy and protesting alongside Peta Janossi against Edward Dunglass’ newsletter." |
| 4–9 November | "Christian" | "John Atkinson" | "Hitman employed by a US company targeting Harry Reynolds, subdued by Harry and Shauna Bradley." |
| 24 November 1999–2 February 2000 | "Alison" | "Jenny Apostolou" | "Harry Reynolds’ ex-fiancée from America influencing his relationship decisions before departing alone." |
External links
- Cast and characters on the Official AU Home and Away website
- Cast and characters on the Official UK Home and Away website
- Cast and characters at the Internet Movie Database