Connie Callahan (Home and Away)

Home and Away

Company type	Television series
Industry	Television soap opera
Founded	January 17, 1988 (1988-01-17)
Headquarters	Australia
Website	7plus.com.au/home-and-away

Home and Away is a long-running Australian soap opera that first aired on the Seven Network on 17 January 1988. This compilation enumerates the characters introduced during 2013, listed according to their initial appearance, all brought into the series under the guidance of executive producer Lucy Addario. The show's 26th season commenced broadcasting on 21 January 2013. The earliest new addition was Zac MacGuire, with Courtney Freeman, Maddy Osborne, Spencer Harrington, and Rosie Prichard following within the same month. In April, Chris Harrington and Ricky Sharpe made their debuts, while August saw the arrival of Josh, Andy Barrett, and Hannah Wilson. From September onward, Zac’s relatives—Ethan, Evelyn, and Oscar MacGuire—along with Nate Cooper were introduced. The characters Jade Montgomery and Matt Page appeared in October, followed by Phoebe Nicholson in November.

Zac MacGuire

Zac MacGuire, portrayed by Charlie Clausen, first appeared on 22 January 2013. His casting was revealed on 13 January 2013, marking a significant return to acting for Clausen. He shared his excitement about joining Home and Away, describing it as a fantastic chance and praising the supportive production team. Zac works as a prison education officer who steps in during a fight involving Casey Braxton (Lincoln Younes) and is assigned by Natalie Davison (Catherine Mack) to keep an eye on Casey. Clausen characterized Zac as "a good guy," whose early experiences within the prison system influenced his career choice.

Courtney Freeman

Courtney Freeman, played by Joshua Brennan, made his debut on 22 January 2013. The role was announced on 14 January 2013. Courtney is depicted as an inmate at Crestview Correctional Centre, where Casey Braxton (Lincoln Younes) serves time following a botched robbery. Portrayed as a "typical prison bully," Courtney targets Casey, pressuring him into aiding drug trafficking. When Casey refuses, he endures physical violence.

Courtney intensifies his intimidation tactics by enlisting Jamie Sharpe (Hugo Johnstone-Burt) and exploiting the feud between the Braxton and Sharpe families to incite further aggression. Intervention comes from Zac MacGuire (Charlie Clausen) who attempts to halt the escalating conflict. After stabbing Casey with a makeshift weapon, Courtney faces legal repercussions when Zac negotiates a deal: Casey’s release and Jamie’s transfer in exchange for testimony against Courtney.

Maddy Osborne

Madeline "Maddy" Osborne, portrayed by Kassandra Clementi, debuted on 24 January 2013. Her casting was announced on 6 January 2013, with the character featured in the promotional material for the 2013 season. Clementi, experiencing homesickness for Australia, regarded joining Home and Away as an important opportunity.

Maddy is introduced as a teenage runaway who arrives in Summer Bay alongside Spencer Harrington (Andrew Morley). Her storyline aligns with the show's emphasis on themes of care and support. Clementi describes Maddy as vibrant and affectionate, possessing maturity beyond her sixteen years.

Spencer Harrington

Spencer Harrington, brought to life by Andrew Morley, made his first appearance on 24 January 2013. The character was unveiled through promotional content ahead of the 2013 season. On 1 March 2015, Morley revealed his decision to exit Home and Away after a two-year tenure to explore acting opportunities in the United States, with Spencer's final episode broadcast on 23 April 2015.

Spencer is depicted as a teenage runaway who arrives in Summer Bay alongside Maddy Osborne (Kassandra Clementi). Initially, they secretly reside at the local high school until Sasha Bezmel (Demi Harman) discovers them. Both conceal significant secrets and dread their parents' reactions. They eventually seek assistance from Roo Stewart (Georgie Parker) and Harvey Ryan (Marcus Graham). Spencer's brother, Chris (Johnny Ruffo), also comes to Summer Bay, intensifying their storyline. Their introduction was part of the show's enhanced emphasis on fostering story arcs.

Morley described Spencer as "authentic, self-assured, and highly charismatic," with an optimistic outlook that positively affects those around him. He is portrayed as loyal, romantic, and altruistic, always placing the welfare of loved ones first.

Upon arrival in Summer Bay, Spencer takes a job at the bait shop to repay a debt after admitting he cannot afford his meal. He informs Roo Stewart that his parents have passed away. After initial hesitation and health concerns regarding Maddy, they accept Roo's support and move into Summer Bay House. Following a short-lived runaway incident and encountering an injured Romeo Smith (Luke Mitchell), Spencer and Maddy decide to place their trust in Roo. It is later revealed that Spencer and Maddy are romantically involved rather than siblings. Chris's arrival complicates matters before Spencer and Maddy ultimately part ways.

Subsequently, Spencer begins a relationship with Sasha Bezmel, sparking jealousy in Maddy. Their romance advances rapidly, including becoming intimate within weeks. Chris returns with intentions toward Sasha's sister Indi Walker (Samara Weaving), creating further tension that places Spencer in difficult predicaments.

Rosie Prichard

Rosie Prichard, portrayed by Teri Haddy, first appeared on 30 January 2013. Cast shortly after relocating to Sydney in May 2012, Haddy was six years older than her sixteen-year-old character. Rosie is described as "kind-hearted but socially awkward" and somewhat isolated. Though she had always lived in Summer Bay, she had not been seen on-screen prior to her introduction. She admires Sasha Bezmel and becomes her friend after being invited to a party by Sasha. Rosie is eager to meet Sasha's ex-boyfriend Casey Braxton, whom she holds in high regard.

In April, Rosie experiences sexual assault at the hands of fellow student Alexander Mullens. Initially confused due to their previous closeness, she eventually reports the incident to the police with support from Sasha and Roo Stewart. Haddy conducted research on teenage survivors of sexual assault to portray the storyline with sensitivity, aiming to encourage young women to assert their personal boundaries.

Rosie develops a friendship with Sasha through a science project despite initially being frightened when she falls into the sea at a pier incident and is rescued by Sasha. Rosie conceals family difficulties—her mother left during her childhood and her father splits his time between her and another family—resulting in her living alone. She pays Tilda Hogan to pretend to be her sister; however, Sasha uncovers this deception. Jealousy emerges when Sasha befriends Maddy Osborne, leading Rosie into danger by entering the sea; both are saved by Casey and John Palmer.

After drifting apart from Sasha, Rosie forms new friendships among other students and kisses Alexander Mullens, who later boasts about taking advantage of her. Following the assault, Rosie initially blames herself but gains encouragement from friends and attends Zac MacGuire’s self-defence classes. She discovers Bella Lugrano was also assaulted by Mullens; together they report him to authorities. Lachlan Stone, an associate of Mullens, stalks Rosie but ultimately cooperates with law enforcement by providing evidence against Mullens, resulting in his arrest.

While employed at the Diner, Rosie learns she is pregnant and temporarily leaves school due to safety concerns but soon returns. Facing bullying from Holly Chapman concerning her pregnancy and relationship with Zac, Rosie decides to keep the child. Eventually, she departs Summer Bay to live in the city with her father.

Chris Harrington

Chris Harrington, brought to life by Johnny Ruffo, made his first appearance on 1 April 2013. His casting was revealed on 19 October 2012. Transitioning from a music career to acting, Ruffo earned the role after several auditions and moved from Perth to Sydney for production. Initially signed for approximately sixteen episodes beginning in September, his contract was subsequently extended. Ruffo conveyed his excitement about joining Home and Away and commended the friendly atmosphere among the cast and crew. Chris is the elder sibling of Spencer Harrington (Andrew Morley) and arrives in Summer Bay with the intention of encouraging Spencer to reconnect with their family.

Ricky Sharpe

Erica "Ricky" Sharpe, portrayed by Bonnie Sveen, debuted on 2 April 2013. Sveen had a brief role in 2010 prior to securing this ongoing character. She expressed enthusiasm about joining Home and Away, motivated partly by personal family connections. Ricky is the younger sister of Adam Sharpe (Martin Lynes). Her introduction occurred at Heath Braxton's (Dan Ewing) engagement celebration, where she became romantically linked to his brother Brax (Stephen Peacocke), an old acquaintance. In 2014, Sveen received the Most Popular New Talent Logie Award for her portrayal.

Josh Barrett

Joshua "Josh" Barrett, played by Jackson Gallagher, made his debut on 27 August 2013. Gallagher's casting was announced in August 2013. He shared that working alongside veteran actor Ray Meagher (Alf Stewart) was an awe-inspiring experience. Josh and his brother Andy (Tai Hara) were introduced through a series of webisodes that delved into their backstory. Gallagher exited the show in 2016 after his character admitted to shooting Charlotte King (Erika Heynatz).

Andy Barrett

Andrew "Andy" Barrett, enacted by Tai Hara, first appeared on 28 August 2013. His casting was publicized by The Daily Telegraph on 3 August 2013. Hara described joining Home and Away as an honor. Andy was introduced alongside his younger brother Josh (Jackson Gallagher) via online webisodes that explored their histories. The Barrett brothers initially found themselves at odds with the Braxton siblings, with Hara highlighting a complicated past and hidden secrets between the families.

Hannah Wilson

Hannah Wilson, portrayed by Cassie Howarth, debuted on 29 August 2013. Announced in late August 2013, Hannah is depicted as a "free spirit" with strength and determination. Howarth remarked on Hannah’s intense loyalty to her family alongside a fear of isolation. Hannah comes to Summer Bay seeking assistance from Zac MacGuire (Charlie Clausen) to help rescue their niece and nephew from a cult led by Zac’s brother, Ethan (Matt Minto). Howarth described this narrative as "hard-hitting," emphasizing the difficulties involved in becoming part of the Bay community.

Ethan MacGuire

Ethan MacGuire, played by Matt Minto, was featured from 2 September 2013 until 27 January 2014. Minto secured the role after initially auditioning for a different character and began filming in April 2013. Ethan is the long-separated brother of Zac MacGuire and father to twins Evelyn and Oscar, whom he relocated to a camp that was actually a cult disguised as a spiritual retreat. Although he welcomed Zac warmly, Ethan exhibited controlling behavior and resisted outside interference.

Following the passing of his wife, Ethan moved his children to Murray Granger's camp, which was later revealed to be a cult. His sister-in-law Hannah attempted to extricate the twins from this environment, enlisting Zac’s assistance. Despite their efforts, Ethan proved difficult to confront and obtained an AVO against Zac. Ultimately, Zac and the Braxton brothers intervened and rescued the twins. After Murray's arrest, Ethan took over leadership of the cult.

At a music festival, Ethan intensified conflicts by abducting Oscar, Evelyn, and Kyle Braxton, imprisoning them inside a shipping container. A bomb explosion left Ethan severely wounded, and despite Hannah’s attempts to save him, he succumbed to cardiac arrest.

Evelyn MacGuire

Evelyn "Evie" MacGuire, portrayed by Philippa Northeast, made her debut on 3 September 2013. Announced in August 2013, Evelyn is the niece of established character Zac MacGuire (Charlie Clausen) and twin sister to Oscar MacGuire (Jake Speer). Their introduction occurred when Zac visited them upon discovering their father Ethan (Matt Minto) had involved them in a cult. Unlike her brother, Evelyn adapted positively to life at the camp. Northeast described her as someone who deeply values family, shaped by early personal loss and her father's difficulties, which strengthened her connection with Oscar. She characterized Evelyn as kind-hearted with a witty sense of humor and confident in expressing her views.

Oscar MacGuire

Oscar MacGuire, enacted by Jake Speer, first appeared on 3 September 2013. His casting was revealed in August 2013. Speer successfully auditioned earlier that year and expressed enthusiasm about joining the series. Oscar is Zac MacGuire's nephew and twin brother to Evelyn. Introduced alongside their father Ethan within a cult-related storyline, Oscar struggled with his father's decision to move them into the cult's camp and faced challenges maintaining his own identity.

Nate Cooper

Nathaniel "Nate" Cooper, portrayed by Kyle Pryor, arrived on screen on 26 September 2013. His casting was announced on 8 September 2013. Pryor initially auditioned for another part but was later selected for Nate after producers showed interest. Filming commenced several months prior to the announcement. Nate is introduced as a doctor joining Northern Districts Hospital with ambitions to progress toward specialization and further career development.

Jade Montgomery

Jade Montgomery, played by Tasma Walton, first appeared on 16 October 2013. Walton's casting announcement came on 27 July 2013, marking her return to Home and Away after previously portraying Rachel Watson in 1995. Walton joined the cast around the time of a film premiere at the Sydney Film Festival and filmed scenes over more than two months before departing on 29 January 2014.

Jade Montgomery arrives as the principal of Mangrove River High School. After an arson attack devastates her school, she comes to Summer Bay aiming to negotiate a merger with Summer Bay High. Dissatisfied that Bianca Scott (Lisa Gormley) remains head during this process, Montgomery questions Bianca’s leadership capabilities and openly criticizes Bianca’s husband, Heath Braxton (Dan Ewing), who was once her student. She also shows prejudice toward Mangrove River students such as Matt Page (Alec Snow), leading Bianca to reprimand her.

In retaliation, Montgomery vandalizes Bianca’s office door and falsely accuses Page of the offense. Suspected of various misdeeds at the school, she is suspended after colleagues collect evidence against her. Seeking vengeance, Montgomery plants an explosive device in Bianca's laptop bag that detonates at Northern Districts Hospital, resulting in the death of Ethan Macguire (Matt Minto). Upon realizing the gravity of her actions, Montgomery panics; Heath identifies her as responsible, culminating in her arrest.

Matt Page

Matthew "Matt" Page, brought to life by Alec Snow, made his first appearance on 21 October 2013. Snow earned the part following an audition earlier that year and initially signed on for a three-month period, which eventually extended to three years. He characterized Matt as a "troubled youth" struggling to find his place, whose arrival ignites tension within the Bay. Snow expressed his honor in joining the celebrated series, highlighting the privilege of being part of Home and Away.

Phoebe Nicholson

Phoebe Nicholson, portrayed by Isabella Giovinazzo, was introduced on 26 November 2013. After moving to Sydney mid-2013, Giovinazzo secured her debut acting role through an audition for Phoebe. The character is depicted as a lively, talented singer-songwriter from Melbourne who reconnects with her former boyfriend Kyle Braxton while he organizes a music festival in Summer Bay. Giovinazzo emphasized Phoebe’s eccentric personality and the creative scope offered by the role.

Others

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Role Details
5 February	Gavin Wheeler	Ande Cunningham	Gavin, a social worker, visits Heath Braxton and Bianca Scott concerning custody arrangements for Heath's daughter Darcy Callahan, evaluating their application and reporting findings to his superiors. (Credited as Gavin MacIntosh but referred to as Gavin Wheeler.)
8 February–29 July 2014	Connie Callahan	Celia Ireland	Connie, Darcy's grandmother, secures full custody through the Department of Community Services before permitting Darcy to live with Heath and Bianca after witnessing Heath’s dedication.
12 February	Eugene Broad	Sonny Vrobao	Eugene, involved in drug dealing, attempts a transaction with Darryl Braxton but flees when a gunman arrives; nearly causes harm to Brax with his vehicle before Adam Sharpe intervenes.
13–15 February	Nelson Gregory	Anthony Gee	Nelson, Tamara Kingsley's former partner, searches for her; Kyle Braxton incapacitates him and Tamara implicates him in her brother’s death leading to his arrest.
13–21 February	Dr Padley	Nicholas Brown	Dr Padley provides support to Sid Walker during a suspected mental health crisis; Sid subsequently chooses to leave treatment voluntarily.
15 February–6 October 2014	Nina Bailey	Emmy Dougall	Nina engages in a relationship with Jett James; they separate due to trust issues but briefly reconcile before parting again because of distance and familial pressures.
15 February–15 March	Tilda Hogan	Gigi Perry	Tilda acts as a school bully towards Jett James; supported by peers, Jett ultimately confronts her.
15 February	Olivia Fraser	Tiahn Green	Olivia attends the Summer Bay disco where Jett James struggles to remember her name.
18–19 February, 16 April 2015 – 31 May 2016	Tanya Osborne	Kathryn Hartman	Tanya is Maddy Osborne's mother who fights for custody amid health challenges and later initiates legal action against Roo Stewart but reconciles during Maddy's farewell.
22–25 February	Sheldon Atkinson	Laurence Coy	Sheldon confronts Celia Stewart over gambling problems; despite mutual agreement to seek help, he departs Summer Bay alone.
28 February–1 March	Ian Harrington	Matt Dale	Ian reveals himself as Spencer Harrington's father and demands custody; Spencer refuses and later assists Ian after an accident.
13 March	Weight Lifter	Paul Davies	Gym patrons receiving training from Heath Braxton on his initial day at work.
	Treadmill Guy	Rob Harys
14 March	Aron Dawkin	Nicholas Cooper	Aron delivers a lecture to Dexter Walker at university stressing the necessity of preparation.
14 March	Maureen Hogan	Melanie De Ferranti	Maureen, mother of Tilda Hogan, denies allegations of her daughter's bullying despite evidence presented by school officials.
21 March	Brett Smith	Oliver Edwin	A university peer of April Scott who mistakenly interprets a study session as a date.
21 March	Robin Sutton	Phillipe Klaus	Counsellor who meets with Heath Braxton and Bianca Scott; Heath initially resists but eventually returns for further sessions.
25 March–25 April	Steph Green	Zara Michales	Nurse Steph befriends Dexter Walker; they start dating but she is dismissed for falsifying patient records and retaliates by exposing workplace misconduct.
25 March	Jake Twomey	Laurence Brewer	University lecturer impressed by April Scott’s insights into doctor-patient communication; they share lunch afterward.
25 March	Mr Andrews	Colin Huxley	Hospital patient whose medical condition alerts Dexter Walker to Steph Green’s unethical behavior.
26 March–25 April

External links

• Cast and characters on the Official Australian Home and Away site
• Cast and characters on the Official UK Home and Away platform
• Full cast list at the Internet Movie Database
• Spencer Harrington profile on the Official Australian Home and Away site