Cooper Knights

Neighbours

Company type	Television series
Industry	Television, Entertainment
Founded	March 18, 1985 (1985-03-18)
Headquarters	Australia
Area served	Australia

Neighbours is an Australian soap opera that premiered on 18 March 1985 and currently broadcasts on the digital channel Eleven. The characters introduced in 2016, all brought in under the guidance of executive producer Jason Herbison, are outlined below. The show's 32nd season commenced on 4 January 2016. January saw the arrival of Julie Quill and Xanthe Canning, with Jacka Hills joining in March. April introduced Jack Callahan, Ned Willis, and Madison Robinson; May featured Angus Beaumont-Hannay, Walter Mitchell, and Mandy Franze. In August, James Udagawa was added to the cast, followed by the siblings David and Leo Tanaka in September, who appeared alongside Brooke Butler, Xanthe’s mother.

Julie Quill

Julie Quill, played by Gail Easdale, made her debut on 12 January 2016. Easdale secured the role after auditioning in 2015 and returned to acting following a hiatus. She is married to Stefan Dennis, known for portraying Paul Robinson. Julie was introduced as the new proprietor of Lassiter's Hotel and established as a rival to Paul. Easdale characterized Julie as a resilient businesswoman with a compassionate aspect, having thrived in an industry dominated by men. It is later disclosed that Julie was responsible for the Lassiters Hotel explosion that resulted in fatalities; she exited the series in June 2016. Easdale reprised her role on 8 September 2021 when Terese Willis visits Julie in prison seeking closure regarding her son’s death. This comeback followed the earlier introduction of her son Jesse Porter (Cameron Robbie) that same year. Easdale commented that Julie had developed remorse since her previous appearance.

Julie arrives to evaluate Lassiter's Hotel after its acquisition by the Quill Group. She harbors resentment toward Paul Robinson due to a past romantic relationship. Initially declining to employ Paul’s nephew Daniel Robinson, she later offers him a position upon discovering his estrangement from Paul. Julie engages in discussions with Terese Willis about the challenges women face in hospitality and asserts her accountability for hotel management. She proposes constructing a second hotel tower within the Lassiter’s precinct and clashes with Paul over hosting the Erinsborough Citizen of the Year event. Although Julie secures the venue for the launch party, complications arise when catering leads to food poisoning, forcing relocation of the event to Robinson’s Motel.

During a meeting with her stepson Tom Quill regarding the tower project, Julie learns he has withdrawn objections but subsequently disowns him after uncovering his falsification of an environmental report. Following an explosion in the boiler room that devastates Lassiter's Hotel and causes multiple deaths—including Josh Willis and Doug Willis—Julie moves into Terese’s home and appoints Sarah Beaumont as hotel manager during Terese’s absence. She accuses Paul of instigating the explosion; when Tom reappears alive, she becomes enraged by Aaron Brennan’s deception involving Tom.

Upon discovering Terese paid for a false alibi implicating Paul, Julie terminates her employment. At Lassiter's reopening, Mark Brennan arrests Julie based on recovered memories suggesting her involvement with Jacka Hills in orchestrating the explosion. Though she apologizes to Terese’s family, they reject her remorse. Ultimately sentenced to ten years imprisonment, Julie's son Jesse Porter later arrives at Lassiters intent on rehabilitating the Quill Group’s standing.

Xanthe Canning

Xanthe Canning, brought to life by Lilly Van der Meer, made her first appearance on 22 January 2016. Her casting was revealed on 30 November 2015. Colette Mann, who portrays Sheila Canning, mentioned that Xanthe’s introduction would spark a major narrative development for the family. Mann commended Van der Meer's swift assimilation into the ensemble, emphasizing how naturally she fit into the Canning family dynamic. Xanthe is Sheila’s granddaughter, the half-sister of Kyle Canning, and daughter to Gary Canning. Van der Meer characterized Xanthe as someone destined to inject "chaos, excitement, and mischief" into Ramsay Street, suggesting she would become a pivotal figure in upcoming storylines.

Jacka Hills

Jackson Derek "Jacka" Hills, enacted by Brad McMurray, debuted on 7 March 2016 as a longtime acquaintance of Stephanie Scully. Presented as the series’ "latest antagonist," Jacka played a central role in numerous conflict-laden plots. McMurray relished portraying Jacka’s rebellious nature and hinted at unexpected twists ahead. Following his initial guest appearance, Jacka returned in September 2016 with a storyline involving suspicions around his wife Regan Davis's fidelity, recruiting Steph to investigate.

Jacka’s plotline encompassed criminal acts such as vandalism and participation in the Lassiter's Hotel bombing, which was part of an insurance fraud scheme masterminded by hotel owner Julie Quill. While Jacka carried out the explosion, he was denied payment after fatalities were uncovered and subsequently apprehended.

In 2022, script producer Shane Isheev revealed intentions to bring Jacka back in a prison escape storyline alongside David Tanaka, but these plans were scrapped due to Neighbours concluding. Isheev referred to Jacka as one of the show's "most memorable villains."

Throughout his tenure, Jacka’s interactions involved escalating conflicts: he sabotaged Paul Robinson’s enterprises through theft and destruction; maintained connections with biker gangs; and sought revenge against Ned Willis following Ned’s early release from prison to care for his terminally ill mother. Using a false identity, Jacka manipulated Elly Conway before unveiling his true self. His vendetta culminated in tampering with a hot-air balloon that caused Regan’s death and led to his own arrest and an eighteen-year prison sentence.

Jack Callahan

Jack Callahan (also known as John Doe), portrayed by Andrew Morley, first appeared on 4 April 2016. Morley’s casting was announced on 30 January 2016 after he auditioned while engaged in charity work in Cambodia. Filming began in December 2015. Initially introduced as a man with "an enigmatic past" and no connections to Erinsborough, the character—initially called John Doe—forms a friendship with Paige Smith (Olympia Valance). It is eventually disclosed that his true identity is Jack Callahan and that he serves as a Catholic priest. Jack decides to stay in Erinsborough but faces internal conflict between his devotion to Paige and his religious vows.

Ned Willis

Ned Willis, portrayed by Ben Hall, made his debut on 6 April 2016. His casting was revealed on 11 March 2016, with the character having been mentioned off-screen for several years previously. After an initial guest stint, Ned returned on 10 August and was later reintroduced as a regular cast member on 20 June 2018. Ned is the son of Brad Willis (Kip Gamblin) and Beth Brennan (Natalie Imbruglia), marking the first time Brad’s children have appeared together on-screen. Before arriving in Erinsborough, Ned lived with his grandparents in Darwin and works professionally as a tattoo artist—a profession that brings an element of "mischief." Hall describes Ned as "multi-layered" and "calculating," with storylines that delve into his troubled background.

Madison Robinson

Madison Robinson, portrayed by Sarah Ellen, made her debut on 22 April 2016. Ellen’s casting was revealed in February 2016, though Madison had been mentioned off-screen since her birth year of 1995. Series producer Jason Herbison indicated the character might develop into a longer-term presence. Madison's storyline continued from June to September 2016, with scenes shot on the Gold Coast. In addition, Ellen reprised the role through flashbacks in 2019.

As the younger daughter of the well-known Neighbours couple Scott and Charlene Robinson, Madison arrives in Erinsborough to check on her brother Daniel at their parents’ request. To prepare for the role, Ellen studied her on-screen parents and observed that Madison inherited Charlene’s spirited and adventurous nature. Professionally, Madison is an aspiring journalist and is portrayed as a fashionable teenager, according to media descriptions. After finishing her guest stint, Ellen sought roles in Hollywood and praised Neighbours for providing excellent acting experience.

Upon arriving at Number 24 Ramsay Street, Madison reconnects with Daniel and discovers his secret wedding plans with Imogen Willis. She supports their marriage, which eventually takes place surrounded by family. Opting to remain in Erinsborough, Madison offers assistance to her uncle Paul Robinson when he faces allegations tied to a hotel explosion. She encourages Paul to persist with his investigation before returning to Brisbane.

After Paul's imprisonment and release, he orchestrates events to secure Madison a cadet journalist role at the West Waratah Star. This opportunity prompts Madison to move to Erinsborough, abandoning her university ambitions and boyfriend. When she uncovers Paul’s unethical practice of altering her articles into personal attacks, she distances herself and moves in with Terese Willis. Following her dismissal from the newspaper for refusing to write a contentious piece about her cousin Amy Williams, Terese employs Madison as her assistant. Madison plays a significant role in motivating Terese’s campaign to acquire Lassiter's and travels to New York alongside her aunt Lucy Robinson to finalize related documents.

Madison also pursues singing prospects; she fills in for a performer who is unable to appear at The Waterhole and later auditions for a residency at Lassiter's Gold Coast. A misunderstanding leads Sheila Canning to terminate her employment, but this is resolved once it becomes clear she was collaborating musically with Ben Kirk. While at SeaWorld, Madison reconnects with ex-boyfriend Logan Dunne, who confesses he still harbors feelings for her. Despite impressing judges during the audition and receiving a job offer, Madison intends to move to California with Logan—who ultimately decides to remain on the Gold Coast alongside her.

Angus Beaumont-Hannay

Angus Beaumont-Hannay, portrayed by Jai Waetford, first appeared on 2 May 2016. Waetford’s casting was announced on 10 February 2016; his character was initially described as the "rebellious" son of a divisive figure in Erinsborough. It was later disclosed that Angus is the son of Sarah Beaumont (Nicola Charles). Series producer Jason Herbison remarked that Waetford would enjoy playing someone who challenges limits. Following his initial guest role, Waetford returned to film scenes with the cast on the Gold Coast.

Angus arrives in Australia after being expelled from boarding school, anticipating a holiday with his mother Sarah; instead, she leaves him in the care of friends Karl Kennedy and Susan Kennedy in Erinsborough. He quickly clashes with Ben Kirk over accusations involving stolen money, resulting in several disputes. Angus triggers a fire alarm so Xanthe Canning can avoid an exam and later purchases concert tickets for her; they briefly date before ending their relationship. He admits responsibility for setting off the fire alarm when speaking with Susan.

Angus also sprays graffiti at school without facing punishment, which heightens tensions with Ben. He questions Karl about his paternity but is reassured he is not Karl’s son. When Xanthe and Ben owe money to Tom Quill, Angus assists by forming a busking group with them. Upon learning about Sarah’s cancer diagnosis, Angus absconds with their busking earnings but is found and convinced to return. Sarah invites him to accompany her to Germany for treatment; after consideration, Angus agrees and departs.

Several weeks later on the Gold Coast, Angus reunites with Ben and Xanthe and substitutes for Madison Robinson during a singing audition. When Susan invites him back to Erinsborough, he enrolls in music school after leaving Erinsborough High. He develops feelings for Elly Conway but is rejected; subsequently, he loses his virginity to Piper Willis. Angus attempts to obtain a tattoo using stolen ink but is prevented due to contamination risks.

At a Halloween dance event, Angus performs a song for Elly and later kisses her while she sleeps, raising Susan’s concerns. After being cautioned by Leo Tanaka to cease pursuing Elly, Angus contemplates quitting school but ultimately remains for music studies. Following an incident where he is drugged at school, he drunkenly calls Elly who assists him home. An independent record label expresses interest in his music video; however, tensions escalate when Elly plans to meet an ex-boyfriend and Angus’s attempt to intervene fails.

Angus kisses an intoxicated Elly, prompting Susan to report him to authorities. Although both initially deny any misconduct, Elly later recalls the event and informs Susan. Angus faces police questioning and assault allegations but offers a sincere apology. Elly decides against pressing charges, and Angus’s father takes him to Sydney as he pursues his music career.

Walter Mitchell

Walter Mitchell, played by Greg Stone, made his first appearance on 13 May 2016 as the estranged uncle of Sonya Rebecchi. Initially introduced with a concealed link to Sonya's history, it is eventually unveiled that he is her biological father. Walter also has a daughter named Zoe, who is battling leukaemia and requires a bone marrow transplant, leading Sonya to undergo testing as a potential donor.

Upon arriving in Erinsborough, Walter claims to be sober but initially misappropriates funds meant for rehabilitation. He takes up residence at Stephanie Scully's motel and briefly becomes romantically involved with Terese Willis. Sonya approaches Walter with caution, particularly after uncovering his connection to the night her parents died in a car accident and learning about his secret paternity.

Following a confrontation, Sonya supports Walter's journey toward sobriety and invites him to live with her. Walter reveals Zoe's medical condition and requests Sonya’s participation in donor testing; when she is not compatible, they consider Sonya’s daughter Nell as an alternative. Controversy arises when Walter takes Nell to the hospital without permission but he later expresses remorse. When Sonya’s son Callum proves to be a suitable match, Walter and Zoe depart for treatment in the United States.

In 2018, after Zoe experiences a cancer relapse and Walter struggles with maintaining sobriety, Sonya travels to the US to assist him as he recommits to Alcoholics Anonymous.

Daniel Kilkelly from Digital Spy described Walter as a "troubled relative," while All About Soap labeled him "cunning."

Mandy Franze

Mandy Franze, portrayed by Kristy Best, first appeared on 26 May 2016. She was introduced as the "mysterious" former girlfriend of Andrew Morley's character John Doe and acts as a romantic rival to Paige Smith. Mandy asserts that she is John's girlfriend, revealing that his real name is Jason Jones and that they cohabit. She explains that she recently returned from traveling and sought him out. Despite Paige's doubts, John interacts with Mandy and they share a kiss. However, Mandy’s story falls apart when she offers John his supposed favorite Hawaiian pizza, which conflicts with his allergy to pineapple. Before leaving, Mandy admits she met John on the day of the Lassiter's explosion but that he kept details about himself private.

James Udagawa

James Udagawa, played by Samuel David Humphrey, debuted on 3 August 2016. Humphrey, who has acrodysostosis, was cast after being considered for an extra role following his feature in a documentary about young individuals with physical disabilities. James is portrayed as an intelligent "corporate whizz kid" brought in to assist in rescuing Lassiter's Hotel from financial difficulties and managing Terese Willis.

When James arrives, Terese initially mistakes him for a child due to his height but soon discovers he represents his family’s investment in the hotel. He conducts thorough reviews of financial records, supplier agreements, and forecasts to evaluate the business operations. James oversees The Waterhole’s quarterly performance review and addresses concerns about hidden cameras found in hotel rooms, which are later clarified as part of a school media project. He supervises hotel events such as the Lassiter's pigeon race and challenges Terese over stagnant revenue figures, urging her to develop improvement strategies.

James shares with Terese the internal family corporate struggles: his sister Jasmine is attempting to seize control of their family company following their grandfather’s death. Jasmine manipulates their grandfather into relocating James, prompting him to caution Terese about being wary of Jasmine.

David Tanaka

David Tanaka, brought to life by Takaya Honda, made his first appearance on 21 September 2016. His casting was announced on 22 August 2016, alongside Tim Kano, who plays his twin brother Leo Tanaka. Honda expressed gratitude for joining the cast, emphasizing the chance to work with seasoned Australian actors. David is depicted as a doctor with strong social awareness who arrives in Erinsborough with Leo to uncover a "family mystery."

Leo Tanaka

Leo Tanaka, portrayed by Tim Kano, debuted on 22 September 2016. His casting was revealed simultaneously with Honda's. Kano described Leo as a lively, mischievous opportunist possessing a kind heart and great respect for his sibling David, a doctor. The twins come to Erinsborough in search of answers about their family background.

Brooke Butler

Brooke Butler, enacted by Fifi Box, first appeared on 28 September 2016. Her casting was announced on 18 July 2016, soon after her audition. Box conveyed enthusiasm about joining one of Australia's leading television dramas. Executive producer Jason Herbison highlighted her "Gold Coast chic" charm. Brooke is the estranged mother of Xanthe Canning and former partner of Gary Canning. She is portrayed as opportunistic and flighty, often relying on her appearance.

Brooke arrives in Erinsborough with the intention of reconnecting with Xanthe and rebuilding relationships with Gary and his family. She runs a jewellery enterprise but encounters suspicion and financial difficulties due to counterfeit products sourced from Mack Sweetin. Brooke manipulates relatives to conceal her debts, leading to conflicts including Sheila’s brief hospitalization caused by contaminated food.

Despite efforts to reconcile with Gary, Brooke’s financial problems worsen. After settling debts with an ex-boyfriend and confessing to the counterfeit jewellery scheme, she leaves town but later returns seeking employment. Sheila undermines her chances at a hospital job; however, Brooke secures a three-month trial managing Lassiter's Day Spa with Terese’s assistance and is arranged a date with Paul Robinson.

Brooke and Gary plan for her to meet her daughter Jesse during a stopover in Melbourne. Misunderstandings occur when Terese suspects Gary of being unfaithful. Ultimately, Brooke departs for Malaysia to reunite with Jesse after Sheila offers financial support for the trip.

Others

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External links

• Cast and characters on the official Neighbours site
• Cast and characters at the Internet Movie Database

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Role Description
4 January	Dr Lee	Marty Rhone	Performs spinal surgery on Toadfish Rebecchi to extract a bullet; procedure complicated by interruptions from Toadie's wife Sonya.
5–15 January	Warren Stacks	Michael Shanahan	Takes Paige Smith hostage by mistake instead of Michelle Kim; after Paige escapes, Warren hits her with his car and faces consequences from Dennis Dimato.
7 January	Rochelle Neve	Carmen Warrington	Wife of Stanley Neve who had an affair with Lou Carpenter; visits Erinsborough seeking continuation but is rejected.
15 January	Carla Watson	Gemma Bird Matheson	Issues fine and impounds Kyle and Sheila Canning's dog Bossy following report of dog biting a child.
21 January–16 March, 30 May–6 June 2018	Philippa Hoyland	Wendy Bos	Max Hoyland's third wife; involved in custody dispute over son Charlie Hoyland with Stephanie Scully including adoption attempts and mediation; later agrees on visitation and relocation arrangements.
27 January	Amanda Tucker	Jennifer Rose	Beautician at Lassiter's offering manicure services to Karl Kennedy.
2 February	Nigel Deme	Adam Dunning	Council official responsible for removing love locks from Lassiter's Lake bridge; subsequently closes bridge for safety reasons.
10 February	Lina Vella	Antonia Vekic	Campaign manager for Tim Collins during mayoral race; confronts rival Sonya Mitchell over personal matters.
15 February	Amanda Fowke	Hannah Cliff	Conducts survey work for Quill Group; requests access to Rebecchi Law offices regarding valuable stored items.
	Delivery Guy	Russell Leonard	Delivers boxes to Lassiter's Hotel as part of Quill Group operations.
17 February	Trevor Lucas	David Rock	Health inspector evaluating Erins Burrow motel amid bedbug fumigation concerns.
18 February	Richard Pentecost	Akira Bradley	Journalist attending public Q&A session between mayoral candidates Sonya Rebecchi and Tim Collins.
19 February–3 March, 28 February 2017	Noel Creighton	Kristian Beddow	Gender studies lecturer at Eden Hills University; interacts with students Paige Smith and Imogen Willis regarding academic and personal growth.
22–24 February	Ainsley Gilzan	Emma Lucy Haughey	Purchases exam paper that leads to cheating scandal at Erinsborough High; involved in social events disrupted by authorities.
25 February–21 March	Aurora Green	Chloe Ng	Environmental activist participating in protests; engages in community discussions and personal interactions with Daniel Robinson.
26 February–11 March	Cameron McPhee	Alexander Adams	Employee responsible for damaging plants on behalf of Paul Robinson; later joins Brad Willis's outreach program.
1 March	Michael Arnold	Des Fleming	Mediator in adoption dispute between Stephanie Scully and Philippa Hoyland; discusses prior professional connections before sessions.
	Nursery Staff	Melissa Hill	Contacted by Paul Robinson concerning location of his grandson Jimmy Williams at garden nursery.
3 March	Bernice Ashton	Rain Fuller	Evaluates need for temporary care of Xanthe Canning following family health issues.
4 March	Juliet Worth	Lana Schwarcz	DHS caseworker managing Xanthe Canning's living arrangements during family hospitalisation; negotiates custody matters with Kyle Canning and Sheila Canning.
9 March–22 July 2016, 31 May–28 June 2017	Tom Quill	Kane Felsinger	Development manager for Quill Group overseeing environmental report manipulation related to Lassiter's tower approval; involved in blackmail, legal challenges, management changes after explosion; returns to manage Paul's settlement.
11 March–25 May	Brodie Chaswick	Matt Testro	Former swimming student under Brad Willis; involved in personal conflicts within Willis family; departs town following failed attempts to control Piper Willis.
24 March–2 August	Archie Quill	Harrison Mark	Son of Julie Quill; involved in family disputes, school conflicts, juvenile misconduct affecting other characters.
14 April	Alex Jones	Jana Wilkes	Reveals true identity to Paige Smith as Alex Jones, clarifying mistaken identity involving John Doe.
5 May	Jackie Gore	Ana Mitsikas	Participates in mediation following altercation involving daughter Alison Gore and Sheila Canning; legal action threatened.
6 May	Steven Aniston	Garikai Jani	Contacts Paige Smith regarding John Doe's whereabouts prior to Lassiter's Hotel explosion.
11 May	Sharn Hauser	Juliette Salmon	Confronts Ben Kirk about past legal issues involving Jayden Warley.
11 May–2 November, 8 March 2017	Dustin Oliver	Kevin Clayette	Engages with John Doe/Father Jack Callahan and Paige Smith through youth outreach programs; involved in relationship dynamics and personal challenges.
17 May	Detective Chris Santini	Joel Pierce	Investigates Paul Robinson concerning allegations related to orchestrating Lassiter's Hotel explosion; witness testimony kept confidential.
30 May	Shandi Bouchard	Krystal Lencova	Receptionist at Rush Street Clinic facilitating breast enlargement appointments.
	Tess Land	Clare Pickering	Plastic surgeon preparing for Xanthe Canning’s surgery until operation is cancelled due to family intervention.
6–7 June	Karen Harding	Wallis Murphy Munn	Prosecutor in Paul Robinson’s trial regarding Lassiter’s Hotel explosion; manages witness testimonies.
6 June	Tipstave Alma Aboud	Arisha Bordbar	Oversees courtroom proceedings during Paul Robinson trial.
	Tipstave Roger Corr	Stanley Roach	Escorts witnesses Stephanie Scully and Terese Willis during trial testimony.
7 June	Tipstave Sam Wise	James Ballard	Manages courtroom protocol during jury verdict announcement in Paul Robinson trial.
	Foreman George Poulos	Andrew Pantelis	Jury foreman delivering guilty verdict against Paul Robinson.
9–13 June	Megan Cooper	Joanne Dobbin	Associated with Braun & Bell Technologies; denies prior knowledge of John Doe/Father Jack Callahan despite shared history.
10 June	Graeme Lewis   | James Romeril   - Representative from Braun & Bell Technologies providing information about Megan Cooper’s employment status.