Curtis Perkins

Curtis Perkins
Occupation(s)	Mathematics and physics educator
Years active	2021–present
Known for	Character on Australian television series

Curtis Perkins

Curtis Perkins, brought to life by Nathan Borg, made his first appearance on 28 January 2021. Borg’s casting was notable as he became the first actor with a cochlear implant to feature on Australian television. Curtis is introduced as a newly certified mathematics and physics educator at Erinsborough High, a character developed under the guidance of executive producer Jason Herbison. His portrayal emphasizes independence and is not centered on his hearing impairment, reflecting a deliberate effort to promote inclusivity.

Originally signed on for an eight-week stint, Borg’s engagement was extended in response to favorable audience feedback. Curtis's narrative arcs include mentoring students facing difficulties such as Hendrix Greyson and Brent Colefax, launching a vocational initiative designed to involve them actively, and navigating the complexities of school dynamics alongside colleagues like Susan Kennedy and Jane Harris. Additionally, Curtis embarks on a romantic storyline with Jesse Porter, enriching his character depth and viewer connection.

From a business perspective, Curtis embodies diversity in both casting choices and storytelling approach, aligning with current industry movements toward broader representation. His presence reinforces Erinsborough High’s focus on educational themes while addressing societal issues pertinent to the show's target audience.

Significant plot developments feature Curtis confronting challenges linked to his cochlear implant following an assault, championing alternative pathways—such as opportunities within the Australian Defence Force—to divert at-risk students from incarceration, and managing behavioral issues among pupils including Zara Selwyn. His participation in community activities and support for homeschooling efforts further solidify his role within the program’s educational and social discourse.

Jesse Porter

Jesse Porter, portrayed by Cameron Robbie, was introduced on 19 March 2021. Robbie, sibling to actress Margot Robbie, secured this role through an audition process and began filming toward the end of 2020. Jesse enters the storyline as a lifeguard taking on a seasonal position at Lassiter's Hotel while exploring his professional direction. Originating from an affluent family, he is eager to escape familial expectations. Robbie characterized Jesse as "fun-loving" with a compelling narrative featuring unexpected developments.

Approximately four months after his introduction, it is unveiled that Jesse has ties to the Quill family—the proprietors of a competing hotel chain—and has been secretly aiding them against Lassiters. Robbie described this gradual revelation as crucial character evolution, highlighting Jesse’s internal struggle and the pressure to satisfy others despite feeling uncertain about his own path.

Within Lassiters, Jesse serves as both bartender and ceremonial lifeguard at The Flamingo Bar near Lassiter's Lake, collaborating with colleagues like Roxy Willis and Sheila Canning on promotional campaigns. He supports Roxy’s candidacy for bar manager and contributes to organizing recreational activities such as volleyball tournaments and participates in events including the Longest Workout competition. Professionally, Jesse establishes rapport with Harlow Robinson, encouraging her acceptance of an executive assistant position aimed at advancing environmental initiatives.

Jesse forms a close bond with Curtis Perkins, which leads to their plan to stage a faux relationship with Harlow intended to deter Paul Robinson’s interference in her private affairs. Concurrently, Jesse covertly supplies information to Shay Quill of the Quill Group concerning Lassiters’ operations under familial pressure. Despite internal conflict regarding this espionage role, he continues delivering intelligence on strategic moves like film festival contracts and property acquisitions designed to weaken Quill hotels.

After Terese Willis uncovers Jesse’s true background and intentions, she terminates his employment but later offers assistance during his personal challenges. Although Terese initially withdraws her investment from the hotel, she subsequently hires Jesse at Lassiters and assumes a mentorship role. Jesse helps manage staff strikes and workplace disputes while developing a closer relationship with Terese despite initial discomfort related to her late son Josh Willis.

Supported by Terese, Jesse visits his mother Julie Quill in prison and learns about financial difficulties faced by the Quill Group that affected business transactions. Paul Robinson cautions Jesse against involving Terese in family affairs. Following concerns expressed by Paul’s relatives regarding Jesse’s connection with Terese, he resigns from Lassiters and departs for Sydney but returns briefly for a final discussion with Terese after being contacted by Paul.

Sheila Canning

Sheila Canning, brought to life by Shareena Clanton, made her first appearance on 7 April 2021. The announcement of Clanton's casting came on 29 March 2021, with filming spanning from October 2020 through March 2021. This character shares her name with the established Sheila Canning (played by Colette Mann), which sparked a plotline centered around mistaken identity and misdirected mail. Clanton, who had previously featured in Wentworth, connects back to the original Prisoner series through this casting choice. Despite Clanton’s public claims of experiencing racism and misogyny during production, critics responded favorably to her character’s short stint.

Upon arriving in Erinsborough, Sheila visits The Hive, a shared workspace for artists, where she is introduced as a prospective purchaser. Discovering that her mail was accidentally delivered to the other Sheila, she confronts her counterpart but initially opts not to retrieve the items. When she uncovers a USB containing The Hive’s actual financial information, Sheila cancels her initial acquisition plans. However, moved by Ned Willis’s enthusiasm for the arts, she later proposes buying The Hive at a reduced price. Ultimately, Sheila agrees to purchase it at full asking value to safeguard Paul Robinson’s interests.

As Sheila contemplates converting The Hive into an open art venue under Ned’s leadership, she conducts background checks on him, which causes friction when Ned learns his details were collected without his consent. Concurrently, Sheila offers support to other residents such as Bea Nilsson and Levi Canning, providing advice on their relationships and personal struggles.

Following Ned’s withdrawal from the gallery project due to his feelings for Sheila, she decides to travel to Perth to reconcile with her family and address past sorrows. Before departing Erinsborough, Sheila apologizes for any confusion surrounding Bea and Levi’s breakup and expresses appreciation for her friendships. She leaves alongside Bea, bringing her business and personal journey in the community to a close.

Abigail Tanaka

Abigail Tanaka, played by Nikita Kato, is the daughter of Leo Tanaka (Tim Kano) and Britney Barnes (Montana Cox), making her debut on 10 August 2021. Initially, infant actresses Mary Finn, Axelle Austin, and Juliet Basaraba portrayed the role. Abigail is central to a baby swap storyline involving surrogate Nicolette Stone (Charlotte Chimes), who absconds with the unborn child of David Tanaka (Takaya Honda) and Aaron Brennan (Matt Wilson). Although this twist was not originally planned for Nicolette, it had been in development since December 2019. Nicolette presents Abigail as David and Aaron’s daughter, Isla Tanaka-Brennan (Axelle Austin), despite Abigail being biologically Britney and Leo’s child. This plot device facilitated Leo’s return to Erinsborough. Initially credited as "Isla Tanaka-Brennan," the character’s name changed to "Abigail Tanaka" once the truth was revealed. Following her departure, Finn continued in the role of Isla while Austin and later Basaraba played Abigail until Kato took over in the 2023 revival.

Nicolette entrusts Abigail to Paul Robinson (Stefan Dennis), claiming she is his granddaughter named Isla. Paul then places Abigail in the care of David and Aaron, who believe she is their biological child. After an anemia diagnosis during a hospital visit, Abigail encounters Leo, Chloe Brennan (April Rose Pengilly), Terese Willis (Rebekah Elmaloglou), Jane Harris (Annie Jones), and Harlow Robinson (Jemma Donnovan). During a film festival, Britney kidnaps Abigail but she is soon found unharmed. Britney reveals that Abigail is actually her daughter with Leo, explaining their past relationship in New York City and her struggle with post-natal depression that led Nicolette to hand over Abigail to Paul.

Once the truth comes out, Abigail returns to the care of Britney and Leo. The family moves to Wollongong, making visits back to David, Aaron, Paul, and Harlow before leaving again. Abigail and Britney come back for Christmas; tragically, Britney dies shielding Abigail from a falling telegraph pole, leaving Leo as a single father. After an accident sends Abigail to hospital, Leo asks David and Aaron if they can raise her but ultimately keeps custody following Chloe’s encouragement not to give up on parenting. Leo continues his role as Abigail’s primary caregiver, including attending a Ramsay Street gathering in July 2022.

Evelyn Farlow

Evelyn Farlow, played by Paula Arundell, made her first appearance on 24 August 2021. Announced on 12 August 2021, Evelyn's role spanned approximately two weeks and she is introduced as the mother of regular character Levi Canning (Richie Morris). Her traditional values cause friction as Levi conceals his polyamorous relationship with Amy Greenwood (Jacinta Stapleton), who is also involved with Ned Willis (Ben Hall), during Evelyn’s visit.

Evelyn arrives in Ramsay Street unexpectedly to see Levi, staying briefly between employment contracts. Levi’s grandmother Sheila Canning (Colette Mann) offers reassurance regarding Levi’s birthday plans. Evelyn’s conservative background becomes apparent through her interactions with Levi’s cousin Kyle Canning (Chris Milligan) and his partner Roxy Willis (Zima Anderson). During a conversation about Levi’s work and podcast, Evelyn introduces keto-friendly meals, emphasizing a health-conscious perspective.

At a dinner with Sheila at The Waterhole, Evelyn reveals feelings of alienation from the Canning family due to previous disputes involving Levi's stepmother Jackie. She admits to shame concerning her relationship with Levi and shares that she has tried unsuccessfully to reconnect before. Sheila apologizes for any inadvertent exclusion and acknowledges the existing family tensions.

Evelyn expresses doubt about Amy and Ned’s age difference after observing their relationship. Following an apology to Kyle regarding his father’s death, Evelyn contemplates extending her stay to spend additional time with Levi. Upon discovering Levi’s involvement with Amy, Evelyn confronts him; Levi attempts to justify the situation despite her disapproval.

Amy approaches Evelyn proposing collaboration for Levi’s well-being despite their complicated dynamics. Initially resistant, Evelyn eventually agrees to a discussion, recognizing Levi’s happiness though still uneasy. She questions Sheila about the secrecy surrounding Levi and Amy’s relationship and her intentions.

Levi and Amy invite Evelyn to dinner; she announces her departure the following day, expressing confidence in Levi’s choices despite lingering reservations about his relationships. Evelyn departs after reconciling with family circumstances and accepting Levi's independence.

Britney Barnes

Britney Barnes, portrayed by Montana Cox, first appeared on 9 September 2021. Cox's casting marked her acting debut, announced via the show's Instagram and later confirmed by Digital Spy. She described taking on the role as an honor and admitted initial nervousness due to her inexperience but praised the supportive atmosphere among cast and crew.

Britney's storyline revolves around her connection to David Tanaka (Takaya Honda) and Aaron Brennan (Matt Wilson), centering on their niece, Abigail Tanaka (Mary Finn). David and Aaron mistakenly believe Abigail is their daughter Isla; however, Britney is revealed as Abigail's biological mother, with David's brother Leo Tanaka (Tim Kano) identified as the father. Britney briefly abducts Isla in an emotionally charged episode, heightening tensions between characters.

After leaving in September, Britney and Abigail return for Christmas episodes. Shortly following a reunion with Leo, Britney dies during a storm in Erinsborough, leaving Leo to raise their child alone.

Britney initially appears observing David, Aaron, and Harlow Robinson (Jemma Donovan) caring for Isla Tanaka-Brennan. She follows them around Lassiter's complex and subsequently breaks into 32 Ramsay Street. During the Shorts and Briefs Film Festival fireworks display, she kidnaps Isla unnoticed. Constable Levi Canning (Richie Morris) locates Britney at Erinsborough Community Centre with the baby, where she asserts maternal claims.

Nicolette Stone (Charlotte Chimes) returns alongside the real Isla and explains Britney's pregnancy with Leo occurred in New York City. Britney attended prenatal classes with Nicolette; they developed a friendship. After witnessing Leo kiss Chloe Brennan (April Rose Pengilly), Britney fled to Canberra with Nicolette where she gave birth but suffered post-natal depression. She permitted Nicolette to hand over her baby to Paul Robinson (Stefan Dennis), who mistakenly believed the child was Nicolette's.

In hospital, Britney meets David and Aaron, clarifying that Abigail is her child. Aaron hesitates about returning Abigail to Britney. Leo meets his daughter and discusses future plans; Britney confesses having none but regrets relinquishing Abigail. Terese Willis (Rebekah Elmaloglou) invites them to reside at 22 Ramsay Street. Britney and Leo attempt a cooperative parenting relationship but clash over childcare decisions until Terese intervenes.

Britney finds bonding with Abigail challenging in Erinsborough and contemplates returning to New York. Leo suggests relocating closer to her family in New South Wales instead. They bid farewell to friends before moving to Wollongong.

Britney and Abigail return for Christmas; Britney apologizes for previous conduct and extends her stay, hinting at renewed feelings for Leo. She organizes a ladies' lunch at the winery aimed at attracting investors but faces obstacles from guest Vera Punt (Sally-Anne Upton). Nicolette supports Britney's revived relationship with Leo, who invites her to Roxy Willis (Zima Anderson) and Kyle Canning's (Chris Milligan) wedding. Afterward, Leo shares a kiss with Britney.

During a pylon collapse at The Flamingo Bar, Britney protects Abigail from harm but suffers fatal injuries herself, resulting in her death.

Felicity Higgins

Felicity Higgins, brought to life by Isabella Giovinazzo, made her first appearance on 6 October 2021, with her casting revealed on 8 July 2021. Giovinazzo expressed a warm welcome upon joining the cast and commended the supportive atmosphere among the team. Felicity was introduced as a romantic interest for Levi Canning (Richie Morris), who is involved in a polyamorous relationship with Amy Greenwood (Jacinta Stapleton) and Ned Willis (Ben Hall). Giovinazzo characterized Felicity as "community-oriented," "kind," and a "bold" firefighter, marking a departure from her earlier roles. She highlighted that Felicity desires a conventional monogamous partnership, setting her apart from Levi’s lifestyle.

Their initial encounter occurs at The Waterhole, where they connect over their careers—firefighter and police officer. As their relationship develops, Levi withholds the truth about his multiple partners. Upon discovering Levi's other relationships through Amy, Felicity ends things, uncomfortable with the polyamorous setup.

Ned persuades Felicity to reconsider Levi, hoping this will prompt Levi to end his involvement with Amy. However, attempts to manage this complicated situation falter; Felicity’s questions about Levi’s feelings unsettle Amy, and when Ned arranges a hotel meeting for Felicity and Levi, Amy uncovers it. After Felicity admits the situation to Levi, he ends their relationship due to trust concerns. Felicity apologizes and concludes her narrative arc.

Wendy Rodwell

Wendy Rodwell, portrayed by Candice Leask, debuted on 2 December 2021. She was initially presented as Andrew Rodwell’s spouse during the Erinsborough Police Ball. Subsequently, Wendy and Andrew acquire 26 Ramsay Street and are featured in the opening credits alongside their daughter Sadie Rodwell. Script producer Shane Isheev described the Rodwells as the show’s significant new family unit, with original plans for additional children halted by the series’ cancellation. Wendy was characterized as the local gossip, a persona inspired by Leask’s early portrayal. She remained part of the series until its intended 2022 finale and returned for the Neighbours reboot.

Others

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Context
4–11 January	Tally Rennick	Karrin Kose	Participates in an illicit blackjack game at 24 Ramsay Street; encourages Hendrix Greyson to raise his stakes; later discovered carrying a firearm.
5 January	Mary Barnett	Emily Goddard	Toadfish Rebecchi's inaugural Tinder date; discusses her chocolate shop business but subsequently unmatches him.
6 January	Hugh Davis	Adam Waycott	Serves as council member and judge for Erinsborough's Best Dish contest; converses about cuisine preferences with Dipi Rebecchi.
8–26 January	Jacinta Hay	Maurian Spearim	Councillor and judge for Best Dish Competition; hospitalized after illness; later collaborates with Terese Willis on staff representation and Indigenous matters.
1–5 February	Mira Dhaliwal	Ashleyrose Gilham	Food safety inspector who closes The 82 following a report of toxic mushrooms; misreads Roxy Willis's intentions during inspection.
12 February	Rai Yan	Kevin Duong	Student at Erinsborough High who alerts Hendrix Greyson about leaked personal information.
11 March	Khari Breen	Kulan Farah	University student providing Roxy Willis with details about a ring found near an attack location; attempts flirtation but offers no valuable information.
17 March	Linda Donaldson	Amelia Best	Aunt of Emmett Donaldson planning relocation to New Zealand; discusses care arrangements for Emmett with foster parents Aaron Brennan and David Tanaka.
17 March–7 May 2021, 13 July 2022	Holden Brice	Toby Derrick	Gang affiliate involved in crimes affecting Brent Colefax; manipulated by Paul Robinson in prison-related schemes; later betrays Paul concerning David Tanaka’s protection.
17 March–29 June	Prue	Uncredited (pigeon)	A pigeon adopted by Sheila Canning believed to be Prudence Wallace reincarnated; causes minor disturbances around Ramsay Street.
29 March	Rudy Johnson	Isaac Crawley	Performer hired mistakenly as a penis puppeteer for Dipi Rebecchi’s farewell party; proceeds despite confusion.
4 June, 30 August	Prafulla Sahu	Ravi Chand	HR manager at Lassiter's Hotel involved in discussions regarding Roxy Willis's employment and controversies over Harlow Robinson’s promotion.
16–30 June	Mitch Foster Nelson Ryker	Kevin Hofbauer Rhys Mitchell	Gang members connected to Levi Canning’s childhood assault; engaged in criminal acts resulting in arrests after confrontation with Levi and Yashvi Rebecchi.
18 June–19 July	Maya Velasco	Christina O'Neill	Expectant single mother attending antenatal sessions alongside Nicolette Stone, Aaron Brennan, and David Tanaka; forms bond with Nicolette.
18 June	Dara Kay	Alexander Capper	Facilitator of antenatal classes guiding participants through pregnancy exercises.
28 June	Fifi Devenue	Carly Daniels	Friend of Jesse Porter arranged on a date with Ned Willis; brief encounter at Harold's Café.
30 June 2021, 16 March 2022, 27 March–14 November 2024	Travis Kellog	Liam McCarthy	Paramedic attending various emergencies including Yashvi Greyson’s head injury, Mackenzie Hargreaves’ smoke inhalation incident, Krista Sinclair’s sauna mishap, Gino Esposito’s collapse, and Cara Varga-Murphy’s workplace accident.
29 July–3 August	Dr. Anna Buke	Fiona Macleod	Physician involved in Susan Kennedy’s MS treatment discussions; reveals past involving Melanie Pearson and husband Justin Buke including restraining orders.
4 August	Nora Ahmadi	Jessica Lu	University student collaborating with Mackenzie Hargreaves; shares experiences regarding an internship involving workplace misconduct unrelated to Justin Buke.
From 10 August–	Isla Tanaka-Brennan	Axelle Austin / Mary Finn / Hana Abe-Tucker	Daughter of Nicolette Stone, David Tanaka, and Aaron Brennan; central figure in custody arrangements among all three parents; alternates residence between Canberra and Erinsborough throughout storyline.
25 August	Lorant Mathieson	Ronn Kurtz	Director of Shorts and Briefs Film Festival; praises Amy Greenwood for successful event organization.
6 September	Justin Buke	Mick O'Malley	Husband of Anna Buke with a history of infidelity involving Melanie Pearson; mediates conflicts between Melanie and others.
9 September 2021, 5 January & 30 May 2022	Rebecca Wright	Wallis Murphy-Munn	Leader of Lassiter's Hotel staff coordinating strikes over Harlow Robinson’s promotion; contributes to workplace tensions.
13 September	Kevin Irving	Wally Elnour	Bartender serving Harlow Robinson at The Flamingo Bar.
16 September–11 November	Dr Cye Alavi	Amir Rahimzadeh	Physician diagnosing Hendrix Greyson’s benign cyst and later informing Kyle Canning about his stage II testicular cancer diagnosis post-operation.
27 September	Dion Rivera	PJ Van Gyen	Security bouncer at The Pavilion party who ejects Hendrix Greyson following altercations.
5 October	Greg Cantor	Tony Barea	Owner of Lanzini's restaurant offering Hendrix Greyson potential work experience opportunities.
25 October	Juliana Ayres	Chelsea Gibb	Attorney retained by David Tanaka and Aaron Brennan for custody proceedings against Nicolette Stone.
25 October 2021, 8 March 2022	Pia Nash	Sarah Melody Hallam
1 November	Betty De Silva	Priscilla Castel	Photographer hired for family portraits involving Isla Tanaka-Brennan and her parents amid custody tensions.
10 November	Seth Okaine	Noah Janssen	Patron at The Flamingo Bar disputing alcohol content in his drink leading to formal complaint.
17 November	Will Attles	Charlie Mycroft	Facilitator of Alcoholics Anonymous meetings attended by Glen Donnelly and Terese Willis.
18 November	Tilda	Natalie Lynch (voice)	Lassiter's employee reporting status of lost wedding ring to Terese Willis.
30 November 2021, 6 January & 23 February 2022	Scott Triffett	Steven Oktaras	Delivery courier handling parcels for Ramsay Street residents including Terese Willis and Hendrix Greyson.
1 December	Const. Robert Dolby	Brett Pearce	Police officer who makes light remarks about Levi Canning's polyamorous relationship.
2 December	Const. Reuben Elliot	Lee Jankowski	Police officer attending Erinsborough Police Ball who confronts Ned Willis over comments about relationships before being dismissed by Sergeant Andrew Rodwell.

External links

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