Daisy Alexander

Home and Away

Company type	Television series
Industry	Entertainment
Founded	January 17, 1988 (1988-01-17)
Headquarters	Australia
Area served	Australia

Home and Away is a long-running Australian soap opera that premiered on the Seven Network on 17 January 1988. This section outlines the characters introduced during 2008, all under the guidance of series producer Cameron Welsh. The show's 21st season commenced on 28 January 2008. The first new character of the year was principal Martin Bartlett, portrayed by Bob Baines, who debuted in February. March saw the arrival of Axel Hay, played by Trent Dalzell, alongside David Downer as Ross Buckton and Celeste Dodwell as Melody Jones. In April, Tessa James joined the cast as Nicole Franklin. May introduced Jordan Rodrigues and Oliver Davis in the roles of Jai Fernandez and Oliver Phillips, respectively. June brought in Esther Anderson and Rebecca Breeds as sisters Charlie and Ruby Buckton. On 8 July, Luke Jacobz and Paul Pantano appeared as Angelo Rosetta and Elliot Gillen. Later in November, David Jones-Roberts debuted as Xavier Austin.

Martin Bartlett

Martin Bartlett, played by Bob Baines, made his first appearance on 12 February 2008. Serving as principal of Summer Bay High from 2008 to 2009, Martin develops an awkward romantic interest in his secretary, Kirsty Sutherland (Christie Hayes), who rejects him and instead dates Miles Copeland (Josh Quong Tart). After dismissing Kirsty, she takes up escort work, unaware that Martin himself frequents escorts at the Sands resort, leading to an embarrassing confrontation for both parties.

Martin is introduced by Sally Fletcher (Kate Ritchie) when she appoints him deputy principal following Donald Fisher’s departure. He becomes principal after Sally is stabbed by Johnny Cooper. Early in his tenure, Martin hires Jazz Curtis (Rachel Gordon) as secretary after she blackmails him due to his presence at an illegal fight involving Ric Dalby (Mark Furze). He later terminates Jazz's employment and replaces her with Kirsty.

When Kirsty's son Oliver suffers a broken arm while under Martin’s babysitting supervision, Martin takes responsibility, reflecting his own upbringing by a single mother. Oliver’s father, Kane Phillips (Sam Atwell), is incarcerated at this time. Upon learning about Kirsty's escort work, Martin dismisses her but provides a reference that allows her to secure employment at the Sands resort. This connection causes tension when Miles confronts Martin.

At a senior formal organized by Martin at the Surf Club, Kane crashes his car through a wall, injuring Martin with fractured ribs; both eventually recover. Martin later arranges a school trek in memory of Dan Baker (Tim Campbell), during which students Jai and Annie go missing. The situation intensifies when Trey Palmer (Luke Bracey) plants a bomb under their bus; fortunately, Hugo Austin (Bernard Curry) manages to defuse it. The ordeal prompts Martin to take a leave for a cruise, appointing Gina Austin (Sonia Todd) as acting principal in his absence.

Axel Hay

Axel Hay, portrayed by Trent Dalzell, was introduced on 19 March 2008.

Before Axel’s departure from the series, he and Jai Fernandez (Jordan Rodrigues) are hit by a drunk driver named Larry Jefferies (Paul Gleeson), who then flees the scene. According to Aden Jefferies (Todd Lasance), Jai escapes with minor injuries while Axel sustains serious harm requiring hospitalization. Neither initially recalls the identity of the driver but remember it was a silver estate car, leading Aden to suspect his own father.

Axel is depicted as a student at Summer Bay High who attends a party at Nicole Franklin’s (Tessa James) residence where he unsuccessfully attempts to pursue Belle Taylor (Jessica Tovey). Subsequently, he tries to assault Melody Jones (Celeste Dodwell), resulting in a confrontation with Geoff Campbell (Lincoln Lewis). After being beaten and hospitalized, Axel is reluctant to involve law enforcement, which causes suspicion to fall on Geoff and Aden. Belle deduces Aden’s involvement based on his indifferent reaction. Axel’s standing declines; he later apologizes to Melody and forms a friendship with Jai. Axel ultimately dies from injuries sustained in the accident caused by Aden’s father and appears as a haunting vision during Melody’s nightmares.

Ross Buckton

Ross Michael Buckton, portrayed by David Downer, made his first appearance on 21 May 2008. Serving as a police officer in Yabbie Creek, Ross leads the investigation into the murder of Sam Holden (Jessica Chapnik), conducting interviews with principal suspects such as Martha MacKenzie (Jodi Gordon) and Jazz Curtis (Rachel Gordon). Although initial suspicions fell on Jack and Martha Holden, Morag Bellingham (Cornelia Frances) ultimately demonstrates that Sam’s death was self-inflicted, compelling Ross to withdraw the charges.

Ross renews a former romantic connection with Morag amid complications including misleading claims about his deceased wife Elsie and opposition from his daughter Charlie, while his other daughter Ruby supports their relationship. He proposes marriage to Morag, and they wed in a private ceremony before departing for a honeymoon in Europe.

Following their return, Ross begins showing signs of cognitive decline; after going missing twice and reopening a previously resolved cold case, he receives an Alzheimer's diagnosis from Rachel Armstrong (Amy Mathews). After a hazardous episode at home, Ross consents to move into care, accompanied by Morag.

When Grant Bledcoe’s (Clayton Watson) corpse is uncovered, suspicion falls on Charlie, leading to her suspension. Ross confesses to having killed Grant years earlier as retribution for Grant’s assault on Charlie during their teenage years. Facing murder charges, Ross awaits trial but passes away in 2011; his funeral takes place in Summer Bay.

Melody Jones

Melody Jones, enacted by Celeste Dodwell, was cast in December 2007 following her completion of the drama component of her Higher School Certificate. Dodwell initially auditioned for the role of Nicole Franklin, which was ultimately awarded to Tessa James. Her agent later informed her about the "character breakdown" for Melody, which piqued her interest. Dodwell eventually departed the series to pursue drama studies in the United Kingdom.

Nicole Franklin

Nicole Franklin, brought to life by Tessa James, first appeared on 18 April 2008. The announcement of James’ casting came in January 2008, with Executive Producer Cameron Welsh commending her as an "exciting talent" expected to connect well with viewers. James relocated to Sydney for this opportunity and regarded the role as valuable training and an apprenticeship. Notably, fellow cast member Celeste Dodwell had originally auditioned for Nicole.

Nicole’s story arcs included rekindling romance on a deserted island and experiencing captivity, providing compelling dramatic moments for audiences. Media outlets described her as a "flighty minx from the city" and a "fiery favourite." Industry commentators recognized James as one of the show’s most promising talents, suggesting she had potential for a future career in Hollywood.

Jai Fernandez

Jai Fernandez, portrayed by Jordan Rodrigues, debuted on 19 May 2008. Transitioning from theatre to television, Rodrigues described this role as an entirely new experience and appreciated the recognition from viewers. Jai’s background involves losing his family during the 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami, connecting him with established character Miles Copeland (Josh Quong Tart), who also endured family loss. This shared history prompts Miles to bring Jai to Summer Bay, though their relationship remains strained due to past abandonment issues.

Rodrigues exited the series in 2009 to join ABC's Dance Academy. His performance earned him a nomination for "Most Popular New Talent" at the 2009 Logie Awards.

Jai is first introduced at a city refuge where Miles discovers him. Initially guarded, Jai eventually relocates to Summer Bay with Miles but struggles with school integration. He forms a friendship with fellow outsider Axel Hay (Trent Dalzell); their escapades culminate tragically when Axel is fatally struck by a drunk driver. This trauma triggers reckless conduct from Jai, including dangerous stunts that alarm peers such as Annie Campbell (Charlotte Best). Despite initial resistance from guardians, Jai and Annie enter into a romantic relationship.

Their bond encounters difficulties when Annie becomes trapped in a storm drain and is rescued by Charlie Buckton (Esther Anderson). Escalating bullying from Trey Palmer (Luke Bracey) intensifies tensions; Jai counters false accusations against friends by leveraging knowledge of Trey’s past.

The relationship between Jai and Annie deteriorates following Jai’s drunken confession at Ruby Buckton's party expressing desire to sleep with her, leading to their breakup. Subsequently, Jai is accidentally shot with an old shotgun found on Martha MacKenzie's (Jodi Gordon) farm but conceals his injury until collapsing during a school trek. Meanwhile, Jai becomes jealous of Dexter Walker (Tom Green)’s interest in Annie.

The arrival of Romeo Smith (Luke Mitchell), an old foster care acquaintance who pursues Annie, complicates matters further. To escape the tension, Jai accepts a student exchange trip to Japan but later withdraws to support Kirsty Phillips (Christie Hayes) after her miscarriage. Ultimately, both Jai and Annie depart for Japan following farewells with friends.

Oliver Phillips

Oliver "Ollie" Phillips is the child of Kirsty Phillips and Kane Phillips. His first appearance occurs when Irene Roberts picks him up after he develops a high temperature, necessitating hospital care. Despite efforts by medical staff and law enforcement, Ollie remains uncommunicative. Kane, who is on the run, secretly visits Ollie before being apprehended following an unsuccessful robbery attempt.

Ollie and Kirsty reside with Irene, but Ollie's challenging behavior creates friction. They later relocate to the caravan park and eventually establish a family unit alongside Miles Copeland and Jai. After Kane is released from incarceration, Ollie briefly reconnects with him before Kane departs permanently. Following Kirsty’s miscarriage, Ollie meets his grandmother Shelley Sutherland, who brings them to live with her family in the city.

Charlie Buckton

Charlie Buckton made her debut on 6 June 2008, played by former model Esther Anderson, who was cast to introduce additional "sex appeal" to Home and Away. Anderson, a longtime admirer of the series, expressed excitement upon landing the role. She exited the show in late 2011 to pursue a career in Hollywood.

Anderson received multiple award nominations for her role, including "Sexiest Female" at the 2008 Inside Soap Awards and "Best Daytime Star" in 2010. She was also nominated for "Most Popular Personality on Australian Television" and "Most Popular Actress" at the Logie Awards. The episode featuring Charlie’s death earned a nomination from the Australian Writers' Guild. Critics characterized Charlie as both a "sexy sergeant" and the series' "cutest crime fighter."

Ruby Buckton

Ruby Buckton, portrayed by Rebecca Breeds, first appeared on 20 June 2008. Created by executive producer Cameron Welsh, Ruby is depicted as carefree but conceals her true feelings behind a tough exterior. Mourning her mother’s death, she internalizes her emotions, presenting herself as independent and reserved. Breeds highlighted Ruby's strength and deep commitment to her family, emphasizing her spirited nature.

In June 2012, Breeds filmed her final scenes and departed from Home and Away. Although contractually restricted from discussing her exit, she confirmed that Ruby’s storyline was left open-ended. Breeds earned a Logie Award nomination for "Most Popular New Female Talent" at the 51st Logie Awards in 2009 and was later nominated for "Most Popular Actress" in 2010. At the 2012 Inside Soap Awards, she received a nomination for "Best Daytime Star". Key storylines include Ruby coping with her father’s illness and other memorable arcs that resonated with viewers.

Angelo Rosetta

Angelo Rosetta, played by Luke Jacobz, debuted on 8 July 2008. Jacobz secured this role following the cancellation of McLeod's Daughters, where he had a recurring part. Originally contracted for six months, Jacobz relocated from South Australia to Sydney; he was poised to work as a labourer before landing this opportunity. In February 2011, it was announced that Jacobz would be leaving Home and Away, with his final scenes airing shortly thereafter.

According to the official series website, Angelo hails from a close family with three brothers and was initially seen as brash and unlikely to succeed. Jacobz received a nomination for 'Most Popular Actor' at the 2010 Logie Awards and was also nominated for "Best Daytime Star" at the Inside Soap Awards that same year.

Elliot Gillen

Elliot Gillen, played by Paul Pantano, was featured in Home and Away from 8 July until 26 August 2008. Pantano was highlighted in Digital Spy's gay spotlight. Elliot's narrative centered on placing major characters Roman Harris (Conrad Coleby), Nicole Franklin (Tessa James), and Geoff Campbell (Lincoln Lewis) in jeopardy. Driven by vengeance for his brother Mark’s demise, Elliot targets Roman while manipulating Nicole and Geoff, even assaulting Geoff with a speargun.

Elliot arrives in Summer Bay intent on confronting Roman, whom he holds responsible for Mark’s death during an SAS mission in Afghanistan. Despite an official investigation confirming Mark was killed in an ambush, Elliot refuses to accept the findings and embarks on a vendetta by pursuing a relationship with Roman’s daughter Nicole. When their romance ends, Elliot intensifies his actions by abducting Nicole and demanding a ransom from Roman, forcing him into a dangerous rescue attempt. Geoff intervenes but suffers injuries inflicted by Elliot at sea.

Roman complies with Elliot’s conditions but encounters several deadly traps in the wilderness, including being struck by an arrow, nearly caught in a landslide, and surviving a mine explosion. Ultimately, Roman subdues Elliot, who is then taken into custody at Yabbie Creek police station. While detained, Roman reveals the truth about Mark’s death—Mark had threatened their squad, leading Roman to shoot him before enemy forces captured and killed him. Elliot admits to Nicole’s whereabouts before facing charges of kidnapping and attempted murder.

Xavier Austin

Xavier Austin, portrayed by David Jones-Roberts, made his first appearance on 20 November 2008 and departed on 3 July 2012, relocating from Summer Bay to Goulburn. Jones-Roberts earned the role after undergoing four auditions, describing the accomplishment as particularly rewarding given the wait. His casting was confirmed via a payphone call while he was surfing. One significant storyline involved Xavier witnessing a serious car accident caused by Brendan's use of a catapult.

Others

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Role Summary
28 January–11 February	Aaron Copeland	Timothy Walter	Father to Sally Fletcher and Miles Copeland. His arc deals with struggles involving alcoholism, domestic violence, and an unsuccessful attempt to regain custody of Sally following his wife Diana’s death. Aaron ultimately dies from complications related to alcoholism.
11 February	Diana Wilson	Uncredited	Deceased mother of Sally and Miles; her troubled marriage and fatal boating accident significantly affect family dynamics.
11 February	Mrs Keating	Uncredited	Sally and Miles’ grandmother portrayed with Alzheimer’s disease through flashbacks.
18 February–23 August 2010	Anasthesist	Philip Dodd	Medical specialist attending to key characters after severe injuries.
28 February–23 May	Gavin Johnson	Daniel Feuerriegel	Editor of Coastal News; involved in disputes over article content impacting staff relations.
4 March–13 June	Cara Phillips	Holly Robinson	School peer engaged in storylines involving espionage and interpersonal conflicts.
18 March	Steve Bradford	Nicholas Holland	Donor who contributes $100,000 to Dan Baker’s widow Leah Patterson-Baker in recognition of Dan’s heroic actions.
20 March–16 April	Joe Stephens	Terence Hepburn	Bartender hired to attack Sam Holden; later provides information during inquiries into her death.
25 March–12 May	Logan Roth	Radek Jonak	Associate of Johnny Cooper; involved in underground fighting that leads to police intervention.
10 April–27 January 2009	Matthew Lyons	Ross Pirelli	School bully who engages in harassment and manipulation culminating in suspension and drug-related problems.
14 April	Britt Grey	Meagan Drury	Sam Holden’s estranged sister who takes custody of her nephew amid investigations following Sam’s death.
6–13 May	Danielle Hay	Katrina Risteska	Sister of Axel Hay; involved in school disputes influencing curriculum decisions.
7 May–26 February 2009	Christine Jones	Elizabeth Alexander (actress)	Mother of Melody Jones; causes tension through confrontations at school and attempts to control Melody’s life before relocating to New Zealand.
19 May	Peter Randall	Richard Gyoerffy	Runs a teen refuge; offers insight into Jai Fernandez’s withdrawn behavior.
30 May	Jamie Cooper	Shardyn Fahey-Leigh	Julie Cooper’s son; overcomes fear of water through coaching support.
12 June–5 November 2012	Georgina Watson	Jaclyn Albergoni	Police officer at Yabbie Creek; evolves from initial conflicts with colleagues to sergeant following key developments.
14 June–27 August	Jimmy Crawford	Adam Booth	Psychiatric patient whose interactions with staff influence multiple storylines including suspicion during disappearance investigations.
20–27 June	Pat Jenkins	Lachlan Buchanan	Ruby Buckton’s boyfriend; their relationship faces challenges due to past connections, ending when they acknowledge incompatibility.
11 July	Mrs. Hay	Amelia Longhurst	Mother of Axel and Danielle Hay; appears following Axel’s fatal accident.
15–24 July	Daisy Alexander	Jessica Smith	University roommate of Matilda Hunter who supports her through personal challenges away from Summer Bay.
15–24 July	Nathan Cunningham	Andrew Lees (actor)	University resident advisor involved in a subplot concerning Matilda Hunter's relationships.
1 September–6 October	Edward Jones	Errol Henderson	Husband of Christine Jones and father to Melody; involved in Melody's mental health struggles and family conflicts.
2 September 2008 – 3 February 2009	Bridget Simmons	Joy Smithers	Engages in a one-night stand with Tony Holden; later becomes entangled in cons leading to arrest, affecting community trust.
3–4 September	Earl Pincus	Alan Cinis	Homeless man interacting with community members; involved in minor criminal acts impacting local youth.
15 September–10 November	Murray Buchanan	Ben Tari	Council worker exposing environmental issues tied to local development; disappears under suspicious circumstances.
26 September 2008 – 27 January 2009	Tim Coleman	Keiran Darcy-Smith	Developer engaged in illegal activities including murder and intimidation; serves as central antagonist in major plotlines.
22 October–5 November	Natalie Franklin	Adrienne Pickering	Former partner of Roman Harris and mother of Nicole Franklin; reconciles strained family relationships before departing.
23 October 2008 – 3 February 2009	Brian Lawler	Ric Herbert	Criminal associate involved in extortion and kidnapping leading to arrest and implicating Bridget Simmons.
18–24 November	Eric "Nobby" Nobbes	Mark Casamento	Involved in criminal investigations related to Belle Taylor; killed following undercover operations.

External links

• Cast and characters on the Official Australian Home and Away website
• Cast and characters on the Official UK Home and Away website
• Cast and characters at the Internet Movie Database