Dale McGregor

Josh Burns
File:Scott Brennan (comedian).jpg Scott Brennan as Josh Burns in 2009.
Occupation(s)	Fictional character; played by Australian comedian Scott Brennan.
Years active	2009

Phil Andrews

Phil Andrews, played by Robert Mammone, made his first appearance on 9 February 2009. Created by executive producer Susan Bower, Phil is depicted as a reclusive middle-aged farmer who has withdrawn from society after experiencing a family tragedy.

Phil comes across Zeke Kinski washed up on the shore following a rafting mishap and persuades him that he is his father. In a fugue state, Zeke accepts this claim. Investigative journalists Elle Robinson and Lucas Fitzgerald uncover evidence tying Zeke to Phil’s farm, but Phil denies any involvement. They break into his residence, discovering a boy’s bedroom and a T-shirt belonging to Zeke, which later vanishes.

Authorities reveal that Phil lost his wife and son Trent in a car crash. Nevertheless, Phil maintains he has no knowledge of Zeke. After police find Zeke alive in a storage unit, it becomes evident that Phil misled him. Despite the deception, Phil offers an apology; Zeke expresses gratitude for saving his life before moving forward.

Cassandra Freedman

Cassandra Freedman, portrayed by Tottie Goldsmith, is the mother of Donna, Tegan, and Simon Freedman. She first appeared on 10 February 2009 and is portrayed as a manipulative and self-centered femme fatale.

Adam Clarke

Adam Clarke, brought to life by Clint Bizzell, debuted on 20 March 2009. Bizzell joined the cast in late 2008 for a five-week guest stint. Adam is an AFL star playing for the Portside Falcons, initially perceived as a likable individual but soon revealed to be controlling.

He befriends newcomer Ringo Brown and leads him down the wrong path. Adam isolates Ringo from his peers and subjects him to an initiation ritual at his home. Afterwards, Adam offers Ringo a lift, allowing him to drive; they are stopped by police but released due to Adam’s standing. Adam also seduces Ringo’s teacher at school.

After Ringo breaks the club rookie sprint record, Adam rents a room at Lassiter's Hotel for a party that Declan Napier shuts down because of noise complaints. Adam convinces Ringo to quit school and concentrate solely on football. During a car trip selecting a vehicle for Ringo, Adam crashes into an Easter display and pressures Ringo into accepting responsibility. The incident reaches the media, and despite Adam’s reassurances, Zeke Kinski exposes the truth on his radio program. Consequently, coach Nathan Black reprimands Adam and dismisses Ringo.

Melissa Evans

Melissa Evans, enacted by Kaela Hilton, appeared from 2 April 2009 as the manager of the local radio station PirateNet. Upon Zeke Kinski's return to Erinsborough, he connects with Melissa and embarks on his radio career as "Lost Boy" under her mentorship. When Libby Kennedy and Daniel Fitzgerald uncover Zeke's secret identity, Melissa involves them in station operations.

Melissa invites guest hosts such as Karl Kennedy, initially impressed by his medical advice segment but later dismisses him following a violation of station rules. She then hires Sunny Lee as Zeke’s new co-host, known as "Found Girl."

Following Zeke's arrest and resulting negative publicity impacting PirateNet's sponsor, Melissa suspends and eventually terminates his position. When the station’s property owners decide to sell, Zeke persuades Paul Robinson to acquire PirateNet, transforming it into a commercial enterprise—much to Melissa’s dissatisfaction.

Sunny Lee

Sunny Lee, portrayed by Hany Lee, made her debut on 8 April 2009. Developed by executive producer Susan Bower to address calls for greater diversity, Sunny is introduced as a South Korean exchange student who is welcomed into the Kennedy household by Karl and Susan. Hany Lee earned the role through a contest organized by Dolly Magazine, which awarded her a three-month contract with Neighbours.

Kate Ramsay

Kate Ramsay, played by Ashleigh Brewer, first appeared on 15 May 2009. She is the eldest child of Harry (Will Moore) and Sophie Ramsay (Kaiya Jones). The Ramsay family was revitalized in early 2009 with a new generation, and Brisbane-based Brewer was cast as Kate. Her character is portrayed as a resilient and natural leader who often puts the needs of others before her own, acting as the glue that holds her family together.

Harry Ramsay

Harry Ramsay, enacted by Will Moore, arrived on-screen on 18 May 2009. Moore emphasized the importance of portraying a character connected to the legendary Ramsay lineage, referencing ties to original figures Anne Robinson and Max Ramsay. Harry’s persona is that of a solitary individual and social outsider, frequently experiencing misfortune in romantic relationships.

Sophie Ramsay

Sophie Ramsay, brought to life by Kaiya Jones, also debuted on 18 May 2009 as the youngest member of the Ramsay siblings. Jones, previously known for her role in The Saddle Club, joined the series in February 2009, completing the reintroduced Ramsay family group.

India Napier

India Napier, portrayed by twins Alia and Gabriella De Vercelli, is the daughter of Declan Napier and Bridget Parker, born during an on-screen event on 23 June 2009.

In 2008, Bridget Parker (Eloise Mignon) became pregnant by Declan Napier (James Sorensen), igniting debate across Australia regarding the depiction of teenage pregnancy within the show. Despite public criticism, the narrative progressed, focusing on Bridget’s choice to keep her baby with Declan’s support.

The De Vercelli twins were cast at four months old to play India. Their mother commended Sorensen for his supportive presence throughout filming. Following Sorensen’s exit in January 2010, Erin Mullally assumed the role of Declan, with the twins adjusting smoothly to this transition. In October 2010, it was announced that India would be written out alongside her on-screen father and grandmother due to Mullally and Jane Hall’s departures; India’s final appearance was on 15 March 2011.

Bridget and Declan wed shortly before India’s birth. After a complicated delivery requiring an airlift to hospital, both mother and child eventually recovered. Prior to a fatal car accident that claimed Bridget’s life, she shared her hopes with India. Declan initially struggles to accept India because of her resemblance to Bridget but ultimately takes on full custody despite offers from family members Steve and Miranda Parker to care for her.

On India’s first birthday, she experiences a choking incident involving a marshmallow but recovers following hospital treatment funded by Paul Robinson. Later storylines include India participating in a school radio program and reconnecting with relatives before leaving for Portugal.

The Daily Record described India as "a screamer" with potential as an opera singer, highlighting the difficulties faced by Bridget and Declan while raising their demanding infant in Erinsborough.

Amanda Fowler

Amanda Fowler, brought to life by Bella Heathcote, made her first appearance on 7 July 2009. Heathcote landed this recurring role after previously auditioning for the series years before, despite initial doubts regarding her suitability to portray a school-aged character. Amanda was depicted as a relentless bully, focusing much of her antagonism on Kate Ramsay (Ashleigh Brewer) during the Debutante ball plotline.

Shortly after enrolling at Erinsborough High, Amanda begins targeting Kate with bullying and also ridicules Bridget Parker (Eloise Mignon) for continuing school post-childbirth. As the chair of the Year 12 charity committee, Amanda is infuriated when Kate is selected to lead the Debutante ball committee instead. She attempts to coerce Kate into stepping down so she can assume control but fails to sway her.

The conflict escalates when Amanda takes advantage of Kate’s increasing rapport with her brother, Harry Ramsay (Will Moore), by persuading him to escort her to the Deb ball, thereby intensifying sibling discord. In response, Kate teams up with Donna Freedman to disrupt their relationship. Amanda eventually changes plans to attend alongside Kyle Canning (Chris Milligan), causing Harry embarrassment and deepening family tensions.

Amanda intensifies her campaign against Kate by undermining a community cycling event organized by Kate to support the Deb ball. After Kate’s application for a dance career opportunity is rejected by Jason Coleman, a friend of Amanda’s records the humiliating incident and shares it online. Despite this setback, Kate leverages the attention to mobilize volunteers, further provoking Amanda.

Manipulating Harry once more, Amanda encourages him to sneak alcohol into the dance in an attempt to impress Amanda’s acquaintance Sarah Aquino (Madeline Vizzard). The alcohol is discovered, resulting in Harry’s suspension.

When Kate plans to attend the dance with Lou Carpenter (Tom Oliver), Amanda arranges for Jason Coleman to be the special guest with the intent of embarrassing Kate. She also spills dip on Kate’s dress, causing distress; however, supported by Declan Napier (James Sorensen), Kate returns and dances with Coleman, effectively undermining Amanda’s plots and leaving her enraged.

Josh Burns

Josh Burns, played by Australian comedian Scott Brennan, debuted on 27 July 2009 as Editor in Chief of The West Waratah Star. Brennan’s casting was revealed in July 2009 for a brief three-week guest stint.

Following Elle Robinson's (Pippa Black) departure from the Erinsborough News, she joins The West Waratah Star under Josh's editorial direction. After Bridget Parker’s tragic car accident, Elle is tasked with covering police developments but opts instead to publish a different story aimed at protecting her boyfriend, Lucas Fitzgerald (Scott Major). When Josh uncovers this deception, he demotes Elle and warns her about an upcoming exposé involving Lucas and his garage. Elle later writes a personal article about Lucas without Josh’s approval. Upon discovering this breach, Josh dismisses her from the paper.

Elle subsequently takes a position with Waratah Heights housing development and while preparing a press release uncovers possible complications regarding industrial land. Josh investigates these business matters as well and follows Elle into a manhole where he suffers fatal injuries after a fall. Overcoming her claustrophobia, Elle manages to seek assistance; however, Josh succumbs to internal trauma.

Jumilla Chandra

Jumilla Chandra, brought to life by Alysia Aberyratne, is depicted as a university student who takes up employment at Harold's Store to finance her education. She made her initial appearance on 11 August 2009. Aberyratne, who was studying law at Melbourne University, described the role as "the best job ever!" Jumilla's storyline concluded with her final scene airing on 7 April 2010.

Within the narrative, Jumilla supports Lyn Scully (Janet Andrewartha) in managing the store and forms a friendship with Kate Ramsay (Ashleigh Brewer). She regularly engages with local residents while handling their orders. Her arc ends as she prepares to embark on a career working at an orphanage in Sarawak, reflecting a commitment to socially responsible work.

Sonya Mitchell

Sonya Mitchell, portrayed by Eve Morey, made her debut on 14 August 2009. Introduced as a guide dog trainer responsible for overseeing Toadfish Rebecchi and Callum Jones's puppy, Rocky, Sonya is characterized by her love for animals coupled with a "shady past and a broken heart," adding complexity to her character.

James Linden

James Linden, played by Tim Ross, is a con artist who deceives Donna Freedman by falsely claiming to be her brother and subsequently steals money from Elle Robinson. His first appearance was on 28 August 2009.

James initiates contact with Sophie Ramsay (Kaiya Jones) and quickly arouses suspicion from her brother, Harry (Will Moore). He approaches Lucas Fitzgerald (Scott Major) requesting directions to Ramsay Street, alleging he knows someone there. After being spotted by Harry and Ringo Brown (Sam Clark), James pretends to be searching for a house before leaving. He returns later to check mailboxes and tells Ringo he is looking for Donna, whom he claims is his sister. Ringo remains doubtful as James presents himself as a music promoter who discovered Donna’s video blog seeking her biological father. While James earns Donna’s trust, Ringo remains unconvinced.

When Ringo questions James about his music business, James provides contact details of a manager as verification. He flirts with Donna’s guardian, Elle Robinson (Pippa Black), defends her against an ex-boyfriend, and consents to a DNA test. Following an inconclusive result, James suggests a more costly test; Donna then deceitfully transfers funds from Elle’s account without permission. Both Elle and James are shocked; James denies coercing Donna and repays Elle. Later, the test confirms their sibling relationship. Secretly, James downloads Elle's bank information and drains her account. He fails to deliver a booked band at Charlie's bar and vanishes, leaving his hotel room empty.

Robin Hester

Robin Hester, enacted by Benjamin Jay, first appeared on 17 September 2009 as an unsettling teenager exhibiting obsessive tendencies toward other youths.

Jay described Robin as "a weirdo," contrasting with his typical roles. The Daily Record labeled him "a creep" and "a schemer," noting that only Zeke Kinski (Matthew Werkmeister) saw through his facade.

Robin initially calls into Zeke Kinski and Sunny Lee's (Hany Lee) radio program discussing relationships. He later visits the Kennedy household under the pretense of interviewing Karl Kennedy (Alan Fletcher). Introduced to Harry Ramsay (Will Moore) by Susan Kennedy (Jackie Woodburne) due to his social isolation, Robin quickly irritates Harry and attempts to ingratiate himself with other teenagers. Zeke becomes frustrated by Robin's persistent presence and interest in Sunny. Despite warnings, Sunny dismisses concerns, believing Robin to be merely friendly.

Robin escalates his behavior by sneaking into Sunny's bedroom to take photographs of her before hiding when she arrives with Zeke. Overhearing their conversation about Zeke’s anxiety disorder, Robin uses this information during dinner to cause Sunny to misinterpret Zeke’s behavior toward him. Zeke confronts Robin over his advances toward Sunny; Susan Kennedy mistakenly interprets the situation as a relapse of Zeke's anxiety.

At PirateNet radio station, Robin locks Zeke in a storeroom intending to spend time alone with Sunny. Harry grows worried about Zeke's disappearance and searches for him. Robin pretends to find the storeroom key and frees Zeke in front of Sunny. When Zeke reveals the truth about Robin’s actions, Sunny initially doubts him but later recognizes Robin’s manipulations after inconsistencies are exposed.

Sunny and Zeke confront Robin at Charlie's bar; Robin admits to locking Zeke away and attempts to kiss Sunny but is stopped by Zeke. Later, Robin vandalizes Zeke’s radio studio; after being locked inside by Zeke, he is arrested. Before leaving town, Robin confesses that loneliness stemming from neglect by his adoptive parents drove his behavior.

Saffron Jankievicz

Saffron Jankievicz, played by Shanyn Asmar, made her first appearance on 22 September 2009 as a fashion designer who offers Donna Freedman an internship opportunity at her firm. Asmar characterized Saffron as a determined and diligent woman from a working-class background, yet also "intimidating and harsh," inspired by individuals she encountered in modeling and teaching environments. A Daily Record columnist described Saffron as "so malevolent she makes Janine Butcher seem tame."

When Donna notices an article featuring Saffron attending a fashion event, she takes the chance to meet her despite VIP restrictions. With assistance from Ringo Brown, Donna gains access and impresses Saffron with her Skelt design, which Saffron later appropriates without acknowledgment. Donna confronts her at the studio and is offered an unpaid internship, which she accepts enthusiastically despite Saffron’s unpredictable temperament.

After a failed show, Saffron blames her team. Donna resigns to concentrate on school but is slapped by Saffron, who tells her she will never succeed. Motivated by friends, Donna files charges, leading to mediation where Saffron warns Donna about harming her reputation within Melbourne’s close-knit fashion circle. Although Donna initially retracts the complaint, support grows when an assistant testifies to Saffron’s mistreatment of staff. Compelled to apologize, Saffron later appears as a guest lecturer in Donna’s university class, facing hostility until Donna challenges her again and receives applause for standing up.

Mia Zannis

Mia Zannis, portrayed by Alicia Bonaddio, is introduced in 2009 as an animal rights advocate. Executive producer Susan Bower described Mia as an 18-year-old with a vibrant character and strong convictions, particularly concerning climate change and animal welfare.

Mia begins dating Zeke Kinski (Matthew Werkmeister) after meeting him at a party. She is part of an activist group planning to raid the Elliot Park testing facility. Zeke participates in the raid but is caught and arrested while Mia escapes.

Both serve community service sentences; Mia reveals that some friends are imprisoned and her grandfather became ill following her arrest. Despite tensions with Zeke's family—especially Karl Kennedy (Alan Fletcher)—Zeke supports Mia by inviting her to dinner and helping mediate disputes.

Mia introduces Zeke to local peers, though some disapprove due to her activism. During another protest, both are detained again. It later emerges that Mia collaborated with Detective Alec Skinner (Kevin Summers), framing Zeke as the group’s leader by planting incriminating files on his laptop and arranging his arrest. At the police station, Zeke admits he knew of Mia’s betrayal and agrees to testify against her.

Others

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Role Description
29 January–29 June	Brooke Mitchell	Klaire Gazzo	Nurse at Erinsborough Hospital involved in critical medical situations including Charlie Hoyland's accident, Harold Bishop's heart attack, and Libby Kennedy's miscarriage.
17–24 February	Rick Lawson	Liam Pederson	Sergeant assisting Susan Kennedy during the investigation into Zeke Kinski's disappearance; facilitates questioning of Phil Andrews.
25–26 February	Joanna Hale	Laura Lattuada	Biological mother of Riley and Bridget Parker; attempts financial reconciliation with Bridget but is rejected after disclosing her past and family circumstances.
12–18 March	Lisa Hayes	Anna Jennings-Edquist	Legal secretary interacting with Steve Parker and Lucas Fitzgerald in a brief subplot highlighting personal dynamics.
23–30 March	Rhys Sutton	Aaron Jakubenko	AFL player for Portside Falcons and teammate of Adam Clarke; encourages new recruit Ringo Brown to participate socially.
30 March–1 April	Ashley Black	Sophie Weiss	Daughter of AFL coach Nathan Black; pursues Ringo Brown causing friction with her father.
13–14 May	Dean Naughton	Peter Bensley	Miranda Parker’s former university lecturer; briefly rekindles romance affecting Miranda’s storyline.
18 May–26 October	Jill Ramsay	Perri Cummings	Mother of Kate, Harry, and Sophie Ramsay; her death due to a hit-and-run profoundly impacts the Ramsay family narrative.
23 June	Trisha Day	Katherine Tonkin	Paramedic assisting with India Napier's birth at a music festival.
26 June 2009–20 July 2010	Rocky	Hughie	Labrador puppy trained by Toadfish and Callum Rebecchi as a guide dog; successfully completes training and is placed with a visually impaired individual. The real dog Hughie underwent actual guide dog training.
3 July–11 August	Johnno Brewer	Damien Aylward	Professional gambler involved with Lucas Fitzgerald causing financial and legal issues; manipulated by Paul Robinson for strategic purposes.
4 August 2009–11 January 2011	Christian Doran	Adrian Woolcock	Paramedic mentoring Ringo Brown; participates in critical emergency responses involving main characters.
15 August 2009–29 January 2011	Dale McGregor	John Kim	Erinsborough High student engaged in social conflicts and school events affecting key younger characters.
30 September 2009–21 January 2011	Lindsey Stace	Vanessa Crouch	Personal assistant to fashion designer Saffron Jankievicz; later establishes own business after departing amid workplace disputes involving Donna Freedman.
12 October 2009 – 8 March 2010	Sarah Aquino	Madeleine Vizard	Student at Erinsborough High connected to Amanda Fowler; participates in social events such as the Deb ball; later attends Eden University alongside Donna Freedman.
29 October	Julianne Burns	Rhona Rees	Wife of Josh Burns; informed about her husband's death by Elle Robinson during housing development storyline.
4 December 2009, 2–3 December 2010	Edmund Gwenn	Chris Gaffney	Marriage celebrant officiating important weddings and vow renewals for Rebecca Napier and Paul Robinson; also serves as judge for community events like the Christmas lights competition.

External links

• Cast and characters on the Official AU Neighbours site
• Cast and characters on the Official UK Neighbours platform
• Cast and characters at the Internet Movie Database