Damien Smith (Neighbours)

Neighbours

Industry	Television
Founded	March 18, 1985 (1985-03-18)
Founder	Reg Watson
Area served	Australia

Neighbours is a long-running Australian soap opera created by Reg Watson, which premiered on 18 March 1985. The following section highlights characters introduced during 1999, all brought in under the guidance of then-executive producer Stanley Walsh. The show's fifteenth season commenced airing on 18 January 1999. Notable character introductions include Bess O'Brien in February, Peter Hannay in May, Martin Chester in July, and in September, Daniel Fitzgerald, Teabag Teasdale, and Teresa Bell. October brought the arrival of Charlie Thorpe alongside the Scully family: parents Joe and Lyn, together with their daughters Stephanie, Felicity, and Michelle.

Bess O'Brien

Bess O'Brien, played by Diana McLean, made her first appearance on 8 February 1999. She is depicted as the mother of the established character Sarah Beaumont (Nicola Charles) and is characterized as an environmental campaigner who often placed activism above her parental responsibilities. Bess came to Erinsborough with the intention of mending her fractured relationship with Sarah, which had been damaged by years of neglect.

During her stay, Bess gave a public speech and provided support to Sarah amid personal difficulties, including Sarah’s dismissal from her hospital position. She took active steps to assist Sarah by advocating for her appeal with hospital authorities and also formed connections with local residents such as Susan Kennedy (Jackie Woodburne). Despite initial friction stemming from their troubled past, Bess made efforts toward reconciliation that culminated in a gesture of goodwill leading to forgiveness.

Together, they collaborated on fundraising initiatives for the hospital, and Bess extended help to Sarah’s housemate, Joel Samuels (Daniel MacPherson), aiding him in securing employment again. After restoring their bond, Bess returned to her home but kept in touch by sending friend Peter Hannay (Nick Carrafa) to visit Sarah. Peter later became engaged to Sarah; however, Bess was unable to attend their wedding due to missing her flight.

Peter Hannay

Peter Hannay, portrayed by Nick Carrafa, first appeared on-screen on 17 May 1999. Carrafa had previously been seen in Neighbours playing Tony Romeo in 1987. Peter was introduced under a twelve-week guest contract as a romantic interest for established character Sarah Beaumont (Nicola Charles). According to Carrafa, Peter was acquainted with Sarah’s mother, who encouraged him to connect with Sarah upon his arrival in Erinsborough. Their relationship blossomed after meeting at a restaurant and discovering shared interests.

Following a brief but intense courtship described as a "whirlwind romance," Peter and Sarah became engaged. Although Sarah initially hesitated due to unresolved feelings for Karl Kennedy (Alan Fletcher), they married within a month. Shortly before departing for their new life abroad on 13 July 1999, Peter nearly witnessed Sarah exchanging a farewell kiss with Karl. When Charles returned to Neighbours in 2013, she disclosed that Sarah and Peter had two children but had since separated.

Carrafa reprised the role briefly in November 2016 for an unexpected return. Peter came back to Erinsborough to collect his son Angus Beaumont-Hannay (Jai Waetford) and take him to Sydney. Angus was upset because Peter had not noticed when he went missing on the Gold Coast. Peter apologized, leading to their reconciliation. He expressed gratitude toward Karl and Susan for caring for Angus and revealed that he would be based in Sydney working with the Flying Doctors.

A contributor from Inside Soap described Peter as "dashing" and "hunky," while another commentator hoped he would be the doctor capable of "finally healing Sarah's broken heart."

Martin Chester

Martin Chester, played by Gil Tucker, made his first appearance on 29 July 1999. He is an old university acquaintance of Karl and Susan Kennedy, having been a member of Karl's band, The Right Prescription, and briefly dated Susan in the past. Martin arrives in Erinsborough for professional reasons and reconnects with Susan, who is healing from Karl's infidelity. He discloses that he has recently separated from his wife and confesses his feelings for Susan during Karl’s absence. Although there is mutual attraction between them, Susan chooses not to pursue an affair to protect her marriage. Their secret encounters are observed by Tad Reeves, prompting Susan to reconsider her actions. When Karl suggests reuniting their band, Martin reveals he is departing for Alice Springs. Subsequently, Susan admits to Karl that she was tempted by Martin.

Daniel Fitzgerald

Daniel "Dan" Fitzgerald, portrayed by Brett Tucker, first appeared on 1 September 1999 as a high school educator. His principal storyline involved a romantic relationship with housemate Tess Bell (Krista Vendy). Tess harbored feelings for Dan but was disappointed when he began dating Steph Scully (Carla Bonner). Upon Tess confessing her emotions, Dan acknowledged a mutual attraction but hesitated due to her marital situation. Eventually, Dan moved out to explore their relationship further. As a non-regular character, the continuation of this plot was uncertain. Tucker returned to the role in 2007 when Neighbours shifted focus towards character-driven narratives and family dynamics; at that time, Dan worked as a school counselor. Michael Lallo of The Age remarked that Tucker increased "the hunk quotient" portraying Dan.

Teabag Teasdale

John "Teabag" Teasdale, enacted by Nathan Phillips, first appeared on 3 September 1999. At the time a drama student with limited acting experience, Phillips was initially cast for a single line but secured a two-month contract. Tony Johnston labeled Teabag as the show's temporary "resident bad boy," notorious for stirring up trouble. This role remains one of Phillips' most recognized performances.

Teabag forms friendships with Hannah Martin (Rebecca Ritters), Paul McClain (Jansen Spencer), and Tad Reeves (Jonathon Dutton) after they transform a local allotment into a BMX track. He helps Tad with a BMX film project by initiating the opening scene with throwing a brick through a window. Admiring Hannah’s BMX talent, he gives her his old bike and offers her accommodation at his share house when her family plans to relocate. When Paul confronts Teabag about his relationship with Hannah, Teabag responds by punching him.

Teabag boasts about recent local thefts and admits to breaking into Billy Kennedy’s (Jesse Spencer) workshop. After Hannah, Paul, and Tad inform Billy, he reports Teabag to the authorities. Feeling betrayed, Teabag retaliates by harassing them and confesses that the bike he gave Hannah was stolen. His harassment includes disruptive acts at the Coffee Shop and sending excessive pizza deliveries to the Bishop household. In response, Paul and Tad damage Teabag's bike and property but stop after police involvement. On Hannah’s final day at school, Teabag presents her with a bracelet and ceases his harassment of the Bishops.

Teresa Bell

Teresa "Tess" Bell, brought to life by Krista Vendy, made her first appearance on 17 September 1999. Vendy earned the part through her agency after undergoing three auditions, ultimately surpassing two other candidates. Initially called Tamsin Flynn and depicted as a barmaid, the character was renamed Teresa and redefined as a 24-year-old married English teacher who relocated to Erinsborough to establish her independence, accepting a teaching position at the local high school. Although married, Tess developed romantic feelings for her housemate Daniel Fitzgerald (Brett Tucker). Gina Leros of The Sun-Herald highlighted Vendy as a notable talent within Neighbours during the year 2000.

Charlie Thorpe

Charlie Thorpe, enacted by Katrina Baylis, first entered the storyline on 8 October 1999. Following a brief romantic involvement with student Toadfish Rebecchi (Ryan Moloney), Charlie unexpectedly proposed marriage, catching Toadie off guard; he accepted despite sensing the timing was premature. Baylis characterized Charlie as unpredictable—alternating between sweetness and manipulation—with her main agenda being obtaining a visa through matrimony.

Their plotline began when Toadie accidentally retrieved the wrong dog from the pound but subsequently encountered Charlie, who identified herself as a London law student living with her former boyfriend Rupert. After conflicts with Toadie's housemates Joel and Lance Wilkinson, Charlie moved in with Toadie and made her proposal. Although Toadie eventually proposed in return, suspicions arose when he uncovered issues related to Charlie’s visa status and found out she was neither enrolled at university nor genuinely in love. Confronted with information from Rupert, Toadie ended their relationship, leading to Charlie’s permanent departure from the series.

Joe Scully

Joe Scully, portrayed by Shane Connor, debuted on 20 October 1999. Connor accepted the role partly due to the opportunity to work alongside Janet Andrewartha, who portrayed his on-screen spouse, Lyn. Signed on for a three-year contract with extension options, Joe was depicted as a builder with a tough demeanor and little regard for others’ opinions. Andrew Mercado described him as someone who was "permanently missing-in-action."

Lyn Scully

Lynette "Lyn" Scully, played by Janet Andrewartha, also made her debut on 20 October 1999. Andrewartha pursued a Melbourne-based role to remain close to her children and secured Lyn following a screen test. Lyn’s difficulties assimilating into Erinsborough created conflict within her marriage to Joe. Her blend of vulnerability and strength resonated with viewers, symbolizing determination amid personal and professional obstacles.

Stephanie Scully

Stephanie Jo "Steph" Scully, portrayed by Carla Bonner, similarly appeared for the first time on 20 October 1999. Initially cast alongside Emma Roche, Bonner replaced Roche after her early exit from the show. Steph was introduced as the eldest of the Scully siblings, characterized as a tomboy favoring motorbikes over conventional interests. She quickly gained popularity, developing a strong friendship with Libby Kennedy. Steph ranked highest in audience polls in both 2002 and 2010 as a favored character, demonstrating significant viewer attachment.

Felicity Scully

Felicity Jane "Flick" Scully, brought to life by Holly Valance, made her first appearance on 20 October 1999. Prior to joining Neighbours, Valance had minimal auditioning experience and only discovered she secured the role after a three-month wait. She expressed that landing the part was a fulfillment of a lifelong aspiration, having admired the show since she was young. At sixteen, Valance was slightly older than her character by one year. Felicity was portrayed as a passionate feminist with a strong sense of social responsibility. Valance earned a nomination for Most Popular New Female Talent at the 2000 Logie Award.

Michelle Scully

Michelle Scully, depicted by Kate Keltie, also debuted on 20 October 1999. At the time of casting, Keltie was thirteen, marginally older than her role required. Michelle’s character was shown as imaginative and determined, with a playful mischievousness beneath an innocent exterior. She shared a close bond with her father and was described by the BBC as mature and intelligent. Early narratives featured her developing feelings for neighbour Paul McClain (Jansen Spencer).

Additional Characters

Appearance Period	Character Name	Portrayed By	Role Summary
19 January–6 May	Jade Cleary	Talia Krape	Jade develops an interest in Paul McClain during his girlfriend Hannah Martin's absence.
19 January–3 February	Gary O'Neil	Kevin Hopkins	Gary arrives in Ramsay Street to visit Anne Wilkinson, claiming to be the great nephew of Lily Madigan. He challenges Lily’s will legally but Anne prevails and leases out the property.
19 January–9 March	George Caruana	Greg Ross	A radio DJ at Uni FM who stirs controversy with remarks about local schools and on-air disputes, resulting in his dismissal by station management.
26 January	Brenda Samuels	Pixie Jones	Joel Samuels' mother arrives following his accident; their strained relationship surfaces but she departs after witnessing community support for Joel.
29 January–16 February	Andy Sisson	Martin Copping	A homeless street musician who clashes with Karl Kennedy due to suspicions of drug use and theft; refuses Karl's offer of help after a confrontation.
3–26 February 2001	Cluney Webb	Cecilia Specht	Physiotherapist at Erinsborough Hospital assisting Joel Samuels with his knee injury and later treating Lou Carpenter’s back issues.
24 February–26 October	Allie Bentley	Jade Butler	Friend to Hannah Martin, showing romantic interest first in Tad Reeves and subsequently in Paul McClain.
10–18 March	Alita Zagarnauskas	Annabel Mounsey	Associate of Ruth Wilkinson, appointed Vice-Principal at Erinsborough High amid concerns about potential conflicts of interest.
24 March–20 July	Jemma Acton	Jessica Gower	University peer of Lance Wilkinson who dates Joel Samuels; organizes a university ball showcasing social interactions.
31 March–28 June	Vincenzo Coletti	Tasos Petousis	Owner of a restaurant who employs Anne Wilkinson, provides waitressing training, and generates tension with her boyfriend Billy Kennedy.
31 March 1999 – 14 March 2000	Damien Smith	John Ridley	Amy Greenwood's airline colleague and partner; their relationship leads to marriage and parenthood before divorce due to Damien's homosexuality.
8 April–12 July 2001	Frances Nagel	Judith Roberts	University librarian who briefly befriends Harold Bishop; their connection complicated by Harold’s family issues.
18 May–16 September 2002	Ron Kirk	John Orcsik	Drew Kirk’s father residing in Oakey.
18 May–20 March 2001	Rose Kirk	Diana Greentree
18 May–16 September 2002, 7 March 2018	Dougal Kirk	Michael Barallon / Steven Bahnsen / Brandon Burns	Younger brother of Drew Kirk; initially antagonistic but later involved in family affairs and business ventures. Feels remorse over Drew’s death and eventually offers apprenticeship opportunities to Drew's son Ben.
24 May	Ruby Hanson	Leyden Brewer	Infant daughter of Ray and Shelley Hanson; born during a Rodeo Ball in Oakey with friends visiting her in hospital afterwards.
7 June–11 November	Barry Reeves	Fred Barker	Tad Reeves’ father who announces separation from Coral and reveals Tad’s adoption before leaving town.
10 June–6 July	Chloris Mott	Lise Rodgers	Assistant at bridal shop involved in a dress dispute with Sarah Beaumont and Amy Greenwood; ultimately sells them similar gowns.

17 June–24 February 2000	Julia Burrows	Rhian Skirving / Ruth Callum	Met Lance Wilkinson while fruit-picking; their brief relationship highlights university social challenges and Lance's rebound issues.
23 June–24 September	Becky Niedermyer	Diane Viduka	Year 12 student involved in an unsuccessful concert event organized by Tad Reeves.
24 June–3 August	Megan Townsend	Allison Byrne	Dates Lance Wilkinson as part of a wager, leading to breakup despite genuine feelings developing.
24 June–6 April 2000	Gordon Collins	Chris Waters	Client of Philip Martin whose difficult attitude causes friction; ends association following disputes involving Lou Carpenter.
9 July–17 January 2000	Kate Johns	Fiona Harris	Nurse at Erinsborough Hospital attending key characters including Sarah Beaumont and Drew Kirk.
12–13 July	Trent Rushworth	Christopher Lee	Friend and best man at Peter Hannay’s wedding to Sarah Beaumont.
20–27 July	Rachel Ball	Pip Sallabank	University student involved in a scheme to date Lance Wilkinson as part of a bet.
9 August–10 November	David "Fanto" Hodges	Daniel Dinnen	Art student interested in Anne Wilkinson; relationship ends following financial deceit and inappropriate conduct.
16 August–15 March 2000	Craig Harrison	Stephen Macklin	Disorderly patron causing disturbances at Lou Carpenter’s bar and nightclub.
18 August–7 June 2002	Maurie Ryan	Neil Fletcher	Builder employing Billy Kennedy; faces legal challenges over unsafe work practices and conflicts with Karl Kennedy.
23 August–27 September	Sam Rodgers	Matthew Albert	Apprentice injured due to unsafe conditions on Maurie Ryan’s site, prompting investigation led by Libby Kennedy.
31 August–11 November	Desi Grant	Katherine McLean	Daughter of Portia Grant; manages Grease Monkeys restaurant competing against Lassiter’s Coffee Shop, leading to labor disputes involving Tad Reeves.
6 September–26 July 2001	Ralph Walker	Paul Collins	Police officer involved in numerous investigations including youth offenses and community incidents.
8 September–29 April 2002	Cindy Lipman	Natasha Pincus	Photographer covering local events such as nude calendars and Lassiter’s publicity shoots.
28 September–26 June 2000	Viv Garnett	Emma Buckland	Nurse providing care for various characters following accidents or injuries.
29 September	Steve Formosa	Cameron Knight	Stripper who unsuccessfully auditions for Natalie Rigby’s entertainment event.
29 September–20 October	Natalie Rigby	Nicki Paull	Employer of Joel Samuels as bartender; relationship complicated by age difference and disapproval from her son Liam.
4–15 October	Liam Rigby	Damien Bodie
11 October 1999 – 30 April 2007	Lindsay Hall	Glenn Hunt	Salvation Army volunteer supporting Harold Bishop through personal hardships.
27 October 1999 – 2 February 2001	Roy "Stanno" Stanley	Cameron Douglas	Biker companion of Stephanie Scully.
2–3 November	Katie Freeman	Nikki Visser	Prospective tenant causing tension among housemates before departing when her boyfriend moves in.
4 November–5 June 2002	Bianca Nugent	Jane Harber	School friend of Michelle Scully involved in various youth storylines including bullying episodes.
"9 November"	Kurt Hodges	Paul Glen	Father of David Hodges; involved in warehouse tenancy issues affecting Anne Wilkinson.
10 November–5 September 2000	Tim Harrison	Tom Budge   Student working under Desi Grant; participates in undercover investigation into workplace conditions and school controversies.
15 November   |'\'\'Rupert Coburn\'\'\'\'   |'\'\'Craig Blumeris\'\'   |'\'Has a one-night stand with Charlie Thorpe who reveals her visa-related motives to Toadfish Rebecchi.\'\'
23 November–27 January 2000   |'\'\'Chas Hancock\'\'\'   |'\'\'Don Hirst\'\'   |'\'Local councillor whose appointment as mayor attracts media attention amid allegations of an affair.\'\'

References

• Johnston, Tony. Neighbours: Two Decades on Ramsay Street. News Custom Publishing, 2005. ISBN 978-1-876176-78-5.
• Mercado, Andrew. Super Aussie Soaps. Pluto Press Australia, 2004. ISBN 978-1-86403-191-1.

External links

• Official Australian Neighbours website – Characters and cast
• Official UK Neighbours website – Characters and cast
• Full cast and characters on the Internet Movie Database