Daria Ellis

Home and Away

Company type	Television series
Industry	Television soap opera
Founded	January 17, 1988 (1988-01-17)
Headquarters	Sydney , Australia
Area served	Australia
Products	Television drama series
Website	7plus.com.au/home-and-away

Home and Away is a renowned Australian soap opera. Below is a compilation of characters who made their debut in 1998, listed by their chronological introduction. All were brought into the series under the guidance of executive producer John Holmes. The show's eleventh season premiered on the Seven Network on 12 January 1998. The initial character introduced was Will Smith, portrayed by Zac Drayson. Shortly thereafter, the Nash family—comprising parents Joel and Natalie, along with their children Tom and Gypsy—were introduced. April marked the arrival of Olivia Fraser Richards through birth. In September, Byron Fisher appeared alongside Bec Cartwright as Will's sister, Hayley. October featured a guest role by Scott Major as the armed robber Murray. The month of November saw the introduction of David D'Angelo.

Will Smith

Will Smith, brought to life by Zac Drayson, made his first appearance on 13 February 1998. He remained a regular character from 1998 until 2002, with intermittent guest spots until 2005. Drayson and his character returned in 2010, with Will arriving in Summer Bay accompanied by his daughter on 14 October. Originally, Drayson auditioned for the role of Tom Nash, but producers chose to cast him as Will—a character with a tougher edge. Will's storyline concluded following his marriage to Gypsy Nash (Kimberley Cooper). Between 2003 and 2005, Drayson made occasional guest appearances. His comeback was officially confirmed in September 2010. Will initially was depicted as a "hot-headed troublemaker" reconnecting with siblings Hayley (Rebecca Hewitt) and Nick (Chris Egan). Over time, his character evolved into a dependable "good bloke" before departing Summer Bay.

Natalie Nash

Natalie Nash, portrayed by Angelica la Bozzetta, first appeared on 18 February 1998. After Debra Lawrance's departure as Pippa Ross in 1997, producers introduced the Nash family to take over management of the caravan park, a pivotal location in the series. This family included Natalie, her husband Joel Nash (David Woodley), and their children Gypsy (Kimberley Cooper) and Tom Nash (Graeme Squires). La Bozzetta exited the role late in 1998 to dedicate time to her daughter; Antoinette Byron succeeded her in 1999. Channel 5 (UK) praised the episode showcasing the Nash family's return to Summer Bay as one of the most memorable in the show's quarter-century history.

Joel Nash

Joel Nash, enacted by David Woodley, debuted on 18 February 1998 and left the series on 11 October 2000. Prior to his acting career, Woodley served as a federal police officer in Melbourne. He had previously appeared on the show in a guest role as Barry—Finlay Roberts' partner—in 1996.

Gypsy Nash

Gypsy Nash, played by Kimberley Cooper, arrived on screen on 18 February 1998 and departed in 2002, returning briefly in September 2011 alongside her daughter Lily. The introduction of the Nash family followed Debra Lawrance's exit to refresh the caravan park storyline. The family moved from Hong Kong to Summer Bay. Cooper reprised her role in 2011, describing Gypsy’s comeback as "dramatic." At the 41st Logie Awards, Cooper earned "Most Popular New Female Talent," becoming its first-ever recipient. Gypsy’s kidnapping plotline was nominated for "Most Dramatic Storyline" at the 1999 Inside Soap Awards. Additionally, Cooper won "Best Aussie Actress" in 2000. The soap opera website Holy Soap ranked Gypsy among the "Sexiest Home and Away girls ever," highlighting iconic moments such as her abduction and having a child with Will Smith.

Tom Nash

Tom Nash, brought to life by Graeme Squires, made his first appearance on 18 February 1998. Initially, the role was intended for Zac Drayson, but producers reassigned him to portray Will Smith, resulting in Squires being cast as Tom. After a two-year tenure, Squires departed from Home and Away in early 2000, with his last episode airing on 16 May 2000. He made a brief return for the show's milestone 3,000th episode special in 2001. Reflecting on the opportunity, Squires regarded this role as his breakthrough in acting and expressed sincere appreciation for it.

According to the official Home and Away website, Tom was depicted as an athletic and charming "ladies' man," actively involved in both cricket and rugby. Squires acknowledged sharing certain qualities with Tom, such as a creative streak and a love for outdoor activities, although he described himself as more reserved compared to Tom’s extroverted personality. His portrayal earned him a nomination for Most Popular New Male Talent at the Logie Awards of 1999.

Critics noted Tom’s appealing appearance; Robin Oliver of The Sydney Morning Herald referred to him and Gypsy as "good-looking children." Steven Murphy from Inside Soap identified Tom’s relationship with Terri as one of the series’ most passionate romances. Furthermore, Claire Brand and Annette Dasey dubbed Tom "the darling of Summer Bay," while Tina Baker of Soaplife called him "tasty Tom."

Olivia Fraser Richards

Olivia Fraser Richards debuted on 20 April 1998 as the daughter of Lachlan Fraser (Richard Grieve) and Chloe Richards (Kristy Wright). Upon her return in 2005, the character was portrayed by Ivy Latimer. Following Chloe's passing, Olivia left Summer Bay accompanied by her uncle James (Michael Piccirilli). In October 2015, Olivia reemerged, this time played by Raechelle Banno. Her comeback to Summer Bay was driven by a desire to reconnect with her late mother’s former foster carer, Irene Roberts (Lynne McGranger), after encountering difficulties at a school in London. Upon arrival, Olivia displayed flirtatious behavior toward VJ Patterson (Matt Little), with Banno commenting on the character’s boldness as a means to attract attention.

Hayley Smith

Hayley Smith was portrayed by Rebecca Cartwright from September 1998 until September 2005, followed briefly by Ella Scott Lynch. Cartwright exited the series due to personal reasons. Recognized by The Sun-Herald as one of Australian drama’s most beloved characters, Cartwright won the 2005 Logie Award for Most Popular Actress for her role and received a nomination for a Gold Logie that same year. The character was described as "trouble-prone" and an "artistic young widow who overcame a graffiti problem," embodying a multifaceted and compelling figure that resonated strongly with viewers.

Byron Fisher

Byron Fisher, portrayed by several child actors over time, first appeared on 16 September 1998 as an apparition within his mother Marilyn Chambers' (Emily Symons) dream during her pregnancy. Born on 16 February 1999, Byron was played by Brittany Jones and Joel Sanders-Aguius. In 2010, Nathanial Davey took on the role of an 11-year-old Byron appearing in a vision.

Byron is the son of Marilyn and Donald Fisher (Norman Coburn). His middle name Vincent was given in honor of Vinnie Patterson (Ryan Kwanten), who rushed Marilyn to hospital during labor. Marilyn initially experienced post-natal depression which led her to leave Byron and Donald but she returned months later and gradually formed a bond with Byron after their nanny Ellen Porter left. The family endured a significant hardship when Byron was diagnosed with cancer; his best chance for survival required treatment abroad. Marilyn and Byron traveled to America while Donald sold a valuable painting to finance the medical care. Unfortunately, Byron passed away before Donald could join them. Donald attended Byron's funeral alone after Marilyn departed once more and later authored a book titled Letter to Byron, illustrated by Hayley Smith (Bec Cartwright).

In 2010, Byron reappeared as an 11-year-old in a dream sequence experienced by Marilyn during her visions involving the late Amber Copeland (Mitzi Ruhlman), highlighting his lasting impact on her storyline.

Byron’s birth episode was selected by Channel 5 (UK) as one of their "Best Ever" episodes.

Murray

Murray, brought to life by Scott Major, made his first appearance on 20 October 1998. A reviewer from The Advertiser characterized him as "a young man armed and dangerous" who shoots Sally Fletcher (Kate Ritchie) after being turned down for employment. Channel 5 recognized Murray's diner hostage situation as one of the show's most memorable episodes.

Murray enters the Bayside diner and orders breakfast but then admits he lacks funds. When Ailsa Stewart (Judy Nunn) attempts to alert the police, he holds her at gunpoint as a hostage. Her spouse, Alf (Ray Meagher), steps in, yet Murray manages to flee with cash taken from the register. Officers Joel Nash and Terri Garner arrive, causing Murray to panic and shoot Sally Fletcher in the leg before escaping.

He takes refuge in a cave, capturing Sam Marshall (Ryan Clark) and Hayley Smith (Bec Cartwright) as hostages. Hayley's brother Will (Zac Drayson) along with his partner Gypsy Nash (Kimberley Cooper) are also held captive. Following a failed escape attempt, Will persuades Murray to surrender. He is subsequently arrested by Joel and Constable Barry Dennis. Later, Murray appears as a figment within Ailsa’s subconscious during a diner scene.

David D'Angelo

David D'Angelo (also known as Robert Perez) first featured on 9 November 1998, initially portrayed by Valentino Arico, followed by Ross Pennissi (as Mr. X), and ultimately Tony Poli until his exit on 13 October 1999.

David’s narrative revolves around his vendetta against Joel Nash (David Woodley), who incarcerated him for 15 years in Hong Kong. He deceives Joel’s daughter Gypsy (Kimberley Cooper) by masquerading as her tutor before abducting her. Cooper described working with Poli as challenging yet fulfilling, highlighting Poli’s supportive demeanor despite portraying a villainous character.

Upon arriving in Summer Bay, David clandestinely records conversations involving the Nash family, adopts the alias Robert Perez, and begins dating Gypsy. Advertising himself as a mathematics tutor, he is hired by Joel and Natalie to assist Gypsy academically. David intensifies conflict by leaking confidential family discussions, arousing suspicion from Joel’s brother Travis and his wife Rebecca.

David kidnaps Gypsy, holding her captive for three weeks while sending cryptic messages to the Nashes. He later takes Joel hostage, assumes his identity, drains his bank account, and sets fire to the Nash residence with Natalie, Tom, and Gypsy inside. During the fire, David holds Natalie hostage but is ultimately captured by Joel.

Several months later, David breaks out of prison to retrieve stolen money buried in the wilderness but discovers it has already been taken by Duncan Stewart and Gazza Boyd. He threatens Duncan and his mother Ailsa, taking Duncan hostage while attempting to escape with accomplice Lauren Healy. Joel locates him and rescues David from falling off a cliff. David lodges a false complaint against Joel but is returned to custody after Joel establishes his innocence.

Critics lauded David’s revenge plot as one of Australian television’s most gripping cliffhangers in 1998. Prior to the 1999 season, he was labeled a "Hooded Psycho driven by vengeance." His abduction of Gypsy and stalking of the Nash family earned a nomination for "Most Dramatic Storyline" at the 1999 Inside Soap Awards.

Others

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Context
19–20 January	Gordon Macleay	Danny Adcock	An unlawful arms trader discovered adrift on a yacht by Travis Nash (Nic Testoni); hospitalized due to illness.
22 January	George Baker	James Hagan	Legal counsel for Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher), recommends resolving dispute with Jesse McGregor (Ben Unwin) through a $10,000 out-of-court settlement.
23 January–2 February	Sludge	Steve Pate	Schoolmate at Summer Bay High and friend of Sam (Ryan Clark); serves as an alibi during Rod Sutton's (Nick Atkinson) ram-raiding gang activities.
22 January	Warren Hickson	Andrew Marshall	Childcare Services official who informs Pippa Ross (Debra Lawrence) about foster care alternatives as she prepares to leave Summer Bay.
30 January	Christine McKenzie	Linda Newton	Conservative politician campaigning for immigrant deportation; incites local protest during Surf Club rally.
2 February–30 October 2000	Barry Dennis	Mark Shaw	Local police officer frequently collaborating with colleague Joel Nash (David Woodley).
3 February	Darren	Jordon Askill	Drummer auditioning for band led by Joey Rainbow (Alex O'Han) and Aaron Welles (Ritchie Gudgeon).
25–27 February	Carol Williams	Diana Davidson	Neighbour to Lachlan Fraser (Richard Grieve) and Chloe Richards (Kristy Wright); her visits cause irritation to the couple.
10–11 March	Ralph Marchant	Nicholas Garsden	Tour guide bringing visitors to Summer Bay; involved in boating accident caused by Vinnie Patterson (Ryan Kwanten).
18 March–24 April	Jason Duncan	Paul Kelman	Bonza Burger manager whose affair results in separation from pregnant wife Tamara (Sarah Aubrey); employs Vinnie Patterson, who attempts to get dismissed. Jason eventually leaves Summer Bay.
18–25 March	Tamara Duncan	Sarah Aubrey	Jason Duncan's pregnant spouse; ends relationship upon discovering his infidelity and denies him access to their child.
26 March	Chris Brown	Luke Jacobz	Summer Bay High soccer player intentionally injured by jealous Will Smith (Zac Drayson).
30 March	Geoffrey Burns	Ben Price	Encounters Selina Roberts (Tempany Deckert) in Africa and helps her recover from malaria in Ironbridge.
	Bill Burns	Michael Carter	Geoffrey's father; briefly interested in Irene Roberts (Lynne McGranger) and later invites her for an extended stay.
	Waitress	Lorraine Brown	Serves Bill Burns and Irene Roberts at a restaurant, where game pies are ordered.
	George	Richard Clohessy	Colleague of Geoffrey Burns; invites Geoffrey on a trip after learning about his romantic involvement.
31 March–2 April	Pam Edmonson	Rebecca O'Dare	Meets Sam Marshall (Ryan Clark) at a surf carnival; wins the under-18 girls' race.
3–6 April	George Berry	Rhiannon Mason	Crisis care foster child temporarily placed with Travis and Rebecca Nash; displays challenging behavior before moving on.
8 April–28 May		Shannon Cooper	Friend of Sam Marshall; involved in drug purchase that nearly results in expulsion alongside dealer Lillian Reynolds.
9–21 April	Sugar O'Donnell	Brooke Gissing	Dates Tom Nash despite his mother's objections; relationship ends when she leaves him for lead singer Ben.
9–17 April	Candy O'Donnell	Bianca Gissing	Sugar's twin sister; involved with Aaron Welles, creating tension with Justine Welles and Tom Nash.
15–24 April	Nigel Whittaker	Stephen Holford	Interior decorator contracted by Ailsa Stewart (Judy Nunn) for Bayside Diner refurbishment.
17 April	Ben	Tony Gibson	Lead vocalist of band who attracts Sugar O'Donnell, causing her breakup with Tom Nash.
20–21 April	Dr Matthew	Alan Lock	Delivers newborn Olivia, daughter of Lachlan Fraser and Chloe Richards.
22 April	Christina	Marina Finlay	Editor of Cheeky Magazine who awards Joey Rainbow a $1000 prize for an essay contest; assisted by Isabella.
	Isabella	Kylie Watson
22–23 April	Policeman	Reg Cribb	Stops Kylie Burton, who is evading authorities using Rebecca Nash's identity.
1–20 May	Harry MacKintosh	Sam O'Dell	Year 12 student distributing drugs through Lillian Reynolds; intimidates Gypsy Nash and Will Smith, leading to a disrupted fight.
12 May–5 June	Leila	Michelle Fondacaro	Year 11 Iranian student courted alternately by Aaron Welles and Tom Nash but chooses neither after competing for her attention.
20–25 May	Professor Dunstan	David Nettheim	Neurosurgeon overseeing Lachlan Fraser's brain tumor operation; reassures family despite complications resulting in coma and further surgery.
22 May–18 February 2000	Emily O'Kane	Rochelle Eardley	Friend of Rachel McGregor (Sarah Mumcu).
22 May–12 June	Mardi O'Kane	Kelly Cawley	Emily's mother; briefly dates Jesse McGregor before breaking up due to his unresolved feelings for Rachel's mother Kylie Burton.
19 June–22 October	Daria Ellis	Tamra Williams	Surfer and Sam Marshall's girlfriend; struggles with epilepsy disclosure, disapproves of her father's relationship with Sally Fletcher, ends relationship when Sam begins dating Hayley Smith.
19 June–4 September	Sean Ellis	Mark Gerber	Daria's father; opens surf shop, dates younger Sally Fletcher. Relationship ends following return of estranged wife Tanya Ellis. Sean later departs Summer Bay.
24 June–17 March 2003	John Wilson	Bryan Wiseman	Physician at Northern Districts Hospital.
1 July"	Mark Hollis	Matt Juarez	Kidnaps Rachel McGregor from shopping centre with accomplice Jason.
	Jason	Shaun Losesby
	Mrs Hollis	Felicity Soper
9 July–14 August	Colt	Brendan Cowell	Rock band Monkey Jam's lead singer; recruits Aaron Welles despite opposition. Has relationship with Tiegan Brook who briefly tours with the band before returning home.
13–29 July	Phil Flatley	Benjamin Hawker	Drummer critical of Aaron Welles' style within Monkey Jam band.
15–30 July	Judith Wade	Lyn Lovett	Store owner annoyed by teenagers loitering outside shop; accuses Will Smith of assault but withdraws charges after realizing error.
16–27 July	Mr. Wade	David Whitford	Husband of Judith Wade explains her paranoia as result of previous mugging incident.
20 July–6 August	Douglas Dawson	Ivar Kants	Conducts computer classes attended by Irene Roberts, who develops interest until discovering he is gay.
23 July 1998 – 26 October 2003	Mike Carter	Stephen Leeder	Detective Inspector at Yabbie Creek police station managing investigations prior to replacement by Peter Baker (Nic Bishop).
13 August"   |'Max'   |'Steve McCarthy   |   Douglas Dawson's partner introduced to Irene Roberts at diner. |

External links

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