Dave Porter (Home and Away)
| Company type | Television series |
|---|---|
| Industry | Television soap opera |
| Founded | January 17, 1988 |
| 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. The series' third season commenced on 8 January 1990. Below is a roster of characters introduced throughout 1990, all under the guidance of executive producer Des Monaghan. January marked the arrival of Rebekah Elmaloglou as Sophie Simpson. In February, Craig McLachlan and Julian McMahon joined the cast portraying schoolteacher Grant Mitchell and soldier Ben Lucini, respectively. March featured Jaiman Paget Bayly in the recurring role of Murray "Mullet" Jensen. April introduced David Weatherley as Beach House owner Ernie Jacobs and Paula Duncan as Bridget Jackson. May saw the return of Craig Black as student Paul Jensen, alongside Josephine Mitchell's police officer Jane Holland. Siblings Blake Dean and Karen Dean, portrayed by Les Hill and Belinda Jarrett, debuted in July. September added Kate Raison as Jennifer Atkinson, a romantic interest for Steven Matheson (Adam Willits). October introduced the divorced father Michael Ross (Dennis Coard) and his son Haydn Ross (Andrew Hill). November brought Rachael Beck as Grant Mitchell’s sister, Kim Mitchell.
Sophie Simpson
Sophie Simpson, played by Rebekah Elmaloglou, made her first appearance on 23 January 1990 and remained on the show until 1993. Elmaloglou stepped away temporarily due to exhaustion and eventually departed to focus on other opportunities, citing the demanding schedule’s impact on her health. She later returned for guest roles in 2002, 2003, and 2005.
Grant Mitchell
Grant Mitchell, brought to life by Craig McLachlan, debuted on-screen on 9 February 1990. McLachlan exited the series within the same year but filmed additional footage that aired in 1991, with Grant’s final episode broadcast on 20 September 1991. McLachlan described Grant as a "stylish" educator who gained popularity among students by challenging authority, reflecting his enthusiasm for teaching. For this portrayal, McLachlan earned the "Most Popular Actor" accolade at the 1991 Logie Awards.
Ben Lucini
Benito "Ben" Lucini, portrayed by Julian McMahon, appeared from 27 February 1990 until 1 May 1991. After four auditions, McMahon secured the role. Ben is characterized as a laid-back Italian soldier from a large family who grows more mature during his tenure. He falls for established character Carly Morris (Sharyn Hodgson), leaves military service, and they marry. Hodgson highlighted Ben’s "traditional values" and "reliability," qualities Carly admires and believes will support their marriage’s longevity. Despite his character’s introduction in 1990, McMahon departed the show that same year. However, Peter Holmes of The Sydney Morning Herald criticized McMahon’s performance as "wooden," comparing it unfavorably to a "Thunderbird."
Mullet
Murray "Mullet" Jensen, enacted by Jaiman Paget Bayly, was featured from 26 March to 18 July 1990. Mullet is portrayed as an "energetic and lively eleven-year-old," representing an average rural boy with a mischievous streak and adventurous spirit. His nickname originates from his enthusiasm for fishing. Living below the poverty threshold with his family, Mullet’s mother, Lorraine Jensen, struggles to afford extras for him and his brother Paul Jensen. Lacking allowance money, Mullet sells his catches to Ailsa Stewart.
He forms a friendship with classmate Sally Fletcher, who initially keeps her distance but gradually accepts his company. Mullet inadvertently causes friction when he brings home a crab that belongs to Alf Stewart, leading him to offer fishing assistance as restitution. He keeps his family’s financial difficulties secret, even inventing a story about his mother being hospitalized; Sally comforts him and invites him to join a wedding celebration.
Jealousy surfaces when Mullet takes Tammy Newton fishing; however, he later teams up with Sally for a performance at the Surf Club’s talent night where their blunders are mistaken for comedic acts by attendees. Mullet also helps Adam Cameron with a magic trick that ends humorously. After briefly attempting to adopt a pop star persona—something Sally disapproves of—he reverts to his original style. Mullet attends the wedding reception dancing with Sally and is referenced years later concerning Sally’s past relationships.
Ernie Jacobs
Ernie Jacobs, brought to life by David Weatherley, featured on the show from 16 April 1990 until 9 January 1991.
Ernie leases his coastal property to Matt Wilson (Greg Benson), Adam Cameron (Mat Stevenson), and Marilyn Chambers (Emily Symons). The occupants devise a plan to humiliate Ernie by fabricating a photograph of him kissing Marilyn; however, the image initially fails to develop. After unintentionally ruining the kitchen floor, Adam installs turf infested with fleas as a replacement, prompting Ernie to threaten eviction. Ernie campaigns for a councilor position and gains an advantage when Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher) withdraws due to legal complications. Bobby Simpson (Nicolle Dickson) enters the contest as his rival. Later, Marilyn discovers a compromising letter and, alongside Bobby, blackmails Ernie. Ultimately, Ernie sells the beach house to Marilyn.
Bridget Jackson
Bridget Jackson, portrayed by Paula Duncan, made her first appearance on 20 April 1990. Although Duncan's contract was initially for five weeks with an option to extend, she chose to explore other projects and was hesitant about relocating away from her family. Bridget is the mother of Emma Jackson (Dannii Minogue). Duncan described her character as "completely dreadful," "raw and unrefined," and "an absolute monster," relishing the challenge despite Bridget’s difficult personality.
Bridget arrives following Emma’s act of self-defense against her abusive stepfather and stays with her aunt Ailsa Stewart (Judy Nunn), who had been unaware of Emma’s existence. The relationship between Bridget and Ailsa is strained because Ailsa killed their abusive father. Bridget attempts to regain custody of Emma, but Ailsa resists, emphasizing Emma’s newfound stability in Summer Bay. Conflicts intensify when Bridget reveals she separated from Emma’s stepfather Barry after he confessed to abuse. Although Bridget temporarily wins Emma’s trust, Emma later returns, disclosing that Bridget reconciled with Barry, confirming ongoing familial strife.
Paul Jensen
Paul Jensen, enacted by Craig Black, debuted on 8 May 1990. Paul is a 17-year-old student who also works as a shop assistant. He is the son of Michael and Lorraine Jensen and elder brother to Murray "Mullet" Jensen. Known for being warm-hearted and articulate with above-average intellect, Paul is also a self-taught musician possessing greater talent than his unsuccessful musician father.
Despite Lorraine's disapproval of his musical interests—prohibiting instruments at home—Paul secretly practices piano at school and the surf club. His teacher, Grant Mitchell, acknowledges Paul’s abilities and encourages him to pursue a music scholarship. Paul declines this opportunity and instead takes a job at Alf Stewart’s store to afford a second-hand instrument.
Initially dismissing Paul’s musical aspirations as futile, Lorraine eventually supports him, permitting Paul to perform in a school concert organized by Grant. Paul develops romantic feelings for Emma Jackson, who is involved with Adam Cameron. After Emma kisses Paul but remains committed to Adam, tensions escalate leading Adam to challenge Paul to a fight. Alf Stewart arranges an equitable boxing match with training assistance from himself and Steven Matheson.
The confrontation intensifies until Emma and their friends disrupt it by dousing both fighters with water. Although Paul is upset by Emma's interference, they reconcile afterward. When Emma faces false accusations of cheating from Vicki Baxter, Paul initially doubts her but helps uncover Vicki's deceit by pretending to have a relationship with her. Emma is cleared of wrongdoing and later relocates to the Gold Coast for work, ending her romantic involvement with Paul while maintaining their friendship.
Jane Holland
Jane Holland, brought to life by Josephine Mitchell, made her first appearance on 22 June 1990. Mitchell started filming in April 1990 under a contract lasting two months. Jane is introduced as a young police constable and serves as a romantic interest for Grant Mitchell (Craig McLachlan). Having previously portrayed Jo Loveday in A Country Practice, Mitchell described Jane as a more assertive character and valued the chance to expand her acting range. While Jane engages with many residents of Summer Bay, her primary focus remains on Grant.
Key plotlines involving Jane include the arrest of Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher) for driving under the influence, coping with the consequences of a shootout that claims a fellow officer’s life, and shielding Marilyn Chambers (Emily Symons) from harassment. Ultimately, Jane’s relationship with Grant dissolves, prompting her return to the metropolitan police force.
Blake Dean
Blake Dean, portrayed by Les Hill, first appeared on-screen on 26 July 1990. Hill brought prior television experience from his work on G.P.. His casting, alongside Belinda Jarrett who played his sister Karen Dean, was highlighted in TV Week. Hill found the fast-paced production schedule demanding. Blake is depicted as lively, charismatic, and resourceful—qualities that enable him to handle difficult situations and protect his sister.
Though Hill eventually departed from the series, he reprised the role of Blake for special episodes, including celebrations of the show's fourteenth anniversary and its milestone 4,000th episode.
Karen Dean
Karen Dean, enacted by Belinda Jarrett, debuted on 26 July 1990. A devoted fan of Home and Away, Jarrett had no previous television acting background before joining the cast. She and Les Hill were cast as siblings Karen and Blake Dean, arriving after their mother Margot’s death from cancer. The siblings come under the guardianship of Ailsa and Alf Stewart in accordance with their mother’s wishes, after rejecting an uncle who mistreated them. Their introduction was intended to generate compelling storylines to attract viewers.
At 15 years old, Karen is portrayed as attractive but shy, grappling with body image issues. She is well-liked at school and begins to explore early romantic feelings, though not necessarily toward boys her own age. Despite initial promise, Seven Network opted not to renew Jarrett’s contract in 1991 due to the character’s limited profile and popularity. Karen exited the show in August 1991 but made a brief return in 1993 following a prison term.
After conflicts with their uncle Alec Dean, Karen and Blake find refuge with Ailsa Stewart. Karen’s early story arcs include unreciprocated affection for Steven Matheson and strained relations with Sophie Simpson. She also confronts deputy principal Alan Stone over his decision to reinstate caning at Summer Bay High School. Karen develops feelings for Haydn Ross but faces disappointment when he chooses Sophie instead. She becomes involved in environmental protests, reflecting engagement with community issues.
Her relationship with Maurice "Revhead" Gibson draws her into criminal behavior, culminating in a robbery at Alf’s store. Following a car accident involving Adam Cameron that results in David Croft’s death, Karen is arrested and sentenced to two years in prison. Upon release on parole in 1993, she returns to Summer Bay where she reconnects with the Stewarts and learns about her half-sister Roxanne Miller. However, ongoing rebelliousness causes tension; after stealing money from Ailsa, Karen flees to the city, with Blake following to support her.
Karen Dean’s storyline addresses themes of troubled adolescence and redemption within the broader narrative of the series, enriching its exploration of family relationships and social challenges relevant to its audience.
Jennifer Atkinson
Jennifer Atkinson, brought to life by Kate Raison, made her first appearance on 12 September 1990 in a guest role lasting eight weeks. Her narrative centered around a provocative relationship with the adolescent Steven Matheson (Adam Willits), characterized as a "passionate affair" that generated considerable attention. Jennifer is related to Alf Stewart as his cousin and is married to Daniel Atkinson, who is an abusive alcoholic. She embarks on a romance with Steven, who conceals his true age, resulting in tension when Daniel uncovers the liaison and physically assaults Steven. Ultimately, Jennifer terminates the relationship and departs from Summer Bay, advising Steven to focus on his education.
Michael Ross
Michael Ross, portrayed by Dennis Coard, entered the series on 22 October 1990 alongside his son Haydn Ross (Andrew Hill). As proprietor of the local boat shed, Michael quickly became a prominent figure and romantic partner to Pippa Fletcher (Debra Lawrance). Their union initially encountered opposition from family members and was complicated further by the arrival of Michael’s former wife Cynthia, who attempted to undermine their relationship.
After enduring personal tragedies and challenges—including the heartbreaking death of their infant son Dale due to SIDS—Michael and Pippa married. Michael adopted Pippa’s son Christopher and assumed care for several foster children, highlighting their commitment to family values.
Financial difficulties arose when Haydn developed a gambling problem that led to theft from Michael’s business accounts, plunging Michael into debt. This situation compelled him to put the boat shed up for auction; however, Alf Stewart stepped in as a silent partner to assist. The stress of juggling multiple roles caused strain in Michael and Pippa’s marriage, prompting Michael to temporarily move out and seek marriage counseling, which eventually helped restore their relationship.
Beyond managing the boat shed, Michael expanded his ventures to include overseeing a caravan park and running the surf club kiosk. He also played an instrumental role in rescue operations following a seaplane crash and became foster guardian to Maya Krakajcek after her parents perished. Despite their efforts to care for Maya, she was ultimately returned to relatives abroad.
In 1996, the writers concluded Michael’s storyline with his heroic death during a flood rescue attempt. While saving Sam Marshall from rising floodwaters, Michael was swept away and drowned—an impactful exit that emphasized his dedication as a family man and community leader. Dennis Coard embraced this definitive ending, allowing him to move on to other opportunities without leaving room for reprisal.
Haydn Ross
Haydn Ross, enacted by Andrew Hill, first appeared on 31 October 1990 and departed on 17 September 1991, returning briefly in 1994 and again in 1996. Hill landed the role unexpectedly due to an agent’s mistake. In 1991, he opted to leave the show. Haydn is the son of Cynthia (Belinda Giblin) and Michael Ross (Dennis Coard), benefiting from his father’s business success while attending private school. Described as "athletic and determined like his father" with an appreciation for culture and a privileged lifestyle inherited from his mother, Haydn’s character blends business savvy with refined sensibilities.
Kim Mitchell
Kim Mitchell, portrayed by Rachael Beck, was introduced on 8 November 1990 as the sibling of the established character Grant Mitchell (Craig McLachlan). Although producers extended a twelve-month contract to Beck to secure Kim as a regular character, she declined in order to avoid being typecast.
Kim arrives in Summer Bay hiding a drug addiction at the age of sixteen. Beck characterized Kim as someone who maintains a pristine appearance despite her dependency, living by the philosophy: "Why not enjoy life to the fullest while you are young?" Initially coming to visit Grant, Kim steals money from his flatmate Matt Wilson (Greg Benson) and later from Carly Lucini (Sharyn Hodgson) to support her addiction. After Matt and Steven Matheson (Adam Willits) confront her, Grant discovers her drug problem upon finding speed pills in her possession. He steps in, organizing rehabilitation and relinquishing his role at Summer Bay High to assist her recovery. Grant later reports that Kim has made significant progress since completing treatment.
Additional Characters
| Date(s) | Character | Actor | Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 January | Robbo | Ned Manning | A veterinarian brought by shark hunter Zac Burgess (Mark Conroy) to determine if a shark was responsible for Rory Heywood's death (Gregor Jordan). Adam Cameron (Mat Stevenson) and Andrew Foley (Peter Bensley) request Robbo to dissect the shark; it is cleared of suspicion. |
| 29 January | Henry Thompson | Tim Allen | Potential purchasers of the Blaxland mansion, Henry and Doris are frightened away by an exorcism performed by Emma Jackson (Dannii Minogue) and Celia Stewart (Fiona Spence), leading them to believe the house is haunted. |
| Doris Thompson | Jane Archer | ||
| 2–16 February | Greta | Jodie Gilles | A friend of Marilyn Chambers (Emily Symons). Marilyn arranges a meeting between Greta and Martin Dibble (Craig Thomson), who initially resists due to Greta's looks but later enjoys her company. Greta departs soon after. |
| 9 February–1 March | Detective Hunt | Kim Knuckey | Arrests Donald Fisher (Norman Coburn) for the murder of Shane Wilson. Investigates Al Simpson (Terence Donovan), who takes Sophie Simpson hostage. Upon overhearing Simpson’s confession, Hunt arrests him. |
| 27 February–8 March | Dave Porter | John Adam | Ben Lucini's (Julian McMahon) army friend on leave. Attempts to win over Carly Morris (Sharyn Hodgson) but irritates Ben. Sabotages bets and is exposed by Celia Stewart. |
| 12 March | Travis | Craig Black | Year 12 student in Grant Mitchell's (Craig McLachlan) class. |
| 30 March–3 April | Reverend Christopher Goodhope | Ron Becks | African clergyman hosted by Celia Stewart during fundraising efforts. Mistaken for an intruder by Emma Jackson and Viv Newton; arrested but subsequently released. Later relocates to the city; Celia joins him as a missionary. |
| 6 April 1990, 21 May 2007 – 26 January 2012 |
Delivery Man | Steve Cox | Unseen delivery person bringing various items over the years to the Surf Club and residences, including cupboards, beverages, a cot, and a cake. |
| 16 April–11 September | Des Thompson | Brian Harrison | Bank manager who approves Carly Morris’s $500 loan with stipulations. Returns when Carly and Ben Lucini apply for a loan to purchase the local boatshed. |
| 17–26 April | Melody | Suzi Dougherty | Rents a room at the Beach House with Adam Cameron and Matt Wilson; unreliable with rent payments. Moves in boyfriend Bruce post-parole; Adam and Matt exploit his fear of snakes to evict them. |
| 18 April | Peter Butcher | Matthew Booker | Year 10 student who mocks Sophie Simpson about her illiteracy. |
| 25–26 April | Bruce | Bill Charlton | Melody’s boyfriend recently released on parole for assault. Intimidates flatmates Adam and Matt until they use his snake phobia, causing him to leave. |
| 3 May–17 July | Minister | John Mann | Local clergyman officiating Tom Fletcher's funeral and Carly Morris’s wedding to Ben Lucini. |
| 8 May–19 June | Lorraine Jensen | Elizabeth Chance | Mother of Paul and Murray Jensen, separated from their father. Works at a bookmaker’s shop to support her children. Initially disapproves of Paul's piano aspirations but eventually offers support. |
| 15 May–27 July | Doctor Walker | Earle Cross | Local physician treating Marilyn Chambers for chickenpox, Ben Lucini for food poisoning, and diagnosing Bobby Simpson’s pregnancy. |
| 21–24 May | Helen Wakefield | Shayne Foote | Social worker investigating child abuse allegations involving Tammy Newton. Facilitates Tammy’s reunion with Viv Newton and their estranged mother Angela Newton. |
| 21–23 May | Megan Tierney | Pamela Hawkesford | Carly Morris’s affluent former school friend who looks down upon Summer Bay. Her marriage to Julian Tierney ends following disputes over expenditures during dinner with Carly and Ben Lucini. |
| 23 May | Julian Tierney | Cranston Brecht |
Affluent husband of Megan Tierney; argues with her about spending during dinner with Carly Morris and Ben Lucini. |
| 23–25 May | Angela Newton | Annie Byron |
Estranged mother of Viv and Tammy Newton who reunites with them before relocating to Queensland to work on a lavender farm. |
| 29 May–5 September | "Chris Reynolds'" | "Jay Hackett" |
Introduced as Bobby Simpson’s dating agency match; revealed to be married and warned off by Bobby's family. Returns after separating from wife Wendy, learns Bobby is pregnant with his child, unsuccessfully attempts reconciliation, then departs defeated. |
| 29 May–19 October | "Geoff Lime'" | "William Usic" |
Dating agency candidate competing for Bobby Simpson’s attention; supports her pregnancy but ends engagement realizing it was a mistake. |
| 12–15 June | "Gus'" | "Harry Lawrence" |
Homeless man befriending Sophie Simpson; helps convince her to return to school through a staged treasure hunt scheme. |
| 27 June–23 July | "Sheree Anderson'" | "Beth Champion" |
Friend of Vicki Baxter; witness to Vicki's attempt to frame Emma Jackson for exam theft and seduce Paul Jensen away from Emma. |
| 11–18 July | "Francesca Lucini'" | "Kim Leon" |
Ben Lucini's sister attracted to Steven Matheson; provokes jealousy in cousin Angelo Lucini. |
| "Gina Lucini'" | "Arianthe Galani" |
Ben Lucini's mother managing household dynamics during wedding celebrations at the Fletcher residence. | |
| "Antonio Lucini'" | "Alistair Duncan" |
Ben Lucini's father providing support during wedding day tensions. | |
| 12–18 July | "Angelo'" | "Raj Sidhu" |
Ben Lucini's cousin and best man; causes conflicts including near-accidents involving Alf Stewart and altercations at wedding events; reprimanded for inappropriate behavior toward Francesca Lucini. |
| 30 July | "Alec Dean'" | "Norm Galton" |
Uncle who assumes custody of Blake and Karen Dean after sister Margot’s death; agrees they stay with Ailsa and Alf Stewart after they run away from his farm. |
| 9 August | "Anna'" | "Rebecca George" |
Vicki Baxter’s cousin involved in framing Emma Jackson for exam theft; exposed by Steven Matheson and Paul Jensen leading to Emma’s reinstatement at school. |
| 29 August–5 September | "Wendy Reynolds'" | "Liz Newman" |
Chris Reynolds’ wife who leaves him due to infidelity; remains locally while managing custody issues involving daughter Suzie and Bobby Simpson’s pregnancy revelations. |
| "Suzie Reynolds'" | "Sophia Davidson" |
Daughter of Chris and Wendy Reynolds caught in custody dispute after parents' separation; safely returned to mother following brief removal by Chris. | |
| 6 September | "Vince McGrath'" | "Felix Nobis" |
Delivery man from Coastal Video who dates Marilyn Chambers until jealousy causes cancellation of further meetings. |
| 10 September – 12 October | "Fred Owens'" | "Keith Holloway" |
Owner of local boatshed initially agreeing sale to Ben and Carly Lucini but accepts higher bid from Michael Ross instead. |
| 14 September – 17 October | "Hazel Lime'" | "Kaye Stevenson" |
Mother of Geoff Lime who initially disapproves of his relationship with Bobby Simpson but later supports them, including attending their engagement dinner. |
| 19 September–2 November | "Alan Stone'" | "Philip Hinton" |
Deputy Principal at Summer Bay High revealed as a violent alcoholic enforcing corporal punishment. Targets Blake Dean unfairly resulting in suspension. Departs after confrontation with Blake; replaced by Donald Fisher who abolishes caning policy. |
| 9–16 October | "Daniel Atkinson'" | "Ken Radley" |
Violent alcoholic husband confronting wife’s relationship with Steven Matheson; assaults Steven leading to charges following intervention by Ben Lucini, Carly Morris, and Grant Mitchell. |
| 14 November | "Eddie' | 'Peter Williams' |
Drug dealer supplying Kim Mitchell; warned off by Steven Matheson protecting Kim from harm. |
| 19 November 1990 – 8 March 1991 | '\'Patricia Coleman\ | 'Pam Western' |
Former nun teaching at Summer Bay High offering support to Blake Dean coping with family loss and Sally Fletcher amid foster family changes. Develops mutual affection with Donald Fisher before transferring out due to position termination alongside Grant Mitchell. |
References
- Desmond, Kesta. Home and Away Annual. Grandreams Ltd, 1990. ISBN 0-86227-787-6.
- Desmond, Kesta; Nicholls, David. Home and Away Annual Authorised Edition. Grandreams Ltd, 1992. ISBN 0-86227-863-5.
- Hopwood, Clive. Home and Away Special. World International Publishing LTD, 1990. ISBN 0-7235-6899-5.
External links
- Cast and characters on the Official Australian Home and Away website
- Cast and characters on the Official UK Home and Away site
- Cast and characters at the Internet Movie Database