Debbie Barrett

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 compilation highlights characters introduced during 2013, all of whom were brought in under the guidance of executive producer Lucy Addario. The show’s 26th season commenced airing on 21 January 2013. The initial new face of the year was Zac MacGuire, with Courtney Freeman, Maddy Osborne, Spencer Harrington, and Rosie Prichard all making their debuts within the same month. In April, Chris Harrington and Ricky Sharpe were introduced, followed by the arrival of Josh, Andy Barrett, and Hannah Wilson in August. From September onward, Zac’s relatives—Ethan, Evelyn, and Oscar MacGuire—alongside Nate Cooper joined the cast. The month of October saw the addition of Jade Montgomery and Matt Page, with Phoebe Nicholson making her first appearance in November.

Zac MacGuire

Zac MacGuire, brought to life by actor Charlie Clausen, made his debut on 22 January 2013. Clausen’s casting was revealed on 13 January 2013, marking his return to acting after a hiatus. He expressed excitement about joining Home and Away, describing it as an excellent opportunity and complimenting the friendly nature of both cast and crew. Zac works as a prison education officer who intervenes during a fight involving Casey Braxton (Lincoln Younes) and has been assigned to supervise Casey by Natalie Davison (Catherine Mack). Clausen characterized Zac as "a good guy" whose own past includes time spent within the prison system.

Courtney Freeman

Courtney Freeman, portrayed by Joshua Brennan, first appeared on 22 January 2013. Introduced as an inmate at Crestview Correctional Centre, he crosses paths with Casey Braxton (Lincoln Younes) after Casey is incarcerated following a botched robbery. Courtney embodies the role of a "stereotypical prison bully," targeting Casey by coercing him into drug trafficking and violent acts. When Casey resists, he endures physical assaults. Courtney capitalizes on existing animosities between the Braxton and Sharpe families, deploying his gang to pressure Jamie Sharpe (Hugo Johnstone-Burt) into attacking Casey. Following a brutal confrontation where Courtney stabs Casey with a shiv, Zac MacGuire (Charlie Clausen) brokers a deal that results in Casey’s release and Jamie’s transfer in exchange for testimony against Courtney.

Maddy Osborne

Madeline "Maddy" Osborne, played by Kassandra Clementi, was introduced on 24 January 2013. Presented as a teenage runaway arriving alongside Spencer Harrington (Andrew Morley), Maddy’s storyline supports the show’s growing emphasis on fostering themes. Clementi described Maddy as "an energetic and very loving young girl who is mature and wise beyond her 16 years." The casting announcement came on 6 January 2013, with Clementi acknowledging the role as a meaningful chance to return to Australia despite experiencing initial homesickness.

Spencer Harrington

Spencer Harrington, brought to life by Andrew Morley, made his first appearance on 24 January 2013. The character was unveiled as part of the promotional campaign for the 2013 season. On 1 March 2015, Morley revealed his decision to exit Home and Away after two years, aiming to explore acting roles in the United States. Spencer's final episode aired on 23 April 2015.

Spencer, a runaway teenager, arrived in Summer Bay alongside Maddy Osborne (Kassandra Clementi). Initially, they took shelter at the local high school before being discovered by Sasha Bezmel (Demi Harman). Concealing a secret and fearing their parents' reactions, Maddy and Spencer later found refuge at the residence of Roo Stewart (Georgie Parker) and Harvey Ryan (Marcus Graham). To introduce added complexity, new character Chris (Johnny Ruffo), a relative of Maddy and Spencer, was brought in. Their narratives complemented the show's enhanced emphasis on fostering themes. Morley described Spencer as "authentic, self-assured, and highly charismatic," emphasizing his romantic and steadfast qualities.

Seeking accommodation, Spencer and Maddy approached Roo Stewart for a caravan at Summer Bay Caravan Park. Unable to pay for their meal at The Diner, Spencer committed to settling the bill later, which he did through work. He informed Roo that his parents were deceased. After spending nights aboard a boat and then at the high school, they reached out to Roo when Maddy's health deteriorated. Following an unsuccessful attempt to run away again, they returned to the caravan park and discovered an injured Romeo Smith (Luke Mitchell). Roo's assistance earned their trust. Spencer found employment at the bait shop; Maddy disclosed they were romantically involved rather than siblings. The arrival of Spencer's brother Chris (Johnny Ruffo) complicated matters, eventually leading to Spencer and Maddy ending their relationship.

Subsequently, Spencer began dating Sasha Bezmel (Demi Harman), which provoked jealousy from Maddy. Their relationship advanced rapidly, heightening tensions. Chris returned with intentions of rekindling his relationship with Sasha's sister Indi Walker (Samara Weaving), further intensifying conflicts involving Spencer.

Rosie Prichard

Rosie Prichard, portrayed by Teri Haddy, first appeared on 30 January 2013. The casting was announced in January 2013 shortly after Haddy moved to Sydney. Rosie is a sixteen-year-old student described as "kind-hearted but socially awkward," often seen as a loner. Although she had always lived in Summer Bay, this marked her first on-screen presence.

Rosie's storyline features her friendship with Sasha Bezmel, who invites her to a party where Rosie is eager to meet Sasha’s former boyfriend, Casey Braxton. Early in her narrative arc, Rosie becomes a victim of sexual assault by fellow student Alexander Mullens. Initially uncertain about the incident due to their previous interactions, Rosie eventually reports Mullens to authorities with support from Sasha and Roo Stewart. To portray this delicate storyline with accuracy, Haddy researched experiences of teenage sexual assault survivors and aimed to empower young women to assert boundaries.

Over time, Rosie and Sasha grow closer through school projects and social activities; however, Rosie keeps her family background private—her mother abandoned her at a young age, and her father splits his time between her and another family. Living alone, Rosie even hires someone to impersonate her sister to maintain appearances. After feeling jealous of Sasha’s new friendships, Rosie endangers herself by running into the ocean and requires rescue.

In the aftermath of the assault, Rosie endures bullying and concerns for her safety at school but decides to keep her pregnancy. She participates in self-defence classes led by Zac MacGuire and forms a friendship with Bella Lugrano, another survivor who also reports Alexander Mullens. When Mullens’s associate Lachlan Stone begins stalking Rosie with damaging evidence against Mullens, he is convinced to report himself to the police. This leads to Mullens’s arrest.

Rosie briefly withdraws from school due to safety worries but returns before ultimately relocating to the city with her father to raise her child.

Chris Harrington

Chris Harrington, brought to life by Johnny Ruffo, made his first appearance on 1 April 2013. His casting was revealed on 19 October 2012. This role marked Ruffo's acting debut, prompting him to move from Perth to Sydney for filming. Initially signed for approximately sixteen episodes beginning in September, his contract was subsequently extended. Ruffo expressed feeling "very fortunate" to land the part amid stiff competition and showed excitement about joining the cast of Home and Away.

Chris is the elder sibling of Spencer Harrington (Andrew Morley). His narrative centers around visiting Spencer in Summer Bay to motivate him to address family conflicts.

Ricky Sharpe

Erica "Ricky" Sharpe, portrayed by Bonnie Sveen, first appeared on 2 April 2013. Sveen had previously appeared in a guest role in 2010. She conveyed enthusiasm for securing a permanent role, noting a personal link through her grandmother, who is an avid Home and Away viewer. Ricky is the younger sister of Adam Sharpe (Martin Lynes). She arrived in Summer Bay for Heath Braxton's (Dan Ewing) engagement celebration and developed a romantic connection with Heath’s older brother, Brax (Stephen Peacocke), whom she has known since their youth. Sveen earned the Most Popular New Talent Logie Award in 2014 for her portrayal.

Josh Barrett

Joshua "Josh" Barrett, played by Jackson Gallagher, debuted on 27 August 2013. His casting announcement came in August 2013. Gallagher described working alongside veteran actor Ray Meagher (Alf Stewart) as a memorable experience. Josh was introduced together with his brother Andy (Tai Hara) through online webisodes that delved into their backstory. In May 2016, it was reported that Gallagher would leave the series following his character’s admission of shooting Charlotte King (Erika Heynatz).

Andy Barrett

Andrew "Andy" Barrett, portrayed by Tai Hara, made his debut on 28 August 2013. His casting and character details were published by The Daily Telegraph on 3 August 2013. Andy appeared alongside his younger brother Josh (Jackson Gallagher) through online webisodes that explored their histories. The Barrett brothers initially clashed with the Braxton family, with Andy harboring significant secrets about their past.

Hannah Wilson

Hannah Wilson, played by Cassie Howarth, first appeared on 29 August 2013. Announced in late August 2013, Hannah is depicted as a strong-willed, determined free spirit who fiercely defends her family but struggles with fear of isolation. She arrives in Summer Bay seeking assistance from Zac MacGuire to save their niece and nephew from a cult led by Zac's brother, Ethan. This storyline was recognized for its serious themes and represented a challenging shift for Hannah’s character.

Ethan MacGuire

Ethan MacGuire, brought to life by Matt Minto, was featured from 2 September 2013 until 27 January 2014. Initially trying out for a different character, Minto was ultimately chosen to play Ethan, the distant brother of Zac MacGuire. After the passing of his wife, Ethan relocated his children, Oscar and Evelyn, to a spiritual retreat that functioned as a cult under the leadership of Murray Granger. While Ethan initially depicts the camp as a beneficial sanctuary, it soon becomes clear that he exerts control and manipulation over those involved.

Hannah Wilson enlists Zac's assistance to free the children from the cult's influence. Despite challenges such as an AVO placed against Zac, he teams up with the Braxton brothers to retrieve the twins. Evelyn briefly returns to Ethan's care but soon appeals for help after witnessing violence toward another cult member. Following Murray’s arrest, Ethan takes over leadership of the group and intensifies conflicts by abducting Oscar, Evelyn, and Kyle Braxton during a music festival. The situation culminates in a violent clash and an explosion that leaves Ethan severely wounded; he ultimately succumbs after suffering cardiac arrest.

Evelyn MacGuire

Evelyn "Evie" MacGuire, portrayed by Philippa Northeast, made her first appearance on 3 September 2013. Announced in August 2013, Evelyn is Zac MacGuire’s niece and twin sister to Oscar MacGuire (Jake Speer). Their introduction coincided with Zac’s visit after discovering their father, Ethan (Matt Minto), had involved them in a cult. Unlike her brother, Evelyn embraced life within the camp. Northeast described Evelyn as deeply family-oriented due to early maternal loss and her father’s difficulties, which strengthened her connection with Oscar. She portrayed Evelyn as kind-hearted with a witty sense of humor and someone who stands up when overlooked.

Oscar MacGuire

Oscar MacGuire, enacted by Jake Speer, debuted on 3 September 2013. His casting was revealed in August 2013. Speer successfully auditioned earlier that year and expressed enthusiasm about joining the series. Oscar is Zac’s nephew and twin brother to Evelyn. Introduced alongside their father Ethan amid a cult-related storyline, Oscar wrestled with his father's decision to move them into the cult environment, striving to preserve his own identity.

Nate Cooper

Nathaniel "Nate" Cooper, portrayed by Kyle Pryor, first appeared on 26 September 2013. His casting was announced on 8 September 2013. Pryor initially auditioned for a different part but was later selected for Nate due to producers’ interest. He began filming four months prior to the public announcement. Nate is a medical doctor who joins Northern Districts Hospital despite aspirations for a larger city hospital where he hopes to specialize.

Jade Montgomery

Jade Montgomery, played by Tasma Walton, arrived on-screen on 16 October 2013. Walton’s casting was made public on 27 July 2013; she had previously been part of Home and Away in 1995. Walton accepted this role as it coincided with her film debuting at the Sydney Film Festival. Jade’s storyline spanned several months, concluding on 29 January 2014.

Montgomery is introduced as the principal of Mangrove River High School. After an arson attack devastates her school, she comes to Summer Bay aiming to negotiate a merger with Summer Bay High. Unhappy that Bianca Scott (Lisa Gormley) remains principal following the merger, Montgomery questions Bianca’s leadership abilities and openly criticizes Bianca’s husband, Heath Braxton (Dan Ewing), who had been one of her former students. She also shows bias against Mangrove River students such as Matt Page (Alec Snow), prompting Bianca to take disciplinary action against her.

In retaliation, Montgomery vandalizes Bianca’s office and frames Matt for the damage caused. Suspicious of Montgomery’s involvement in multiple school incidents, Bianca and her colleagues collect evidence that results in Montgomery’s suspension. Seeking vengeance, Montgomery plants an explosive device inside Bianca’s laptop bag; the bomb detonates at Northern Districts Hospital, killing Ethan Macguire (Matt Minto). Upon realizing her responsibility for the attack, Heath exposes Montgomery’s actions, leading to her arrest.

Matt Page

Matthew "Matt" Page, brought to life by Alec Snow, made his first appearance on 21 October 2013. Snow secured the role following an audition earlier that year and was initially signed on for a three-month period, which was subsequently extended to three years. He characterized Matt as a "troubled youth" grappling with his identity and frequently provoking others in Summer Bay. Snow expressed pride in becoming part of the legendary series, highlighting the character's depth and resonance with the audience.

Phoebe Nicholson

Phoebe Nicholson, portrayed by Isabella Giovinazzo, entered the series on 26 November 2013. After relocating to Sydney in mid-2013, Giovinazzo landed her inaugural acting role through an audition process. She described Phoebe as a "vibrant, attractive, and endlessly energetic" singer-songwriter with a quirky demeanor. Phoebe arrives in Summer Bay upon learning that her former boyfriend Kyle Braxton is organizing a music festival. Having grown up alongside Kyle in Melbourne, her heartbreak over his departure adds layers to her narrative arc.

Others

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Role Description
5 February	Gavin Wheeler	Ande Cunningham	Gavin functions as a social worker evaluating the custody application submitted by Heath Braxton and Bianca Scott for Heath’s daughter Darcy Callahan. He reviews Heath's living arrangements and criminal record before forwarding his findings to superiors. (Credited under Gavin MacIntosh but referred to as Gavin Wheeler.)
8 February–29 July 2014	Connie Callahan	Celia Ireland	Connie, grandmother to Darcy Callahan, obtains full custody after contacting the Department of Community Services. She later permits Darcy to reside with Heath and Bianca following Heath’s demonstrated commitment and consents to adding Heath’s name on the birth certificate.
12 February	Eugene Broad	Sonny Vrobao	Eugene is a drug dealer who meets with Darryl Braxton but escapes when Heath Braxton intervenes. Eugene attempts to run down Brax with a vehicle; Adam Sharpe pushes Brax out of harm’s way, taking the collision himself.
13–15 February	Nelson Gregory	Anthony Gee	Nelson, Tamara Kingsley’s former partner, arrives in Summer Bay searching for her. Tamara agrees to leave with him to protect Casey Braxton; however, Kyle Braxton knocks Nelson unconscious and he is arrested for involvement in her brother’s death.
13–21 February	Dr Padley	Nicholas Brown	Dr Padley provides counseling to Sid Walker during a suspected mental health crisis; Sid later chooses to discharge himself after speaking with his son Dexter.
15 February–6 October 2014	Nina Bailey	Emmy Dougall	Nina begins dating Jett James after meeting at the Summer Bay disco. They break up due to misunderstandings but briefly reconcile before Nina leaves for boarding school. They run away together but are found and separated. Nina returns as Jett’s date at a wedding; they ultimately end their relationship due to distance challenges.
15 February–15 March	Tilda Hogan	Gigi Perry	Tilda bullies Jett James at school, forcing him to complete their joint assignment alone. With assistance from Maddy Osborne and Spencer Harrington, Jett confronts her, leading Tilda to back down after being publicly embarrassed.
15 February	Olivia Fraser	Tiahn Green	Olivia attends the Summer Bay disco where Jett James unsuccessfully tries to ask her to dance; she later joins Sasha Bezmel and Rosie Prichard in dancing with Jett.
18–19 February, 16 April 2015 – 31 May 2016	Tanya Osborne	Kathryn Hartman	Tanya visits Summer Bay intending to see her daughter Maddy Osborne and encourages her return home. After Maddy reveals her cancer diagnosis, Tanya insists on rehab and legal action against Roo Stewart but eventually reconciles and supports Maddy through treatment and departure.
22–25 February	Sheldon Atkinson	Laurence Coy	Celia Stewart contacts Sheldon regarding their mutual gambling addiction. Despite Alf Stewart's financial help, Sheldon tries persuading Celia to gamble money on horse racing but departs Summer Bay alone after Celia refuses.
28 February–1 March	Ian Harrington	Matt Dale	Ian reveals he is Spencer Harrington's father and seeks custody. Following disputes with Roo Stewart and Harvey Ryan, Spencer refuses to leave with Ian. After a car accident injures Ian, he receives visits from family members.
13 March	'Weight Lifter'	'Paul Davies'	'Gym patrons receiving training from Heath Braxton on his initial day working there.'
	'Treadmill Guy'	'Rob Harys'
14 March	'Aron Dawkin'	'Nicholas Cooper'	'University lecturer Aron Dawkin reminds Dexter Walker about the importance of completing assigned readings after Dexter struggles during class.'
14 March	'Maureen Hogan'	'Melanie De Ferranti'	'Mother of Tilda Hogan who dismisses bullying allegations against her daughter, defending Tilda’s family background while labeling Jett James a troublemaker.'
21 March	'Brett Smith'	'Oliver Edwin'	'April Scott’s university classmate who misinterprets a study invitation as a date and leaves abruptly when Dexter Walker arrives.'
21 March	'Robin Sutton'	'Phillipe Klaus'	'Counselor who meets with Heath Braxton and Bianca Scott; initially met with resistance from Heath who later returns for further sessions.'
25 March–25 April	'Steph Green'	'Zara Michales'	'Nurse Steph befriends Dexter Walker; they begin dating but end their relationship after Steph falsifies patient records and retaliates by reporting their workplace romance.'
25 March	'Jake Twomey'	'Laurence Brewer'	'University lecturer impressed by April Scott’s insights on doctor-patient communication; they share lunch afterward.'
25 March	'Mr Andrews'	'Colin Huxley'	'Hospital patient whose dropped IV drip prompts Dexter Walker to call nurse Steph Green.'
26 March–25 April	'Alexander Mullens'	'Louis McIntosh'	'Acquaintance of Rosie Prichard who sexually assaults her and Bella Lugarno; faces police investigation but initially avoids charges due to lack of evidence.'
26 March–9 May	'Lachlan Stone'	'Michael Windeyer'	'Friend of Alexander Mullens who provides testimony against him after witnessing assaults.'
4 April–24 September	'Constable Taylor'	'Amy Scott-Smith'	'Police officer handling Rosie Prichard’s assault statement, arresting Sasha Bezmel over an assault complaint by Mullens, and managing an AVO involving Zac MacGuire.'
24 April	'Priest'	'Bruce Glen'	'Officiates Gina Palmer’s funeral service.'
25 April	'Mr Thompson'	'Trevor Michel'	'Diabetic hospital patient under nurse Steph Green’s care; his observations are falsified by Steph.'
30 April–1 May	'Bella Lugarno'	'Hayley Mitchelhill-Miller'	'Participant in self-defense classes who confesses being raped by Alexander Mullens but initially hesitates to involve authorities.'
8 May	'Caleb Van Huessen'	'Miles Jovanoski'	'Courier involved in gun exchange collected by Kyle Braxton under Ricky Sharpe’s instructions; exchange is covertly photographed by Ricky.'
27 May–17 July	'Holly Chapman'	'Sacha Vivian-Riding'	'Bullying Rosie Prichard over pregnancy; develops unreciprocated feelings for Zac MacGuire leading to false sexual harassment claims and a suicide attempt.'
30 May–3 June	"Henchman 1"	"James Willing"	"One of Adam Sharpe’s henchmen spying on the Braxtons; kidnaps Tamara Kingsley and later brings Ricky Sharpe to Tamara."
	"Henchman 2"	"Mark Norton"
3 June	"Joey Beresford"	"Cain Thompson"	"Associate of Adam Sharpe assigned to guard Tamara Kingsley and Ricky Sharpe; makes unwanted advances towards Ricky resulting in dismissal."
4 June	"Henchman 3"	"Dusan Durdevic"	"Additional henchman assisting Adam Sharpe in recapturing Ricky Sharpe during escape attempt."
4 June	"Mr Silver"	"Robin Queree"	"Patient at Northern District Hospital under Sid Walker's care; diabetic condition prompts detailed medical history prior to treatment."
7 June	"Kerry Doyle"	"Clodagh Crowe"	"Foster mother of Rosie Prichard shocked by Rosie's pregnancy resulting from sexual assault; accompanies Rosie during hospital visits."
17 June	"Nurse 1"	"Isabel Goudie"	"Hospital nurse informing Sid Walker that theatre is ready following Darryl Braxton's gunshot treatment."
25 June	"Andrea Marlowe"	"Ellen Bailey"	"Coastal News journalist covering protests organized by Maddy Osborne advocating Bianca Scott's reinstatement as principal; article tone shifts positively following community feedback."
25 June	"Photographer"	"Andy Trieu"	"Photographer documenting protest alongside Andrea Marlowe."
8 July–29 August	"Nurse Liz"	"Kelly Robinson"	"Northern District Hospital nurse caring for April Scott post-snakebite and Pippa Saunders after seizure; assigned care for Maddy Osborne following car accident."
9 July	"Intern"	"Irmgard Wessels"	"Hospital intern assisting with treatment of April Scott's allergic reaction."
10–11 July	"Joanne Kingsley"	"Pippa Grandison"	"Tamara Kingsley's parent visiting Summer Bay regarding daughter's memory loss; attempts reconciliation which Tamara declines."
"Patrick Kingsley"	"Jason Montgomery"
18–22 July	"Jerri Landale"	"Fely Irvine"	"Process server delivering subpoenas related to testimony against Ricky Sharpe for Darryl Braxton and Casey Braxton."
23 July	"Peyton Tedd"	"Paige Houden"	"Resident at caravan park who flirts with Casey Braxton inviting him out before suggesting private time in her van."
25 July	"Franco Chilvers"	"Drayton Morley"	"Bianca Scott’s supervisor introducing her at principals’ function where he mistakes Zac MacGuire as her fiancé."
30 July–9 October	"David Morrell"	"Charlton Hill"	"Solicitor representing Ricky Sharpe during sentencing hearing and later Darryl Braxton during manslaughter trial."
1 August–26 September	"Peta Bradley"	"Nadia Townsend"	"Doctor at Northern Districts Hospital treating Casey Braxton's injuries; initially skeptical about medical student April Scott."
12 August	"Hotel Maitre d’'"	"Nick Mitchell"	"Restaurant maître d’ in Melbourne denying reservation for Kyle Braxton and refusing service upon arrival."
13 August–20 March 2014	"Jess Lockwood"	"Georgia Chara"	"Melbourne barmaid who has one-night stand with Heath Braxton; later reveals pregnancy and terminal illness before dying soon after childbirth."
13 August	"Paris Wells"	"Herself"	"Performs at Melbourne nightclub attended by Kyle Braxton and brothers."
scope= "10 September–29 October"	Murray Granger	Christopher Stollery	Leader of Sanctuary Lodge cult opposing Zac MacGuire and Darryl Braxton’s efforts to remove Evelyn and Oscar MacGuire; arrested following incriminating evidence provided by Evelyn.
16 September	Physio 1	Brett Clancy	Physiotherapist treating Casey Braxton at Northern District Hospital.
17 September	Physio 2	Bronwyn Chilvers	Physiotherapist treating Casey Braxton.
19 September–17 October	Robyn Sullivan	Alexandra Park	Arrives seeking boyfriend Chris Harrington; has one-night stand with Kyle Braxton.
30 September–9 October	Debbie Barrett	Olivia Pigeot	Mother of Andy and Josh Barrett involved in hiding Andy post-accident; arrested after shooting incident injuring Josh.
2 October	Johnny Barrett	Stephen Anderton	Father/stepfather involved in armed robbery whose death results from altercation with Darryl Braxton; paternity revelations affect family dynamics.
14 October	Freya Lund	Ellie Gall	Sanctuary Lodge member warning Evelyn MacGuire against discovery weekend participation due to negative experience.

External links

• Cast and characters on the Official AU Home and Away site
• Cast and characters on the Official UK Home and Away site
• Full cast and characters on the Internet Movie Database
• Spencer Harrington profile on the Official AU Home and Away site