Dennis Harling

Home and Away

Company type	Television series
Industry	Television broadcasting, Entertainment
Founded	January 17, 1988 (1988-01-17)
Headquarters	Australia
Website	7plus.com.au/home-and-away

Home and Away is a long-running Australian soap opera that premiered on the Seven Network on 17 January 1988. Below is a compilation of characters introduced throughout 2011, listed according to their debut dates. All these characters were brought in under the guidance of series producer Cameron Welsh. The show's 24th season commenced broadcasting on 24 January 2011. In February, the Braxton siblings—Darryl, Heath, and Casey—made their first appearances. April saw the arrival of Miranda Jacobs and Kieran Monroe. In June, Marty Jones was introduced, followed by Tegan Callahan in July. Actor Fletcher Humphrys joined the cast as Gang Member Jake Pirovic also in July. August brought new faces including Harvey Ryan, Hammer, Stu Henderson, and Sasha Bezmel. September featured Shane Emmett's debut as Mark Gilmour, while October introduced the lawyer Hayley O'Connor.

Darryl Braxton

Darryl "Brax" Braxton, played by Steve Peacocke, made his first appearance on 16 February 2011. The announcement regarding both the character and casting occurred on 9 January 2011. Peacocke described the audition experience as highly enjoyable. Brax is the eldest member of the trio known collectively as The River Boys, a surf gang with a notorious reputation. A Channel Seven spokesperson characterized him as carrying "a chip on his shoulder" alongside his questionable reputation. He is revered as a surfing icon within his community, a status he uses to his advantage. According to Peacocke, Brax is determined to overcome his difficult past in order to establish a stable family environment. He also strives to shield his younger brothers, Heath (Dan Ewing) and Casey (Lincoln Younes), from trouble. Soon after arriving, Darryl began a romantic relationship with Charlie Buckton (Esther Anderson). For this portrayal, Peacocke earned the 2012 Logie Award for Most Popular New Male Talent.

Heath Braxton

Heath Braxton, portrayed by Daniel Ewing, debuted on 16 February 2011, exited on 29 July 2014, and briefly returned on 23 September 2014. As the middle Braxton brother, Heath was initially depicted as someone feared by both law enforcement and locals of Mangrove River due to his quick temper. Ewing's casting was revealed on 24 September 2010. This role marked Ewing’s second stint on Home and Away, having previously played Reuben Humphries in 2007. To prepare for the role, Ewing undertook physical fitness training, acknowledging the producers’ preference for actors who appeared physically fit to portray surfers. He admitted feeling relieved that surfing skills were not tested during his audition.

Casey Braxton

Casey Braxton, enacted by Lincoln Younes, first appeared on 17 February 2011 and departed on 16 September 2014. As the youngest of the Braxton brothers, Casey was characterized by his efforts to distance himself from the River Boys’ tough image after being expelled from his former high school. Younes postponed plans to move to London upon securing this role and relocated to Sydney instead. Described as a contemporary Rebel Without a Cause, Casey grappled with issues of belonging and academic difficulties. He eventually entered into a relationship with Ruby Buckton (Rebecca Breeds) following her previous involvement with Romeo Smith (Luke Mitchell).

Miranda Jacobs

Miranda Jacobs, played by Ashley Cheadle, made her first appearance on 6 April 2011. She comes to Summer Bay to take part in the Surf Carnival and soon starts a relationship with Xavier Austin.

Cheadle, who is a professional surfer, joined Home and Away portraying a romantic interest for a principal character. Miranda’s character defies the usual beach stereotype as she competes against Ruby Buckton (Rebecca Breeds) in the Surf Carnival, with both actresses performing their own stunts. Her arrival brings complications for Xavier, whom she dates briefly despite his deception about attending university. Although Miranda offers him another chance, Xavier’s continual dishonesty results in their split.

Xavier initially encounters Miranda when delivering pizza to her residence. They bond at a party hosted by Ruby Buckton and Casey Braxton (Lincoln Younes), where they help April Scott (Rhiannon Fish) after she is pushed into a pool. Miranda invites Xavier to an art gallery event and later coaches him for the Surf Carnival. After discovering that Xavier is still in school, Miranda ends their relationship but later decides to assist him in maturing. In the Surf Carnival race, Miranda emerges victorious following a rivalry with Ruby Buckton, with Xavier defending her against cheating allegations.

Though Miranda’s role was short-term and recurring, she played a significant part in storylines centered on youth competition and romantic developments in Summer Bay.

Kieran Monroe

Kieran Monroe, portrayed by Andrew Hazzard, first appeared on 6 April 2011 as a student and romantic interest for Indigo Walker. His pursuit of Indigo was viewed as unsettling due to his intense and sometimes disconcerting behavior.

Hazzard described Kieran as a goal-oriented individual focused on succeeding at university and aspiring to become a farmer and family man. Despite his ambitions, Kieran felt mistreated by others. His relationship with Indigo is characterized by persistent affection amid uncertainty and rejection. He tries to win over Indigo’s family, believing this will improve his chances with her.

At a party, Kieran encounters Indigo’s former boyfriend, Romeo Smith, sensing unresolved feelings between them and viewing Romeo as an obstacle. Hazzard acknowledged that Kieran has a "dangerous streak" but emphasized that his actions stem from love and a desire to protect Indigo rather than malice. Even during confrontations, Kieran acts according to what he believes are good intentions.

Kieran’s interactions with Indigo include sending flirtatious messages, assisting her and her brother with furniture assembly, and offering rides. However, his persistence escalates when he attempts to take Indigo somewhere against her will, leading to a tense confrontation interrupted by Romeo.

Critics labeled Kieran as "freaky," stalker-like, and an "intense suitor," underscoring his disturbing presence within the plot.

Marty Jones

Marty Jones, played by Matty Lui, first appeared on 27 June 2011. Lui won the role following an audition in Hawaii and is a five-time Hawaiian surf champion—a detail incorporated into Marty’s storyline. During filming, Lui also taught co-star Samara Weaving how to surf.

Characters Roo Stewart (Georgie Parker), Romeo Smith (Luke Mitchell), and Indi Walker (Weaving) travel to Hawaii for a tourism expo where Marty acts as a business associate of Roo and Romeo. Indi helps earn Marty’s approval, leading him to offer her employment, which she declines. Marty supports Indi and Romeo’s marriage throughout their visit. Roo spends time with Marty as a way to avoid conversations with Sid Walker (Robert Mammone), while Marty encourages Roo to explore her feelings for Sid.

Tegan Callahan

Tegan Mary Callahan, portrayed by Saskia Burmeister, made her debut on 4 July 2011 as the former partner of Darryl Braxton (Steve Peacocke) who seeks to rekindle their past relationship. Burmeister’s casting was revealed in April 2011; she characterized Tegan as a "mischievous," cunning figure—a contrast to her previous roles—and embraced the opportunity to explore this persona.

Tegan arrives in Summer Bay representing Darryl’s mother, Cheryl, tasked with examining his lifestyle amid familial tensions. While Darryl harbors lingering feelings for her, he remains wary of her motives. Discovering Darryl's involvement with Charlie Buckton (Esther Anderson) surprises Tegan, prompting her to interfere with their romance.

Her narrative arc features clashes with Charlie and reveals that she is romantically linked to Jake Pirovic (Fletcher Humphrys). She becomes entangled in drug-related troubles and complex dealings with the Braxton family. Initially, Tegan claims Darryl is Darcy’s father but later confesses that Heath Braxton is the biological parent. Following a car crash and surgery, Tegan succumbs to her injuries, triggering a pivotal shift in the Braxton family storyline.

Harvey Ryan

Harvey Ryan, played by Marcus Graham, first appeared on 10 August 2011. Originally intended as a short-term guest character, Graham extended his tenure through 2012 due to his positive experience. Harvey is depicted as a skilled sailor and boat operator managing a fishing charter business in Summer Bay. He is portrayed as charming and adept at attracting women but also possesses a confrontational nature that leads to disputes with locals such as Romeo Smith (Luke Mitchell), who accuses him of undermining his enterprise.

Harvey's plotlines involve competition with Romeo over mooring rights and business practices, resulting in legal challenges and complaints filed with the council. He partners in business with Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher), merging Harvey’s mooring services with Alf’s boat operations. Harvey pursues a romantic relationship with Roo Stewart (Georgie Parker), though their bond experiences strain and breakups influenced by business disagreements and personal conflicts.

In the political arena, Harvey secures a council position opposing Alf and successfully halts plans for a new resort development, which raises concerns about possible corruption. His ex-wife Melissa Gregg (Allison Cratchley) and daughter Lottie Ryan (Morgan Weaving) join the storyline, introducing family drama including a custody dispute over Lottie amidst revelations about their late son Ben.

Following accusations of election fraud leading to his resignation from the council and legal consequences, Harvey sells his residence and moves in with Roo. Despite challenges such as interference from Roo’s former boyfriend Tim Graham (Jonny Pasvolsky), Harvey proposes marriage. The couple weds and jointly manages the caravan park while acting as guardians for teenage runaways Maddy Osborne (Kassandra Clementi) and Spencer Harrington (Andrew James Morley).

Subsequently, Harvey vanishes for several months after a fishing expedition with his close friend Winston Markman (John Batchelor (Australian actor)). Upon his return visibly distressed, he finds his relationship with Roo deteriorated, leading to their divorce so he can depart Summer Bay. Before leaving, he reconciles with Spencer despite earlier difficulties.

Jake Pirovic

Jake Pirovic, played by Fletcher Humphrys, first appeared on 22 July 2011 and left the series on 23 January 2012, with a brief comeback in 2014.Template:Ref His co-actor Tai Hara (Andy Barrett) remarked on Jake’s impact on Andy, emphasizing Jake’s role in affirming Andy during a difficult period.Template:Ref Jake’s reappearance was marked by involvement in a major murder storyline.Template:Ref

As the head of a rival surf gang opposing the River Boys, Jake engages in illegal activities such as drug distribution and violent clashes. He is romantically involved with Tegan Callahan (Saskia Burmeister). Following a police raid that results in his arrest alongside Heath Braxton (Dan Ewing) for cultivating drugs, Jake demands the return of his narcotics from Heath’s brother Darryl (Steve Peacocke). This dispute escalates into the kidnapping of Casey (Lincoln Younes) and Ruby Buckton (Rebecca Breeds). After a brutal confrontation with Brax, Jake is incarcerated. During his imprisonment, his brother Hammer (Benedict Samuel) takes over leadership but is killed by Charlie Buckton (Esther Anderson). Upon release, Jake seeks revenge by murdering Charlie and engages in further violent encounters with Brax before being sent back to prison.

Two years later, Jake reemerges as the leader of a drug trafficking group to whom Andy Barrett owes money. He orchestrates kidnappings and attacks—including targeting Josh and Evie MacGuire (Philippa Northeast)—to exert pressure on Andy. Holding Brax responsible for Hammer’s demise, Jake manipulates Andy into assisting with his vendetta against Brax. When Andy refuses to continue helping, Jake abducts Josh once more; during the subsequent rescue effort, Jake shoots Casey, who later succumbs to his wounds.

Remaining defiant, Jake provokes Brax into seeking retribution. During a high-speed chase, Brax crashes into Jake’s vehicle, causing severe injuries. Jake is hospitalized and placed in a medically induced coma. It is disclosed that he had been transferred from prison to a low-security psychiatric institution after being declared not criminally responsible for shooting Charlie under a psychiatric order but managed to escape custody.

Brax attempts to terminate Jake’s life support but is arrested; later, Andy secretly disconnects Jake’s life support, leading to Jake’s death.

Hammer

Harman "Hammer" Pirovic, portrayed by Benedict Samuel, made his debut on 22 August 2011. Announced on 30 July 2011, Hammer is introduced as a member of a gang competing with the River Boys.Template:Ref Samuel described Hammer as "hired muscle," highlighting his role as a formidable enforcer despite his slender physique. The character is characterized as a "big, tough guy with plenty of attitude," subordinate to his brother Jake.Template:Ref

While Jake is imprisoned, Hammer assumes command of the gang and confronts rivals such as Darryl "Brax" Braxton and Heath Braxton. After Heath agrees to testify for Jake’s early release, Hammer threatens the Braxtons and assaults Heath. This retaliation triggers escalating gang conflicts involving arson and physical violence that ultimately attract police intervention. Hammer's faction further intimidates by forcibly removing a tattoo from Stu Henderson (Brenton Thwaites) and abandoning him near the Braxtons' residence.

Law enforcement encounters include a traffic stop conducted by Charlie Buckton (Esther Anderson) and Georgina Watson, during which potential weapons are discovered. Following the death of Jake’s girlfriend Tegan Callahan (Saskia Burmeister), Hammer warns Brax of forthcoming violence. Acting on Jake's orders to inflict pain, Hammer targets Charlie Buckton. When Charlie is shot from Hammer's vehicle, suspicion falls on him; however, he remains silent.

At Tegan’s funeral, Hammer demands that Brax relinquish control of his territory and kidnaps Charlie to provoke a fatal showdown. The conflict concludes with Charlie fatally shooting Hammer, ending his violent campaign against the Braxtons.

Stu Henderson

Stuart "Stu" Henderson, brought to life by Brenton Thwaites, made his first appearance on 23 August 2011. Shortly after moving from Cairns to Sydney, Thwaites landed a recurring role lasting five months on Home and Away. He regarded the opportunity as highly beneficial and spoke positively about working alongside his fellow cast members. Stu was introduced as a fresh addition to the Bay's River Boys, playing a central part in a significant storyline throughout the year.

Stu is portrayed as a defiant River Boy who frequently instigates trouble within the community. His antagonism with Hammer’s gang intensifies after he and Heath Braxton vandalize Hammer’s vehicle, escalating into a gang dispute. In retaliation, Hammer’s group forcibly removes Stu’s "Blood & Sand" tattoo, which further fuels the conflict. This event sparks a violent clash between the rival gangs.

A romantic involvement develops between Stu and Sasha Bezmel despite initial objections from her father, Sid Walker. Their relationship is turbulent, marked by Stu’s violent conduct including several episodes of physical abuse directed at Sasha. The tension reaches its peak during the Year 12 formal when Stu assaults Sasha, prompting Sid to intervene violently and hospitalize Stu. Subsequently, Stu faces assault charges.

After enduring family strife and abuse from his father Alan Henderson, Stu chooses to leave Summer Bay. His body is later found lifeless near the caravan park by Alf Stewart. A police inquiry follows, with multiple locals questioned about the incident. Sasha admits to killing Stu in self-defense during a confrontation where he accidentally struck his head on a rock after being pushed away. It is disclosed that Dennis Harling moved Stu’s body from the original location. Ultimately, Sasha is acquitted.

This narrative explores themes such as youth gang conflicts, domestic violence, and the repercussions of legal actions within the show's storyline.

Sasha Bezmel

Sasha Bezmel, portrayed by Demi Harman, first appeared on 31 August 2011. While Isabelle Cornish initially tried out for the role, Harman was ultimately cast and relocated from Brisbane to Sydney for filming. Sasha is the fifteen-year-old illegitimate daughter of Sid Walker (Robert Mammone). Following her mother’s death in a car crash, Sasha moves to Summer Bay to live with her father and half-siblings. Harman described her character as "sassy, angry, stubborn and rebellious." The official series website depicted Sasha as uncontrollable, fiercely independent, and at an age prone to risky behavior. Harman earned a nomination for "Most Popular New Female Talent" at the 2012 Logie Awards for this portrayal.

Mark Gilmour

Mark Gilmour, played by Shane Emmett, debuted on 22 September 2011 in a notable guest role spanning several episodes. Emmett, brother of the late Home and Away actress Belinda Emmett, acknowledged the personal challenge of joining a production closely linked to his sister’s legacy. Mark is introduced as the affluent boyfriend of Gypsy Nash (Kimberley Cooper), but their relationship becomes strained due to disagreements involving Gypsy’s daughter, Lily Smith (Charlie Rose Maclennan). Mark proposes sending Lily away to boarding school, which Gypsy opposes strongly. When Lily reveals Gypsy’s past one-night stand with Liam Murphy (Axle Whitehead), Mark confronts both Liam and Gypsy before ending their relationship.

Hayley O'Connor

Hayley O'Connor, played by Alyssa McClelland, made her first appearance on 10 October 2011. McClelland had earlier guest-starred on Home and Away as Brooke MacPherson. Hayley works as a lawyer for Casey Braxton (Lincoln Younes) and stands by his brother, Darryl "Brax" (Steve Peacocke), during his time in custody. Peacocke characterized Hayley as "shrewd," capitalizing on Brax's vulnerable moments, which adds layers of mystery to her intentions in Summer Bay. Her involvement with Brax creates friction with his intermittent partner, Charlie Buckton (Esther Anderson), who becomes envious after spotting them together. McClelland reprised the role of Hayley on 30 April 2012.

Hayley takes on Casey's defense against arson accusations; despite her advocacy, he is found guilty and sentenced to Juvenile Detention. She subtly deceives Charlie into thinking she is romantically involved with Brax, culminating in a kiss and spending the night together. When Brax is interrogated regarding a robbery, he initially cites Hayley as his alibi, but she later retracts this claim and departs from town. Hayley reappears when Heath Braxton (Dan Ewing) employs her services to prevent Bianca Scott (Lisa Gormley) from leaving with his child. Confronted by Brax about Charlie's death, Hayley confesses to framing him and facilitating the release of Jake Pirovic (Fletcher Humphrys) due to her past struggles with substance abuse. Although Brax blames her for Charlie’s demise, he ultimately chooses not to pursue further action against her.

Others

18–29 March ||Angus McCathie|| Tim Pocock || University student dating Nicole Franklin; withdraws upon learning of her adoption plans. 5 April ||Janelle Riley|| Dina Gillespie || Manages Bayside Mission employing Elijah Johnson for community service work. 22–26 April ||Billy McVeigh|| Dallas Bigelow || Seeks shelter at Bayside Mission; involved in violent confrontations and job requests; arrested but later reconciles with Elijah Johnson. 27 April – 2 June ||Vanessa Unley|| Sarah Chadwick || Longtime friend of Gina Austin; participates actively in local events including music festivals and rescue efforts. 27 April – 21 June || George (multiple actors), son of Nicole Franklin and Penn Graham. Central figure in adoption storyline with Marilyn Chambers. Nicole ultimately leaves Summer Bay accompanied by George and Angelo Rosetta. ||

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Description
24 January – 5 October	Judge/Magistrate Hanson	Rhett Walton	Judicial authority overseeing Casey Braxton's trial, ordering his placement in juvenile detention.
24 January	Clerk	Anthony Milne	Court clerk present during Alf Stewart's hearing.
27 January – 21 November	Summer Horgan-Jones	Jaimee Taylor-Nielsen	New student at Summer Bay High engaged in social interactions; suffers injuries from a bicycle accident; shows interest in Casey Braxton.
27 January – 25 January 2012	Jase McKenzie	Nick Bartlett	Bully affecting characters such as VJ Patterson and April Scott, causing disturbances.
31 January, 5 Oct–19 Nov 2013, 19 May 2014, 17 Mar 2015 – 5 May 2016	Constable Nader/Neal Stevenson	Michele-Antonio Mattiuzzi	Police officer involved with various investigations including noise complaints, robbery cases, and custody disputes.
31 Jan–1 Feb, 18 Aug–7 Oct 2014	Shandi Ayres	Elizabeth Blackmore (2011), Tess Haubrich (2014)	John Palmer’s daughter; storyline includes identity theft; returns for John's wedding.
1 February	Park Worker	Peter Cridland	Bribed to arrange a meeting involving Daria Hennessy.
1 February	Lifesaver	Christian Miranda	Beach lifeguard collaborating with John Palmer.
2 February	René Lisle	Akos Armont	April Scott's online acquaintance appearing through webcam communication.
9 February	Stephanie	Jacinta Acevski	Tour guide providing reassurance to university students about pregnancy challenges.
9 February	Simone Bollen	Angela Bauer	University lecturer advising pregnant students on managing academic workload.
9 February	Evan	Ryan Oliver Gelbart	University student who ends his relationship upon discovering a pregnancy.
18–21 February	Rick	Curtis Oakes	Member of the River Boys involved in a staged kidnapping prank.
18 February–20 June	Pee Wee	Ty Hungerford	Partner in kidnapping and drug-related offenses; hospitalized after being assaulted; participates in illegal activities aboard Romeo Smith's boat.
21 February–31 May	Brodie Upton	Guy Edmonds	River Boys member linked to harassment incidents, marijuana cultivation, hospital hostage situation, and issuing threats; seeks assistance from Darryl Braxton.
23 February–31 May	Emily Logan	Madison Kerry	Student at Summer Bay involved in bullying peers and diagnosed with chlamydia connected to Romeo Smith.
23 Feb–26 Mar 2012	Rob Mitchell	Matty Burn	River Boy causing disturbances; informs Heath Braxton about Romeo's business needs; vandalizes election posters.
25 February – 15 March	Leo	Haydn Robertson	River Boys member associated with the main gang activities.
24 February – 4 April	Grace Johnson	Clare Chihambakwe	Married Elijah Johnson for immigration reasons; experiences personal tragedy and legal issues related to sham marriage allegations.
24 February – 21 March	Thabo Manthenga	Joshua Mbakwe	Grace Johnson’s son requiring medical care; develops friendships before passing away due to illness.
2 March 2011 – 15 December 2016	Cheryl Braxton	Suzi Dougherty	Mother of the Braxton brothers; involved in family dynamics and legal matters including Heath’s marriage and custody disputes.
10 March	Bill Lawson	Ian McPhee	Contacted by Charlie Buckton concerning Darryl Braxton’s background.
10 March	Cameron Sangster	Jo Turner	Lawyer representing Darryl Braxton; requests charge dismissal through Charlie Buckton’s assistance.
14 March – 2 June	Keith Irwin	Alan Lovell	Oversees victims of crime group; develops relationship with Colleen Smart before facing legal troubles due to marijuana possession.
14 March	Teena	Paige Gardiner	Shares experience as hostage within victims of crime group attended by Colleen Smart.
14 March	Mick	Michael Howlett	Participant in victims of crime group sessions.

External links

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