Derek Young (Home and Away)

Home and Away is a soap opera from Australia. The following catalog details characters introduced in 2005, under the guidance of series producer Julie McGuaran. Season 18 premiered on the Seven Network on 10 January 2005. The year commenced with Emily Perry portraying Eve Jacobsen. In March, Isaac Gorman and Sharni Vinson joined the cast as Ryan Baker and Cassie Turner, respectively. April saw Doug Scroope’s introduction as Graham Walters. In June, Ryan’s mother, Amanda Vale, portrayed by Holly Brisley, made her first appearance. August welcomed Todd Lasance as Aden Jefferies, alongside the Holden family: widower Tony (Jon Sivewright) and his sons Jack (Paul O'Brien) and Lucas (Rhys Wakefield). November featured James Mitchell as Jonah Abraham and Linden Wilkinson as Mumma Rose.

Eve Jacobsen

Eve Jacobsen (also known as Zoe McCallister), played by Emily Perry, made her debut on 21 January 2005. Perry’s casting represented a pivotal advancement following her earlier work in minor roles. Professionally a psychiatric nurse, Eve becomes entwined in a sinister plot involving patient Sarah Lewis, whose boyfriend succumbs to a drug overdose linked to Sarah. After Sarah commits a violent act, Eve retaliates against Summer Bay by murdering fellow nurse Zoe McCallister and assuming her identity.

Eve intensifies her campaign through acts of arson, sabotage, and framing others such as nurse Marc Edwards, while targeting central figures including Sally Fletcher. Although her attempts to murder Sally fail, Eve kills Marc during a confrontation. Her reign of terror includes bomb threats and kidnappings, culminating in a showdown at an abattoir where she appears to perish in an explosion.

Subsequently revealed to be alive, Eve resumes her vendetta under the pseudonym "Maxine Trood," orchestrating further threats like evacuations and sending unsettling messages to residents. The final encounter results in her capture after taking Jack Holden hostage; nevertheless, she resurfaces at Jack and Martha MacKenzie’s wedding with an accomplice, triggering a deadly gas explosion that claims both their lives.

The "Summer Bay Stalker" plotline featuring Eve earned a nomination for "Best Storyline" at the 2006 Inside Soap Awards, with her disruption of Jack and Martha’s wedding also receiving recognition in 2007. In 2012, Eve was included in Digital Spy's Serial Killer Poll. Critics lauded the storyline’s strong impact on audiences and its prominence in public discourse, emphasizing Perry’s portrayal as a key element driving the season’s dramatic intensity.

Ryan Baker

Ryan Baker, enacted by Isaac Gorman, first appeared on 16 March 2005 and departed in 2007, returning for guest spots in 2008 and 2009. Gorman had previously played Riley Edwards in 2002.

Ryan arrives shortly before his father Dan's wedding to Leah Patterson, initially concealing his dislike for Leah. His disruptive conduct escalates from spilling drinks to destroying Leah’s wedding dress and burning invitations after discovering that his mother Amanda Vale was excluded from the event. Following an incident where Leah’s son VJ is slightly injured due to Ryan's actions, Dan and Leah confront him. Ryan runs away but later returns with an apology to join Amanda in America, reappearing later as ring bearer at Dan and Leah’s wedding.

Dan later invites Ryan to live with him and Leah, citing Amanda's negative influence; however, conflicts arise leading Amanda to take Ryan back to Los Angeles. They return months afterward, residing in a mansion alongside Amanda's daughter and Ryan’s half-sister, Belle Taylor. After Amanda becomes engaged to Peter, Ryan moves back with Dan and Leah amid their marital difficulties. When Dan accepts a job opportunity in America, Ryan resists relocating but ultimately joins Amanda and Peter there. Following Dan's accidental death, Amanda and Ryan attend his memorial service. Ryan expresses concern about his place with Leah and VJ but is reassured.

Ryan and Amanda come back for Belle’s wedding during her final battle with cancer, attending her funeral before returning to the city.

For his portrayal of Ryan, Gorman received a nomination for Best Young Actor at the 2006 Inside Soap Awards.

Cassie Turner

Cassie Turner, played by Sharni Vinson, made her debut on 18 March 2005 and exited the series on 2 April 2008. Vinson had previously appeared in guest roles during 2001 and 2003, portraying different characters. In 2004, she auditioned for the part of Martha MacKenzie, but was ultimately cast as Cassie Turner. Reports emerged in July 2007 indicating Vinson’s intention to leave the show to explore career prospects in Los Angeles. By November, her departure was officially confirmed, attributed to relocating to Los Angeles to be with her partner, although the character continued to feature on-screen into 2008.

Cassie was depicted as "strong-willed and fiercely independent," possessing an ability to "make friends easily and influence those around her." Vinson received a nomination for "Most Popular New Female Talent" at the 2006 Logie Awards for her portrayal. Media outlets described Cassie as a "seductive soap siren," noting that Vinson’s exit was considered a loss particularly by the show’s male viewers.

Graham Walters

Graham Walters, portrayed by Doug Scroope, first appeared on 22 April 2005 and remained until the character’s death on 3 March 2006.

Graham arrives in Summer Bay to celebrate his grandson Robbie Hunter’s eighteenth birthday. Conflict arises between him and his daughter Beth, who confronts him over his emotional distance. He discloses that his experiences during the Vietnam War left lasting psychological scars. After selling his farm, Graham attempts to rebuild relationships with his family. He becomes involved romantically with Amanda Vale, who is significantly younger and had previously been involved with his grandson Scott Hunter. Despite objections from family members, Graham and Amanda marry.

Amanda takes advantage of Graham by avoiding physical intimacy and frequently leaving her son Ryan in his care. Upon discovering Amanda’s involvement with Josh West, Graham enlists Morag Bellingham’s assistance to expose Josh’s illegal Project 56 activities. During a confrontation, Graham suffers a heart attack. Although Amanda calls emergency services, she ultimately abandons him. Declared brain dead, a dispute ensues between Amanda and the family over continuing life support. Robbie makes the decision to end Graham’s life by switching off the machine.

Amanda inherits Graham’s assets and holds a wake that is largely overshadowed by the Hunter family gathering elsewhere. She later returns Graham’s war medals to Beth. Following Robbie’s confession regarding turning off life support, he is found guilty but avoids incarceration.

Diesel Williams

Diesel Williams, played by Marcus Jacometti, appeared from 9 May 2005 until 17 June 2005.

This role marked Jacometti’s first professional acting experience following Year 12, involving a commitment of twenty episodes. He traveled from Kingston, Tasmania to Sydney for filming sessions. Jacometti described the process as both thrilling and intimidating, mentioning initial difficulties adjusting to public attention while valuing support from fellow cast members. Regarding Diesel, he noted that the character "falls for unsuitable partners, stirs up trouble, then leaves," sharing some fundamental traits with himself.

Diesel arrives at Summer Bay High School, introduced by principal Barry Hyde to Sally Fletcher. His distinctive appearance leads to bullying from Jason Pappa and other students who assume Diesel is gay due to a rose tattoo he sports. To dispel rumors, Diesel dates Matilda Hunter but confides in Cassie Turner that he lacks romantic feelings for Matilda. Jason persists with harassment and physical assaults.

Sally offers academic tutoring and later invites Diesel to live with her and her husband Flynn Saunders after learning he is homeless following a falling out with foster parents. Flynn expresses reservations about this arrangement, leading to tension between him and Diesel. When Diesel mentions his mother’s birthday, Sally accompanies him to a restaurant despite Flynn’s discomfort. Eventually, Diesel moves out when Flynn arranges alternative accommodation at a hostel.

Diesel falsely claims an affair with Sally to Henry Hunter and kisses her during tutoring sessions; Dan Baker witnesses this interaction. After Sally rejects him, Diesel accuses her of sexual harassment, resulting in her suspension from teaching duties. Attempts by Ric Dalby and Cassie Turner to mediate fail as Diesel demands Sally confess love for him in exchange for dropping the allegations.

He escalates matters by stealing Sally’s locket and fabricating emails implicating her in misconduct. Investigator Carl Summons interviews Diesel; when a photo of Diesel is discovered inside Sally’s locket, it leads to further suspension for Sally. Barry Hyde pressures Diesel into admitting the truth. The situation reaches a climax when Diesel takes Sally’s infant daughter hostage, threatening harm unless Sally declares love for him. Flynn intervenes during Diesel's attempted escape; Diesel is subsequently arrested.

Diesel admits to Ken Harper that he fabricated all allegations against Sally. During a visit, he reveals an unhealthy obsession linked to trauma from losing his mother. Sally acknowledges this but emphasizes boundaries must be maintained. Diesel apologizes before being taken into psychiatric care.

Amanda Vale

Amanda Vale, brought to life by Holly Brisley, made her first appearance on 30 June 2005 and remained until 2007, with short-lived returns in 2008 and 2009. Brisley characterized Amanda as the quintessential "attention-seeker," who skillfully manipulates those around her to fulfill her ambitions. During her 2009 comeback, the storyline was adapted to include Brisley’s real pregnancy. For this portrayal, she received a nomination for "Best Bitch" at the 2007 Inside Soap Awards.

Aden Jefferies

Aden Jefferies, enacted by Todd Lasance, debuted on 4 August 2005 initially as a recurring figure connected to Cassie Turner’s narrative arcs. Originally cast after trying out for another role, Lasance was promoted to a regular cast member in 2007. Although he signed with a Los Angeles talent agency in 2009 aiming for international projects, his departure from the series was confirmed with filming wrapping up in January 2010. Lasance described Aden as a genuine "bad-arse," deliberately avoiding transforming him into a stereotypical "good guy." His work earned him a nomination for "Best Bad Boy" at the 2008 Inside Soap Awards, as well as winning "Most Popular Actor" at the 2009 Logie Awards and securing another nomination in 2010.

Jack Holden

Jack Holden, portrayed by Paul O'Brien, first appeared on 5 August 2005 and left the show on 28 November 2008. O’Brien garnered several award nominations, including winning the 2006 Logie Award for "Most Popular New Male Talent." He also received Logie nods in both 2007 and 2008 for "Most Popular Actor." At the 2007 Inside Soap Awards, O’Brien and co-star Jodi Gordon were recognized with a nomination for "Best Storyline" centered on Jack and Martha’s wedding. In 2008, he earned further nominations for "Best Actor," "Sexiest Male," and "Best Couple" alongside Gordon. The inaugural Digital Spy Soap Awards also acknowledged their partnership with a nomination for "Best On-Screen Partnership."

Tony Holden

Tony Holden, played by Jon Sivewright, made his debut on 5 August 2005 and exited on 11 August 2010. By that year, Sivewright had become tied as the second longest-serving male cast member. After co-star Amy Mathews departed, producers opted to write Tony’s character out of the series. His storylines often revolved around coping with loss—grieving his wife, girlfriend, and child. Tony is portrayed as a committed "family man," known for his kindness, empathy, and optimistic attitude. The official show website highlights his athleticism and outgoing personality. One of his significant plot moments involved reversing a vasectomy to conceive children with Rachel Armstrong.

Lucas Holden

Lucas Holden, played by Rhys Wakefield, appeared from 5 August 2005 until his departure on 14 February 2008. Wakefield received a nomination for Most Popular New Male Talent at the 2006 Logie Awards for this role. A media reviewer described Lucas as a "stroppy lad" characterized by a notably moody demeanor. In 2007, both Home and Away and the Seven Network faced criticism from the ACMA due to airing explicit content during G-rated episodes—particularly episode 4358 featuring Lucas and Belle deciding to engage in sexual activity. ACMA determined that the program’s classification was inappropriate given its explicit nature and handling of teenage sexuality themes.

Michael Abraham

Michael "Jonah" Abraham, portrayed by James Mitchell, made his debut on 4 November 2005.

Michael is the son of Mumma Rose (Linden Wilkinson), the leader of the cult known as "The Believers." Mumma Rose coerces cult member Tasha Andrews (Isabel Lucas) into joining, with the plan that Michael will impregnate her. Initially, Michael complies but soon resists, attempting to flee with Tasha before they are both captured. The police intervene and rescue them; subsequently, Mumma Rose and Michael are taken into custody.

After being released on parole the following year, Michael returns using his original name. It is disclosed that Mumma Rose adopted him at age five and subjected him to lifelong indoctrination. His infertility clears him of allegations regarding assaulting Tasha. Despite facing animosity from locals Martha MacKenzie (Jodi Gordon) and Irene Roberts (Lynne McGranger), Michael sells off cult property and secures employment as a farmhand for Bruce Campbell (Chris Haywood). Following a tense confrontation with Martha, they develop a complex relationship despite her initial reluctance.

Michael's envy over Martha's history with ex-husband Jack Holden (Paul O'Brien) sparks tension, including a physical fight. Although Martha intends to leave town with Michael, he ultimately leaves alone after recognizing he cannot compete with Jack for her affection.

Mumma Rose

Mumma Rose (birth name Florence White), played by Linden Wilkinson, first appeared on 17 November 2005. Wilkinson had previously guest-starred in the series as Katherine Walker in 1996.

As leader of The Believers cult, Mumma Rose uses her son, Jonah Abraham (James Mitchell), to recruit Tasha Andrews (Isabel Lucas). Despite doubts expressed by Tasha’s friends and boyfriend Robbie Hunter (Jason Smith), she becomes involved with the cult. Mumma Rose pushes Robbie into a river and takes Tasha’s phone to hinder rescue attempts. Robbie survives but is unable to prove foul play.

When Rebecca Tate (Janneke Arent) warns Robbie about Mumma Rose’s scheme to have Jonah impregnate Tasha as "The Chosen One," Mumma Rose orchestrates Rebecca’s kidnapping and denies any involvement when questioned by police. Martha MacKenzie (Jodi Gordon) pretends to join the cult in an effort to save Tasha but fails to collect evidence after being spotted near Rebecca’s location.

Mumma Rose administers drugs to Jonah and Tasha to facilitate impregnation. After their escape, she organizes a purification ritual involving fire. Tasha turns the other members against Mumma Rose, who is arrested but manages to flee.

Several months later, Mumma Rose abducts Rachel Armstrong (Amy Mathews) and threatens Tasha to induce labor. A failed attempt to sedate her results in Mumma Rose’s arrest following a police tip-off.

With assistance from Charity Fernbrook (Charlotte Gregg), Mumma Rose kidnaps Tasha’s newborn daughter, Ella Hunter, intending to perform a cleansing ceremony. Charity alerts authorities, leading to a hostage crisis. After a struggle, Mumma Rose is captured and committed to a high-security psychiatric institution.

A Daily Record journalist described Mumma Rose as "sinister."

Others

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Description
11 January–31 March	Greg Hill	Alex Sideratos	Greg is a medical practitioner at Northern Districts Hospital, providing care to principal characters such as Leah Patterson and Sally Fletcher during significant health crises.
13–28 January	Gus Phillips	Peter Lamb	Gus, the estranged father of Kane Phillips, has a history marked by abuse and financial troubles. His unlawful deeds result in Kane's false arrest, affecting local law enforcement relationships.
14 January–1 April	Marc Edwards	Christopher Hobbs	Arriving after the bushfire, Marc reconnects with Josie Russell and becomes involved in schemes of blackmail and murder, driving a storyline filled with crime and deceit.
18 January–1 March	Anna McMann	Andrea Moor	Anna serves as hospital administrator, managing surgical procedures and overseeing staff performance at Northern Districts Hospital.
26 January–23 February	Greg Harvey	Steve Vella	Greg is linked to criminal activities including extortion and legal disputes that impact main characters.
26 January–12 September 2008	Lara Fitzgerald	Rebecca George	Lara works as a constable at Yabbie Creek Police Station, contributing to major investigations and mentoring successors over several years.
4–7 February	Benny "Red" Barron	Colin Borgonon	Pilot of a charter flight that crashes, resulting in his death and affecting numerous passengers.
17–25 February	Arthur Gordon	Alan McGuiness	A journalist who manipulates a personal connection to gather information regarding a local stalking case.
3–25 March	Lisa Stanniford	Zoe Tuckwell-Smith	Lisa maintains a complicated relationship with Scott Hunter, concealing her marital status which influences key romantic developments.
7 March 2005 – 15 February 2017, 6 February 2020	Celebrant Claire	Mary Regan	A community celebrant responsible for officiating major weddings and funerals, playing an essential role in significant events over more than ten years.
12 March–9 April 2008	Darren McGrath	Kim Knuckey	Senior Constable at Yabbie Creek Police Station actively involved in law enforcement duties.
17 March	Alan Stanniford	Don Atkinson	Visits Summer Bay concerning his wife Lisa’s affairs, introducing tension into personal relationships.
18 March–26 April	Joy Foxton	Elaine Lee	Grandmother to Cassie Turner; her arrival to organize a beauty pageant leads to a health crisis and subsequent death impacting family relations.
28 March–16 September	Alison Free	Larisa Chen	Physician at Northern Districts Hospital engaged in critical patient care and unraveling paternity secrets prior to her premature death.
6–12 April	Samantha Morton	Felicity King	Briefly involved romantically, utilized strategically within interpersonal conflicts.
11 April–3 August	Clare Brody	Katrina Campbell	Senior Detective leading the investigation into the Summer Bay Stalker; her professional and personal connections influence police procedures.
11 April 2005 – 30 May 2006	Dale Browning	Barry Shepherd	Manager of a storage facility involved in investigations related to bomb-making materials.
15–26 April	Ben Foxton	Craig Elliot	Arrives after a family tragedy; his abusive conduct provokes protective responses within the community.
25 April	'Pauline Bennett'	Beth Armstrong	Aunt to Cassie Turner; her arrival uncovers abuse within the family circle.
	'Carla Bennett'	Ashleigh Johnson
	'Liam Bennett'	Uncredited
3 May	'Zoe McCallister'	Uncredited	Nurse whose murder by Eve Jacobsen leads to identity theft and subsequent criminal investigation.
9 May–7 June	'Jason Pappa'	Joshua Biagi	Student involved in bullying incidents escalating tensions among youth characters.
20–23 May	'Jim Wallace'	Harold Hopkins	Retired officer providing essential background on past crimes influencing ongoing narratives.
1–13 June	'Callan Sherman'	Kain O'Keeffe	Engages in criminal acts affecting Ric Dalby and Matilda Hunter; conflicts lead to legal repercussions.
7–16 June	'Carl Summons'	John O'Hare	School inspector investigating allegations against staff members, influencing school community dynamics.
9–10 June	'Mystery Man'	Lleyton Hewitt	Makes brief appearance attempting contact with Hayley Lawson.
10–14 June	'Terry Rawlings'	Laurence Coy	Suspected kidnapper of Matilda Hunter; arrested following escape attempt and confrontation.
16 June–5 July	'Noelene Baker'	Kris McQuade	Mother of Peter and Dan Baker; her presence influences wedding preparations amid cultural challenges.
24 June–14 July	'Troy Peters'	Christian Willis	Ex-boyfriend stalking Chloe Richards; implicated in major events including her death.
4–5 July	'Kevin Baker'	Andy Anderson	Father working on reconciliation with son Peter during family gatherings.
22–23 July	'Judith Lane'	Jane Fullerton Smith	Acts as mediator in custody dispute involving Olivia Richards.
22–23 July	'Michael Maleto'	Antony Grey	Attorney representing parties in custody battle over Olivia Richards.
3 August 2005 – 20 June 2006	'Kevin Green'	Scott Hall-Watson	Physician at Northern Districts Hospital engaged in critical cases including high-profile patients.
9–24 August	'Tom Anderson'	Don Halbert	Former partner of Kerry Hyde; connected to Kim Hyde’s search for maternal figure.
10 August	'Harry Chambers'	Rodney Dobsen	Confronts Jack Holden over daughter’s death, stirring community tensions.
12–25 August	'Leo Simms'	Johann Walravan	Burglar involved in insurance fraud linked to Amanda Vale; his demise complicates investigations.
15–23 August	'Lorraine Robertson'	Gael Ballantyne	Sister of Barry Hyde who deceives Kim Hyde about family matters tied to darker secrets.
23 August	'Brian Robertson'	Paul Coolahan	Spouse of Lorraine Robertson, unaware of complex family issues involving Kim Hyde.
2 September–1 November	'Corey Henderson'	Adam Saunders	Probationary constable implicated in poisoning schemes targeting Irene Roberts; apprehended following exposure.
9–13 September	'Sean Jefferies'	Gabriel Egan	Elder brother of Aden Jefferies; engages in violent altercations resulting in incarceration.
18 September 2005 – 14 February 2006	'Greg Matthews'	Josef Ber	Doctor diagnosing Flynn Saunders’ terminal condition; participates in major medical storylines including funerals.
27 September	'Len Green'	Gary Baxter	Mayor implicated in political scandal involving Josh West and Amanda Vale.
29 September	'Pat McGrath'	Uncredited	Spouse of Darren McGrath; appears socially with principal characters at local venues.
13 October–25 November	'Kylie Kopperton'	Leah Etkind	Employee at nudist camp introducing drug-related storylines affecting Kim Hyde’s arc.
19 October–8 November	'Bert Biddle'	Zachary Garred	Intern at Northern Districts Hospital unknowingly involved in paternity test deception orchestrated by Amanda Vale.
25 October–25 November	'Noah Hunter'	Multiple actors	Infant son of Hayley Lawson central to paternity dispute resolved through medical testing influencing character exits.
28 October 2005 – 19 January 2006	'Dudley Shepherd'	Terry Serio	Bookmaker entangled with Dan Baker’s gambling debts leading to kidnapping and hostage situations impacting several characters.
28–29 October	'David Knotts'	Alan Dukes	Gun dealer facilitating illegal firearm purchase by Martha MacKenzie, escalating local crime concerns.
9–22 November	'Jimmy Knox'	Paul Caesar	Associate of Dudley Shepherd enforcing debt collection pressures on Dan Baker’s family.
11 November 2005 – 19 March 2012	'Derek Young'	Charlie Hopkins	Physician succeeding Flynn Saunders at Northern Districts Hospital during pivotal medical storylines.
11 November 2005 – 2 October 2006	'Charity Fernbrook'	Charlotte Gregg	Member of The Believers cult involved in kidnapping and coercion plots affecting key characters such as Tasha Andrews and Martha MacKenzie.