Derrick Quaid

Home and Away

Company type	Television series
Industry	Television, Entertainment
Founded	January 17, 1988 (1988-01-17)
Headquarters	Australia
Area served	Australia

Home and Away is a long-running Australian soap opera that first aired on the Seven Network on 17 January 1988. The following section details characters introduced during 2009, listed according to their initial appearance. All new characters were brought in under the direction of executive producer Cameron Welsh. The series’ 22nd season was broadcast from 19 January to 27 November 2009. Early in the year, January saw the arrival of Gina and Hugo Austin. February introduced Robert Cruze, Trey Palmer, Freya Duric, and Joey Collins. March welcomed Liam Murphy and John Palmer, followed by Lachie Cladwell and David Gardiner in April. In June, May Stone made her debut. July featured the birth of Harry Holden alongside the introduction of the Walker family members—Sid, Dexter, and Indigo. August brought Detective Robert Robertson, with Romeo Smith arriving in September.

Gina Austin

Gina Austin, played by Sonia Todd, first appeared on 27 January 2009 and departed on 18 April 2013. Official profiles describe Gina as a devoted mother who has faced difficulties with both her eldest and youngest sons but remains strong without indulging in self-pity. Industry commentary portrays her as a down-to-earth, warm-hearted woman who prioritizes her family above all else. Todd emphasizes that Gina’s role as a mother to three boys is central to her character’s identity.

Hugo Austin

Hugo Austin, portrayed by Bernard Curry, made his debut on 27 January 2009. He left the show on 26 January 2010 but returned briefly between 6 May and 9 June 2010. Curry, known previously for his work on Neighbours, described his time on Home & Away as an enjoyable and rewarding challenge. Hugo is depicted as an outdoors enthusiast with a fit build and sun-kissed complexion.

Robert Cruze

Robert "Robbo" Cruze, portrayed by Aidan Gillett, first appeared on 1 February 2009. Robbo works alongside Aden Jefferies and Joey Collins on a boat and frequently antagonizes Joey due to her sexual orientation. His hostility escalates to sexual assault, during which he intimidates her into silence. Following Joey’s report of the assault, Robbo denies the allegations and retaliates violently, including an attempted drowning, until he is apprehended by authorities. He faces charges afterward and does not return to the series.

Trey Palmer

Trey Palmer, played by Luke Bracey, debuted on 9 February 2009. Presented as having “an angelic appearance” coupled with “troublesome behavior,” Trey's introduction attracted considerable viewer attention. He quickly gained a reputation for stirring up conflict, targeting characters such as Geoff Campbell (Lincoln Lewis) and Nicole Franklin.

One significant storyline involved Trey recording a sex tape with Nicole, which was subsequently leaked online. This plotline mirrored a real-life incident involving Lincoln Lewis, adding an element of controversy to the show’s narrative. Critics referred to Trey as a “neurotic wolverine.”

Within Summer Bay, Trey engaged in bullying peers including Jai Fernandez (Jordan Rodrigues) and often clashed with teachers. He maintained ongoing feuds with Geoff Campbell and exhibited hostility toward his stepfather, John Palmer. Although he initially harbored resentment toward individuals like Miles Copeland, intervention by Kirsty led to some progress, despite Trey’s romantic advances being rejected.

Trey’s conduct worsened when he began dating Nicole; after having sex, he retaliated by creating and distributing a sex tape that damaged Nicole’s reputation. His instability culminated in him holding up a school bus during an excursion and planting an explosive device beneath it. The blast severely injured Hugo Austin, resulting in Trey’s arrest on charges of attempted murder.

Freya Duric

Freya Duric, brought to life by Sophie Hensser, made her first appearance on 10 February 2009.

In 2009, Home and Away featured two story arcs involving lesbian relationships, one of which centered on Nicole Franklin (Tessa James) and Freya, provoking some viewer complaints. James described their dynamic by stating that Freya represents Nicole's former uninhibited self, which explains their strong connection. Freya kisses Nicole to demonstrate her attraction, although Nicole is more intrigued by the attention than the kiss itself, leading her to recognize she has become dull.

Freya arrives with the intention of reigniting a romance with Xavier Austin but encounters opposition because of his involvement with Ruby Buckton. Despite Gina's objections, she persistently attempts to seduce Xavier. Causing turmoil in Summer Bay, Freya also deals drugs and persuades Xavier to distribute them at Summer Bay High. After a confrontation with Nicole, she publicly kisses her to assert her defiant attitude, aggravating Geoff who suspects manipulation. Freya enjoys manipulating Xavier but soon loses interest and kisses his brother Hugo, unaware that Xavier witnesses this. After falling out with Hugo, Freya quickly leaves town.

Joey Collins

Joey Collins, portrayed by Kate Bell, debuted on 12 February 2009.

The show's producers introduced Joey to develop a lesbian storyline involving Charlie Buckton (Esther Jackie Anderson) aimed at increasing viewership. Over a span of five weeks, their relationship evolves from friendship into romance, including intimate scenes. Executive producer Cameron Welsh highlighted Joey’s popularity and hinted at the possibility of her returning.

Joey works on a boat alongside Aden Jefferies and Robbo Cruze, who harasses her and eventually sexually assaults her while threatening her silence. She confides in Aden and Belle Taylor, although Robbo denies the accusations. Joey’s brother Brett disapproves of her sexual orientation and forces her out of his home, leading Joey to stay with Charlie.

Robbo’s harassment intensifies until Charlie intervenes during an attempted drowning; Robbo is subsequently arrested. Charlie and Joey begin a clandestine relationship that later becomes public knowledge, inciting homophobic reactions within the community. Charlie faces internal conflict regarding her sexuality and professional responsibilities, creating strain between them. Ultimately, Joey departs tearfully for another job after bidding farewell to Charlie.

Liam Murphy

Liam Murphy, played by Axle Whitehead, appeared for the first time on 5 March 2009. Whitehead, a musician and TV presenter, earned the role through an audition and was initially signed for fifteen episodes. Liam is portrayed as a "bad boy rocker," with Whitehead drawing from his own life experiences to portray the character's struggles with drug use.

Brendan Austin

Brendan Austin, enacted by Kain O'Keeffe, was introduced on 25 March 2009. After collaborating with existing cast members, O'Keeffe was cast as Brendan following the arrival of the Austin family; Brendan’s autism creates tensions between his brothers Xavier and Hugo.

Brendan comes to Summer Bay accompanied by his mother Gina, revealing his autism diagnosis. Xavier had been his main caregiver, which caused friction between the siblings. Initially withdrawn from others, Brendan begins engaging socially after encouragement from Xavier’s girlfriend Ruby Buckton. Under Martha's supervision, he runs away several times; during one incident he throws a brick at Roman Harris’s car, causing an accident that leaves Roman temporarily comatose and blind. Roman later opts not to press charges after understanding Brendan’s limited responsibility due to his condition.

Brendan harbors a fear of blue cars linked to witnessing a childhood crash that injured Hugo and resulted in his girlfriend’s death. He later introduces Ruby Leeds as his girlfriend—who has Down syndrome—initially causing confusion with Ruby Buckton due to their shared first name. Gina supports Brendan’s wish for independence and sheltered accommodation after he bravely rescues Xavier from drowning despite being a weak swimmer himself. Brendan eventually leaves Summer Bay to be with Ruby Leeds but returns briefly during family emergencies. Following Gina’s passing in 2013, Brendan did not attend her funeral due to emotional distress.

John Palmer

John Palmer, portrayed by Shane Withington, made his first appearance on 27 March 2009 as the stepfather of Trey Palmer. Withington, recognized for his role in A Country Practice, joined Home and Away in a recurring guest capacity. John's character is depicted as a "strict paternal figure" to his stepson and an active member of the surf lifesaving community.

Claudia Hammond

Claudia Hammond, played by Alexandra Park, was introduced on 10 April 2009. She embarks on a romantic relationship with Geoff Campbell and later reveals she is expecting a child. Their storyline includes being trapped together in a caravan fire after an intimate encounter, which causes Geoff, portrayed by Lincoln Lewis, to interpret their misfortune as divine punishment due to his religious beliefs.

Series producer Cameron Welsh described Claudia's pregnancy arc as intricate, highlighting her deception regarding the baby's paternity towards Geoff. When Lachie, her former partner, sustains injuries inflicted by Geoff, Claudia experiences remorse. Lewis remarked that Claudia's role contributed significantly to Geoff’s personal growth.

Claudia arrives to assist with farm duties alongside Geoff, leading to a romantic involvement. Following their night together and the caravan fire incident, Lachie accuses Geoff of causing the blaze. Claudia announces her pregnancy but initially denies Lachie’s paternity. Lachie attempts to rekindle their relationship but is rebuffed.

As conflict intensifies between Geoff and Lachie, Geoff's aggressive tackle leaves Lachie paralyzed. Overcome with guilt, Claudia confesses that Lachie is the father. Geoff responds with anger and expels her from his life. Lachie hopes for reconciliation but becomes violent, prompting Claudia to deny him access to their child and relocate to live with her cousin in Dubbo.

Lachie Cladwell

Lachie Cladwell, enacted by Jackson Heywood, debuted on 4 May 2009. He is Claudia Hammond’s (Alexandra Park) ex-boyfriend, with their intermittent relationship spanning approximately six months. Claudia develops feelings for Geoff Campbell (Lincoln Lewis), yet is taken aback when Lachie returns intent on winning her back before eventually promising to leave her alone. Upon announcing her pregnancy, Claudia initially claims Lachie is not the father, which escalates tensions culminating in a rugby confrontation between Geoff and Lachie. After Lachie suffers hospitalization and faces potential paralysis, Claudia admits he is the biological father. Geoff reacts by ejecting Claudia from his life. Lachie's anger surfaces during his hospital stay as he hopes to rebuild a family with Claudia during recovery; however, she ultimately rejects his involvement and departs Summer Bay permanently.

The Daily Record observed that although Geoff possesses a kind disposition, he channels his mounting frustration toward Lachie.

David Gardiner

David "Gardy" Gardiner, portrayed by Jeremy Sims, first appeared on 13 May 2009. His performance was commended by the Sydney Morning Herald for its authentic menace, especially in scenes involving Roman Harris (Conrad Coleby). The Daily Record characterized Gardy as both charismatic and perilous.

Gardy infiltrates Roman’s residence, unsettling Roman’s daughter Nicole Franklin (Tessa James) and her friend Ruby Buckton (Rebecca Breeds). Despite Roman’s recent loss of sight, he recognizes Gardy’s voice and permits him to remain in the house. Gardy soon engages in a violent altercation with John Palmer (Shane Withington) and his associates. In an attempt to aid Roman’s vision recovery, Gardy organizes a hazardous parachute jump which ultimately fails.

Once Roman regains sight, Gardy coerces him into participating in a liquor store robbery that causes an elderly woman to suffer a heart attack. Roman’s conscience compels him to perform CPR and flee the scene. After Nicole reveals Gardy made inappropriate advances toward her, Roman becomes subject to blackmail from Gardy concerning the robbery.

Gardy escalates his criminal behavior by robbing the Palmer household and taking hostages Trey (Luke Bracey) and Jenena Palmer (Anna Lise Phillips). Although Roman confronts Gardy during this event, he allows him to escape while denying involvement. It is later revealed that Gardy is blackmailing Roman over a wartime shooting incident from his past.

Planning a warehouse heist in Mangrove River, Gardy aborts the mission due to police intervention. During the robbery attempt, he assaults Roman and threatens Nicole. When Gardy intends to eliminate witnesses, Roman resists and sustains a gunshot wound. A shootout ensues involving Xavier Austin (David Jones-Roberts) and Hugo Austin (Bernard Curry). Hugo attempts intervention using a spear gun; Gardy tries to shoot him but is subdued by Roman. Wounded, Gardy flees into a creek and subsequently disappears from the series.

May Stone

May Stone, played by Alin Sumarwata, made her first appearance on 12 June 2009 as a new educator at Summer Bay High. She enters into a romantic relationship with Angelo Rosetta, who is secretly involved with Charlie Buckton. Esther Anderson, the actress behind Charlie, revealed that although Charlie partly intended to stir trouble, Angelo remained drawn to her, resulting in their secret liaison. The Daily Record highlighted Angelo's lack of sensitivity and May's emotional turmoil following their breakup.

May quickly becomes part of the local community and starts dating Angelo. Yet, Angelo’s lingering feelings for Charlie lead him to rekindle their affair. When May seeks a committed relationship, Angelo admits to the betrayal and ends things with her. Devastated by the infidelity, May resigns from her teaching role and departs Summer Bay without delay.

Harry Holden

Harry Jack Holden, the child of Rachel Armstrong and Tony Holden, was introduced on 30 July 2009. After his birth, Rachel experiences difficulty bonding due to Harry’s continual crying and briefly contemplates harming him before reaching out for support. Following accusations of neglect from Jane Avent, who kidnaps Harry, a police search is launched. Jane’s husband Rex is taken aback by her behavior. Ultimately, Harry is safely reunited with his parents.

In August 2010, Harry moves with Rachel and Tony to Boston, pausing momentarily at his half-brother Jack’s gravesite before leaving.

Sid Walker

Sid Walker, portrayed by Robert Mammone, debuted on 30 July 2009 with an initial five-week guest role. Due to favorable audience feedback, Sid returned alongside Indigo and Dexter as permanent additions in June 2010.

Dexter Walker

Dexter Walker, originally portrayed by Tom Green starting 30 July 2009, was recast in 2010 with Charles Cottier when the character rejoined the series. Cottier commented on Dexter’s character development and chose not to view Green’s earlier performance. A significant plotline featured Dexter’s relationship with Marilyn Chambers (Emily Symons), which Cottier found both demanding and distinctive because of their notable age gap.

Indigo Walker

Indigo Walker, played by Samara Weaving, first appeared on 30 July 2009 as a member of the newly introduced Walker family—Sid, Jody (Victoria Haralabidou), Dexter, and Indigo. Although the family exited in September 2009, they returned permanently in June 2010. Weaving expressed relief at managing this role alongside her other professional commitments.

Robert Robertson

Robert Robertson, enacted by Socratis Otto, made his debut on 2 August 2009. Created by James Walker for a murder investigation storyline, Robertson was intended to bring humor into intense narratives by blending dark themes with vitality and wit. Otto utilized his comedic talents and drew inspiration from quirky detective dramas for this role, describing it as "one of the most fantastic roles" he has encountered. The Daily Record characterized Robertson as "ruthless," emphasizing his contrast with characters like Charlie Buckton.

As a police detective arriving in Summer Bay to investigate the murder of Grant Bledcoe, Ruby Buckton’s biological father, Robertson suspects Ruby’s mother Charlie and arrests her but later discovers that Charlie’s father Ross confessed to the crime. Known for his eccentricity and storytelling flair, Robertson remains an effective officer. He briefly dates Leah Patterson-Baker but she declines to pursue a deeper relationship.

Returning to investigate the disappearance of Penn Graham, Robertson collaborates with Detective Graves and focuses suspicion on Alf Stewart as the primary suspect, collecting evidence and seeking a confession. Despite several arrests, he fails to obtain conclusive proof. Robertson again attempts to pursue Leah romantically; however, she rejects him due to unresolved feelings for her former partner. He coerces Will Smith into implicating Alf, resulting in Alf’s arrest. Nevertheless, Morag Bellingham exposes Will as dishonest, forcing Robertson to release Alf and charge Will instead. Troubled by what he perceives as failure, Robertson confides in Leah about losing his sense of self; she comforts him by reminding him that errors are part of being human. When offered a promotion, he invites Leah and her son to relocate with him to the city, but she declines.

Romeo Smith

Romeo Smith, played by Luke Mitchell, made his first appearance on 10 September 2009. Mitchell obtained this role after moving to Sydney without any prior employment. Romeo is depicted as charming, mischievous, humorous, and courteous. His family on the show includes his sister Mink Carpenter (Matylda Buczko) and mother Jill Carpenter (Josephine Mitchell). Following his relationship with Annie Campbell, Romeo becomes involved with Indigo Walker (Samara Weaving).

Additional Characters

Appearance Dates	Character	Actor	Character Description
30 January	Bank manager	Christopher Saunders	Detects unauthorized attempt by Bridget Simmons to access Leah Patterson-Baker's bank account.
30 January–6 October	Don Gibson	Steve Anderson	Engages in illegal abalone trading; tries to implicate Aden; shares information about Hugo.
2–6 February	Steve Hogan	Damien Freeglass	Police officer conducting a short investigation in Summer Bay.
3 February	Lawyer	Blair Cutting	Legal counsel representing Angelo Rosetta.
4 February–25 January 2010	Lou De Bono	David Roberts	Dates Irene Roberts; dies at sea; Irene is initially suspected but later exonerated.
9–10 February	Archie Maddock	Tim Phillipps	Homeless man who defends Melody Jones and helps find her.
10 February	Thug	Zen Ledden	Attacker of both Melody Jones and Archie Maddock.
19 February	Mryll Ramsay	Kim Hillas	Initially declines interview to protect elderly home; eventually persuaded by Melody Jones.
19–25 February	Audrey Long	Wendy Playfair	Melody Jones' grandmother who passes away from a stroke.
3–19 March	George	Benjamin O'Donnell	Participant in speed dating who connects with Leah before she selects Roman.
9 March–29 July	Brett Collins	Toby Levins	Joey Collins' brother; struggles with her sexuality, later reconciles; blames Charlie Buckton for family troubles.
16 March–26 January 2010	Derrick Quaid	John Atkinson	Survivor of shipwreck involved in illegal people smuggling alongside Hugo Austin and Suzy Sudiro; arrested following violent encounters.
19 March–13 November	Jerry Thibault	Nicholas Cassim	Belle’s employer at the newspaper; engages in affair with Paula Gill creating workplace conflict.
19 March	Tanya Gannon	Hayley McCarthy	Former victim of Robert Cruze who files a complaint; suffers injury in a hit-and-run incident upon arrival.
20 March	Paula Gill	Paula Arundell	Works alongside Belle; has an affair with Jerry which leads to promotion; bullies Belle concerning her addiction struggles.
23 March–23 November	Donna De Bono	Suzie MacKenzie	Estranged wife of Lou De Bono; accuses Irene Roberts of Lou’s death and encourages her to drink.
23 April	Chelsea Murphy	Georgia Gorman	Liam Murphy's spouse; involved in public disputes regarding Liam’s drug problems; eventually divorces and moves to Paris with their son Ash.
23–28 April	Ash Murphy	Dusty Piper	Child of Liam and Chelsea Murphy.
1–2 June	Jenena Palmer	Anna Lise Phillips	Mother of Trey Palmer and wife of John Palmer.
13 June–13 July	Clint Mailer	Matt Zeremes	Rugby coach pressuring Aden to sabotage teammate Geoff Campbell or risk removal from the team.
14 July–18 August	Jane Avent	Felicity Price	Mother grieving stillbirth who blames Rachel Armstrong, leading to harassment and kidnapping of Rachel’s son Harry before seeking assistance.
14 July–18 August	Rex Avent	Sandy Winton	Jane Avent’s husband who initially supports her but realizes she needs help.
14 July–26 January 2010	Wayan Rahardjo	Dorje Swallow	Hospital patient unable to speak English linked to Hugo Austin’s illegal dealings; used by Angelo in investigations.
20–21 July	Paul	Thomas Norrie	Minor role as an extra in Summer Bay scenes.
23 July–18 August	"Squirt"	"Ben Davy-Thorburn"	"Aden's friend and colleague who attends his stag party."
29 July-27 November	"Marine Officer Bryant"	"Michael Sutherland"	"Water police officer collaborating with Angelo Rosetta on the people smuggling investigation."
30 July–17 August 2011	"Jody Walker"	"Victoria Haralabidou"	"Sid Walker's wife who attempts reconciliation but leaves following infidelity; returns later for family visits."
20 August	"Michelle"	"Michelle Pettigrove"	"Charlie Buckton's aunt who reveals Ruby Buckton as Charlie's daughter."
24 August–8 July 2010	"Therese"	"Rose Ashton"	"Nurse involved in a brief romantic relationship with Sid Walker causing workplace tension."
28 August–11 September	"Andy McLeod"	"Paul Winchester"	"Member of parent group offering parenting advice to Rachel Armstrong, sparking marital concerns."
	"Sophia McLeod"	"Madeline Andrews"	"Andy’s daughter diagnosed with hearing impairment by Rachel Armstrong."
1–16 September	"Grant Bledcoe"	"Clayton Watson"	"Ruby Leeds’ biological father accused by Charlie Buckton of rape; later found murdered."
8 September	"Tracey Bledcoe"	"Mary Anne Byrne"	"Supportive wife of Grant Bledcoe confronted with accusations against her husband."
15 September–1 March 2012	"Patrick Avery"	"Clayton Williams"	"Constable appearing intermittently, assists Sid Walker by bailing him out during assault charges."
18–22 September	"Ruby Leeds"	"Tracie Sammmut"	"Brendan’s girlfriend advocating for his independence through sheltered housing."
18 September	"Pheobe"	"Alisha Burton"	"Brief acquaintance of Jai Fernandez."
30 September	"Jim"	"Mark Richardson"	"Hotel manager appearing briefly."
1 October–27 January 2010	"Bambang Rahardjo"	"Joft Prastowo"	"Son of Wayan Rahardjo who assists on the farm and is used as bait during human trafficking investigation."
3 October–26 January 2010	"Suzy Sudiro"	"Tasneem Roc"	"Hugo Austin’s ex-wife involved in people smuggling ring; kidnaps Martha MacKenzie demanding ransom before being subdued."
6–17 November	"Riley Radcliffe"	"Tani Edgecombe"	"School bully targeting VJ Patterson causing conflicts leading to police involvement."
	"Ian Radcliffe"	"Ben Simpson"	"Riley’s father who assaults his son and attempts bribery to conceal abuse."
9–24 November	"Poppie Merrin"	"Elouise Blair"	"Attempts to seduce Liam Murphy resulting in false rumors and his arrest for drug possession."
17–24 November	"Reg Merrin"	"Dane Carson"	"Manager of The Sands who employs Aden Jefferies but dismisses him after an incident involving his daughter Catie."
18–24 November	"Catie Merrin"	"Tess Haubrich"	"Daughter of Reg Merrin who manipulates social situations leading to Aden’s termination."
19–23 November	'\'Orson Cardillo\	'Mark Lee'	'Gardener for Donna De Bono implicated in planting evidence that leads to Donna’s arrest; suffers heart attack.'
20 November	'\'Bonita Cardillo\	'Suzi Dougherty'	'Orson’s wife defending his innocence amid accusations.'
25 November–18 February 2010	'\'Hazem Kassir\	'Ben Kermode'	'Dates Leah Patterson-Baker; suffers racist attack causing paralysis and subsequent breakup.'
26 November	'\'Prison Guard\	'Joe Tarena'	'On duty during Derrick Quaid’s escape from custody.'

External links

• Present cast and characters on the Official Home and Away site
• Present cast and characters at Holy Soap