Jump to content

Ella Hunter

From Alfawiki
Home and Away
Company typeTelevision series
IndustryTelevision soap opera
FoundedJanuary 17, 1988; 38 years ago (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 who were introduced during 2006, all under the guidance of series producer Julie McGuaran. The show’s nineteenth season was broadcast from 16 January through 1 December 2006. Significant additions to the cast include Amy Mathews as Rachel Armstrong in January, Jessica Tovey portraying Belle Taylor from February, and Sam North taking on the role of Dom Moran in April. The cast was further expanded with Rodger Corser and Trent Baines joining as Doctor Hugh Sullivan and Macca MacKenzie, respectively. July saw the arrival of Bobby Morley as Drew Curtis alongside Chris Sadrinna, who played Rachel’s brother, Brad Armstrong. In October, Jessica Chapnik was introduced as Sam Tolhurst, accompanied by her son Rory Tolhurst, as well as the Cooper brothers — Rocco and Johnny, portrayed by Ian Meadows and Callan Mulvey.

Rachel Armstrong

Rachel Armstrong, brought to life by actress Amy Mathews, made her first appearance on 16 January 2006. Mathews departed the series in 2010 to explore other career opportunities, which coincided with the exit of her character’s husband, Tony Holden. According to the official series website, Rachel is depicted as highly intuitive, intellectually sharp, fiercely independent, and possessing considerable inner strength. Mathews described her character as sociable, enjoyable to be around, grounded by strong principles, and having a romantic nature. In recognition of this role, Mathews secured the Logie Award for "New Female Talent" in 2007 and received nominations for "Best Actress" and "Best Couple" at the 2007 Inside Soap Awards. One memorable plotline featured Rachel being kidnapped by the Believers cult, compelling her to deliver a child under duress.

Belle Taylor

Susan "Belle" Taylor, played by Jessica Tovey, first appeared on-screen on 3 February 2006. Her story arcs included uncovering her biological mother, struggling with drug addiction, developing a relationship with Aden Jefferies, and confronting a cancer diagnosis. Tovey exited the program in 2009, with Belle’s final scenes airing on 11 August that year. Joining Home and Away at just 18 years old, this role marked Tovey’s television debut.

RTÉ characterizes Belle as a spirited and outgoing young woman shaped by a strict and controlling upbringing that left her yearning for parental affection she never received. Her conservative family was taken aback by her rebellious tendencies.

Throughout her tenure, Tovey earned several award nods: in 2007 for "Most Popular New Female Talent" at the Logie Awards, in 2010 for "Most Popular Actress," and at the 2007 Inside Soap Awards for "Sexiest Female." Additionally, in 2009 she was nominated for both "Best Actress" and "Best Storyline" due to Belle’s drug addiction narrative. The wedding of Belle and Aden garnered a nomination in the Bride and Doom category at the 2010 All About Soap magazine awards. Moreover, Belle’s funeral episode received an Australian Writer's Guild Award nomination in 2010.

Virgin Media recognized Belle and Aden among "Soaps' sexiest couples," while fans voted them as "Home and Away's Hottest Couple" in a poll conducted by Holy Soap.

Dom Moran

Dominic "Dom" Moran, played by Sam North, was featured from 20 April 2006 until 14 February 2008.

Dom is employed by his uncle Ray (Damien Garvey) at Moran Motors. He carries out hazardous pranks aimed at Ric Dalby (Mark Furze), causing Ric injuries on two occasions—once through battery acid and another time with a defective jack. Dom also targets Ric's girlfriend Belle Taylor (Jessica Tovey) with harassment, leading to altercations that prompt Ray to dismiss him due to his reckless behavior.

Upon returning the following year, Dom provides Drew Curtis (Bobby Morley) with illicit car components for "The Beast" and becomes involved in drag racing alongside local criminal Denni Maitland (Joshua Helman). A deadly accident during one race results in the death of Lisa Duffy (Jessica McNamee), Lucas Holden's (Rhys Wakefield) former partner. To evade police suspicion, Dom steals and sets fire to Drew's vehicle but consents to assist in clearing Drew's name in return for a kiss from Belle, who reluctantly agrees. Dom later admits to his crimes and is incarcerated for theft.

Following his release, Dom kidnaps Belle. Drew intervenes, injuring Dom during the rescue, but Dom manages to flee. He makes a brief return later, leaving a ring for Belle before collapsing at the diner. After undergoing emergency surgery and rehabilitation with physiotherapist Sam Holden (Jessica Chapnik), who inadvertently motivates his pursuit of Belle, Dom mocks Drew while working at the diner. Irene Roberts (Lynne McGranger) and Roman Harris (Conrad Coleby) arrange a job interview for Dom in the city to separate him from Belle; however, he sabotages the opportunity and departs for the city, promising he will come back.

Clayton Smales of The Townsville Bulletin criticized North’s performance as a "woeful turn," describing Dom as a "flannel-shirted, sparsely bearded Lothario."

Hugh Sullivan

Hugh Sullivan, portrayed by Rodger Corser, appeared from 5 April 2006 until 12 June 2007. In October 2020, Corser was spotted with Home and Away cast members in Coogee, prompting speculation about a potential return since his character was never killed off.

Hugh arrives in Summer Bay as both a friend and former lover of Rachel Armstrong (Amy Mathews). During Leah Patterson-Baker’s (Ada Nicodemou) separation from her husband Dan (Tim Campbell), Hugh asks Leah out on a date; after a brief kiss and subsequent rejection, he departs.

He returns several months later and develops feelings for Rachel, who is now married to Kim Hyde (Chris Hemsworth). Hugh offers support during Rachel’s marital struggles and arranges a picnic involving Kim. He flirts with Nurse Julie Cooper (Lisa Hayson-Phillips), whom Rachel sets him up with on a date. After Rachel invites Hugh to stay with her and Kim, a drunken confession causes Hugh to move out and share accommodation with Martha MacKenzie (Jodi Gordon).

One evening, Hugh meets Ingrid Lynch (Leigh Shorten) but admits he is emotionally unavailable. Rachel confronts him about his feelings, and after she leaves Kim following an argument, they share a kiss. Hugh receives a posting in Johannesburg and gives Rachel an ultimatum about their relationship; she hesitates, leading to his departure. Months later, Hugh emails Rachel—now engaged to Tony Holden—and she declines to meet him.

Readers of Inside Soap favored Hugh over Kim as Rachel's partner, casting 57% of votes in his favor.

Macca MacKenzie

Michael "Macca" MacKenzie, played by Trent Baines, made his debut on 7 April 2006 and exited the series on 23 February 2007.

Macca's primary narrative revolves around his tumultuous relationship with Cassie Turner (Sharni Vinson), notably involving repeated instances of domestic violence. Baines emphasized the storyline’s societal importance, highlighting the need for assistance and counseling for victims.

Introduced as Martha MacKenzie's brother, Macca arrives in Summer Bay and quickly forms a friendship with Cassie, even aiding her boxing training. Although he initially plans to leave after securing a courier job, he remains when Cassie reveals her feelings for him. He returns sooner than expected and rents an apartment above the Beachside diner. However, pressures from work lead him to substance abuse. When Ric Dalby uncovers Macca’s drug problem, Macca initially denies it but eventually confesses. Cassie confronts him about both his drug use and abusive behavior, which intensifies due to jealousy and results in serious harm.

After intervention by Sally Fletcher, Macca turns himself in to the authorities and seeks help. Despite being barred from attending Martha’s wedding, he aids in rescuing people during an explosion but sustains injuries from falling debris. After leaving the hospital against medical advice, he participates in searching for missing friends and rescues Ric from falling. He departs once everyone is found.

Several months later, Macca returns claiming he has completed counseling. He begins an affair with Cassie even though she has reconciled with Ric. When Ric finds out, a confrontation leads to Macca’s eviction from the caravan park. Briefly staying with Amanda Vale, who makes unwanted advances he refuses, Macca accepts a desk job in the city and plans to relocate with Cassie despite Sally's objections.

The move ultimately fails when Cassie returns to Summer Bay amid chaos involving Sally’s stabbing and Ric’s arrest for murder. Macca tries to convince Cassie to leave but resorts to violence again. Repulsed by his actions, he surrenders himself once more.

Drew Curtis

Drew Curtis, portrayed by Bobby Morley, first appeared on 7 July 2006 and departed on 21 March 2008. Prior to joining Home and Away, Morley had roles in Angels with Dirty Faces and was discovered by casting agents for this show. Although older than the character he portrayed, Morley was cast as Drew and relocated from Melbourne to Sydney for filming. He admitted feeling nervous at first due to the fast-paced production schedule. Morley left the series at the end of 2007 and later described his experience as feeling like a "meat puppet" because of frequent shirtless scenes.

The official Home and Away website characterized Drew as "brooding" with a significant chip on his shoulder. Morley received a nomination for "Most Popular New Male Talent" at the 2007 Logie Awards for this role. Critics described Drew as a "teenage tearaway" and a "bad-boy heart-throb," highlighting his popularity among the show's younger audience.

Brad Armstrong

Bradley "Brad" Armstrong, enacted by Chris Sadrinna, made his first appearance on 11 July 2006 and exited on 13 November 2007. Introduced as a supportive presence for Sally Fletcher (Kate Ritchie) following her husband Flynn Saunders’ death, Brad's storylines included coping with personal losses such as his mother Elaine’s passing and professional challenges as Principal of Summer Bay High.

Brad arrives after losing his mother Elaine and provides emotional support to his sister Rachel (Amy Mathews) during their grieving process. He marries Emily Vincent (Libby Richmond), who later succumbs to leukaemia, intensifying his emotional burdens. Amid their shared losses, Brad and Sally grow closer. He experiences conflicts with students Rocco and Johnny Cooper and survives a life-threatening storm at sea alongside other central characters.

His role as principal is disrupted when Naomi Preston (Tiffany Preece) falsely accuses him regarding an inappropriate student relationship, resulting in suspension. Despite these setbacks, Brad proposes marriage to Sally; however, she leaves him at the altar, prompting him to move out of their shared home. Brad and Rachel uncover family secrets revealing that their father Robert had an affair that produced a half-sister named Tamsyn. Brad assumes full responsibility for Tamsyn but loses a teaching opportunity due to her behavior issues. Later, he supports Sally through her daughter’s accident before deciding to relocate to Tasmania with Heather and Tamsyn.

Sadrinna earned a Best Newcomer nomination at the 2007 Inside Soap Awards along with a Best Couple nod alongside Ritchie. The episode where Sally stands Brad up won an Australian Writer's Guild award in 2008, while the storm-at-sea episode was nominated for Best Single Episode at the 2008 Digital Spy Soap Awards.

Rocco Cooper

Rocco Cooper, played by Ian Meadows, made his debut on 11 October 2006 and exited the series on 6 February 2007.

After Sally Fletcher (Kate Ritchie) overrides principal Brad Armstrong's (Chris Sadrinna) reservations concerning Rocco's gang affiliations, he transfers to Summer Bay High. Sally believes he deserves an opportunity for redemption and is impressed by his commitment to schoolwork. Upon discovering Rocco's unstable living conditions, she offers him a place to stay.

Rocco's elder brother, Johnny (Callan Mulvey), exerts pressure on him to continue involvement in gang-related activities, threatening fatal consequences if he refuses. Initially, Rocco supports Johnny by providing false alibis for criminal deeds but eventually betrays him after a staged Credit Union robbery. Following Johnny’s arrest, he commands Rocco to murder Sally or face death himself. Consumed by guilt, Rocco stabs Sally and abandons her.

Sally survives the attack, prompting renewed threats from Johnny towards Rocco. When foster son Ric Dalby (Mark Furze) confronts Rocco out of concern for his safety, Rocco arranges a safehouse with Johnny's assistance. Ric later finds Rocco severely beaten there; after remaining in a coma for several days, Rocco passes away. His burial takes place in an unmarked grave attended only by Sally, Brad, and a police-guarded Johnny. Ric is initially arrested for the murder but is released once Johnny’s culpability emerges.

This plotline earned a nomination for "Best Storyline" at the 2007 Inside Soap Awards.

Sam Holden

Sam Holden, portrayed by Jessica Chapnik, first appeared on 17 October 2006. Chapnik unexpectedly landed the role and departed the show in 2008 to pursue opportunities in the United States. She characterized Sam as a deeply troubled individual "laden with self-hatred" and "frequently misunderstood," whose tragic downfall was unavoidable. Chapnik remarked that Sam’s intense emotional burden made her actions challenging to justify, unlike any other character she had portrayed.

Eleven Magazine noted that Sam caused substantial turmoil in Summer Bay, while Scott Ellis of the Sun-Herald labeled her a "psychotic murderer."

Johnny Cooper

Johnny Cooper, enacted by Callan Mulvey, first appeared on 19 October and left on 25 March 2008. Mulvey received nominations for "Best Bad Boy" at the Inside Soap Awards in both 2007 and 2008 for this portrayal.

Rory Tolhurst

Rory Holden (originally Deeks, formerly Tolhurst) featured from 20 October 2006 until 14 April 2008, initially portrayed by Ed Willis before Jack Rickard took over the role.

Rory is introduced as the son of Sam Holden, a patient of Jack Holden, who soon begins dating Sam. They cohabit until Sam is kidnapped, prompting Rory to search for her; however, Jack’s father Tony intervenes to stop him. After Sam is rescued, Rory and Sam leave but return following her injury.

Rory is abducted by his father Shane Deeks, an escaped prisoner. A police pursuit concludes with Shane’s death; Rory is found unharmed and grows to see Jack as a paternal figure.

Academically gifted, Rory skips ahead to Year 7 but endures bullying until Aden Jefferies steps in to protect him in exchange for Rory manipulating a school election. When this deceit is uncovered, Rory receives detention. During a school excursion, he and Annie Campbell become lost but are eventually saved.

Excited about Jack and Sam’s engagement, Rory eagerly shares the news. He earns an A+ on an assignment about Jack but causes trouble by stealing Jack’s firearm, nearly injuring Dr. Lewis Rigg. Upset by Martha’s opposition to the wedding, Rory acts out but ultimately gives Sam away at the ceremony.

The family’s stability deteriorates after Sam suffers an attack from Johnny Cooper. She later takes Rory to stay with her sister Britt before dying weeks afterward. At Sam’s funeral, Rory blames Jack and distances himself from him.

Ed Willis received a Digital Spy Award nomination in 2008 for his performance as Rory.

Others

Date(s) Character Actor Description
24 January–28 February Rebecca Tate Janneke Arent Once affiliated with The Believers cult led by Mumma Rose. Robbie Hunter locates her after his wife Tasha becomes involved. Rebecca alerts them to Mumma Rose's intentions but is abducted. She later assists Tasha and Jonah in escaping and contacts law enforcement before vanishing.
15 February–22 March Brian Helpman John Noble Senior physician at Northern Districts Hospital who harasses Rachel Armstrong, escalating to blackmail concerning her relationship with Kim Hyde. Rachel rejects his threats and reports him to CEO Geoff Olivetti.
22 February–2 March Judge Gilroy Elizabeth Gentle Oversees Alf Stewart's fraud case, delivering a sentence of nine months imprisonment following a guilty verdict.
2 March–13 April 2012 James Gibson Richard Sydenham Prosecutor representing the police during Alf Stewart's trial and provides legal counsel to Angelo Rosetta. Also appears at proceedings involving Casey Braxton and Sasha Bezmel.
2 March–5 July 2009 Geoff Olivetti Barry Quin CEO of Northern Districts Hospital overseeing investigations related to Rachel Armstrong, including harassment claims against Brian Helpman and a malpractice lawsuit.
21–26 April Robert Armstrong John Gregg Estranged father of Rachel and Brad Armstrong; appointed Regional Director of Emergency at the hospital; endorses Rachel for Junior Registrar; has a history involving a car accident injuring Elaine Armstrong and seeks Rachel's testimony to prevent litigation.
21 April–5 November 2007 Ray Moran Damien Garvey Supervisor of Ric Dalby at Moran Motors garage; involved in disputes over workplace safety and illicit activities; fires Dom Moran and lays off Ric as part of a scheme.
25 April–20 June Elaine Armstrong Julie Hudspeth Mother to Rachel and Brad Armstrong; suffers severe amnesia due to a car crash caused by Robert Armstrong; succumbs after injuries from a gas explosion.
5 May–1 June Doris McKinnon Julie Herbert Elderly woman under Rachel Armstrong's care who dies from cardiac arrest following an accidental medication overdose caused by her grandson Charlie McKinnon.
5 May–6 June Charlie McKinnon Matt Levett Initially withdrawn, forms bonds with Rachel and Kim Hyde; responsible for Doris McKinnon's death, subsequently kidnaps Rachel but is rescued and institutionalized.
11 May–28 November Lee Morton Natasha Lee Teenage mother impregnated by science teacher Steve Braeburn; gives birth to son Joe, initially leaving him in Rachel Armstrong's care before reclaiming custody.
23 May–20 June Tracey Thompson Sarah Enright Detective assisting in the second Summer Bay stalker investigation; revealed as collaborating with stalker Eve Jacobsen; both perish in a gas explosion at a wedding.
5 June–23 March 2007 Kitty Landsdowne Geraldine Turner Amanda Vale’s mother who feigns cancer diagnosis; revealed to have sold Amanda's daughter Belle Taylor for adoption; leaves after accepting payment to maintain secrecy.
6 June–11 September Evan Rice Matthew Starling Police constable involved in various cases including arson and blackmail; charged with arson and bribery after being implicated in framing Drew Curtis.
15 June David Taylor Mark Pegler Adoptive father of Belle Taylor who extorts Kitty Landsdowne threatening to expose family secrets; rejected by Belle.
23 June–17 July Colin Page Shane Withington Helicopter pilot whose crash strands key characters en route to medical treatment; acts as mediator during the emergency.
13–19 July Steve Braeburn Sam Lyndon Science teacher who impregnates student Lee Morton; attempts coercion for abortion; arrested after threatening Lee and Lucas Holden.
3 August–1 May 2008 Betty Allsop May Turner Acquaintance of Colleen Smart; participates in community activities including Kim Hyde’s aerobics classes and local bowls competitions.
3 August–5 September Tara O'Neill "Cashelle Dunn" "Gym patron at surf club who falsely accuses Kim Hyde of sexual assault seeking attention from her police officer father; later admits fabrication."
Date(s) Character Actor Description
3–28 August "Mel Harris""" Sara Zwangobani "Counsellor at teenage retreat assisting Matilda Hunter with bulimia recovery; assaulted by fellow attendee Vanessa Covacs."
3 August–27 September "Dean Silverman""" "Gary Brun" "Meets Matilda Hunter at troubled teens retreat where they develop a relationship despite opposition; accused but exonerated of arson; reveals prior relationship with Gareth Westwood before leaving."
3 August "Vanessa Covacs""" "Emma Terracini" "Attends same retreat as Matilda Hunter; exhibits anger issues; attempts suicide and is transferred for specialized treatment."
18–23 August "Hal Enpace""" "Leigh Scully" "Encourages Lucas Holden toward rebellious behavior including vandalism; held responsible for damages."
"Lawrence""" "Uncredited" "Companion of Hal Enpace."
21 August–15 September "Emily Armstrong""" "Libby Richmond" "Fiancée of Brad Armstrong diagnosed with leukaemia; marries Brad before passing away peacefully."
21 August–5 September "Gordon O'Neill""" "Andrew Tighe" "Superintendent of Yabbie Creek police involved in sexual assault allegations against Kim Hyde made by his daughter Tara O'Neill; supports Tara until truth unfolds."
21 August–10 October "Ella Hunter""" "Various actors" "Newborn daughter of Tasha and Robbie Hunter conceived through rape; targeted for kidnapping by Mumma Rose and Charity Fernbrook; family relocates to Boston."
28 August–27 September "Gareth Westwood""" "Benjamin Ronczka" "Introduced as Dean Silverman's brother at teen retreat, later revealed as his partner; they move away together."
4 September "Grace Carter""" "Elaine Smith" "Ex-wife of Gordon O'Neill who testifies regarding her daughter's history of false allegations."
16 October "Dennis Gillen""" "Danny Adcock" "Criminal adversary seeking vengeance on Peter Baker for wife's murder; presumed deceased following confrontation."
17 October–7 February 2007 "Ash Nader""" "Ben Geurens" "Police officer colleague of Jack Holden who begins a relationship with Martha MacKenzie while married; affair exposed leading to separation."
30 October–28 November,
19 September–3 October 2008 		"Joe Morton""" "Various actors" "Son of Lee Morton abandoned then cared for by Rachel Armstrong; diagnosed with bone cancer before passing away."
"Dane Smith""" "Cody Kaye" "Lee Morton's boyfriend who pressures her about their child; suspected abuse but child diagnosed with cancer; departs following child's death."
27 November– "Reverend""" "Peter Flett" "Local clergyman officiating numerous weddings and funerals including Kim Hyde & Rachel Armstrong’s marriage; recurring figure in community events."
1 December–7 February 2007 "Rianna Nader""" "Lotte St. Claire" "Ash Nader’s wife visiting with children Declan and Jess, unaware of Ash’s affair with Martha MacKenzie."
"Declan Nader""" "Jack Concoran"
"Jessica Nader""" "Amy Baran"


External links

Retrieved from "https://www.alfawiki.org/index.php?title=Ella_Hunter&oldid=61725"