Elly Turnbull

Neighbours

Company type	Television series
Industry	Television soap opera
Founded	March 18, 1985 (1985-03-18)
Founder	Reg Watson
Headquarters	Australia
Area served	Australia

Neighbours is a long-running Australian soap opera created by Reg Watson, which first aired on 18 March 1985. This compilation highlights characters introduced in 2001, all under the guidance of executive producer Stanley Walsh. The show's seventeenth season premiered on 15 January 2001. Jess Fielding made her debut in February, followed by Matt Hancock in March. April saw the arrival of his father Evan and Jack Scully. Maggie Hancock joined the cast in May, Larissa Calwell in June, and Tim Collins appeared in September. Sandy Allen was introduced in October, Mitch Foster in November, and December brought the additions of Liz Conway, Stuart Parker, Elly Conway, as well as the birth of Ben Kirk.

Jess Fielding

Jessica "Jess" Fielding, played by Elisha Gazdowicz, first appeared on-screen on 14 February 2001 as a student attending Erinsborough High. Jess quickly became central to storylines involving allegations that teacher Susan Kennedy had struck her and accusations that she was responsible for planting a bomb at the school. Gazdowicz characterized Jess as a "wild child" and a "vixen," acknowledging that the role divided audience opinion but expressing hope for viewers' empathy.

Upon entering Year 12, Jess attracted attention from Tad Reeves but displayed little enthusiasm for her studies. Originating from an affluent background, she felt overlooked due to her sister Mary's newborn baby. When a bomb threat disrupted the school, suspicion initially fell on Jess before Colin Rogers was identified as the culprit. After receiving a poor grade from Susan Kennedy, an altercation ensued resulting in Susan striking Jess in self-defense, which led to Susan’s suspension. Encouraged by Tad to confess the truth, Jess ultimately cleared Susan's reputation. Following a family dispute, Jess took refuge with Tad; however, he ended their relationship when it became too serious.

Matt Hancock

Matthew "Matt" Hancock, portrayed by Stephen Hunt, first appeared on 26 March 2001 as the eldest member of the newly introduced five-person Hancock family. Matt frequently adopted a mature role within his household. Despite his intelligence, academic performance was a challenge for him, causing concern for parents who valued both his intellect and appearance.

Evan Hancock

Evan Hancock, enacted by Nicholas Opolski, made his first appearance on 13 April 2001. Introduced alongside his family to rejuvenate the cast amidst multiple departures, Evan served as both patriarch and a new teacher at Erinsborough High. His background includes a previous marriage to Genevieve Murdoch with whom he had sons Chris and Matt. He later married Maggie Hancock, with whom he fathered two additional children: Leo and Emily.

Designed as a forward-thinking educator and dedicated parent, Evan earned popularity among students and family members alike despite occasional disagreements. His relocation to Erinsborough involved purchasing Number 32 Ramsay Street, initially causing friction with neighbors. Story arcs explored familial challenges including managing his children's issues, financial difficulties related to legal fees after a car accident involving his sons, and marital strains leading to divorce discussions before eventual reconciliation.

Evan also ventured into local politics, securing a council seat against rival Joe Scully. The entire Hancock family was written out of the series in 2002.

Critics highlighted Evan’s appeal to younger viewers due to his teaching role and commended the character’s courage in confronting difficult school situations. A significant storyline involved Evan raising concerns about bullying through email correspondence, which led to conflict with fellow teacher Susan Kennedy.

Jack Scully

Jack Scully, portrayed by Paul Pantano, made his first appearance on 17 April 2001. Although the Scully family was introduced in 1999, Jack was frequently mentioned before he appeared on screen. The show's producers later brought the character to life by casting Pantano. In 2002, the role was recast with Jay Bunyan, who secured the part after an audition held in New Zealand. According to the BBC, Jack was described as "a little feisty," quickly attracting attention from local teenagers upon his arrival in Erinsborough.

Maggie Hancock

Maggie Hancock, played by Sally Cooper, debuted on 9 May 2001. She and her family were introduced as part of a cast refresh during a period marked by several temporary exits. Maggie is a law student and the matriarch of the Hancock family, married to Evan Hancock (Nicholas Opolski). Together, they have two children: Leo (Anthony Hammer) and Emily (Isabella Oldham), while Maggie also serves as stepmother to Chris and Matt (Stephen Hunt).

Professionally, Maggie works in law alongside Toadfish Rebecchi (Ryan Moloney), with whom she shares a complicated dynamic characterized by mutual attraction yet professional restraint. This tension places strain on her marriage when Evan becomes aware of their closeness, causing Maggie to reevaluate her commitments.

The Hancocks encounter financial difficulties and face various family hardships, including coping with the anniversary of their daughter Francesca's death and Emily’s disappearance, which challenge Maggie’s strength. She actively supports legal matters within the community, such as representing Libby Kennedy in an unfair dismissal case, demonstrating her dedication despite personal challenges.

Maggie's growing professional responsibilities create domestic friction, worsened by misunderstandings regarding their son Leo's activities—initially suspected of drug use but later revealed to be funding breakdancing lessons through tutoring. Despite academic struggles, Maggie completes her studies and begins practicing law with Toadie.

As tensions rise within the family, including complications involving Evan’s ex-wife Genevieve, Maggie balances loyalty and personal desires. A near-romantic encounter with Toadie is interrupted by a family emergency, leading her to recommit to her marriage even as Evan demands a divorce over her feelings for Toadie. The family ultimately sells their home to cover legal expenses and moves to Albury.

The BBC highlighted Maggie's pivotal moment as rejecting Toadie's advances, emphasizing her dedication to both family and professional ethics.

Larissa Calwell

Larissa Calwell, enacted by Leah De Niese, first appeared on 11 June 2001. De Niese had previously been seen on Neighbours as a child actor. Larissa was portrayed as a "cunning manipulator" who became entangled in a romantic triangle involving Paul McClain (Jansen Spencer) and Tad Reeves (Jonathon Dutton). Tad impersonated Paul in emails to Larissa; when this deception came to light, Larissa cleverly reversed the situation by deciding to date both men simultaneously, a plan they reluctantly accepted.

While traveling in Paris, Paul befriends Larissa and later learns that Tad has been responding to her emails under Paul's name. Tad advises Paul on Larissa’s preferences, particularly her interest in dance music. Their initial dates go well—Larissa is impressed by Paul's DJ skills and music knowledge. After uncovering the ruse, Larissa chooses to date both suitors at once to determine her preference. She selects Paul first, sharing a movie outing and pizza that culminates in a kiss. Tad’s date is more spontaneous and energetic compared to Paul's romantic approach.

Both men continue courting Larissa while confiding in Felicity Scully (Holly Valance), who urges Larissa to cease playing games with them. Following parental restrictions on her internet use, Larissa transfers to Erinsborough High School. She attends one of Paul's football matches and later sees Tad DJing at a nightclub where Paul catches her kissing Tad. This leads to a confrontation between the two men; however, they ultimately choose to preserve their friendship over their rivalry for Larissa’s affection.

Tim Collins

Tim Collins, played by Ben Anderson, made his debut on 27 September 2001. As a lawyer and former local councillor, Tim has represented numerous residents of Ramsay Street and is often characterized as "ruthless" and "unscrupulous," frequently clashing with Toadfish Rebecchi (Ryan Moloney). Anderson returned to the role in 2013, with critics highlighting Tim as a prominent member of the Erinsborough Council. He reappeared in the series' concluding episodes in July 2022, where he disclosed crucial information regarding Paul Robinson (Stefan Dennis).

Tim’s career began at Stewart, Whitehead and Moore before he established his own practice, Tim Collins & Associates. Despite their differences, he formed a partnership with Toadie. Expanding his business to Sydney, he left Toadie and Rosetta Cammeniti (Natalie Saleeba) in charge of the Melbourne branch. Tim’s leadership involved setting aggressive billing goals that eventually prompted Rosie and Toadie to start their own firm. He handled high-profile cases for Ramsay Street clients, including custody disputes and corporate litigation.

Venturing into property development, Tim attempted to purchase 26 Ramsay Street to build townhouses but was ultimately outbid. He acted as legal counsel for Paul Robinson in various matters such as hit-and-run allegations and civil litigation following a fatal explosion at Lassiter's complex. Additionally, Tim managed legal issues related to Erinsborough Hospital and personal cases for multiple residents, frequently negotiating no-win-no-fee deals.

In addition to his legal work, Tim was politically engaged as a member of the Erinsborough council and served as interim mayor. His leadership saw contentious moves like shutting down the community centre and closing a local bridge, provoking opposition from figures like Sonya Brennan. Tim ran against Sonya for mayor but was defeated amid public conflicts and smear tactics. As editor of the West Waratah Star newspaper, he wielded media power to promote his interests and broker deals within Erinsborough's business community.

Tim’s media involvement extended to managing sensitive stories about local personalities, including revealing hidden camera scandals at Lassiter’s hotel and manipulating press narratives for strategic gain. He maintained intricate relationships with key individuals such as Paul Robinson, Terese Willis, and his daughter Courtney Grixti—often blending legal representation with personal disputes.

In subsequent years, Tim advised on intellectual property conflicts regarding Lassiter’s uniforms and engaged in legal strategies impacting local enterprises. His rivalry with Toadie escalated when he replaced him as legal representative for a major client after uncovering a compromising personal relationship. Furthermore, Tim supplied Shane Ramsay with damaging details about Paul Robinson’s past misconducts, reinforcing his position as a formidable power player within Erinsborough’s legal and political arenas.

Sandy Allen

Sandy Allen, portrayed by Catherine Hill, first appeared on 5 October 2001. Introduced as John Allen’s (Adrian Mulraney) wife, she learns that John fathered Louise "Lolly" Carpenter with Cheryl Stark. John and Sandy travel to Erinsborough to meet Lolly and eventually gain full custody of her. Sandy takes a job at a nearby nursery and regularly visits the local coffee shop, creating friction with Lou Carpenter who had believed himself to be Lolly’s father.

After relocating to the countryside, Sandy conceives two children through IVF but develops resentment towards Lolly, associating her presence with John’s infidelity. This bitterness leads to both mental and physical abuse directed at Lolly. When Lolly runs away and returns to Erinsborough, Sandy reluctantly agrees to care for her; however, their relationship worsens. During an altercation by the pool, Sandy falls and injures her head; Lolly administers CPR and reports the abuse to Lou.

Following these incidents, Sandy becomes isolated—losing her husband’s support along with access to her children—as Lou contacts John and social services intervene. Subsequently, Sandy departs from Erinsborough, concluding her storyline.

Mitch Foster

Mitch Foster, played by Hugh Sexton, made his initial appearance on 14 November 2001 as a recurring figure. An opportunistic felon linked to Larry "Woody" Woodhouse, Mitch’s narrative revolves around his manipulative involvement with Stephanie Scully. Mitch enters into a relationship with Steph, who defends him against allegations, but their romance ends once she uncovers his dishonesty. Subsequently, Mitch commits a robbery at the courier company where Steph is employed and vanishes.

After the theft, Steph reports Mitch to law enforcement but soon becomes a suspect herself. Nevertheless, she seeks out Mitch, hoping he can exonerate her. Taking advantage of Steph’s trust during the investigation, Mitch later assists her by intervening when she faces harassment and by supporting her father Joe when a client threatens his business.

Mitch’s history comes to light when Woody returns from witness protection and reveals Mitch had previously served time for manslaughter. This revelation causes Steph to sever connections with both men. Half a year later, an injured Mitch reappears and requests Steph’s aid before disappearing again. He then shows up at Steph’s workplace, MOCO, holds her at gunpoint, steals money, and frames her for the robbery.

Steph and Stuart Parker discover Mitch ill in the bush; Stuart records Mitch confessing Steph’s innocence. This recording results in Mitch’s arrest after he offers an apology to Steph.

A BBC journalist identified Mitch’s most memorable moment as "Holding up MOCO and robbing Steph." The plot highlighted the dangers of associating with criminals and how such ties can damage business reputations within the community.

Liz Conway

Liz Conway was introduced on 5 December 2001, originally portrayed by Christine Keogh. She is Susan Kennedy's older sister who arrives in Erinsborough requesting Susan to look after her teenage daughter during a six-month period abroad. In June 2018, it was announced that Debra Lawrance would return to play Liz for an extended guest role. Lawrance described Liz as "self-centered, quite selfish and rather flighty," contrasting with Susan’s character.

Liz comes back to reconnect with her daughters Elly Conway and Bea Nilsson. After their mother passed away, Liz and Susan experienced a rift. Liz married Ian Conway and gave birth to Elly; after relocating to Sweden for work, she asked Susan to care for Elly temporarily. Later on, Liz reveals she has a new partner named Lars Nilsson and is expecting a child. Elly initially suspects that Susan’s husband Karl Kennedy might be her biological father, but Liz confirms Ian is.

Sixteen years later, Liz returns following Susan's notification that Elly and Bea require support after being manipulated by Finn Kelly. She discovers Bea had been homeless after leaving home at age 15. Conflict arises when Bea learns that Liz wanted her gone because she reminded her of Lars, her father. After a confrontation, Liz vows to make amends but struggles with alcoholism and fabricates a story about being mugged by Finn. Mark Brennan uncovers the deception, prompting Liz to apologize while Susan decides to assist her in facing her past.

During the Christmas period, Liz stays with Susan and her daughters, sharing that attending a retreat helped her overcome drinking. She expresses her desire to support the family amid Susan’s legal challenges. Liz flirts with Bea's boyfriend Ned Willis and Mark Brennan during lunch. Upon discovering a love note from Chloe Brennan to Elly, Liz advises Chloe to keep her feelings private.

Elly Conway

Elly Conway made her first appearance on 13 December 2001, initially played by Kendell Nunn. She is depicted as the "defiant niece" of Susan Kennedy (Jackie Woodburne), known for being intelligent, perceptive, and occasionally rebellious. On 28 April 2016, it was revealed that actress Jodi Anasta would reprise the role, signing a contract for three years and returning to screens on 18 July 2016. Now a schoolteacher like her aunt Susan, Elly’s character under Anasta’s portrayal balances professionalism with a playful edge.

Stuart Parker

Stuart Parker, portrayed by Blair McDonough, first appeared on 13 December 2001. McDonough was cast after finishing as runner-up in the inaugural season of Big Brother Australia, initially contracted for three months before the term was extended to six. Originating from Oakey, Queensland, Stuart is introduced as the younger brother of one of Drew Kirk’s (Dan Paris) friends and later follows Drew to Erinsborough. McDonough described Stuart as honest and easygoing, while media outlets labeled him a "good-hearted country lad." His performance earned him a nomination for the Logie Award for Most Popular New Male Talent in 2002.

Ben Kirk

Ben Kirk, played by Noah Sutherland, debuted on 14 December 2001. He is the child of Libby Kennedy (Kym Valentine) and Drew Kirk (Dan Paris). Ben’s birth posed serious risks to Libby’s health, necessitating intensive care, though she eventually recovered. Sutherland received acclaim for his authentic portrayal. The role was later recast with Blake O'Leary. Network Ten described Ben as his mother’s "strongest supporter and pillar."

Additional Characters

Appearance Dates	Character	Actor	Character Description
16 January–15 February	Jeannie Truman	Libby Stone	Mother to Allana and Clementine Truman; known for her controlling nature impacting Allana’s relationship with Lance Wilkinson, ultimately endorsing their relocation to America.
16 January–15 March	Richie Hampson	Michael O'Malley	Beauty Tree sales representative who manipulates Lyn Scully into investing and deceives Teresa Bell at social gatherings.
19 January–2 February	Alice Jamison	Pip Sallabank	Partner and co-owner of Darcy Tyler's medical practice; their relationship deteriorates leading to separation.
20–21 February	Fergus MacLeod	Tommy Dysart	Drew Kirk’s great uncle from Scotland; participates in Drew and Libby’s wedding adding cultural elements.
21 February	Sally Kirk	Niobe Dean	Sister of Drew Kirk present at his wedding.
	Stuart Kirk	Stephen Godfrey	Another sibling of Drew Kirk attending the wedding.
21 February–12 April	Reverend Loftus	Bill Johnston	Conducts the wedding ceremony of Libby Kennedy and Drew Kirk as well as Madge Bishop’s funeral.
1–22 March	Glen Goldman	Gerard Cogley	Radio quiz show host who helps Lance Wilkinson win prizes while exposing fraudulent contests.
6 March–5 July 2002	Nathan Tyson	Luke Hemsworth	Football player for Eastside Dingoes involved in steroid use; clashes with teammate Paul McClain; later employed as a bailiff repossessing property.
29 March, 6 April	Steve Crandall	Travis Clark	MOCO delivery driver threatened with redundancy; supported by Stephanie Scully during family illness; secures improved employment.
30 March	Dave Patrick	Chris Gaffney	Veteran MOCO driver dismissed due to downsizing; personal tragedy influences decisions; replaced by Steve Crandall.
6 April	Brian Curtis	Ron Bingham	Food critic assessing Lou Carpenter’s pub for competition; impressed by dish dedicated to terminally ill Madge Bishop.
17 April–17 May	Veronica Anderson	Monika Karwan	Teresa Bell’s housemate and friend who develops an obsessive interest in Drew Kirk resulting in family intervention and return home.
20–26 April	Elly Turnbull	Cherise Donovan	Math prodigy and Michelle Scully’s classmate; develops affection for teacher Evan Hancock.
20 April–11 May	Aleks Rama	Dean Ali	Leo Hancock’s close friend staying with the Hancock family during parents’ absence in Albania.
23 April–13 September	Barry Burke	David Whiteley	"Associate of Kev Kelly involved in witness intimidation leading to protection program placement and violent altercation with presumed fatality."

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Character Overview
25 April–6 March 2002	Julie Campbell|"Evan Hancock's first wife visiting their son Matt; offers financial assistance but conflicts arise over ambitions."
27 April–26 July	Andy Poulter|"Noisy upstairs neighbor to Drew Kirk and Libby Kennedy causing disturbances resolved through compromise."
10 May–6 June	Adrien Foley|"Skateboarder dating Felicity Scully; relationship ends amicably maintaining friendship."

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Summary
15 May–6 June	Amanda Levy|"British visitor briefly dating Joel Samuels before ending relationship due to his feelings for Felicity Scully."
17 May	Lachlan MacDonald|"Father of Pamela McAdam (Veronica Anderson); intervenes regarding daughter's mental health."
23 May–2 February 2012	Audrey|"Pet dog adopted by Drew Kirk and Libby Kennedy; remains until euthanized due to illness."
14 June–2 July	Jason Buckley|"Erinsborough High P.E. teacher involved in bullying incidents leading to resignation."
18 June–6 July	Fiona Choi|"Dates Matt Hancock; occupation as strippogram causes tension resulting in breakup."
28 June–4 November 2002	Henry Ismailiw|"Owner of Toy Heaven store engaged in dispute over missing doll; supports Michelle Scully's exchange trip."
18–19 July	Helen Noonan|"Dame Margaret declines interview with Libby Kennedy but assists during pregnancy complications."
13 August–17 October	David Gould|"Representative negotiating sale of medical practice involving Darcy Tyler and Karl Kennedy."
15–22 August	Brenda Addie|"Mother attempting seduction of Toadfish Rebecchi following daughter Sheena Wilson's breakup."
29 August–10 September	Desmond Connellan|"Doctor recruited by Darcy Tyler in scheme to take over Karl Kennedy's practice."
4–11 September	Jacqi Swallow|"Year 12 student suspended after underage drinking incident during camping trip."
13 September–7 October 2002	Nicholas Colla|"Student bullying Leo Hancock and Boyd Hoyland; becomes cricket captain and befriends Max Hoyland."
24 September–14 November	Adrian Mulraney|"Engages in affair with Cheryl Stark; establishes paternity of Louise Allen gaining custody and relocating family."
3 October–4 February 2002	Jerry Booth|"Senior partner offering Toadfish Rebecchi internship amid ethical dilemmas."
4 October–6 February 2002	Owen Lee|"Michelle Scully's older boyfriend whose relationship ends amid rumors at school."
29 October–25 July 2003	Justine Press|"Mediator in custody dispute between John Allen and Lou Carpenter; later represents Cameron Hodder in employment matter."
16 November–6 December	Vincent Gil|"Marine biologist hiring Joel Samuels for dive research after verifying credentials following initial deception."
21 November–30 January 2002	Philip Cameron Smith|"Friend seeking financial aid for farm; strains friendship through emotional manipulation and public exposure."

Date(s) !! Character !! Actor !! Role Summary	-	28 November–5 March 2002	Ruth Callum| Receptionist for Karl Kennedy and Darcy Tyler implicated in prescription pad thefts linked to criminal activities uncovered by staff.|

External links

• Cast and characters on the official Australian Neighbours site
• Cast and characters on the official UK Neighbours site
• Cast and characters at the Internet Movie Database