Enid Palmer

Home and Away

Company type	Television soap opera
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 premiered on the Seven Network on 17 January 1988. Below is a compilation of characters who were introduced throughout 2017, listed according to their initial appearance. All these characters were brought in under the guidance of executive producer Lucy Addario. The show’s 30th season commenced on 30 January 2017. The character Riley Hawkins made his debut in the episode following the season premiere. In May, Scarlett Snow was introduced, succeeded by the Astoni family—parents Ben and Maggie, along with their daughters Coco and Ziggy—who appeared in June. July saw the arrival of Robbo and Jennifer Dutton, followed by Beth Ellis in August; Ryder Jackson joined in October; Willow Harris in November; and finally, Jasmine Delaney in December.

Riley Hawkins

Riley Hawkins, played by Ryan O'Kane, made his first appearance on 31 January 2017. Notably, O'Kane's flatmate, Rob Mills, also auditioned for this role. Riley is introduced as a surgeon and the former partner of Tori Morgan (played by Penny McNamee), performing surgery on her brother, Justin Morgan (James Stewart).

On his inaugural day at Northern Districts Hospital, Riley operates on Justin Morgan, whose family is currently under witness protection following a shooting incident involving their parents. He confides in Nate Cooper (Kyle Pryor) about his intention to rekindle his romance with Tori, expressing remorse for previous unfaithfulness. Throughout his tenure, Riley attends to multiple patients, including conducting a bronchoscopy on Billie Ashford (Tessa de Josselin) where he uncovers a mass.

Riley actively pursues Tori, inviting her to relocate to the city with him; however, she declines to focus on her family commitments. Observing Tori’s growing closeness with Nate, Riley manipulates Billie’s medical records to undermine Nate’s credibility, which results in a formal complaint against Nate. Upon discovering Riley’s actions, Tori terminates their relationship. After a heated confrontation involving Justin, Riley resigns from his position at the hospital and departs from the town.

Scarlett Snow

Scarlett Snow, portrayed by Tania Nolan, was introduced on 8 May 2017. Nolan, who resides in Los Angeles, traveled to Sydney for a screen test and subsequently secured a six-month contract. She characterized Scarlett as "somewhat enigmatic," shaped by a past tragedy that influenced her decision to take on the role.

Within the narrative, Scarlett crosses paths with Brody Morgan (Jackson Heywood) while he is evading the police. Initially detaining him, she later supports Brody’s efforts to overcome drug addiction by involving his family and providing assistance. Scarlett expresses disapproval of Justin Morgan (James Stewart)’s methods concerning Brody’s rehabilitation. After Brody relapses and steals from her residence, Scarlett loses her rental accommodation but receives aid from Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher), who offers her a caravan and employment at his bait shop.

Scarlett encounters threats from Bruno Addlen (Johnny Nasser), an individual hired by her estranged husband Caleb Snow, who demands $8,000 to keep her whereabouts confidential. With financial support indirectly provided by Brody’s family, she manages to pay off Bruno. Scarlett establishes relationships within the Bay community, including forming a bond with Justin’s daughter Ava Gilbert (Grace Thomas). The death of her son Max, which occurred a year earlier, profoundly influences her behavior and decisions.

Following numerous personal trials—including complicated interactions with Justin, who initially rebuffs but later pursues a relationship with her—Scarlett faces additional dangers such as an assault by Robbo (Jake Ryan) and an accident during a cabin retreat that results in injuries. The arrival of Caleb further complicates Scarlett’s circumstances; despite his attempts at reconciliation through counseling sessions and gestures honoring Max’s memory, Scarlett ultimately opts to leave the Bay alongside Caleb after Justin ends their relationship due to unresolved conflicts.

Ziggy Astoni

Ziggy Astoni, brought to life by Sophie Dillman, made her first appearance on 20 June 2017. She is the eldest child of Ben and Maggie Astoni. The introduction of the Astoni family marked the return of a nuclear family to the series after a 17-year gap. Ziggy is depicted as a rebellious and spirited teenager, initially introduced as a potential romantic interest for Brody Morgan.

Ben Astoni

Ben Astoni, portrayed by Rohan Nichol, also debuted on 20 June 2017. Nichol relocated from Melbourne to Manly to be nearer to the filming location at Palm Beach. Ben arrives in Summer Bay alongside his wife Maggie and their daughters, Coco and Ziggy. The Astoni family's arrival was notable as the first new nuclear family since 2000. Nichol described Ben as a devoted, caring, and relatable character—a genuinely good person that audiences would appreciate.

Maggie Astoni

Maggie Astoni, played by Kestie Morassi, appeared for the first time on 21 June 2017. Morassi’s casting was confirmed earlier in 2017, with character details released on 4 June. She commented on the show's fast-paced production schedule, which differed significantly from her previous film experiences. Maggie relocates to Summer Bay with her husband Ben Astoni (Rohan Nichol) and their daughters Coco (Anna Cocquerel) and Ziggy Astoni (Sophie Dillman). The arrival of the Astonis represented the first nuclear family introduced to the soap since the Sutherlands in 2000.

Coco Astoni

Coco Astoni, enacted by Anna Cocquerel, first appeared on 21 June 2017. She is the youngest member of the Astoni family. Their inclusion was a deliberate effort to reintroduce a traditional family unit to the show after almost two decades. Coco’s storylines tackled contemporary adolescent issues such as suspension from school due to cyberbullying and battling bulimia.

In late 2018, Cocquerel scaled back her filming commitments to focus on completing Year 12, balancing education alongside her acting career.

Coco’s narrative featured complex relationships: she formed a friendship with Raffy Morrison and dated VJ Patterson, though their romance ended because of age differences. She faced bullying and struggled with an eating disorder that led to hospitalisation and acknowledgment of her bulimia diagnosis. Her social connections broadened when she started dating Ryder Jackson intermittently, mirroring typical teenage relationship dynamics.

Supporting her mother Maggie through a cancer diagnosis, Coco also played an integral role in family milestones, including serving as maid of honour at Ziggy's wedding. Her choice to attend boarding school in Cairns was a pivotal moment, supported by Ben and Ziggy but initially met with resistance from Maggie.

Coco made a return months later for Raffy’s birthday, where she became involved in dramatic family conflicts before heading back to boarding school.

Robbo

Robbo (also known as John Doe), portrayed by Jake Ryan, debuted on 25 July 2017. Ryan lost 13 kg for this role and was cast to fill the "heart-throb" vacancy left by Darryl Braxton (Stephen Peacocke). Robbo was introduced as a handyman, AFP Federal Agent, and gym owner who became a central romantic figure for Kat Chapman. The character was written out in early 2020; Ryan expressed that his departure came when he felt his story had reached its natural conclusion and he wished to exit "on a high note".

Robbo initially appeared suffering from amnesia with no recollection of his identity—earning the nickname inspired by Robinson Crusoe—after being discovered hiding on a boat in Summer Bay. Despite local efforts and police investigations involving tattoos and DNA testing, his background remained unknown. He took up maintenance work at the Caravan Park and developed relationships within the community, especially with Kat Chapman.

As his past began to unravel, Robbo faced threats connected to his forgotten history, including a violent altercation with Dennis Novak whom Robbo killed in self-defense. Under increasing suspicion, he was pursued by law enforcement but ultimately surrendered. Following a serious car crash that resulted in Kat’s death, Robbo grieved profoundly before going into hiding while recuperating.

Eventually regaining his memory revealed his true identity as Ryan Shaw—an AFP officer undercover seeking justice for his murdered family—although his records had been erased to protect his cover. His mission involved safeguarding Kat; however, his amnesia complicated matters significantly. Upon returning to Summer Bay with AFP assistance, Robbo chose not to resume his federal duties and instead purchased the local gym.

Robbo entered into a romantic relationship with Jasmine Delaney (Sam Frost), which encountered difficulties including Tori Morgan’s pregnancy via IVF involving Robbo’s sperm donation. After Tori suffered a miscarriage and Jasmine uncovered Tori's secret second pregnancy attempt, Robbo ended their engagement and briefly left town before coming back.

The couple reconciled and married but soon found themselves under AFP protection. Robbo underwent hypnotherapy aimed at recovering memories tied to Dylan Carter’s case. Following a car accident compounded by surgical complications, Robbo died from internal bleeding but later appeared to Jasmine in a dreamlike vision.

Jennifer Dutton

Jennifer Dutton, played by Brittany Santariga, made her first appearance on 27 July 2017. Santariga's involvement was announced in June 2017, introducing Jennifer as a high school student who targets Coco Astoni with bullying behavior. Subsequently, Jennifer becomes romantically linked to Hunter King, sparking significant plotlines at Summer Bay High.

Her storyline features acts of bullying against Coco, which lead to disciplinary action and online harassment. Jennifer manipulates Coco’s eating disorder to arrange a date with VJ Patterson, causing strain in Coco's friendship with Raffy Morrison. Additionally, Jennifer encourages Raffy to overindulge in alcohol during a fashion launch event, escalating tensions.

During the Glow Day obstacle course at Summer Bay, Jennifer sustains a wrist injury and briefly flirts with Mason Morgan; however, their short-lived relationship ends due to Mason’s unresolved grief. Jennifer offers support to Hunter King following his breakup, and they start dating, creating friction with Olivia Fraser Richards. After an incident involving alcohol at a university party and intervention by her father Nick, Jennifer flees and moves in with Hunter. When Alf Stewart expels them for public displays of affection, Jennifer experiences homelessness briefly before returning to live with Nick and eventually leaving Summer Bay.

Beth Ellis

Elizabeth "Beth" Ellis, portrayed by Anneliese Apps, first appeared on 31 August 2017. Apps was cast shortly after completing her studies at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. She described Beth as "cheeky," "multi-dimensional," and "quirky," highlighting her desire to bring positivity to those around her. Beth was introduced as a romantic interest for Mason Morgan.

Initially, Beth pretends to be a nurse while supporting Mason during his recovery from paralysis. Mason later discovers that Beth is actually a patient suffering from cardiomyopathy and awaiting a heart transplant. Beth admits she enjoyed the nurse persona to avoid sympathy, and they decide to rebuild their friendship. She encourages Mason to forgive his brother Brody for the accident that caused his paralysis. Their connection strengthens through shared activities such as getting tattoos and visiting a casino.

Beth’s condition worsens during a trip with Mason, resulting in hospitalization and an increased urgency for transplantation. Despite her father’s opposition, she continues her relationship with Mason. After receiving a stent, she experiences temporary improvement and shares meaningful moments with Mason, including accepting a promise ring. Tragically, Beth succumbs to a fatal arrhythmia, deeply affecting Mason, who later envisions her encouraging him to move forward.

Ryder Jackson

Ryder Jackson, portrayed by Lukas Radovich, debuted on 25 October 2017. Radovich’s casting was revealed just two days earlier. This role marked his acting debut shortly after graduating from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. Ryder is the son of Quinn Jackson (Lara Cox) and grandson of Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher). His initial storyline involves breaking into the Surf Club and attempting theft, which brings his family connections to light while raising concerns about his situation with his aunt Roo Stewart (Georgie Parker).

Willow Harris

Willow Harris (also known as Ranger), portrayed by Sarah Roberts, made her initial appearance on 14 November 2017. Prior to landing this role, Roberts auditioned for several prominent parts and participated in chemistry readings alongside James Stewart, who plays Justin Morgan. Willow is depicted as a resilient, self-reliant, and devoted individual who brings a sense of rebelliousness to Summer Bay. Roberts described her character as a "bad girl" driven by a fierce desire to protect those close to her, quickly becoming a key romantic interest for Justin Morgan.

Jasmine Delaney

Jasmine Delaney, enacted by Sam Frost, first appeared on 18 December 2017. Frost’s casting was revealed on 17 July 2017 while she was competing on Hell's Kitchen Australia. After a subsequent audition, she won the role, marking her debut in acting. As a longtime admirer of Home and Away, Frost expressed enthusiasm about joining the series. However, some industry professionals viewed her casting skeptically, suspecting it was a promotional move. Jasmine’s storyline commenced with a car accident that resulted in the death of Kat Chapman, played by Pia Miller. Frost characterized Jasmine as "guarded" and possessing "an anxious energy," concealing secrets tied to a troubled history.

Additional Characters

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Role Summary
31 January–23 November	Luc Patterson	Eva Lockyer, Piper Dickson, Annabel May Sealey, Tayari Gee, Archie Freeland, Sterling McKenna Foster, Anastasia Lee Hayes, Sierra Sila, Lucas Bowman	Luc is the daughter of Billie Ashford and Mick Jennings, conceived after Mick sexually assaulted Billie. Billie allows her boyfriend VJ Patterson to believe he is Luc’s father until their wedding day. After fleeing a bushfire, Billie delivers Luc at the hospital. VJ and Billie name their daughter after Billie's deceased brother Luke Ashford. Mick abducts Luc but later returns her through his mother Irene Roberts. Billie collapses during Luc’s blessing ceremony and is diagnosed with terminal cancer; she passes away with Luc cradled by VJ. VJ struggles with caregiving responsibilities, so Luc stays with Irene. Ashford obtains temporary custody but faces difficulties including Patrick's PTSD and Luc’s severe illness requiring surgery. Mick reappears but concedes he cannot parent Luc; following Irene’s collapse, Mick takes Luc without notifying others. Ashford abducts Mick; ensuing custody disputes arise. Mick complicates Ashford’s claim, prompting VJ to relocate with Luc to Cyprus.
1 February–	Constable Corelli	Nick Cain	Constable Corelli supports Kat Chapman during an arson case investigation and later uncovers CCTV footage linking Dylan Carter to a hostage event involving Robbo.
2 February	Lactation Consultant	Gail Knight	Provides assistance to Billie Ashford in breastfeeding her newborn child.
23 February–1 May	Ambulance Officer	Rob Baird	Responsible for transporting patients such as John Palmer after experiencing a seizure and Zac MacGuire following a head injury from a fall.
27 February–8 May	Patrick Stanwood	Luke McKenzie	Patrick attends Billie's funeral; revealed as Billie and Martin Ashford's brother who had faked his death due to depression. He battles PTSD that strains his relationships, including with niece Luc. After an attempted suicide, he agrees to receive treatment and forms a closer bond with Luc.
7 March–15 August	Lena Ascot	Felicity McKay	A university student involved in drug dealing at Salt nightclub. She briefly works as a waitress but is dismissed due to cocaine use. Lena enters into a short relationship with Brody Morgan amidst his developing addiction issues. Subsequently, she attends rehabilitation alongside Brody.

External links

• Cast and characters on the official Australian Home and Away site
• Full cast and characters at the Internet Movie Database
• Ben Astoni profile on the official Australian Home and Away website
• Coco Astoni profile on the official Australian Home and Away website
• Ziggy Astoni profile on the official Australian Home and Away website