Ernie Jacobs

Home and Away
Company type	Television series
Industry	Television soap opera
Founded	January 17, 1988; 38 years ago
Headquarters	Australia
Area served	Australia

Home and Away, the Australian soap opera broadcast on the Seven Network since 17 January 1988, commenced its third season on 8 January 1990. The 1990 cast additions, all introduced under executive producer Des Monaghan, include Rebekah Elmaloglou as Sophie Simpson (January); Craig McLachlan and Julian McMahon as schoolteacher Grant Mitchell and soldier Ben Lucini (February). Jaiman Paget Bayly appeared as the recurring character Murray "Mullet" Jensen (March), followed by Beach House owner Ernie Jacobs (David Weatherley) and Bridget Jackson (Paula Duncan) in April. Craig Black returned portraying student Paul Jensen (May), with Josephine Mitchell joining as police officer Jane Holland. July saw the arrival of siblings Blake and Karen Dean, played by Les Hill and Belinda Jarrett. In September, Kate Raison took on the role of Jennifer Atkinson, a romantic interest for Steven Matheson (Adam Willits). October introduced divorced father Michael Ross (Dennis Coard) alongside his son Haydn Ross (Andrew Hill). November featured Rachael Beck joining as Grant's sister Kim Mitchell.

Sophie Simpson

Sophie Simpson, brought to life by Rebekah Elmaloglou, made her first appearance on 23 January 1990 and remained until 1993. Elmaloglou stepped away temporarily due to exhaustion and ultimately left to explore other opportunities, citing the demanding schedule’s effect on her wellbeing. She later returned for guest spots in 2002, 2003, and 2005.

Grant Mitchell

Grant Mitchell, portrayed by Craig McLachlan, debuted on 9 February 1990. Although McLachlan exited the show that year, he filmed additional scenes that aired throughout 1991. Grant’s final episode aired on 20 September 1991. McLachlan characterized Grant as a "stylish" teacher admired by students for challenging authority, while maintaining a genuine dedication to education. His portrayal earned him the "Most Popular Actor" accolade at the 1991 Logie Awards.

Ben Lucini

Benito "Ben" Lucini, enacted by Julian McMahon, appeared from 27 February 1990 until 1 May 1991. After several auditions, McMahon landed the role of Ben, a laid-back and easygoing 21-year-old Italian from a large family. Initially inclined toward partying, Ben gradually matures. A soldier by profession, he falls in love with established character Carly Morris (Sharyn Hodgson) and leaves military service to establish a life in town. Hodgson described Ben as representing "traditional values" and providing "stability," which formed the foundation of their characters’ successful marriage. McMahon departed Home and Away within the same year his character was introduced. Nonetheless, Peter Holmes of The Sydney Morning Herald criticized his acting as "wooden," comparing it to an "impressive imitation of a Thunderbird."

Mullet

Murray "Mullet" Jensen, played by Jaiman Paget Bayly, featured from 26 March to 18 July 1990. Characterized as an "energetic and lively eleven-year-old," Mullet is an ordinary country boy with a mischievous and adventurous spirit. His nickname stems from his enthusiasm for fishing. Living in poverty with his mother Lorraine and brother Paul, Mullet supports his family by selling his catches.

He forms a friendship with classmate Sally Fletcher, despite her initial irritation. Mullet unintentionally causes friction when he brings home Alf Stewart's pet crab for dinner but redeems himself by assisting Alf with fishing. He conceals his family’s financial difficulties from Sally, who eventually discovers the truth and invites him to attend a wedding as her companion.

Mullet’s social experiences include a brief episode of jealousy involving Tammy Newton and Sally, followed by their joint audition for a Surf Club talent night. Although their act contains errors, it is well received by the audience. He also helps with a magic trick that goes wrong and later attempts to adopt a pop star persona before returning to his original style.

He attends the wedding reception dancing with Sally but does not appear again afterward, though he is mentioned years later concerning Sally’s past relationships.

Ernie Jacobs

Ernie Jacobs, played by David Weatherley, was featured on the show from 16 April 1990 until 9 January 1991.

Ernie leases his beachside property to Matt Wilson (Greg Benson), Adam Cameron (Mat Stevenson), and Marilyn Chambers (Emily Symons). The tenants devise a plan to entrap Ernie by having Marilyn seduce him while Matt and Adam attempt to capture the moment on camera. After an unsuccessful photo attempt, Adam eventually presents Ernie with the incriminating picture. Following an accident in the kitchen, Adam replaces the damaged flooring with turf infested with fleas, which leads to a heated dispute where Ernie threatens to evict them. Ernie decides to run for a councillor position and gains an advantage when Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher) withdraws due to legal complications. Bobby Simpson (Nicolle Dickson) contests against Ernie to prevent his election. Subsequently, Marilyn and Bobby coerce Ernie with a compromising letter, forcing him to sell the house to Marilyn.

Bridget Jackson

Bridget Jackson, portrayed by Paula Duncan, made her debut on 20 April 1990. Duncan was contracted for five weeks with the potential for a longer-term role; however, she opted to pursue other projects and preferred not to be separated from her family. Bridget is the mother of Emma Jackson (Dannii Minogue). Duncan characterized Bridget as "completely dreadful," "rough and unrefined," and "an absolute nightmare," though she appreciated the role and enjoyed working alongside Minogue.

Bridget arrives following Emma's defense against her abusive stepfather, initially staying with her aunt Ailsa Stewart (Judy Nunn), who was previously unaware of Emma's existence. The relationship between Bridget and Ailsa is tense due to Ailsa having killed their abusive father. Bridget tries to regain custody of Emma, but Ailsa resists, disclosing Emma’s history of abuse. Eventually, Bridget wins Emma’s trust through gifts and outings, convincing her to return home. However, Emma later reveals that Bridget has allowed Barry back into their lives.

Paul Jensen

Paul Jensen, enacted by Craig Black, first appeared on 8 May 1990. Paul is seventeen years old, the son of Michael and Lorraine Jensen, and older brother to Mullet Jensen. He is described as a warm, articulate youth with exceptional academic skills and is a self-taught musician whose talent surpasses his father’s unsuccessful country and western career. Despite Lorraine’s disapproval—who forbade musical instruments at home—Paul secretly practiced piano during school breaks.

His teacher, Grant Mitchell, recognized Paul’s musical ability and urged him to apply for a scholarship in music. Paul declined this opportunity and instead took a job at Alf Stewart’s store to afford a second-hand instrument. Lorraine’s opposition to his musical aspirations caused friction between them. Grant arranged a school concert to highlight Paul’s talents, though Paul initially declined participation.

Paul developed feelings for Emma Jackson, who was dating Adam Cameron at the time. After Emma praised Paul’s music and kissed him, tensions rose with Adam, leading to a planned boxing match between the two men. Alf Stewart and Steven Matheson assisted Paul in preparing for the fight, which was eventually interrupted by Emma and her friends. Although initially upset by Emma embarrassing him publicly, Paul later reconciled with her.

When Emma was falsely accused of cheating due to exam papers planted by Vicki Baxter, Paul along with Steven exposed Vicki’s deceit, clearing Emma’s name. Emma later accepted a job on the Gold Coast and moved away, ending their romantic involvement but expressing a desire to maintain their friendship.

Jane Holland

Jane Holland, brought to life by Josephine Mitchell, made her first appearance on 22 June 1990. Mitchell began shooting scenes in April 1990, signing on for a brief two-month guest stint. Jane is depicted as a young police constable introduced primarily as a romantic interest for Grant Mitchell (Craig McLachlan). Having previously acted in A Country Practice, Mitchell embraced the role of Jane as a departure into a tougher, more assertive character. She valued the trust placed in her by producer Andrew Howie when casting her.

Jane’s narrative centers around her relationship with Grant and her duties upholding law and order in Summer Bay, which includes arresting Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher) for driving under the influence. After a violent shootout in Yabbie Creek that claims the life of a fellow officer, Jane is deeply shaken but survives the ordeal. She also intervenes to shield Marilyn Chambers (Emily Symons) from harassment at the local diner. Despite Grant’s concerns and his advice that she take a break, Jane contemplates resigning from the force. Ultimately, their romance dissolves, leading Jane to return to her police work in the city.

Blake Dean

Blake Dean, portrayed by Les Hill, was introduced on 26 July 1990. Hill joined Home and Away after gaining television experience on G.P.. His casting, alongside Belinda Jarrett who played his sister Karen Dean, was announced shortly before their characters appeared on screen. Hill found adapting to the fast-paced production schedule demanding.

According to the Home and Away Annual, Blake is characterized as an energetic, charismatic youth with sharp instincts—an idealized son figure who frequently looks out for his sister Karen. Hill later decided to leave the show but returned periodically for significant episodes, such as the fourteenth anniversary and the milestone 4,000th episode.

Karen Dean

Karen Dean, enacted by Belinda Jarrett, first appeared on 26 July 1990. Jarrett, new to television and a longtime admirer of Home and Away, was cast alongside Les Hill as siblings Karen and Blake Dean. Following the death of their mother Margot from cancer, they arrive in Summer Bay and initially reside with a distant uncle before moving in with Ailsa and Alf Stewart as per Margot’s wishes. The characters were introduced with engaging storylines designed to captivate viewers.

Writers David Nicholls and Kesta Desmond described Karen as a "15-year-old attractive yet reserved girl" grappling with self-image concerns while exploring her personal identity. Popular among peers at school, she experiences early romantic interest but remains cautious about dating boys her age. Despite initial hopes for a successful character trajectory, Jarrett’s contract was not renewed in 1991 due to limited audience appeal. Karen’s final episode aired on 27 August 1991; however, Jarrett briefly reprised the role in 1993 during a storyline involving Karen’s release from prison.

After tensions with their uncle arise, Karen and Blake seek refuge with Ailsa Stewart. Karen develops feelings for Steven Matheson but is rejected because of their age difference. She faces difficulties including confrontations with deputy principal Alan Stone over his strict discipline style and unreciprocated affection for Haydn Ross, which strains friendships. Karen becomes involved in environmental activism and later entangles herself with Maurice "Revhead" Gibson, who leads her into criminal behavior including robbery. During an attempted getaway, a car accident causes a fatality; Karen admits responsibility and receives a two-year prison sentence.

Upon being granted parole in 1993, Karen returns to Summer Bay but her conduct creates friction with the Stewarts and Blake’s girlfriend. After stealing money from Ailsa, she escapes to the city where Blake follows to support her, highlighting ongoing family complexities and character development.

Jennifer Atkinson

Jennifer Atkinson, brought to life by Kate Raison, made her first appearance on 12 September 1990. Her casting was revealed in TV Week on 4 August 1990. Jennifer featured in a guest role spanning eight weeks as Jennifer Stewart, engaging in a contentious romance with the teenage Steven Matheson (Adam Willits). Their relationship was characterized as "passionate" and central to the plot.

As Alf Stewart's cousin, Jennifer visits Summer Bay while covertly coping with her abusive and alcoholic spouse, Daniel Atkinson (Ken Radley). She embarks on a romantic involvement with Steven, who deceives her about his age and educational status. Tensions escalate when Alan Stone (Philip Hinton), a former acquaintance of Daniel, arrives. After Alan alerts Daniel to the affair, Daniel assaults Steven. Jennifer terminates the relationship and departs Summer Bay, advising Steven to resume his education. She later sends him a Christmas card, although he ultimately opts not to visit her.

Michael Ross

Michael Ross, portrayed by Dennis Coard, entered the series on 22 October 1990 alongside his son Haydn Ross (Andrew Hill). He quickly became romantically linked with Pippa Fletcher (Debra Lawrance), creating initial family unease due to Pippa still grieving her deceased husband and Michael being divorced.

Michael arrives as the new proprietor of the local boat shed, entering into competition with Ben Lucini (Julian McMahon) for business dominance. His son Haydn faces difficulties adapting after leaving boarding school. The relationship between Michael and Pippa encounters obstacles, including interference from his ex-wife Cynthia (Belinda Giblin), but they eventually marry. Michael adopts Pippa’s son Christopher and assumes responsibility for multiple foster children.

Their marriage is tested by tragedy when their infant son Dale dies from SIDS, placing strain on their union but ultimately bringing them closer. Haydn returns burdened by gambling debts, stealing money from Michael and causing financial hardship. Alf Stewart intervenes as a silent partner to assist in managing the boat shed.

The pressures of running the business alongside family duties generate tension in Michael and Pippa’s marriage, prompting Michael to temporarily move out. Following counseling recommended by Irene Roberts (Lynne McGranger), they reconcile.

Michael takes part in a rescue operation after a seaplane crash, finding Maya Krakajcek (Xenia Natalenko), an orphaned survivor who briefly resides with the Ross family before rejoining relatives overseas.

In 1996, producers chose to write Michael out by having him drown heroically during a flood while rescuing Sam Marshall (Ryan Clark). Dennis Coard appreciated the definitive exit, valuing the character’s heroic end without plans for return.

Haydn Ross

Haydn Ross, enacted by Andrew Hill, first appeared on 31 October 1990 and departed on 17 September 1991, returning in both 1994 and 1996. Hill unexpectedly secured the role due to an agent’s application mistake. In 1991, Hill decided to leave the show. Haydn, son of Cynthia (Belinda Giblin) and Michael Ross (Dennis Coard), enjoyed advantages from his father’s business success by attending an exclusive private school. The Home and Away Annual described Haydn as "athletic and determined like his father" with a "love of culture and a comfortable lifestyle" inherited from his mother, portraying a character that combines ambition with privilege.

Kim Mitchell

Kim Mitchell, portrayed by Rachael Beck, made her debut on 8 November 1990 as the sibling of the established character Grant Mitchell (Craig McLachlan). Although producers proposed a one-year contract to secure Kim as a regular, Beck declined the offer to avoid being typecast.

At sixteen, Kim arrives in Summer Bay hiding a drug dependency. Beck characterized Kim as someone who preserves a flawless outward appearance despite her addiction, living by the philosophy "Why not make the most of youth?" She rationalizes her drug use by following peer influence.

Upon visiting Grant, Kim steals money from his flatmate Matt Wilson (Greg Benson) and later admits to her addiction when Matt and Steven Matheson (Adam Willits) confront her after uncovering her demand for drugs. After failing to return home one evening, Kim concocts an excuse. Under duress, she steals Carly Lucini's (Sharyn Hodgson) purse to finance her habit. Matt insists she repay the money or he will notify Grant. Subsequently, Kim forges Grant's signature on a cheque to pay dealer Eddie (Peter Williams). Steven eventually informs Grant, who initially dismisses her conduct as typical teenage behavior. When speed pills are found in Kim's bag, Grant steps in and arranges rehabilitation, giving up his teaching role at Summer Bay High to support her. He contacts their parents without mentioning drugs but warns Kim he will inform them if she relapses. Months later, Grant returns with news of Kim's improvement.

Others

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Description
8 January	Robbo	Ned Manning	Veterinarian summoned by shark hunter Zac Burgess (Mark Conroy) to determine if a shark was responsible for a fatality. After examination, the shark is cleared of involvement.
29 January	Henry Thompson	Tim Allen	Potential purchasers of Blaxland mansion are frightened off when Emma Jackson (Dannii Minogue) and Celia Stewart (Fiona Spence) perform an exorcism, believing the property to be haunted.
29 January	Doris Thompson	Jane Archer
2–16 February	Greta	Jodie Gilles	Friend of Marilyn Chambers (Emily Symons). Initially dismissed by Martin Dibble (Craig Thomson) due to her plain looks, they develop a closer relationship before she departs.
9 February–1 March	Detective Hunt	Kim Knuckey	Arrests Donald Fisher (Norman Coburn) for an old homicide case. Investigates blackmail involving Al Simpson (Terence Donovan) and ultimately arrests Simpson following a hostage situation.
27 February–8 March	Dave Porter	John Adam	Friend of Ben Lucini (Julian McMahon) whose reckless conduct causes friction with Carly Morris (Sharyn Hodgson) and disrupts betting activities.
12 March	Travis	Craig Black	Student in Grant Mitchell's Year 12 class.
30 March–3 April	Reverend Christopher Goodhope	Ron Becks	African clergyman hosted by Celia Stewart, mistakenly arrested as a burglar; later relocates to the city; inspires Celia's missionary aspirations.
6 April 1990, 21 May 2007 – 26 January 2012	Delivery Man	Steve Cox	Delivery person appearing intermittently, responsible for delivering goods to Surf Club and residents; interacts with various characters over several years.
16 April–11 September	Des Thompson	Brian Harrison	Bank manager who approves loans for Carly Morris and later jointly for Carly and Ben Lucini to purchase the local boatshed.
17–26 April	Melody	Suzi Dougherty	Rents a room at Beach House; unreliable in paying rent; moves in boyfriend Bruce; both are intimidated out by flatmates exploiting Bruce's fear of snakes.
18 April	Peter Butcher	Matthew Booker	Year 10 student who mocks Sophie Simpson about her illiteracy.
25–26 April	Bruce	Bill Charlton	Melody's boyfriend recently released from prison; his presence creates tension leading to eviction by flatmates using his fear of snakes.
3 May–17 July	Minister	John Mann	Local clergyman officiating at the funeral of Tom Fletcher and the wedding of Carly Morris and Ben Lucini.
8 May–19 June	Lorraine Jensen	Elizabeth Chance	Mother supporting her children through work at a bookie's; initially disapproves but later accepts her son's musical ambitions; uncovers his deception about an injury.
15 May–27 July	Doctor Walker	Earle Cross	Local physician attending key characters including Marilyn, Ben, and pregnant Bobby Simpson.
21–24 May	Helen Wakefield	Shayne Foote	Social worker investigating abuse allegations; facilitates reunion between estranged mother Angela Newton and daughters Tammy and Viv.
21–23 May	Megan Tierney	Pamela Hawkesford	Former school friend of Carly flaunting wealth; clashes with husband Julian over spending; their dinner with Carly and Ben ends in dispute.
23 May	Julian Tierney	Cranston Brecht	'Affluent husband of Megan Tierney who opposes her spending habits, resulting in marital conflict during dinner with Carly and Ben.
23–25 May	'Angela Newton'	'Annie Byron'	'Estranged mother reunited with daughters Tammy and Viv through social worker Helen Wakefield; family relocates to Queensland for a fresh start.
29 May–5 September	'Chris Reynolds'	'Jay Hackett'	'Member of dating agency involved with Bobby Simpson; reveals he is married causing conflict; attempts reconciliation fail leading to departure after custody dispute over daughter Suzie.
29 May–19 October	'Geoff Lime'	'William Usic'	'Dating agency candidate vying for Bobby Simpson's affection; supports her pregnancy but engagement ends due to doubts about relationship longevity.
12–15 June	'Gus'	'Harry Lawrence'	'Homeless man befriending Sophie Simpson, assisting her in overcoming school difficulties through creative approaches.
27 June–23 July	'Sheree Anderson'	'Beth Champion'	'Friend of Vicki Baxter involved in framing Emma Jackson for exam theft and attempting to lure Paul Jensen away from Emma.
11–18 July	'Francesca Lucini'	'Kim Leon'	'Ben Lucini's sister attracted to Carly's foster brother Steven Matheson, generating family tension with cousin Angelo.
	'Gina Lucini'	'Arianthe Galani'	'Mother of Ben Lucini who exerts control during wedding preparations at the Fletcher household.
	'Antonio Lucini'	'Alistair Duncan'
'Angelo'	'Raj Sidhu'	"Ben Lucini's cousin and best man who alienates locals through reckless actions and conflicts, culminating in a physical fight at the wedding reception."
'Alec Dean'	'Norm Galton'	"Uncle who assumes custody of Blake and Karen Dean after their mother's death. Following initial disputes, agrees they remain with local family."
'Anna'	'Rebecca George'	"Cousin assisting Vicki Baxter in framing Emma Jackson. Ultimately encourages confession that restores Emma's standing at school."
'Wendy Reynolds'	'Liz Newman'	"Chris Reynolds' wife who leaves him due to infidelity; becomes involved in custody battles over daughter Suzie."
'Suzie Reynolds'	'Sophia Davidson'	"Daughter of Chris and Wendy Reynolds caught amid parental separation disputes."
'Vince McGrath'	'Felix Nobis'	"Delivery man dating Marilyn Chambers but sidelined due to jealousy from her housemate."
'Fred Owens'	'Keith Holloway'	"Local boatshed owner initially agreeing to sell to Ben and Carly Lucini but ultimately accepts a higher offer from a competitor."
'Hazel Lime'	'Kaye Stevenson'	"Mother opposing her son's relationship with Bobby Simpson due to pregnancy concerns but later offers support."
'Alan Stone'	'Philip Hinton'	"New Deputy Principal revealed as an abusive alcoholic enforcing strict discipline. His tenure ends following conflicts with students leading to transfer."
'Daniel Atkinson'	'Ken Radley'	"Violent alcoholic husband confronting wife's relationship with a younger man, resulting in assault charges after altercations."
'Eddie'	'Peter Williams'	"Drug dealer supplying Kim Mitchell but discouraged by intervention from Steven Matheson."
'Patricia Coleman'	'Pam Western '	"Former nun teaching at Summer Bay High providing emotional support to students. Develops friendship with Donald Fisher before relocating due to job loss."

References

Desmond, Kesta. Home and Away Annual. Grandreams Ltd, 1990. ISBN 0-86227-787-6.
Desmond, Kesta; Nicholls, David. Home and Away Annual Authorised Edition. Grandreams Ltd, 1992. ISBN 0-86227-863-5.
Hopwood, Clive. Home and Away Special. World International Publishing LTD, 1990. ISBN 0-7235-6899-5.

External links