Evan Hancock

Neighbours

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

Neighbours is an Australian soap opera developed by Reg Watson that premiered on 18 March 1985. This compilation highlights characters introduced in 2001, all under the direction of executive producer Stanley Walsh. The show's seventeenth season started broadcasting on 15 January 2001. Jess Fielding made her debut in February, followed by Matt Hancock in March; his father Evan and Jack Scully arrived in April. Maggie Hancock was introduced in May, Larissa Calwell in June, Tim Collins in September, Sandy Allen in October, Mitch Foster in November, and Liz Conway, Stuart Parker, and Elly Conway all appeared in December. The first birth of the year was Ben Kirk.

Jess Fielding

Jessica "Jess" Fielding, played by Elisha Gazdowicz, first appeared on 14 February 2001 as a student attending Erinsborough High. Jess quickly became a central figure through storylines involving accusations against teacher Susan Kennedy for physical violence and being suspected of planting a bomb. A writer from the Daily Record labeled Jess as a "vixen" and "wild child" who caused disruption on Ramsay Street. Gazdowicz expressed hope that audiences would embrace Jess despite her contentious role.

As a Year 12 student, Jess caught the eye of Tad Reeves. Coming from an affluent background, she felt overlooked following the arrival of her sister Mary's newborn. Her conduct at school deteriorated, leading to suspicion when a bomb threat occurred; however, it was later revealed that Colin Rogers was responsible. Jess’s conflict with Susan intensified after receiving a poor grade and defending herself physically during an incident, which resulted in Susan’s suspension. Encouraged by Tad to be honest, Jess ultimately cleared Susan’s name by withdrawing her complaint.

After a dispute with her family, Jess sought solace with Tad, but their relationship ended when Tad realized it was becoming too serious.

Matt Hancock

Matthew "Matt" Hancock, portrayed by Stephen Hunt, made his first appearance on 26 March 2001 as the initial member of the five-person Hancock family introduced that year. As the eldest sibling, Matt assumed a responsible role within his family. Despite being clever, he faced academic challenges that concerned his parents, who appreciated his intelligence and good looks.

Evan Hancock

Evan Hancock, enacted by Nicholas Opolski, debuted on 13 April 2001. Created to refresh Neighbours during temporary cast changes, Evan served as the patriarch of the Hancock family and worked as a teacher at Erinsborough High. His background included a divorce from Genevieve Murdoch, with whom he had two sons: Chris and Matt. Evan later remarried Maggie Hancock, and they had two children together—Leo and Emily.

Evan was portrayed as a forward-thinking educator and devoted parent who was well-liked by both students and family members despite occasional difficulties. The Hancocks represented a relatable Australian family unit. In 2002, the entire family was written out of the show.

Upon relocating to Erinsborough, Evan accepted a teaching role and purchased Number 32 Ramsay Street, leading to tensions with neighbors. His ex-wife Genevieve tried to convince Matt to pursue catering studies abroad; Matt declined while Chris chose to live with Genevieve. Evan’s unconventional teaching style caused friction with colleagues and local residents.

Financial strain emerged when Leo began selling essays to fund break dancing lessons; although initially forbidding it, Evan later supported his son’s passion. Marital tensions rose as Maggie’s academic pursuits interfered with family life. Evan won a local council seat against Joe Scully but became increasingly distant from his family. Secretly, he assisted Genevieve following her breakup.

A car accident involving Matt and Leo led to legal complications and substantial lawyer fees that forced the sale of their home. Evan’s marriage further deteriorated after discovering Maggie’s near-affair with Toadfish Rebecchi; they contemplated divorce but attempted reconciliation before leaving Erinsborough.

Media observers noted Evan’s appeal to younger demographics as a new math teacher and commended his bravery in accepting the role. He notably stirred controversy by emailing The Chronicle about bullying incidents, which created tension with Susan Kennedy.

Jack Scully

Jack Scully, portrayed by Paul Pantano, made his first appearance on 17 April 2001. Although the Scully family had been introduced in 1999 with frequent mentions of Jack, the producers ultimately decided to bring the character to life on screen by casting Pantano. In 2002, the role was recast with Jay Bunyan taking over. Bunyan secured the part after an audition in New Zealand conducted by Jan Russ. The BBC described Jack as "a bit feisty" who "stirred things up among the local teenage girls" when he arrived in Erinsborough.

Maggie Hancock

Maggie Hancock, enacted by Sally Cooper, first appeared on 9 May 2001. She was introduced alongside her family as part of a cast refresh during a period of several temporary cast departures, portraying a law student and the matriarch of the blended Hancock household. Maggie is married to Evan (Nicholas Opolski) and is mother to Leo (Anthony Hammer) and Emily (Isabella Oldham), with stepchildren Chris and Matt (Stephen Hunt).

Maggie's arrival in Erinsborough coincided with her husband Evan beginning a teaching position at the local high school. Early plotlines involved her navigating family difficulties such as commemorating their daughter Francesca's death anniversary, coping with financial hardships, and dealing with neighborhood disputes sparked by Evan’s conflicts. Her legal studies also intersected with community matters, including helping Libby Kennedy pursue an unfair dismissal claim.

Balancing her law education with work obligations created professional strains that affected Maggie's family relationships. Her interactions with colleague Toadfish Rebecchi (Ryan Moloney) introduced workplace romantic tension, culminating in Maggie turning down his advances to stay faithful to her family during a crisis following her sons’ car accident.

In 2002, the Hancock family was written out of the series. After selling their home to cover legal expenses, Maggie and Evan reconciled and moved to Albury.

The BBC noted Maggie’s decision to reject Toadie as a key moment defining her character.

Larissa Calwell

Larissa Calwell, played by Leah De Niese, was introduced on 11 June 2001. De Niese had previously appeared on Neighbours as a child actor. Larissa was portrayed as a "cunning manipulator" who became central to a romantic triangle involving Paul McClain (Jansen Spencer) and Tad Reeves (Jonathon Dutton). Tad sent emails pretending to be Paul in communication with Larissa, but when the deception was uncovered, Larissa exploited the situation by dating both young men simultaneously to determine whom she preferred. Paul and Tad each vied for her attention through separate dates.

While traveling in Paris, Paul befriended Larissa, who later came to Australia. Tad coached Paul about Larissa’s interests, particularly dance music. Their initial date went well, followed by another where Paul impressed her with his DJ abilities. When Larissa requested Paul create a mix tape, they claimed the equipment was broken. Eventually, they revealed the email impersonation and allowed Larissa to choose between them. She opted to continue seeing both despite their initial objections.

The dates emphasized Paul's romantic qualities against Tad's more adventurous nature. Both men pursued further outings and confided in Felicity Scully (Holly Valance), who advised Larissa to stop manipulating them. After her parents restricted her internet access, Larissa transferred from correspondence school to Erinsborough High. At a football match, she ran into Tad and was later spotted kissing him at a nightclub event attended by Paul. This led to a confrontation between the two men; however, they eventually reconciled and agreed not to let Larissa come between their friendship.

Tim Collins

Tim Collins, brought to life by Ben Anderson, made his first appearance on 27 September 2001. As a practicing attorney, Tim has represented numerous Ramsay Street residents and is recognized as a professional adversary to Toadfish Rebecchi (Ryan Moloney). Media outlets have labeled him as "ruthless" and "slimy." Anderson returned to the role in 2013, and in 2016, The Sydney Morning Herald commended his portrayal, emphasizing Tim's significant influence within the Erinsborough Council. In the show's concluding episodes aired in July 2022, Tim notably informed Shane Ramsay (Peter O'Brien) about the past actions of Paul Robinson (Stefan Dennis).

Tim's career began at Stewart, Whitehead and Moore, where he crossed paths with Toadie Rebecchi. He later departed to co-found Tim Collins & Associates alongside Toadie, operating from the Lassiter's complex. While Tim primarily handled cases based in Sydney, Toadie managed those in Melbourne. Known for his demanding leadership style, Tim imposed strict billing goals on his team and frequently clashed with Toadie's brother. Eventually, Toadie and Rosetta Cammeniti (Natalie Saleeba) branched out to create their own legal practice, Rebecchi Cammeniti.

Throughout his career, Tim defended a variety of clients including Kirsten Gannon (Nikola Dubois) in custody disputes and Oliver Barnes (David Hoflin) over inheritance conflicts. He made an attempt to acquire 26 Ramsay Street for redevelopment purposes but was ultimately outbid by Steve Parker. Additionally, Tim acted as Paul Robinson’s legal representative in matters such as a hit-and-run allegation and civil litigation concerning incidents at Lassiter's.

In local government, Tim held a seat on the Erinsborough council and served as interim mayor. His leadership involved contentious actions like shutting down a community centre and closing a bridge, which drew criticism from residents including Sonya Brennan. He contested the mayoral election against Sonya but was defeated after orchestrating a public smear campaign against her.

As editor of the West Waratah Star newspaper, Tim wielded media power strategically by publishing stories detrimental to political opponents and negotiating deals with influential business figures like Terese Willis. He was implicated in blackmail plots involving covert camera footage from Lassiter's hotel rooms, using this sensitive information to secure alliances.

Tim's personal affairs intersected with his professional dealings when it was revealed that his daughter Courtney Grixti’s engagement to Paul Robinson was a calculated act of revenge. His relationships with key individuals such as Terese Willis and Paul Robinson were intricate, often entangled with legal disputes and corporate struggles linked to Lassiter's hotel operations.

He provided legal advice on intellectual property matters related to Lassiter’s new staff uniforms and strategically utilized media outlets to challenge political initiatives like Australia Day celebrations. The rivalry between Tim and Toadie escalated when Tim gained a significant client after exposing Toadie's private relationship with his assistant Melanie Pearson.

In subsequent story arcs, Tim supplied Shane Ramsay with incriminating details about Paul Robinson’s history of misconduct, underscoring his role as a pivotal figure in Erinsborough’s legal and political arenas. Despite ongoing tensions with Paul, Tim remained a powerful presence within the community’s business and legal circles.

Sandy Allen

Sandy Allen, brought to life by Catherine Hill, made her debut on 5 October 2001. She is introduced as the spouse of John Allen (Adrian Mulraney), who uncovers that he fathered Louise "Lolly" Carpenter (originally Jiordan Anna Tolli) with Cheryl Stark (Caroline Gillmer). John and Sandy travel to Erinsborough to meet Lolly and eventually obtain full custody.

Taking a job at a local nursery, Sandy frequently crosses paths with Lou Carpenter (Tom Oliver), who had initially believed himself to be Lolly’s father. Although there is some friction between them, Sandy and Lou maintain polite interactions. After relocating to the countryside with John, Sandy gives birth to two children through IVF but develops bitterness toward Lolly, linking her to John's unfaithfulness.

This bitterness intensifies into both mental and physical mistreatment of Lolly. When Lolly runs away and returns to Erinsborough, Sandy consents to look after her temporarily. Their relationship worsens, culminating in an incident by the pool where Sandy falls and injures herself. Lolly rescues her and confides in Lou about the abuse while Sandy is hospitalized.

Upon her return, Sandy discovers she has lost the trust of her family and access to her children after Lou contacts John and child services. Acknowledging that her situation is unsustainable, Sandy departs, concluding her storyline on the show.

Mitch Foster

Mitch Foster, played by Hugh Sexton, first appeared on 14 November 2001 as a recurring character. Mitch is a criminal figure connected to Larry "Woody" Woodhouse (Andrew Curry). A BBC reporter characterized him as "an opportunist" with a "sinister" edge. Mitch becomes involved with Woody’s former girlfriend Stephanie Scully (Carla Bonner), who initially defends him against criminal allegations until discovering his deceit, leading to their breakup. Mitch subsequently robs the courier company where Steph works and vanishes. Bonner explained that after the robbery, Steph reported Mitch but then received an unexpected motorbike gift from him, prompting her to notify the police. However, Steph herself becomes a suspect, forcing her to track down Mitch, who takes advantage of her trust.

When Steph experiences harassment at a pub, Mitch steps in. He delivers equipment for Joe Scully (Shane Connor) and invites Steph out, revealing his connection with Woody. Shocked by Woody’s recent death, Steph learns that Mitch is evasive about his prison background. During dinner with Steph and her mother Lyn (Janet Andrewartha), Mitch impresses them by resolving a work-related issue. He assists Joe with a threatening client, and he and Steph plan a trip to Sydney. However, Woody returns from witness protection and exposes Mitch’s prison record for manslaughter. Distrusting both men, Steph cuts ties.

Six months later, Mitch reappears injured from an alleged motorbike accident. After receiving treatment, he disappears again. When MOCO is targeted in an armed robbery, Libby Kennedy (Kym Valentine) alerts police suspecting Mitch's involvement. Mitch confronts Steph at work with a firearm, robs the cash register, and escapes—implicating Steph in the crime. Steph and Stuart Parker (Blair McDonough) locate Mitch seriously ill; Stuart records Mitch admitting there is no evidence that will exonerate Steph. This recording leads to Mitch’s arrest following his apology.

The BBC identified Mitch’s most memorable moment as "Holding up MOCO and robbing Steph." After these events aired, The Newcastle Herald remarked on Steph’s recurring misfortune of associating with questionable characters resulting in her being implicated in Mitch’s robbery.

Liz Conway

Liz Conway made her debut on 5 December 2001, initially played by Christine Keogh. She was introduced as the elder sister of Susan Kennedy (Jackie Woodburne), arriving in Erinsborough to request that Susan look after her "difficult" teenage daughter during her six-month overseas stay. On 29 June 2018, it was announced that the character would be reintroduced, with former Home and Away actress Debra Lawrance taking over the role. Lawrance characterized Liz as "self-centered, quite selfish, and somewhat flighty," which contrasts sharply with Susan's personality.

Liz comes back to reconnect with her daughters Elly Conway (Jodi Anasta) and Bea Nilsson (Bonnie Anderson). Following this return, critics commended Lawrance’s portrayal, emphasizing the nuanced mother-daughter relationships depicted. Liz made another appearance on 24 June 2019.

After their mother passes away, Liz and Susan experience a falling out. Liz marries Ian Conway (Peter Maver) and has a daughter, Elly (originally portrayed by Kendell Nunn; later by Jodi Gordon/Anasta). When offered employment in Sweden, Liz asks Susan to take care of Elly during her absence. Upon her return, she introduces a new partner named Lars and reveals she is expecting a child. Elly confronts Liz over confusion regarding her paternity involving Susan’s husband Karl Kennedy (Alan Fletcher). Liz reassures Elly that Ian is her biological father. After consulting with Lars and Karl, Liz decides to relocate to Sweden with Elly.

Sixteen years later, Liz returns after Susan informs her that Elly and Bea require support following incidents involving manipulation and hostage situations linked to Finn Kelly (Rob Mills). She discovers that Bea had been homeless at age 15. Strain develops when Bea realizes Liz wanted her gone because she reminded her of her father Lars. A reconciliation attempt fails amid heavy drinking and deception about a supposed mugging, leading Liz to confess the truth to her daughters. She apologizes before departing with Susan’s encouragement to confront her past.

During Christmas, Liz stays with Susan and family, revealing that a retreat helped her overcome alcohol problems. She provides support during Susan’s legal challenges and flirts with Bea’s boyfriend Ned Willis (Ben Hall) as well as Mark Brennan (Scott McGregor). Upon finding a love note from Mark’s sister Chloe Brennan (April Rose Pengilly) addressed to Elly, Liz advises Chloe to keep her emotions private.

Elly Conway

Elly Conway first appeared on 13 December 2001, originally portrayed by Kendell Nunn. She is described as the "rebellious niece" of Susan Kennedy (Jackie Woodburne). Characterized as "intelligent, perceptive and slightly rebellious," Elly often challenges her aunt and uncle, Susan and Karl (Alan Fletcher). On 28 April 2016, it was announced that Jodi Anasta would reprise the role under a three-year contract, returning on 18 July 2016. Now working as a school teacher like Susan, Anasta remarked that the role allows her to realize a childhood ambition while bringing a playful edge to the character.

Stuart Parker

Stuart Parker, portrayed by Blair McDonough, made his first appearance on 13 December 2001. McDonough secured the role after finishing as the runner-up on Big Brother Australia, initially agreeing to a three-month contract which was later extended to six months prior to his debut. Originating from Oakey, Stuart is introduced as the younger sibling of a friend of Drew Kirk (Dan Paris), eventually relocating to Erinsborough. McDonough related closely to Stuart’s candid and amiable nature. The character was characterized as a "good-natured country boy," earning McDonough a nomination for the Logie Award for Most Popular New Male Talent in 2002.

Ben Kirk

Ben Kirk, brought to life by Noah Sutherland, first appeared on 14 December 2001. He is the offspring of Libby Kennedy (Kym Valentine) and Drew Kirk (Dan Paris). Ben’s arrival posed serious health risks for Libby, who was hospitalized due to significant blood loss but eventually recovered. Valentine praised Sutherland’s natural performance and quickly formed a bond with him. Paris confessed to feeling somewhat apprehensive initially about working with an infant. The role was later assumed by Blake O'Leary. A Network Ten commentator described Ben as a devoted supporter of his mother.

Others

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Details
16 January–15 February	Jeannie Truman	Libby Stone	Mother to Allana and Clementine Truman, Jeannie is controlling and unwell, necessitating Allana's stay at home. After conflicts with her daughter and Lance Wilkinson, she ultimately supports their relocation to America financially.
16 January–15 March	Richie Hampson	Michael O'Malley	A salesman for Beauty Tree who deceives Lyn Scully into investing funds. Teresa Bell initially trusts him but later uncovers his manipulative intentions aimed at social advancement.
19 January–2 February	Alice Jamison	Pip Sallabank	Partner and co-owner of Darcy Tyler’s medical practice, Alice arrives to discover Darcy involved with Dee Bliss, causing relationship turmoil that leads to their breakup.
20–21 February	Fergus MacLeod	Tommy Dysart	Drew Kirk’s great uncle visiting from Scotland for Drew and Libby’s wedding; participates in traditional celebrations including poetry recitals and singing.
21 February	Sally Kirk	Niobe Dean	Siblings of Drew Kirk attending his wedding to Libby Kennedy.
	Stuart Kirk	Stephen Godfrey
21 February–12 April	Reverend Loftus	Bill Johnston	Conducts ceremonies including Libby and Drew’s wedding and Madge Bishop’s funeral.
1–22 March	Glen Goldman	Gerard Cogley	Radio host of a quiz program featuring Lance Wilkinson, who wins money but questions the fairness of the show.
6 March–5 July 2002	Nathan Tyson	Luke Hemsworth	Footballer with Eastside Dingoes who uses steroids, causing conflict with teammate Paul McClain and eventual dismissal; later works as a bailiff repossessing goods from locals.
29 March, 6 April	Steve Crandall	Travis Clark	MOCO delivery driver facing redundancy; dismissed despite personal difficulties but later obtains improved employment.
30 March	Dave Patrick	Chris Gaffney	Veteran MOCO driver nearly fired; personal tragedy influences Stephanie Scully’s intervention; ultimately resigns voluntarily.
6 April	Brian Curtis	Ron Bingham	Food critic evaluating Lou's Place for a pub contest; impressed by a signature dish inspired by terminally ill Madge Bishop.
17 April–17 May	Veronica Anderson	Monika Karwan	Teresa Bell’s housemate who develops an unhealthy obsession with Drew Kirk, leading to tension before being taken home by her father for assistance.
20–26 April	Elly Turnbull	Cherise Donovan	Michelle Scully’s schoolmate and math enthusiast; develops a crush on new teacher Evan Hancock.
20 April–11 May	Aleks Rama	Dean Ali	Best friend of Leo Hancock staying with the Hancock family during his parents’ absence.
23 April–13 September	Barry Burke	David Whiteley	Associate of Kev Kelly involved in intimidating witness Larry Woodhouse; harassment escalates resulting in witness protection placement and Barry’s fatal car accident.
25 April–6 March 2002	Genevieve Murdoch	Julie Campbell	Evan Hancock’s estranged first wife visiting their son Matt; provides financial aid but clashes over ambitions and family matters; later reveals cancer scare and initiates divorce proceedings.
27 April–26 July	"Nigel Armstrong'"	"Andy Poulter"	"Drew Kirk and Libby Kennedy's noisy upstairs neighbor whose drumming causes friction resolved through compromise."

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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