Evan Slater

Gemma Parata
Occupation	Fictional character
Years active	2020
Known for	Home and Away

Gemma Parata

Gemma Parata, brought to life by Bree Peters, made her first appearance on 27 January 2020. Peters' involvement was announced in November 2019, with character insights published in the 25–31 January 2020 edition of TV Week. Peters portrayed Gemma as a strong family matriarch surrounded by her sons, drawing inspiration from her personal friendships and highlighting the importance of familial bonds. An Inside Soap contributor observed that although the Parata family faces numerous hardships, Gemma remains hopeful for an improved future. The character's departure came unexpectedly on 8 July 2020 when she returned to New Zealand to lay her late husband Mikaere’s ashes to rest. Peters confirmed this exit and expressed appreciation for the show's inclusion of Māori representation.

Following Ari Parata’s hostage ordeal at Northern Districts Hospital, Gemma visits him, where he informs her about Marilyn Chambers’ dinner invitation. After Nikau’s disrespectful behavior toward Marilyn, Gemma insists he make amends. Financial difficulties force the family out of their motel, prompting Marilyn to offer them accommodation at her home. Conflicts between Ari and John Palmer over past issues create strain, impacting Gemma and Nikau's reputation within the community. Gemma endeavors to mediate these tensions and cautions Ari about rumors concerning his relationship with Mackenzie Booth.

Gemma and John Palmer reconcile over shared family grief. She stands by Nikau as he faces challenges related to Bella Nixon’s self-harm struggles. When Ari’s brother Tane arrives and secures a rental home for the family, Gemma finds employment at Salt after experiencing reduced hours at the Diner. She organizes a hāngī event where she develops a connection with Ben Astoni. Despite mutual attraction and spending a night together, Gemma ultimately decides she is not prepared to move forward from Mikaere’s memory, which causes friction with Nikau; however, he later apologizes. They agree to maintain their friendship despite objections from other family members.

After a robbery at the Diner implicates the Parata family, Gemma declines Colby Thorne’s request for fingerprint evidence. Facing ongoing suspicion from the community, she chooses to return to New Zealand to scatter Mikaere’s ashes. Although Ari, Tane, and Nikau intend to accompany her, they are held up at passport control. With Tane’s encouragement, Gemma leaves alone and opts to remain in New Zealand permanently, later inviting Nikau to join her.

Nikau Parata

Nikau Parata, played by Kawakawa Fox-Reo, first appeared on 28 January 2020. Fox-Reo’s casting was revealed alongside Rob Kipa-Williams (who plays Ari Parata) in November 2019. Despite earning a place at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, Fox-Reo chose this role instead. He, Kipa-Williams, and Ethan Browne (portraying Tane Parata) comprise the show's newly introduced Māori family unit, collaborating closely with writers to ensure cultural accuracy. Fox-Reo aimed to portray Nikau in a way that reflected his own upbringing and cultural heritage.

Nikau is depicted as confident and impulsive, especially with women, maintaining a close bond with his mother Gemma (Bree Peters). His storyline centers on carving out his identity within Summer Bay. Early plots involved clashes with Jade Lennox (Mia Morrissey) alongside a romantic relationship with Bella Nixon (Courtney Miller), despite opposition from Dean Thompson (Patrick O'Connor).

On 30 November 2022, reports emerged that Fox-Reo would be leaving the series after completing his final scenes. Fans speculated about his departure following noticeable changes in his appearance and overseas travel. Nikau’s exit aired on 2 March 2023 when he left Summer Bay with Bella for New York.

Tane Parata

Tane Parata, brought to life by Ethan Browne, made his first appearance on 10 February 2020. This role marked Browne's television debut. Tane is introduced as the sibling of Ari Parata and a member of the show's newly introduced Māori family, which also includes Nikau Parata. The cast worked closely with the writers to ensure cultural accuracy. Characterized as a "cheeky," "free-spirited," and "mischievous" individual, Tane is deeply devoted to his family. In the milestone 8000th episode aired on 27 March 2023, Tane weds Felicity Newman. After the departure of his on-screen relatives, the producers added Tane’s cousin, Kahu Parata, in April 2023. Ethan Browne earned a nomination for Best Daytime Star at the 2022 Inside Soap Awards.

Marco Astoni

Marco Astoni, portrayed by Tim Walter, first arrived on screen on 12 March 2020. Walter had previously appeared in the series back in 2008. Marco is the brother of established character Ben Astoni, and his introduction serves to deepen Ben’s storyline. Known for being "confident" and "smooth-talking," Marco manages the family enterprise, which has been struggling due to poor management decisions, resulting in financial difficulties. His arrival in Summer Bay is driven by an attempt to mend fences with Ben through a collaborative business initiative, although his presence unsettles Ben’s wife, Maggie Astoni.

Marco discloses a one-night stand with Maggie from 22 years earlier, complicating family relationships and sparking uncertainty about Ziggy Astoni's paternity. Despite initial animosity, Ben and Marco strive toward reconciliation amid business negotiations and personal disputes. A paternity test ultimately confirms Ben as Ziggy’s father; however, tensions continue to linger. Before leaving, Marco acknowledges Maggie's affection for Ben and encourages him to remain a devoted husband.

Evan Slater

Evan Slater, enacted by Cameron Daddo, made his debut on 14 May 2020. His casting was announced in November 2019, with character details revealed shortly before he appeared on screen. Evan was contracted for a two-month stint. Daddo described Summer Bay as "a delightful place" and expressed appreciation for the opportunity during an uncertain period in the entertainment industry.

Evan is the estranged father of regular character Ryder Jackson (Lukas Radovich) and emerges as a potential romantic interest for Ryder’s aunt Roo Stewart (Georgie Parker). Ryder initially views Evan with suspicion, while his grandfather Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher) reacts cautiously. Evan’s backstory reveals a brief romance with Ryder’s mother, Quinn Jackson (Lara Cox), during their time performing as musicians on a cruise ship. Due to Evan’s reluctance to settle down, Alf greeted him coldly upon arrival, nearly prompting Evan to leave Summer Bay.

Amber Simmons

Amber Simmons, portrayed by Maddy Jevic, debuted on 23 July 2020. Jevic, known previously for her work on Wentworth, began filming in January and praised the friendly atmosphere among cast and crew. Amber works as a home carer hired to support John Palmer (Shane Withington), who became wheelchair-bound following a stroke. She is depicted as "loyal, funny and tough," with connections to characters Willow Harris (Sarah Roberts), Dean Thompson (Patrick O'Connor), and Colby Thorne (Tim Franklin), having grown up together in Mangrove River. Amber’s past relationship with Dean resurfaces when she encounters Colby, now serving as a police officer. Both Amber and her son Jai Simmons (River Jarvis) exited the show in May 2021.

Amber’s narrative centers on her challenging relationship with John Palmer, who initially resists her caregiving methods. Despite conflicts—including a confrontation with John’s wife Marilyn Chambers—Amber remains committed to aiding John’s recovery. She also confronts Colby Thorne regarding her brother Jai’s death, blaming him for leaving the scene of a car accident. Ultimately, Amber reconciles with Willow Harris and Dean Thompson before spending time alongside Tane Parata.

Owen Davidson

Owen Davidson, played by Cameron Daddo, made his first appearance on 24 August 2020. His casting was revealed by Women's Day on 17 August 2020. Owen is introduced as the long-lost twin brother of Evan Slater, a role also undertaken by Daddo. The actor highlighted the complexity of portraying two distinct characters and expressed excitement upon receiving the opportunity to play Owen. Additionally, Owen becomes romantically linked to Roo Stewart (Georgie Parker). His departure from the show aired on 12 November 2020.

When Owen arrives in Summer Bay, he is immediately noticed by Ryder Jackson (Lukas Radovich) and Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher) because of his striking resemblance to the deceased Evan Slater. He discovers that he and Evan are twins who were separated at birth and adopted by different families. Through Ryder and Roo, Owen begins to reconnect with his biological family, even borrowing Evan’s guitar as a way to feel closer to his brother. After discussing Evan with Roo, Owen invites her out, which sparks a budding romantic connection.

Their relationship develops through dates and family gatherings, though complications arise around Owen’s birthday, which brings up emotions related to Evan’s passing. Recognizing the strain on Roo, Owen chooses to leave Summer Bay. Subsequently, Roo returns alone after accidentally calling Owen by Evan’s name during an intimate moment, revealing familial disapproval of Owen. Despite efforts to repair their relationship, Roo confesses she still harbors feelings for Evan, leading to their breakup and Owen’s exit from the Bay.

Taylor Rosetta

Taylor Rosetta, portrayed by Annabelle Stephenson, first appeared on 26 August 2020. Her casting was announced on 1 August 2020. Stephenson initially auditioned for the role in Italy during 2019 but was cast after moving back to Australia and relocating to Sydney for filming. She described the set environment as relaxed and welcoming, while describing Taylor as "a friendly and fiercely independent woman." Taylor is married to Angelo Rosetta (Luke Jacobz), who returns to Summer Bay after a lengthy absence.

Taylor met Angelo during her physiotherapy studies and was drawn to his enthusiasm and charisma. Feeling neglected in her marriage, she embarks on an affair with Angelo’s suspicious colleague Colby Thorne (Tim Franklin). Stephenson explained that Taylor and Colby’s relationship is layered with love, betrayal, and intertwined storylines connected to a murder investigation.

While in Summer Bay, Taylor supports Angelo through his homicide case and simultaneously forms a connection with Colby. After Angelo cancels plans to focus on his investigation, Taylor accepts Colby’s invitation for coffee and later offers him a massage as thanks. Their relationship intensifies into an affair while Angelo pursues leads out of town. When Taylor realizes others are aware of the affair—including Willow Harris (Sarah Roberts), Bella Nixon (Courtney Miller), and Dean Thompson (Patrick O'Connor)—she tries to end it.

Christian Green

Christian Green, played by Ditch Davey, debuted on 16 September 2020. His casting was announced on 19 June 2020, with Davey describing the role as a fortunate opportunity amid difficult times. Christian is introduced as a neurosurgeon called in to assist with a medical emergency at Northern Districts Hospital, specifically consulting on Justin Morgan's spinal tumour diagnosis. Initially portrayed as arrogant, Christian causes some tension within the hospital but also reveals a more humorous and compassionate side. He develops a romantic relationship with fellow doctor Tori Morgan (Penny McNamee). Both actors exited the series in September 2021 when their characters marry and move to London.

Kieran Baldivis

Kieran Baldivis, portrayed by Rick Donald, made his debut on 26 November 2020. Donald’s involvement was announced through promotional content, marking his return to Home and Away following a guest appearance in 2011. Kieran is introduced as the estranged and troubled son of Martha Stewart (Belinda Giblin), grappling with mental health difficulties and substance dependency. His arrival unsettles the Stewart family as he attempts to mend fractured relationships.

Battling alcoholism and anger issues, Kieran initially faces rejection from Martha. After obtaining a job at a local gym, his efforts to reconnect create friction between Martha and her husband Alf. A kidnapping episode followed by an arrest leads to Kieran’s release on a good behaviour bond; he returns sober and determined to repair family bonds.

Although Alf remains wary, Kieran gains encouragement from Martha’s half-sister Roo and other community members. He attends Alcoholics Anonymous meetings, secures a sponsor, and navigates complex family dynamics while pursuing recovery. His path includes both setbacks and growth, ultimately resulting in Martha entrusting him with managing her property and arranging work outside Summer Bay. Kieran departs with Alf extending a tentative gesture of reconciliation.

Lewis Hayes

Lewis Hayes, enacted by Luke Arnold, first appeared on 30 November 2020. Arnold’s casting was confirmed early November 2020, with character details revealed later that month. Arnold described Lewis as driven by vengeance and positioned as a romantic interest for Jasmine Delaney, played by Sam Frost. Both characters are nurses, with Arnold receiving professional guidance to portray the role authentically. Lewis’s backstory includes a previous relationship with Jasmine and the death of his partner Anna, which he attributes to surgeon Christian Green (Ditch Davey).

Employed as an agency nurse within Graydon Prison’s medical unit, Lewis reconnects with Jasmine, sparking a budding relationship despite his fixation on Christian. He later transfers to Northern Districts Hospital, becoming nursing unit manager and working alongside Jasmine. Convinced Christian’s negligence caused Anna’s fatal secondary brain bleed, Lewis investigates Christian’s medical history.

At the hospital, Lewis works to undermine Christian both professionally and personally. After a patient dies following surgery allegedly performed under the influence by Christian, Lewis campaigns for his removal. Even after Christian’s suspension is lifted, tensions rise further. Lewis attempts to sabotage Christian by harming patients to implicate him but is stopped before completion. One patient dies under suspicious conditions, triggering an official inquiry.

Lewis lodges assault accusations against Christian after confrontations but remains obsessed with revenge. His vendetta culminates in holding Christian hostage and administering what he believes is a fatal injection; however, Christian survives. Ultimately, Lewis surrenders to authorities, admitting guilt for multiple patient murders and the attempted murder of Christian. Jasmine condemns his actions yet remains central to his storyline.

This plotline explores themes including workplace rivalry, ethical violations in healthcare, and how personal vendettas can disrupt professional settings.

Others

Date(s)	Role	Performer	Context
27 January	Hostage Taker #3	Emanuele Battaglia	Members of the Ouroboros gang detain hostages within the hospital’s emergency ward. One checks the stairwell and discovers a phone playing a recorded message before Dean Thompson subdues him.
	Hostage Taker #4	Rik-Mei Karena
27 January–	Ambulance Officer/ Paramedic Charlie	Kathryn Schuback	Responsible for transporting injured individuals to Northern Districts Hospital, including Robbo, Colby Thorne, Ben Astoni, and John Palmer. Initially credited as Ambulance Officer, later as Paramedic Charlie.
27 January–	Freya Bozic	Francisca Braithwaite	Nurse at Northern Districts Hospital supporting critical care for patients such as Robbo, Colby Thorne, Evan Slater, and Christian Green. Also participates in social interactions with staff.
3 February	AFP Chaplain	Winston Cooper	Officiates at Robbo's funeral service.
	Terence Salisbury	Howard Stone	Attends Robbo's funeral; shares insights about their time together in the AFP.
5 February	Journalist	Deborah An	Conducts an interview with Marilyn Chambers regarding Ari Parata's involvement during the hospital siege.
11–19 February	Patricia Hendersen	Sharni McDermott	Counsellor supporting Bella Nixon through trauma recovery and trust rebuilding; suggests alternative therapeutic approaches.
18–19 February	Jason	James Biasetto	Ex-boyfriend of Mackenzie Booth; attempts to extort money linked to theft; receives police warnings about legal repercussions.
26–27 February	Douglas	Adam Booth	Takes Leah Patterson hostage; exhibits abusive and controlling behavior; arrested after stabbing Colby Thorne; pleads guilty and sentenced to 25 years imprisonment.
27 April	Danny	Bryden White-Tuohey	Engages in pool games with Nikau Parata and Bella Nixon; participates in local community events.
	Gavin	Steve Carroll	Customer at Pier Diner who confronts Leah Patterson regarding an order dispute.
28 April	Ingrid Stone	Amy Kersey	Victim Services officer assisting Leah Patterson with preparing an impact statement related to abuse by Douglas Maynard.
30 April	Steve	Cramer Cain	Staff member at Bridge Farm Equine Centre managing therapy sessions involving principal characters.
30 April	Annabelle	Monique Riley	Woman discovered asleep in #Tane Parata's bed, indicating personal narrative developments.
6 May 2020, 15 July 2021	Ultra Sound Technician	Elizabeth McLean	Conducts ultrasound examinations for key figures, including confirming pregnancies for Jasmine Delaney and Mia Anderson.
7 May	Cindy	Sarah Halloran	Engages briefly in a romantic relationship with #Tane Parata.
24 June	Melissa	Kelly Zacharias	Recognizes Jasmine Delaney from an online forum; develops social connections involving family privacy concerns.
	Baby Tyler	Aurora Williams	Child connected to Melissa's storyline.
8 July	Anna Davies	Lou Pollard	Passport control officer involved in security procedures affecting the Parata family’s travel arrangements.
11 August–	Sergeant Cooper	John Atkinson	Police sergeant overseeing investigations including the discovery of Ross Nixon's body and arrest operations concerning Kieran Baldivis.
13 August	Counsellor Peta	Beth Champion	Provides therapeutic support to Jasmine Delaney, focusing on attachment difficulties and past trauma resolution.
20 August	Dale the Camp Manager	Bryce Youngman	Oversees campsite frequented by main characters; facilitates community interactions.
24 August 2020 – 22 February 2022	Jai Simmons	River Jarvis	Son of Amber Simmons and Dean Thompson; central figure in family dynamics, custody disputes, and character development arcs.
26 August	Ambulance Officer #2	Jennine Kelly	Provides emergency medical aid to injured characters including Justin Morgan following chemical exposure incident.
16 September 2020 – 11 March 2021	Leon	Will McNeill	Antagonistic figure engaged in criminal acts targeting the Parata family; intensifies conflicts resulting in arrests and violent encounters.
24 September 2020, 11 August 2021	Dr Stevens	Wadih Dona	Anaesthesiologist involved in critical surgeries for characters such as Justin Morgan and monitoring complex cases like brain bleeds affecting Nikau Parata.
13–22 October	Francesca Simmons	Joanne Hunt	Amber Simmons' mother; involved in custody disputes over Jai Simmons, creating tension with Dean Thompson due to his history.
2 November 2020 – 17 March 2021	Paul	Jack Finsterer	Enforcer pressuring Tane Parata over debts; orchestrates blackmail schemes and armed robbery plans impacting several families; ultimately apprehended following violent incidents.
16–17 November	'Katherine'	Neveen Hanna	Legal representative for Colby Thorne during his murder trial, managing witness lists and plea negotiations.
	Judge	Tracy Mann	Oversees Colby Thorne’s trial, supervising plea changes and sentencing resulting in a 25-year imprisonment term.
	'Michael Finau'	Ray Chong Nee	Prosecutor presenting critical evidence during Colby Thorne’s trial, including confession recordings.
16 November	'Bailiff'	Peter Cook	Court officer responsible for maintaining order throughout Colby Thorne's trial proceedings.
'25 November 2020–' 3 March 2022	'Officer Martinez'	Shameer Birges	Correctional officer managing visitation rights, prisoner transport, and security incidents involving Colby Thorne and other inmates. Also responsible for hospital security concerning incarcerated individuals.
26 November	Tammy	Bernie Van Tiel	Supports Dean Thompson during a pub confrontation; briefly involved romantically but ultimately rejected.
	Jess	Kara Sheehan   - Purchases a beer for Dean Thompson during local social events.
26 November 2020, 10 February 2021   - 'River Boy Ray'   - Travis McCurry   - Member of River Boy gang interacting with Dean Thompson; involved in territorial disputes and social activities.
30 November 2020– 11 February 2021   - Joe   - Shaun Anthony Robinson   - Inmate at Graydon Prison who reveals Colby Thorne’s true identity, triggering violent altercations that lead to Joe's fatal stabbing by Colby.

External links

• Cast and characters on the Official AU Home and Away site
• Cast and characters at the Internet Movie Database