Geoffrey Burns

Home and Away

Company type	Television series
Industry	Television soap opera
Founded	January 17, 1988 (1988-01-17)
Founder	Seven Network
Headquarters	Australia
Area served	Australia
Website	7plus.com.au/home-and-away

Home and Away is a well-known Australian soap opera. This section outlines the characters who made their first appearance in 1998, introduced under the guidance of executive producer John Holmes. The show's 11th season premiered on the Seven Network on 12 January 1998. Among the early additions was Will Smith, portrayed by Zac Drayson. Shortly thereafter, the Nash family was introduced, consisting of parents Joel and Natalie, along with their children Tom and Gypsy. In April, the storyline featured the birth of Olivia Fraser Richards. By September, new characters such as Byron Fisher and Will's sister, Hayley, played by Bec Cartwright, were added. October saw a guest appearance by Scott Major as the armed robber Murray, followed by the arrival of David D'Angelo in November.

Will Smith

Will Smith, brought to life by Zac Drayson, made his debut on 13 February 1998. He remained a regular cast member from 1998 until 2002, returning occasionally until 2005, and reappeared in 2010 along with his daughter. Initially, Drayson was cast for the role of Tom Nash, but producers reassigned him to play the more rugged character of Will. The storyline culminated with Will marrying Gypsy Nash (Kimberley Cooper). At first, Will was depicted as a "hot-tempered troublemaker" reconnecting with his siblings Hayley (Rebecca Hewitt) and Nick (Chris Egan). Over time, his character evolved into a "good bloke" before leaving Summer Bay.

Natalie Nash

Natalie Nash, portrayed by Angelica la Bozzetta, appeared for the first time on 18 February 1998. After Debra Lawrance's departure from her role as Pippa Ross in 1997, producers introduced the Nash family to take over management of the caravan park, a pivotal location within the series. This family comprised Natalie and Joel Nash (David Woodley) alongside their children Gypsy (Kimberley Cooper) and Tom Nash (Graeme Squires). La Bozzetta exited in late 1998 to dedicate time to her daughter, with Antoinette Byron stepping into the role in 1999. Channel 5 in the United Kingdom recognized the episode marking the Nash family's return as one of the finest moments in the show's 25-year history.

Joel Nash

Joel Nash, played by David Woodley, first appeared on-screen on 18 February 1998 and departed on 11 October 2000. Prior to acting, Woodley worked as a federal police officer based in Melbourne. He had previously appeared in a guest role on the show in 1996 as Barry, who was Finlay Roberts' partner.

Gypsy Nash

Gypsy Nash, portrayed by Kimberley Cooper, debuted on 18 February 1998 and left the series in 2002, returning briefly in September 2011 accompanied by her daughter Lily. The introduction of the Nash family followed Debra Lawrance's exit to refresh storylines centered around the caravan park. The family relocated from Hong Kong to Summer Bay. Cooper described Gypsy's return in 2011 as "dramatic." At the 41st Logie Awards, Cooper received the "Most Popular New Female Talent" award, becoming its first-ever winner. Gypsy's kidnapping arc earned a nomination for "Most Dramatic Storyline" at the Inside Soap Awards in 1999, while Cooper secured "Best Aussie Actress" in 2000. Holy Soap included Gypsy among the "Sexiest Home and Away girls ever," highlighting her significant storylines such as kidnapping and motherhood.

Tom Nash

Tom Nash, brought to life by Graeme Squires, made his first appearance on 18 February 1998. Initially, Zac Drayson was chosen for the role but was reassigned to portray Will Smith, which led to Squires being cast as Tom. After two years on the show, Squires exited Home and Away in early 2000, with Tom's final episode airing on 16 May 2000. He briefly reprised the role for the special 3,000th episode celebration in 2001. Squires considered this role his breakthrough in acting and expressed appreciation for the chance to play Tom.

The character of Tom was depicted as a charming, athletic "ladies' man," embodying a seasonal sportsman persona—cricket during summer and rugby in winter. Squires mentioned sharing some traits with Tom, such as creativity and a love for outdoor activities, but described himself as more reserved and less extroverted than his character. His portrayal earned him a nomination for Most Popular New Male Talent at the 1999 Logie Awards.

Critical reception acknowledged Tom's attractiveness; Robin Oliver from The Sydney Morning Herald referred to Tom and Gypsy as "attractive youngsters," while Steven Murphy of Inside Soap pointed out Tom's romance with Terri as one of the series' most passionate storylines. Claire Brand and Annette Dasey labeled Tom "Summer Bay's favorite," and Tina Baker from Soaplife called him "deliciously appealing Tom."

Olivia Fraser Richards

Olivia Fraser Richards first appeared on-screen on 20 April 1998, born to Lachlan Fraser (Richard Grieve) and Chloe Richards (Kristy Wright). Following Chloe’s passing, Olivia departed Summer Bay alongside her uncle James (Michael Piccirilli). The role was later assumed by Ivy Latimer in 2005. Olivia made a return in October 2015, now portrayed by Raechelle Banno, arriving to seek support from her mother’s former foster carer Irene Roberts (Lynne McGranger) after encountering difficulties at school in London. Banno described Olivia as confident and notably forward, especially in her flirtatious interactions with VJ Patterson (Matt Little).

Hayley Smith

Hayley Smith was embodied by Rebecca Cartwright from September 1998 until September 2005, with a brief continuation by Ella Scott Lynch. Cartwright departed the series due to personal reasons. Regarded as one of Australian television drama’s most beloved characters, Cartwright secured the 2005 Logie Award for Most Popular Actress and received a Gold Logie nomination that same year. The Sun-Herald characterized Hayley as a "trouble-prone" artistic young widow who faced numerous challenges, including issues with graffiti, underscoring her multifaceted nature within the storyline.

Byron Fisher

Byron Fisher, portrayed by several child actors over time, first appeared on 16 September 1998 as an apparition during his mother Marilyn’s pregnancy. Born on 16 February 1999, he was initially played by Brittany Jones and Joel Sanders-Aguius; later, Nathanial Davey took on the role of an eleven-year-old Byron appearing in a vision.

Byron is the son of Marilyn and Donald Fisher (Norman Coburn), with his middle name Vincent honoring Vinnie Patterson (Ryan Kwanten), who rushed Marilyn to the hospital during labor. Marilyn initially experienced post-natal depression, resulting in emotional distance from both Byron and Donald. Upon her return, she found bonding difficult due to Byron’s caregiver Ellen Porter; however, after Ellen’s departure, family life normalized until Byron’s cancer diagnosis disrupted it once again. To maximize his chances of survival, treatment abroad was necessary. Marilyn and Byron relocated to America for this purpose, with Donald selling a valuable Streeton painting to finance the medical expenses—although the purchaser eventually returned it. Donald intended to join them but learned of Byron’s death before departing. He attended Byron’s funeral overseas but came back alone after Marilyn left again. Donald authored a book titled Letter to Byron, which featured illustrations by Hayley Smith (Bec Cartwright).

Later on, Byron appeared as an eleven-year-old vision to Marilyn amidst other supernatural encounters involving the late Amber Copeland (Mitzi Ruhlman). The episode depicting Byron’s birth was recognized by Channel 5 as one of their "Best Ever" episodes.

Murray

Murray, brought to life by Scott Major, made his first appearance on 20 October 1998. A reviewer from The Advertiser labeled him as "a young man armed and dangerous" who shoots Sally Fletcher (Kate Ritchie) following a job denial. Channel 5 praised Murray's diner hostage situation as one of the standout episodes in the series.

Murray enters the Bayside diner and orders breakfast but soon admits he lacks the funds to pay. When Ailsa Stewart (Judy Nunn) attempts to alert the authorities, he takes her hostage at gunpoint. Her spouse Alf (Ray Meagher) arrives on the scene. Ailsa manages to divert Murray’s attention by handing over the till float, while Alf tries to wrestle the weapon away but is unsuccessful.

As Murray prepares to escape, officers Joel Nash (David Woodley) and Terri Garner (Alyson Standen) come in for coffee. After their departure, Terri returns, prompting Murray to fire a shot that wounds Sally in the leg. He then holds several patrons captive before fleeing and seeking refuge in a cave. There, he captures Sam Marshall (Ryan Clark) and Hayley Smith (Bec Cartwright) as hostages. Hayley’s brother Will (Zac Drayson) and his partner Gypsy Nash (Kimberley Cooper) are also taken prisoner.

The following day, the teenagers try to break free but are recaptured. Will attempts to bond with Murray by recounting his own experiences growing up on the streets. Sam and Hayley succeed in escaping; however, Gypsy is caught again. Will negotiates Gypsy’s release and ultimately surrenders himself. Joel and Constable Barry Dennis (Mark Shaw) arrest Murray. Subsequently, Murray appears as a hallucination in Ailsa’s mind when she encounters a customer resembling him at the diner.

David D'Angelo

David D'Angelo—also known as Robert Perez—was introduced on 9 November 1998, initially played by Valentino Arico, followed by Ross Pennissi portraying a shadowy "Mr. X," and later Tony Poli until the character departed on 13 October 1999.

David’s narrative revolves around vengeance against Joel Nash (David Woodley), who had imprisoned him for fifteen years in Hong Kong. He deceives Joel’s daughter Gypsy (Kimberley Cooper) by assuming the role of her tutor before abducting her. Cooper described working alongside Poli as both demanding and rewarding, commending his supportive nature despite playing an intimidating character.

Entering Summer Bay under the pseudonym Robert Perez, David covertly records private conversations involving the Nash family while dating Gypsy and residing at the Caravan Park. Presenting himself as a Maths tutor, he gains employment assisting Gypsy academically. David stirs family discord by distributing incriminating recordings that distress Natalie (Angelica la Bozetta). Alert relatives eventually uncover his criminal background tied to Joel’s incarceration in Hong Kong.

For three weeks, David holds Gypsy captive, sending cryptic messages to her family before kidnapping Joel and compelling him to protect his loved ones. He assumes Joel’s identity, drains his bank account, and sets fire to the Nashes’ residence with Natalie (now Antoinette Byron), Tom, and Gypsy inside. During the fire, David takes Natalie hostage but is captured after she discreetly reveals their location via phone. Though imprisoned, he continues to taunt Joel about Gypsy.

Several months later, David escapes custody intending to retrieve stolen money buried in the wilderness but discovers it has been taken by Duncan Stewart (Brendan McKensy) and Gazza Boyd (Sebastian Huber). He threatens Duncan and his mother Ailsa Stewart (Judy Nunn), forcing Duncan to recover the cash while holding Ailsa hostage. Attempting to flee alongside accomplice Lauren Healy (Merridy Eastman), David is chased by Joel and law enforcement; during a cliffside pursuit, Joel saves him from falling. David lodges a false complaint against Joel but is subsequently returned to prison.

Rachel Browne of The Sun-Herald named David’s vendetta among the finest TV cliffhangers of 1998, describing him as a "Hooded Psycho driven by revenge" ahead of 1999. His abduction of Gypsy and harassment of the Nash family earned a nomination for "Most Dramatic Storyline" at the 1999 Inside Soap Awards.

Others

  |"Jason" {|class=“nowrap”}   |"Shaun Losesby”   |"Accomplice in Rachel McGregor’s abduction."   |}   |"Mrs Hollis”   |"Felicity Soper”   |"Mother involved in kidnapping plot."   |}

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Context
19–20 January	Gordon Macleay	Danny Adcock	An illicit arms trader discovered floating by Travis Nash (Nic Testoni); transported to hospital.
22 January	George Baker	James Hagan	Legal representative for Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher), recommends a $10,000 settlement with Jesse McGregor (Ben Unwin) outside court.
23 January–2 February	Sludge	Steve Pate	Associate of Sam (Ryan Clark), student linked to Rod Sutton's (Nick Atkinson) gang.
22 January	Warren Hickson	Andrew Marshall	Member of Childcare Services advising Pippa Ross (Debra Lawrence) on foster care possibilities.
30 January	Christine McKenzie	Linda Newton	Conservative politician promoting immigrant deportation, triggering community protests.
2 February–30 October 2000	Barry Dennis	Mark Shaw	Local police officer frequently collaborating with Joel Nash (David Woodley).
3 February	Darren	Jordon Askill	Drummer trying out for band alongside Joey Rainbow (Alex O'Han) and Aaron Welles (Ritchie Gudgeon).
25–27 February	Carol Williams	Diana Davidson	Neighbor causing annoyance to couple Lachlan Fraser (Richard Grieve) and Chloe Richards (Kristy Wright).
10–11 March	Ralph Marchant	Nicholas Garsden	Tour guide whose group experiences a boat accident involving Vinnie Patterson (Ryan Kwanten).
18 March–24 April	Jason Duncan	Paul Kelman	Manager at Bonza Burger; affair leads to marital separation from Tamara (Sarah Aubrey); employs then dismisses Vinnie Patterson.
18–25 March	Tamara Duncan	Sarah Aubrey	Jason Duncan’s pregnant spouse who departs after uncovering his infidelity.
26 March	Chris Brown	Luke Jacobz	High school soccer player injured by jealous rival Will Smith (Zac Drayson).
30 March	Geoffrey Burns	Ben Price	Meets and supports recovering Selina Roberts (Tempany Deckert) in Africa and Ironbridge.
	Bill Burns	Michael Carter	Geoffrey's father; briefly interested in visitor Irene Roberts; invites her for an extended stay.
	Waitress	Lorraine Brown	Waits on Bill Burns and Irene Roberts at a dining establishment.
	George	Richard Clohessy	Colleague of Geoffrey Burns who invites him on vacation following relationship developments.
31 March–2 April	Pam Edmonson	Rebecca O'Dare	Competitor in surf carnival who forms friendship with Sam Marshall (Ryan Clark).
3–6 April	George Berry	Rhiannon Mason	Foster child causing disruptions during temporary placement with Travis and Rebecca Nash.
8 April–28 May	Bruce "Chook" Fowler	Shannon Cooper	Friend of Sam Marshall involved in drug-related incident risking expulsion.
9–21 April	Sugar O'Donnell	Brooke Gissing	Twin sister of Candy; dates Tom Nash before leaving him for lead singer Ben.
9–17 April	Candy O'Donnell	Bianca Gissing	Sugar's twin; romantically involved with Aaron Welles.
15–24 April	Nigel Whittaker	Stephen Holford	Interior designer contracted to refurbish Bayside Diner for Ailsa Stewart (Judy Nunn).
17 April	Ben	Tony Gibson	Lead vocalist who attracts Sugar O'Donnell, leading to her breakup with Tom Nash.
20–21 April	Dr Matthew	Alan Lock	Physician delivering newborn Olivia Fraser Richards to parents Lachlan Fraser and Chloe Richards.
22 April	Christina	Marina Finlay	Editor of Cheeky Magazine awarding Joey Rainbow a $1000 essay prize.
	Isabella	Kylie Watson	Christina’s assistant during the awards ceremony.
22–23 April	Policeman	Reg Cribb	Officer intercepting Kylie Burton, who uses an alias to avoid arrest.
1–20 May	Harry MacKintosh	Sam O'Dell	Year 12 student distributing drugs, intensifying conflicts with Gypsy Nash and Will Smith.
12 May–5 June	Leila	Michelle Fondacaro	Iranian Year 11 student courted by Aaron Welles and Tom Nash but ultimately chooses neither suitor.
20–25 May	Professor Dunstan	David Nettheim	Neurosurgeon conducting brain surgery on Lachlan Fraser and managing postoperative issues.
22 May–18 February 2000	Emily O'Kane	Rochelle Eardley	Friend of Rachel McGregor (Sarah Mumcu).
22 May–12 June	Mardi O'Kane	Kelly Cawley	Emily's mother; briefly dates Jesse McGregor before ending relationship due to lingering feelings.
19 June–22 October	Daria Ellis	Tamra Williams	Surfer and partner of Sam Marshall; copes with epilepsy diagnosis and family issues; relationship ends as Sam leaves her for Hayley Smith.
19 June–4 September	Sean Ellis	Mark Gerber	Daria's father; opens surf shop; dates Sally Fletcher; relationship ends after wife returns; relocates business elsewhere.
24 June–17 March 2003	John Wilson	Bryan Wiseman	Physician at Northern Districts Hospital.
1 July	Mark Hollis	Matt Juarez	Kidnaps Rachel McGregor from mall alongside accomplice Jason and mother Mrs Hollis.
scope=“row” 9 July–14 August	Colt	Brendan Cowell	Lead vocalist of Monkey Jam; recruits Aaron Welles despite resistance; romantically involved with Tiegan Brook, who later returns after touring.
scope=“row” 13–29 July	Phil Flatley	Benjamin Hawker	Drummer critical of Aaron Welles’ musical approach in Monkey Jam band.
scope=“row” 15–30 July	Judith Wade	Lyn Lovett	Shop owner accusing Will Smith of assault but withdraws charges upon realizing error.
scope=“row” 16–27 July	Mr. Wade	David Whitford	Husband of Judith Wade explaining her paranoia stemming from prior mugging experience.
scope=“row” 20 July–6 August	Douglas Dawson	Ivar Kants	Conducts computer classes attended by Irene Roberts, who becomes interested until discovering he is gay.
scope=“row” 23 July 1998 – 26 October 2003	Mike Carter	Stephen Leeder	Detective Inspector managing investigations at Yabbie Creek police station for five years before replacement by Peter Baker (Nicholas Bishop).
scope=“row” rowspan=2 "13 August"   |"Max"   |"Steve McCarthy”   |"Douglas Dawson’s boyfriend; introduced to Irene Roberts at diner."   |   |"Margaret Burton”   |"Lynne Turner”   |"Mother of Kylie Burton attending funeral."   |   -valign=“top”   !"20 August-3 September”   |"Eddie”   |"Tim McCunn”   |"Chantal’s boyfriend; blackmails Marilyn Fisher; both imprisoned."   |   -valign=“top”   !"24 August-3 September”   |"Tanya Ellis”   |"Antonia Murphy”   |"Sean Ellis’ ex-wife; brief reunion followed by departure after disputes."   |   -valign=“top”   !"21-30 September”   |"Catherine Clements”   |"Belinda Giblin”   |"Blind caravan park patron who befriends Alf Stewart and rescues him during fire."   |     -valign=“top”     !"22 September-29 October”         !"Suzie Morris”         !"Lauren Dubois”         !"Year 11 student interested in Tom Nash, creating tension with Justine Welles."         -valign=“top”         !"24 September-13 October”         !"John Simpson”         !"Bryan Marshall”         !"School inspector dating Irene Roberts, falsely accusing her of theft, later exposed and arrested."         -valign=“top”         !"25 November”         !"Dana”         !"Uncredited”         !"Lachlan Fraser’s new partner seen at family Thanksgiving; later marries Lachlan before his passing."         -valign=“top”         !"25 November”         !"Charlie”         !"Ben Read”         !"Dana’s brother present at Thanksgiving gathering."         -valign=“top”         !"25 November”         !"Father”     "Jim Converse"     "Dana's father attending Thanksgiving meal."

External links

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