Georgina Watson

Home and Away

Company type	Television series
Industry	Television soap opera
Founded	January 17, 1988 (1988-01-17)
Headquarters	Australia
Area served	Australia

Home and Away is an Australian soap opera that premiered on the Seven Network on 17 January 1988. The following section outlines characters introduced during 2008, all under the direction of series producer Cameron Welsh. The show's 21st season commenced broadcasting on 28 January 2008. Key characters introduced include Martin Bartlett, portrayed by Bob Baines, who debuted in February. March saw the arrival of Trent Dalzell as Axel Hay, David Downer as Ross Buckton, and Celeste Dodwell as Melody Jones. In April, Tessa James joined the cast as Nicole Franklin. May featured the introductions of Jordan Rodrigues and Oliver Davis as Jai Fernandez and Oliver Phillips, respectively. June brought Esther Anderson and Rebecca Breeds into the series as Charlie and Ruby Buckton. On 8 July, Luke Jacobz and Paul Pantano appeared as Angelo Rosetta and Elliot Gillen. Finally, in November, David Jones-Roberts began his role as Xavier Austin.

Martin Bartlett

Martin Bartlett, played by Bob Baines, made his first appearance on 12 February 2008. He arrives as Summer Bay High’s new deputy principal, succeeding Donald Fisher (Norman Coburn). After Johnny Cooper (Callan Mulvey) stabs Sally Fletcher, Martin is promoted to principal by the school board.

Having previously served as a Science teacher at Summer Bay High for many years, Martin recruits Jazz Curtis (Rachel Gordon) as his secretary. However, after she blackmails him regarding his involvement in illegal fights linked to Ric Dalby (Mark Furze), he terminates her employment. Subsequently, he hires Kirsty Sutherland (Christie Hayes) to replace Jazz and develops feelings for her despite her relationship with Miles Copeland (Josh Quong Tart). Martin demonstrates a personal commitment to Kirsty’s circumstances when he assumes responsibility for an injury sustained by her son Oliver (Oliver Davis), especially considering his own upbringing by a single mother while Oliver’s father, Kane Phillips (Sam Atwell), is incarcerated.

When Martin discovers Kirsty working as an escort at the Sands resort—a place he frequents—tensions arise with Miles, leading to Kirsty’s dismissal. Nevertheless, Martin provides her with a reference to assist her in finding new employment. During a senior formal event organized by Martin, Kane’s car crashes through the venue wall, injuring Martin with fractured ribs; both men recover following hospital treatment.

Martin arranges a commemorative school trek marking Dan Baker’s (Tim Campbell) death anniversary. The event turns perilous when students Jai Fernandez and Annie Campbell (Charlotte Best) go missing and Trey Palmer (Luke Bracey) threatens the group with a bomb placed under their bus. The crisis concludes when Hugo Austin (Bernard Curry) successfully defuses the device. After these intense events, Martin leaves on a cruise after appointing Gina Austin (Sonia Todd) as the new principal.

Axel Hay

Axel Hay, portrayed by Trent Dalzell, first appeared on 19 March 2008.

Before leaving the series, Axel and Jai Fernandez (Jordan Rodrigues) are struck by a drunk driver, Larry Jefferies (Paul Gleeson), who then flees the accident scene. Todd Lasance, who plays Aden Jefferies, explained that while Jai escapes unharmed, Axel suffers serious injuries requiring hospitalization. Both boys struggle to recall details but remember seeing a silver estate car, prompting Aden to suspect his father.

Axel is introduced as a student alongside Aden Jefferies. At a party hosted by Nicole Franklin (Tessa James), Axel makes unwanted advances toward Belle Taylor (Jessica Tovey), which she rejects. He later attempts to assault Melody Jones (Celeste Dodwell), sparking conflict with Geoff Campbell (Lincoln Lewis), who threatens him in response. Axel is subsequently found injured on the beach after being beaten; suspicion initially falls on Geoff and Aden until Belle realizes Aden is responsible based on his indifferent behavior. Axel’s reputation suffers due to these events; he apologizes to Melody and forms a friendship with Jai. Ultimately, Axel dies following a car accident caused by Aden’s father. He later appears as a vision haunting Melody during her nightmares.

Ross Buckton

Ross Michael Buckton, portrayed by David Downer, made his first appearance on 21 May 2008 as a detective investigating the death of Sam Holden (Jessica Chapnik). Throughout his inquiry, Ross interviews significant individuals such as Martha MacKenzie (Jodi Gordon) and Jazz Curtis (Rachel Gordon), suspecting homicide despite evidence suggesting suicide.

Ross shares a history with Morag Bellingham (Cornelia Frances), and they revive their relationship amid obstacles including Ross's concealment about his deceased wife Elsie and resistance from his daughter Charlie, while his other daughter Ruby supports Morag. He proposes marriage to Morag, and they wed in a private ceremony before embarking on a honeymoon across Europe.

Following their return, Ross begins to show signs of memory loss and erratic conduct, which leads to a diagnosis of Alzheimers' by Rachel Armstrong (Amy Mathews). After several perilous incidents, Ross consents to move into care with Morag’s assistance.

When the body of Grant Bledcoe is uncovered, Charlie becomes the main suspect and faces suspension. Ross admits to having killed Grant years earlier in retaliation for the rape of Charlie during their youth. He is charged with murder and awaits trial but passes away in 2011; his funeral is held in Summer Bay.

Melody Jones

Melody Jones, played by Celeste Dodwell, joined the cast in December 2007 after completing her drama HSC. Dodwell initially auditioned for the role of Nicole Franklin, which was ultimately awarded to Tessa James. Her agent brought Melody’s "character breakdown" to her attention, sparking her interest. Dodwell later departed the show to pursue drama studies in the United Kingdom.

Nicole Franklin

Nicole Franklin, enacted by Tessa James, first appeared on 18 April 2008. Her casting was announced in January 2008, with Executive Producer Cameron Welsh commending her as a dynamic talent expected to engage viewers effectively. James relocated to Sydney for this role, considering it valuable industry experience. Notably, Celeste Dodwell had previously auditioned for Nicole. Nicole’s prominent storylines involved rekindling romance on a deserted island and being taken hostage, emphasizing her dramatic narrative. The media characterized Nicole as a "flighty minx from the city" and a "fiery favourite." TV Week identified James as one of the series’ most promising actresses, suggesting she had potential for a Hollywood career.

Jai Fernandez

Jai Fernandez, portrayed by Jordan Rodrigues, debuted on 19 May 2008. Transitioning from theatre to television, Rodrigues described joining the show as an entirely new challenge and was enthusiastic about being recognized by viewers. Jai’s backstory includes losing his entire family during the 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami, linking him to established character Miles Copeland (Josh Quong Tart), who also endured family loss. This connection prompts Miles to bring Jai to Summer Bay, although Jai harbors resentment over being left behind in Phuket. Rodrigues mentioned Jai’s difficulty adjusting to the surf town lifestyle due to his urban upbringing.

In 2009, Rodrigues exited the series to join ABC's Dance Academy. His performance earned him a nomination for "Most Popular New Talent" at the 2009 Logie Awards.

Jai is introduced at an urban shelter where Miles discovers him. Initially reserved, Jai eventually relocates to Summer Bay but faces social and academic challenges. He befriends fellow outsider Axel Hay (Trent Dalzell); their escapades culminate tragically when Axel dies following a scooter accident caused by a drunk driver. This event leads Jai into reckless actions such as performing dangerous jumps from Jump Rock. His relationship with Annie Campbell (Charlotte Best) develops amid these difficulties despite initial disapproval from guardians Miles and Irene Roberts (Lynne McGranger).

Additional conflicts arise when Annie becomes trapped in a storm drain and is rescued by Charlie Buckton (Esther Anderson). Meanwhile, bully Trey Palmer (Luke Bracey) targets Jai and others, escalating tensions through false accusations that Jai counters by threatening to reveal Trey’s personal issues.

Jai’s romance with Annie deteriorates after he drunkenly expresses an intention to sleep with her at Ruby Buckton's party, resulting in their breakup. Shortly afterward, Jai is accidentally shot with an old shotgun found on Martha MacKenzie's (Jodi Gordon) farm but hides the injury until collapsing during a school trek. His recovery becomes complicated when jealousy arises over Annie’s interest in Dexter Walker (Tom Green).

The arrival of Romeo Smith (Luke Mitchell), an old foster care friend, briefly lifts Jai’s spirits. However, Romeo’s attraction toward Annie adds complexity, prompting Jai to accept a student exchange opportunity in Japan. He later withdraws from the program temporarily to support Kirsty Phillips (Christie Hayes) following her miscarriage but ultimately departs for Japan alongside Annie after bidding farewell to friends.

Oliver Phillips

Oliver "Ollie" Phillips is the child of Kirsty Phillips and Kane Phillips. His initial appearance occurs when Irene Roberts picks him up after he becomes unwell. Although Ollie receives medical care in hospital, he remains unresponsive. Kane, who is on the run from the law, visits him secretly but is eventually apprehended following an unsuccessful robbery attempt.

Ollie and Kirsty reside with Irene, which leads to conflict when Ollie reveals Belle Taylor's relationship and disrupts her professional life. Subsequently, they relocate first to the caravan park and then move into Miles Copeland's home, where they establish a family unit alongside Miles and Jai.

Following Kane’s release from custody, Ollie catches sight of him, allowing for a brief family reunion before Kane departs permanently. Kirsty experiences a pregnancy but suffers a miscarriage. Later, Ollie meets his grandmother Shelley Sutherland, who invites them to live with their extended family in the city.

Charlie Buckton

Charlie Buckton made her first appearance on 6 June 2008, portrayed by former model Esther Anderson, who was brought in to enhance Home and Away with added "sex appeal." A devoted fan of the series, Anderson expressed great excitement upon securing the role. She departed from the show in November 2011 to pursue acting opportunities in Hollywood.

Anderson received nominations for "Sexiest Female" in 2008 and "Best Daytime Star" in 2010 at the Inside Soap Awards. Additionally, she was nominated for "Most Popular Personality" and "Most Popular Actress" at the 2010 Logie Awards. The episode that depicted Charlie’s death earned a nomination from the Australian Writers' Guild. Critics applauded Charlie as both a "sexy sergeant" and the series’ "most charming crime fighter."

Ruby Buckton

Ruby Buckton, played by Rebecca Breeds, was introduced on 20 June 2008 and created by executive producer Cameron Welsh. Ruby is characterized as carefree yet emotionally reserved, managing her grief over her mother’s passing by concealing her emotions and presenting a strong front. She is independent, indifferent to others’ judgments, and tends to keep to herself. Breeds emphasized Ruby’s toughness and dedication to family, describing her as playful and relaxed.

In June 2012, Breeds filmed her final scenes before leaving Home and Away. She mentioned that Ruby’s storyline remained unfinished. Breeds earned a nomination for "Most Popular New Female Talent" at the 51st Logie Awards in 2009 and was later nominated for "Most Popular Actress" in 2010. She also received a nomination for "Best Daytime Star" at the 2012 Inside Soap Awards. Among Ruby’s significant story arcs were dealing with her father’s illness and participating in a notable prank involving Skype and skinny-dipping.

Angelo Rosetta

Angelo Rosetta, portrayed by Luke Jacobz, debuted on 8 July 2008. Jacobz landed this role in June 2008 following the cancellation of McLeod's Daughters, where he had a recurring role. Initially intending to work as a labourer in Sydney, he accepted this acting opportunity instead and was originally contracted for six months. In February 2011, it was announced that Jacobz would be leaving Home and Away, with his final scenes broadcast several months afterward.

The character hails from a close family with three brothers and is often depicted as outspoken while struggling to find his direction in life. Jacobz received a nomination for 'Most Popular Actor' at the 2010 Logie Awards and was also nominated for "Best Daytime Star" at the Inside Soap Awards that same year.

Elliot Gillen

Elliot Gillen, played by Paul Pantano, was featured on Home and Away from 8 July until 26 August 2008. Pantano's portrayal was highlighted in Digital Spy's feature focusing on LGBTQ+ storylines. Central to his narrative, Elliot places Roman Harris (Conrad Coleby), Nicole Franklin (Tessa James), and Geoff Campbell (Lincoln Lewis) in peril. Motivated by vengeance for his brother Mark’s demise, Elliot holds Roman responsible and orchestrates dangerous scenarios, including an attack on Geoff involving a speargun.

Elliot arrives in Summer Bay intent on confronting Roman, as Mark—Roman’s brother and Elliot’s sibling—had served alongside him in the SAS before dying during an Afghanistan mission. Skeptical about the official explanation of Mark’s death, Elliot manipulates Roman by initiating a relationship with his daughter Nicole. Following their breakup, Elliot intensifies his vendetta by abducting Nicole and issuing ransom demands to Roman. During an attempted escape by sea, Geoff intervenes but suffers injury inflicted by Elliot.

Pursuing Elliot through treacherous bushland traps, Roman endures wounds but eventually subdues him. Elliot is subsequently detained at Yabbie Creek police station. While in custody, Roman confesses that he fatally shot Mark to stop him from surrendering to enemy forces, who later captured and killed Mark. Overcome with emotion, Elliot reveals Nicole’s whereabouts before facing charges including kidnapping and attempted murder.

Xavier Austin

Xavier Austin, portrayed by David Jones-Roberts, made his first appearance on 20 November 2008 and left the series on 3 July 2012, relocating permanently to Goulburn. Jones-Roberts secured the role after undergoing four rounds of auditions, describing the eventual casting as "even more rewarding" due to the prolonged process. He received confirmation of his casting while surfing, through a payphone call from his agent. The soap-focused outlet Holy Soap identified Xavier’s most memorable moment as witnessing Brendan cause a serious car accident using a catapult.

Others

15–24 July Daisy Alexander Jessica Smith University roommate who advises Matilda Hunter on personal issues and social engagement. 15–24 July Nathan CunninghamAndrew Lees (actor) Resident advisor at Matilda's university; involved in interpersonal conflicts related to Matilda's relationships. 1 September–6 October Edward Jones Errol Henderson Husband of Christine Jones and father of Melody; engaged during Melody’s mental health struggles and family conflicts. 2 September 2008 – 3 February 2009 Bridget SimmonsJoy Smithers Involved in fraudulent schemes targeting key characters such as Alf Stewart; implicated in criminal activities leading to arrest. 3–4 September Earl PincusAlan Cinis Homeless individual interacting with community members; involved in minor theft incident. 15 September–10 November Murray Buchanan Ben Tari Council worker embroiled in environmental controversies related to local development and corruption allegations. 26 September 2008 – 27 January 2009 Tim Coleman Keiran Darcy-Smith Developer engaged in criminal acts including murder and intimidation; serves as a major antagonist impacting several main characters. 22 October–5 November Natalie FranklinAdrienne Pickering Roman Harris’ ex-girlfriend and mother of Nicole Franklin; her complex relationships affect family dynamics before departing Summer Bay. 23 October 2008 – 3 February 2009 Brian Lawler Ric Herbert Criminal associate of Bridget Simmons who orchestrates kidnapping events leading to arrest and implicates Bridget. 18–24 November Eric "Nobby" Nobbes Mark Casamento Participant in illegal activities connected with Tim Coleman’s operations; killed after serving as police informant.

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Role Summary
28 January–11 February	Aaron Copeland	Timothy Walter	Father to Sally Fletcher and Miles Copeland, appearing via flashbacks. His struggles with alcoholism and domestic violence led to estrangement within the family. After his wife passed away, he attempted to gain custody of Sally but ultimately left her in foster care. Aaron died in 2000 from causes related to alcoholism.
11 February	Diana Wilson	Uncredited	Sally and Miles’ deceased mother shown in flashbacks; her troubled marriage and fatal boating accident had lasting effects on family relationships.
11 February	Mrs Keating	Uncredited	Grandmother to Sally and Miles, mother of Diana Wilson; depicted in 1988 flashbacks as suffering from Alzheimer’s disease while residing in a care facility.
18 February–23 August 2010	Anasthesist	Philip Dodd	Medical anesthetist attending critical patients following severe injuries.
28 February–23 May	Gavin Johnson	Daniel Feuerriegel	Editor of Coastal News and employer of Belle Taylor; known for controversial editorial choices impacting staff and story arcs.
4 March–13 June	Cara Phillips	Holly Robinson	Schoolmate involved in social disputes affecting student relationships.
18 March	Steve Bradford	Nicholas Holland	Donor who gifted $100,000 to Leah Patterson-Baker as thanks for saving his son’s life.
20 March–16 April	Joe Stephens	Terence Hepburn	Bartender hired to assault Sam Holden; later connected to investigations following her death.
25 March–12 May	Logan Roth	Radek Jonak	Associate of Johnny Cooper involved in illegal fighting rings leading to police action.
10 April–27 January 2009	Matthew Lyons	Ross Pirelli	Year 9 student notorious for bullying and manipulative conduct causing significant conflict at school.
14 April	Britt Grey	Meagan Drury	Sam Holden’s estranged sister who assumes custody of nephew Rory Tolhurst amid inquiries into Sam’s death.
6–13 May	Danielle Hay	Katrina Risteska	Axel Hay’s sister engaged in school-related disputes among peers.
7 May–26 February 2009	Christine Jones	Elizabeth Alexander (actress)	Melody Jones’ mother; involved in contentious school interactions including legal disputes and an attempted exorcism; eventually relocates to New Zealand.
19 May	Peter Randall	Richard Gyoerffy	Operator of a youth refuge center; offers insight into Jai Fernandez’s withdrawal.
30 May	Jamie Cooper	Shardyn Fahey-Leigh	Julie Cooper’s son; participates in youth activities designed to help overcome fears.
12 June–5 November 2012	Georgina Watson	Jaclyn Albergoni	Police officer stationed at Yabbie Creek; noted for confrontations with Charlie Buckton and subsequent promotion to Sergeant rank.
14 June–27 August	Jimmy Crawford	Adam Booth	Psychiatric patient with recurrent hospital stays; develops an emotional attachment to Rachel Armstrong influencing her professional choices.
20–27 June	Pat Jenkins	Lachlan Buchanan	Ruby Buckton’s boyfriend whose relationship results in her expulsion from school; ends relationship citing incompatible futures.
11 July	Mrs. Hay	Amelia Longhurst	"Mother of Axel Hay; appears following a fatal accident involving her son."

External links

• Cast and characters on the Official Australian Home and Away website
• Cast and characters on the Official UK Home and Away website
• Full cast and characters at the Internet Movie Database