Grace Johnson (Home and Away)
| Company type | Television series |
|---|---|
| Industry | Television soap opera |
| Founded | January 17, 1988 |
| Headquarters | Australia |
Area served | Australia |
| Website | 7plus |
Home and Away is a long-running Australian soap opera that premiered on the Seven Network on 17 January 1988. This compilation highlights characters who made their debut in 2011, all introduced under the guidance of series producer Cameron Welsh. The show's 24th season commenced broadcasting on 24 January 2011. In February, the Braxton siblings—Darryl, Heath, and Casey—were brought into the storyline. April saw the arrival of Miranda Jacobs and Kieran Monroe, followed by Marty Jones in June. July introduced Tegan Callahan, while Fletcher Humphrys joined the cast as Gang Member Jake Pirovic. August marked the introduction of Harvey Ryan, Hammer, Stu Henderson, and Sasha Bezmel. In September, Shane Emmett appeared as Mark Gilmour, with lawyer Hayley O'Connor arriving in October.
Darryl Braxton
Darryl "Brax" Braxton, brought to life by Steve Peacocke, made his first appearance on 16 February 2011. The casting announcement was made on 9 January 2011, with Peacocke describing his audition experience as highly enjoyable. Brax is the eldest sibling among the trio known collectively as The River Boys, a notorious surf gang with a challenging reputation. As described on Channel Seven's Home and Away official website, Brax carries a "chip on his shoulder" alongside his questionable reputation. Renowned as a surfing icon, he commands considerable respect from those around him, which he skillfully utilizes. Peacocke highlighted that Brax's character is driven by a desire to leave behind a troubled history and establish a stable family environment. He also strives to protect his younger brothers, Heath (Dan Ewing) and Casey (Lincoln Younes), from getting into trouble. Soon after his introduction, Darryl began a romantic relationship with Charlie Buckton (Esther Anderson). For his performance, Peacocke earned the 2012 Logie Award for Most Popular New Male Talent.
Heath Braxton
Heath Braxton, portrayed by Daniel Ewing, debuted alongside his brothers on 16 February 2011, exited on 29 July 2014, and made a brief return on 23 September 2014. As the middle Braxton brother, Heath was characterized by a volatile temper and was regarded as intimidating by both law enforcement and residents of Mangrove River. Ewing’s casting was revealed on 24 September 2010, marking his second acting role within Home and Away. To prepare for the part, Ewing enhanced his physical fitness, understanding that producers preferred an actor with a surfer’s athletic build.
Casey Braxton
Casey Braxton, played by Lincoln Younes, first appeared on-screen on 17 February 2011 and departed the series on 16 September 2014. As the youngest member of the Braxton brothers, Casey aimed to distance himself from the River Boys’ notorious image after being expelled from his former high school. Upon securing this role, Younes canceled plans to travel to London and relocated to Sydney for filming. His character has been likened to a contemporary Rebel Without a Cause, struggling with issues of belonging and identity while often living in the shadow of his older brothers. Casey later became romantically involved with Ruby Buckton (Rebecca Breeds), who had previously dated Romeo Smith (Luke Mitchell).
Miranda Jacobs
Miranda Jacobs, played by Ashley Cheadle, made her first appearance on 6 April 2011 as a contestant in the Surf Carnival and briefly became romantically involved with Xavier Austin. As a professional surfer, Cheadle added credibility to the character and performed her own stunts alongside co-star Rebecca Breeds.
Miranda is introduced as a romantic interest for Xavier, challenging his truthfulness after uncovering his false claim about attending university. Although she initially gives him another chance, repeated dishonesty from Xavier causes Miranda to end their relationship. Her involvement intensifies the Surf Carnival storyline, particularly through her rivalry with Ruby Buckton.
Throughout her narrative, Miranda mentors Xavier in preparation for the Surf Carnival and participates in key social occasions in Summer Bay, including art shows and parties. Her character embodies themes of responsibility and honesty, resonating with the show's focus on youth issues. The length of her role was not predetermined.
Kieran Monroe
Kieran Monroe, portrayed by Andrew Hazzard, was introduced on 6 April 2011 as a student and romantic interest for Indigo Walker. Created by Cameron Welsh, Kieran’s pursuit of Indigo often comes across as unsettling. Hazzard described Kieran as a direct and goal-oriented individual striving for academic success and personal fulfillment, with dreams of owning a farm and being a committed family man. Despite these ambitions, Kieran’s obsessive conduct leads others to view him as "creepy."
Kieran quickly becomes entangled with Indigo’s family and her former boyfriend, Romeo Smith (Luke Mitchell), whom he perceives as a rival. Hazzard acknowledged that Kieran possesses a "dangerous streak," but emphasized that he is not inherently evil; rather, his emotions impair his judgment. His attempts to forcibly control Indigo, including trying to make her get into his car, stem from a misguided sense of protection.
The storyline explores themes of obsessive affection and boundary violations. Kieran initially connects with Indigo at a party, sends flirtatious messages, and continues pursuing her despite her hesitations. His conduct escalates when he offers rides home and later attempts to restrict her freedom, leading to Romeo’s intervention.
Critics such as Erin Miller from TV Week described Kieran as "freaky," labeling him a stalker and an "intense suitor," highlighting the character’s disturbing impact on the plot.
Marty Jones
Marty Jones, played by Matty Lui, appeared first on 27 June 2011. Lui earned the role following an audition held in Hawaii. A five-time champion surfer from Hawaii, Lui’s real-life experience was woven into Marty’s storyline. During production, Lui also taught co-star Samara Weaving how to surf.
In the narrative, Roo Stewart, Romeo Smith, and Indi Walker travel to Hawaii for a tourism event. Marty acts as a business associate of Roo and Romeo, with Indi helping to gain his favor. Marty offers Indi employment, which she declines. Throughout their visit, he supports Indi and Romeo's marriage. Meanwhile, Roo avoids conversations with Sid Walker by spending time with Marty, who encourages her to pursue a relationship with Sid.
Tegan Callahan
Tegan Mary Callahan, brought to life by Saskia Burmeister, made her debut on 4 July 2011 as the former partner of Darryl Braxton (Steve Peacocke), determined to rekindle their relationship. Announced on 24 April 2011, Burmeister characterized Tegan as a scheming and "vicious" figure, marking a significant shift from her typical roles. For authenticity, Burmeister lightened her hair to blonde for this character.
Tegan arrives in Summer Bay under the directive of Darryl’s mother, Cheryl, tasked with scrutinizing his lifestyle. Despite their past, Darryl remains wary of her intentions. Discovering Darryl involved with Charlie Buckton surprises Tegan, prompting her to attempt to disrupt their relationship. After threatening Charlie, Darryl demands that Tegan leave the area.
Her narrative arc includes encounters with Heath Braxton and involvement in various local disputes. She reveals she is romantically linked to Jake Pirovic, who is implicated in perilous schemes targeting Heath. Tegan briefly resumes an affair with Darryl while collaborating with Heath to conceal drugs. She later confesses that Darcy is Darryl’s daughter but admits Heath is the biological father following confrontation from Casey Braxton.
Following a severe storm that endangers Darcy, Tegan crashes her vehicle and is hospitalized. Before succumbing to her injuries, she admits to alerting Hammer about the relationship between Darryl and Charlie.
Harvey Ryan
Harvey Ryan, portrayed by Marcus Graham, first appeared on 10 August 2011. Initially intended for a short guest stint, Graham extended his engagement into 2012 after finding the role rewarding. Harvey is depicted as a seasoned Summer Bay resident who runs a fishing charter business and possesses extensive knowledge of sailing and boating. His persona combines charm with a readiness for confrontation, notably clashing with Romeo Smith (Luke Mitchell) over commercial conflicts and mooring rights.
Graham wrapped up filming in mid-2013, with his departure described as mutually agreed upon and amicable. He acknowledged staying beyond his original plan due to positive experiences and left open the possibility of returning.
Harvey’s storyline featured competition with Romeo over clients and business methods, escalating into legal battles concerning mooring permits. Despite initial friction, they eventually formed a partnership merging Harvey’s mooring privileges with Alf's boat operations. Harvey pursued a romantic relationship with Roo Stewart (Georgie Parker), which faced challenges such as trust issues and interference from Roo’s former partner. Their relationship experienced breakups and reunions, ultimately culminating in marriage and joint management of the caravan park.
Politically, Harvey ran for council against Alf Stewart and secured victory, subsequently halting a proposed resort development. However, accusations of election fraud surfaced, leading to his resignation, community service sentence, and fines. This scandal strained personal ties and sparked legal conflicts involving his ex-wife Melissa Gregg and their daughter Lottie.
Harvey’s family life was further complicated by Mel’s grief over their son Ben’s death, custody battles over Lottie, and a brief affair with Mel during his separation from Roo. Eventually, Harvey reconciled with Roo and they planned their wedding.
Later storylines saw Harvey taking on a guardian role for teenage runaways Maddy Osborne and Spencer Harrington, who moved into Summer Bay House alongside him and Roo.
In his concluding storyline, Harvey vanished during a fishing expedition with his close friend Winston Markman but returned months later emotionally affected. Feeling alienated from Summer Bay and Roo, the couple divorced amicably before Harvey left the area permanently.
Jake Pirovic
Jake Pirovic, played by Fletcher Humphrys, made his debut on 22 July 2011 and exited on 23 January 2012, with a subsequent comeback in 2014. Tai Hara (Andy Barrett), who worked alongside Humphrys, characterized Jake as an older, dubious figure who provides Andy with a sense of belonging yet ultimately leads him into dangerous situations. Jake's storyline upon returning culminated in a homicide.
As the leader of a surf gang opposing the River Boys, Jake becomes romantically involved with Tegan Callahan (Saskia Burmeister). He is apprehended alongside Heath Braxton (Dan Ewing) during a police raid targeting his gang’s drug operation but is later freed. Jake demands the return of drugs from Heath’s brother, Darryl (Steve Peacocke), and proceeds to abduct their younger sibling Casey (Lincoln Younes) as well as Ruby Buckton (Rebecca Breeds). Following a drug deal, Jake stabs Brax, leading to his arrest and incarceration. His brother Hammer (Benedict Samuel) then assumes control but is killed by Charlie Buckton (Esther Anderson) during an attempted kidnapping. After his release, Jake exacts revenge by murdering Charlie, engages in multiple fights with Brax, and ultimately confesses, resulting in a new sentence.
Two years later, Jake reappears as the head of a drug syndicate to whom Andy Barrett owes money. He orchestrates assaults and kidnappings to coerce Andy into compliance. Holding Brax responsible for Hammer’s death, Jake attempts to persuade Andy to assist in killing Brax. When Andy declines, Jake abducts Josh MacGuire and Evie MacGuire as leverage for payment. During their rescue, Jake shoots Casey, who later succumbs to his injuries.
Jake remains defiant; after issuing further threats against Brax, he is chased by Brax and Andy. The pursuit ends in a car crash that leaves Jake gravely injured and comatose in hospital. It is disclosed that Jake was transferred from prison to a low-security psychiatric institution after being judged not criminally responsible for shooting Charlie.
Brax implores doctor Nate Cooper to allow Jake to die; when this is denied, Brax attempts to remove life support but is arrested. Subsequently, Andy clandestinely enters the hospital and disconnects Jake’s life support, resulting in his death.
Hammer
Harman "Hammer" Pirovic, portrayed by Benedict Samuel, first appeared on 22 August 2011. Announced on 30 July 2011, Hammer belongs to a gang competing against the River Boys and is the younger sibling of Jake Pirovic (Fletcher Humphrys). Following Jake’s imprisonment, Hammer takes over leadership of the gang and intensifies hostilities with Darryl "Brax" Braxton (Steve Peacocke) and Heath Braxton (Daniel Ewing (actor)).
Hammer’s faction engages in violent confrontations with the Braxtons, including physical attacks and vandalism, culminating in a beach brawl dispersed by law enforcement. They also intimidate Stu Henderson (Brenton Thwaites) by forcibly removing his tattoo. Hammer escalates tensions by threatening Brax and targeting Charlie Buckton (Esther Anderson (Australian actress)), who is shot from Hammer’s vehicle.
Although suspected of the shooting, Hammer refuses to divulge any information. He attends Tegan Callahan’s funeral and demands that Brax relinquish his territory. Hammer then kidnaps Charlie, compelling Brax into a lethal showdown that concludes with Charlie shooting Hammer.
Stu Henderson
Stuart "Stu" Henderson, played by Brenton Thwaites, made his first appearance on 23 August 2011. Shortly after moving from Cairns to Sydney, Thwaites landed this five-month recurring part on Home and Away, which he described as an important learning opportunity supported by a welcoming cast. Stu’s character was pivotal in a major narrative arc throughout the year.
Stu is introduced as a fresh addition to the Bay’s River Boys, characterized as "another troublemaking River Boy who arrives to shake things up in The Bay." Although initially perceived as too polished to fit in with the gang, Stu becomes involved in both conflicts and romantic storylines, including winning over a significant female character. His feud with Hammer’s gang intensifies into violence when Hammer targets Stu, forcibly removing his "Blood & Sand" tattoo and sparking a violent gang clash.
In February 2012, Stu’s dead body is found at the caravan park, prompting an extensive police inquiry with several local residents considered suspects. Robert Mammone (Sid Walker) commented on the intense questioning and suspense surrounding the investigation.
Stu’s plotline features growing tensions and a stormy romance with Sasha Bezmel. After damaging Hammer’s vehicle alongside Heath Braxton, Stu becomes embroiled in gang hostilities. Following an assault that necessitates surgery, Stu begins dating Sasha despite her father Sid’s initial objections. Their relationship is fraught with emotional instability—Stu professes love but also displays controlling and abusive behavior, including multiple instances of slapping and harassment during the Year 12 formal. Sid violently confronts Stu, resulting in Stu being hospitalized and charged with assault.
After disclosing abuse from his own father Alan Henderson and deciding to leave town, Alf Stewart discovers Stu’s body near the caravan park. Sasha admits to killing Stu in self-defense during a confrontation where he fatally struck his head on a rock. It is later revealed that Dennis Harling moved Stu’s body to the caravan park site. Sasha is ultimately acquitted.
Sasha Bezmel
Sasha Bezmel, portrayed by Demi Harman, first appeared on 31 August 2011. Although Isabelle Cornish initially auditioned for the role, Harman was cast and relocated from Brisbane to Sydney to take it on. Sasha is the fifteen-year-old illegitimate daughter of Sid Walker (Robert Mammone). Following her mother’s death in a car accident, Sasha moves to Summer Bay to live with her father and half-siblings. Harman described Sasha as "sassy, angry, stubborn and rebellious." The official show profile highlighted her independence and defiant nature, typical of a teenager pushing limits. Harman earned a nomination for "Most Popular New Female Talent" at the 2012 Logie Awards for this performance.
Mark Gilmour
Mark Gilmour, played by Shane Emmett, appeared in a recurring guest role from 22 September to 13 October 2011. Emmett, brother of the late Home and Away actress Belinda Emmett, portrayed Mark as the affluent boyfriend of Gypsy Nash (Kimberley Cooper). Their relationship faces challenges due to Gypsy’s daughter Lily resisting acceptance of Mark. While visiting Summer Bay, Mark proposes sending Lily to boarding school, which creates friction with Gypsy. The relationship ends after Mark confronts Liam Murphy (Axle Whitehead) about Gypsy’s previous one-night stand.
Hayley O'Connor
Hayley O'Connor, played by Alyssa McClelland, made her debut on 10 October 2011. Prior to this role, McClelland had appeared in Home and Away as Brooke MacPherson.
As a legal representative for Casey Braxton (Lincoln Younes), Hayley also offers support to his elder sibling, Darryl "Brax" (Steve Peacocke), during his incarceration. Peacocke characterized Hayley as "shrewd," noting her awareness of Brax's fragile condition and her intent to build a connection. Brax's partner, Charlie Buckton (Esther Anderson), becomes envious upon witnessing interactions between Hayley and Brax, intensifying suspicions about Hayley's enigmatic intentions in Summer Bay. McClelland reprised the role of Hayley on 30 April 2012.
Within the storyline, Hayley defends Casey against arson allegations, though he is ultimately convicted and sent to Juvenile Detention. Subsequently, she implies a romantic involvement with Brax, which stirs jealousy in Charlie. After spending a night with Brax, Hayley later provides an alibi when Brax faces questioning over a robbery; however, she confesses to fabricating her statement before departing the area.
Hayley reappears when Heath Braxton (Dan Ewing) enlists her help to prevent Bianca Scott (Lisa Gormley) from leaving with his child. During this time, she confronts Brax about Charlie's demise. She admits orchestrating a setup against him and facilitating the release of Jake Pirovic (Fletcher Humphrys) from prison due to a prior substance abuse issue. Although Brax holds her accountable for Charlie's death, he ultimately decides to let her go.
Additional Characters
| Date(s) | Character | Actor | Role Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24 January – 5 October | Judge/Magistrate Hanson | Rhett Walton | Oversees Alf Stewart’s court proceedings, sentencing Casey Braxton to juvenile detention. |
| 24 January | Clerk | Anthony Milne | Court clerk appearing during Alf Stewart’s hearing. |
| 27 January – 21 November | Summer Horgan-Jones | Jaimee Taylor-Nielsen | New student at Summer Bay High who befriends main characters; involved in bicycle accident and party-related conflicts impacting key relationships. |
| 27 January – 25 January 2012 | Jase McKenzie | Nick Bartlett | Bully targeting VJ Patterson and April Scott; responsible for harassment and disruptive behavior. |
| 31 January, 5 October–19 November 2013, 19 May 2014, 17 March 2015 – 5 May 2016 | Constable Nader/Neal Stevenson | Michele-Antonio Mattiuzzi | Police officer engaged in investigations including noise complaints, robberies, and custody disputes. |
| 31 January–1 February, 18 August–7 October 2014 | Shandi Ayres | Elizabeth Blackmore (2011), Tess Haubrich (2014) | John Palmer’s daughter involved in identity theft storyline; returns for John’s wedding. |
| 1 February | Park Worker | Peter Cridland | Bribed to assist Angelo Rosetta. |
| 1 February | Lifesaver | Christian Miranda | Beach lifeguard collaborating with John Palmer. |
| 2 February | René Lisle | Akos Armont | French online acquaintance of April Scott. |
| 9 February | Stephanie | Jacinta Acevski | University tour guide supporting pregnant students. |
| 9 February | Simone Bollen | Angela Bauer | University lecturer advising Nicole Franklin regarding course load during pregnancy. |
| 9 February | Evan | Ryan Oliver Gelbart | University student briefly involved romantically with Nicole Franklin. |
| 18–21 February | Rick | Curtis Oakes | Member of River Boys engaged in prank kidnapping. |
| 18 February–20 June | Pee Wee | Ty Hungerford | Partner in kidnapping Dexter Walker; later involved in hospital incidents and drug dealings. |
| 21 February–31 May | Brodie Upton | Guy Edmonds | River Boys member implicated in harassment, marijuana cultivation, hostage situations; seeks aid from Darryl Braxton. |
| 23 February–31 May | Emily Logan | Madison Kerry | Summer Bay student known for taunting peers; briefly dates Romeo Smith; contracts chlamydia. |
| 23 February–26 March 2012 | Rob Mitchell | Matty Burn | River Boy causing disturbances at Surf Club and defacing election materials. |
| 25 February – 15 March | Leo | Haydn Robertson | River Boy affiliated with main gang activities. |
| 24 February – 4 April | Grace Johnson | Clare Chihambakwe | Married Elijah Johnson to protect her son Thabo; faces immigration challenges and personal loss. |
| 24 February – 21 March | Thabo Manthenga | Joshua Mbakwe | Son of Grace Johnson receiving medical care; passes away due to complications. |
| 2 March 2011 – 15 December 2016 | Cheryl Braxton | Suzi Dougherty | Mother to Darryl, Heath, and Casey Braxton; involved in family dynamics and marital storylines. |
| 10 March | Bill Lawson | Ian McPhee | Contacted by Charlie Buckton concerning Darryl Braxton. |
| 10 March | Cameron Sangster | Jo Turner | Legal counsel representing Darryl Braxton against charges. |
| 14 March – 2 June | Keith Irwin | Alan Lovell | Leads victims of crime support group; briefly connected with Colleen Smart before facing legal issues. |
| 14 March | Teena | Paige Gardiner | Shares hostage experience at victims of crime group attended by Colleen Smart. |
| 14 March | Mick | Michael Howlett | Participant in victims of crime support group. |
| 18–29 March | Angus McCathie | Tim Pocock | University student dating Nicole Franklin; discovers her plan to place baby for adoption. |
| 5 April | Janelle Riley | Dina Gillespie | Director of Bayside Mission; employs Elijah Johnson. |
| 22–26 April | Billy McVeigh | Dallas Bigelow | Seeks shelter at Bayside Mission; involved in violent events and employment offers prior to arrest and bail discussions. |
| 27 April – 2 June | Vanessa Unley | Sarah Chadwick | Longtime friend of Gina Austin participating in local music festival and camping activities. |
| 27 April – 21 June | George (Nicole Franklin and Penn Graham's son) | Multiple actors listed | Central figure in Nicole Franklin’s narrative involving childbirth, adoption decisions, custody battles, and departure with Angelo Rosetta from Summer Bay. |
| 9–10 May | Gary O'Connor | Grant Dodwell | President of Wilson's Bay Surf Club; rival to John Palmer culminating in heart attack incident. |
| 24 May | Carla Rosetta | Cris Parker | Mother of Angelo Rosetta visiting hospital setting. |
| 3 June – 19 July | Laura Carmody | Roxane Wilson | Friend of Roo Stewart who starts relationship with Elijah Johnson; participates in fundraising before leaving town amid controversy. |
| 9 June | Douglas Graham | Shane Porteous | Penn Graham’s grandfather visiting Summer Bay for family reasons. |
| 16–22 June | Kate Hanlon | Mikayla Southgate | Schoolmate posing as Dexter Walker’s girlfriend to bolster his social image; assists with relationship issues involving April Scott. |
| 15 July – 9 August | Dean O'Mara | Rick Donald | Arrives for B&S Ball; revealed as Bianca Scott’s attacker; arrested following assaults involving Liam Murphy and intervention by John Palmer. |
| 15 July – 2 September | Kelly O'Mara | Martika Sullivan | Dean’s sister who remains in Summer Bay; develops relationship with Xavier Austin, works locally, departs after Dean’s arrest. |
| 21 July – 27 October, 25 November 2015 – 27 April 2016 | David Joyce (Inspector/Superintendent) | Don Halbert | Police officer managing investigations into River Boys activities; suspends Katarina Chapman during service period. |
| 22–26 July | Mick (River Boy) | Ben Barber | Engaged in gang-related intimidation targeting Bianca Scott and Liam Murphy among others. |
External links
- Cast and characters on the official Australian Home and Away site
- Cast and characters on the official UK Home and Away platform
- Cast and characters listed at the Internet Movie Database