Hazem Kassir

Home and Away
Company type	Television series
Industry	Television soap opera
Founded	January 17, 1988; 38 years ago
Headquarters	Australia
Area served	Australia
Products	Television drama
Website	7plus.com.au/home-and-away

Home and Away is a long-running Australian soap opera that premiered on the Seven Network on 17 January 1988. This compilation focuses on characters introduced during 2009, all of whom were brought into the show under the guidance of executive producer Cameron Welsh. The series' 22nd season was broadcast between 19 January and 27 November 2009. Early in the year, characters such as Gina and Hugo Austin were introduced in January. February saw the arrival of Robert Cruze, Trey Palmer, Freya Duric, and Joey Collins. In March, Liam Murphy and John Palmer joined the cast, followed by Lachie Cladwell and David Gardiner in April. The character May Stone was introduced in June, while July brought the birth of Harry Holden along with the Walker family members: Sid, Dexter, and Indigo. Detective Robert Robertson appeared in August, with Romeo Smith making his debut in September.

Gina Austin

Gina Austin, played by Sonia Todd, made her first appearance on 27 January 2009 and exited the show on 18 April 2013. She is officially portrayed as a dedicated mother who has endured various difficulties with her children but remains steadfast. Gina’s character is grounded and family-oriented, consistently placing her family's well-being above her own interests. Todd emphasizes that Gina’s identity as a mother to three sons is central to her role.

Hugo Austin

Hugo Austin, portrayed by Bernard Curry, first appeared on 27 January 2009, left on 26 January 2010, returned on 6 May 2010, and departed once more on 9 June 2010. Curry, who previously acted in rival soap Neighbours, described his time on Home & Away as his most enjoyable acting experience to date. Hugo is depicted as an outdoor enthusiast with a fit build and sun-kissed complexion.

Robert Cruze

Robert "Robbo" Cruze, portrayed by Aidan Gillett, debuted on 1 February 2009. Robbo worked alongside Aden Jefferies and Joey Collins on a boat, frequently antagonizing Joey due to her sexual orientation. He pushed Joey overboard, subjected her to harassment, and eventually sexually assaulted her, threatening her into silence. After Joey reported the assault, Robbo denied all allegations. His former girlfriend Tanya Gannon arrived to support Joey but was struck by a vehicle. In retaliation for the complaint, Robbo attacked Joey again and attempted to drown her; however, Charlie intervened, leading to Robbo's arrest. Charged with assault, he did not return to the series.

Trey Palmer

Trey Palmer, played by Luke Bracey, first appeared on 9 February 2009. Characterized as having "the face of an angel" paired with "mischievous conduct," Trey quickly captured audience attention. His storylines primarily involved conflict with Geoff Campbell (Lincoln Lewis) and Nicole Franklin, including a significant plot centered around filming and leaking a sex tape—mirroring a real-life incident involving actor Lincoln Lewis.

Arriving in Summer Bay as a disruptive student, Trey bullied local youths like Jai Fernandez (Jordan Rodrigues) using racist insults and frequently clashed with school staff. He engaged in ongoing disputes with Geoff Campbell and maintained tense relations with his stepfather, John Palmer. Trey also held animosity toward Miles Copeland but began showing signs of change influenced by Kirsty's support, developing an unreturned romantic interest in her. Following a violent altercation involving Miles, Trey initially pressed charges but later retracted them.

Subsequently, Trey formed a relationship with Nicole Franklin; they dated and became intimate, deciding together to record a sex tape which Trey later leaked as an act of revenge, humiliating Nicole publicly. His anger escalated until he took control of a school bus during an excursion, threatening to detonate a bomb onboard. Despite efforts to de-escalate the situation, the bomb exploded causing serious injuries to Hugo Austin. Trey was apprehended and charged with attempted murder.

Freya Duric

Freya Duric, brought to life by Sophie Hensser, made her first appearance on 10 February 2009.

In 2009, the series explored two lesbian narratives, one of which featured Nicole Franklin (Tessa James) and Freya, whose kiss ignited controversy. James described their relationship: Freya embodies Nicole's untamed side, initially appealing to Nicole, who remains unaware of how far Freya will push boundaries. The kiss acts as a catalyst for Nicole, revealing her dissatisfaction and craving for attention.

Freya arrives with the intention of reigniting a former romance with Xavier Austin. Although Xavier initially resists due to his involvement with Ruby Buckton, Freya successfully seduces him and causes turmoil in Summer Bay. She becomes involved in drug dealing at Summer Bay High, persuading Xavier to participate. After confrontations with Nicole, Freya publicly kisses her to demonstrate she is far from dull, provoking Geoff’s suspicion of manipulation. Using Xavier for personal gain, she later grows disinterested and kisses his brother Hugo without knowing Xavier witnesses the act. Following the resulting conflict, Freya departs from the area.

Joey Collins

Joey Collins, portrayed by Kate Bell, debuted on 12 February 2009.

The producers introduced Joey to develop a lesbian storyline alongside Charlie Buckton (Esther Jackie Anderson) aimed at increasing viewership. Over a span of five weeks, their friendship deepens into a romantic relationship that includes intimate moments. Executive producer Cameron Welsh highlighted Joey’s popularity and indicated potential for her return.

Joey works aboard a boat with Aden Jefferies and Robbo Cruze, who subjects her to harassment and ultimately sexually assaults her, threatening her silence. She confides in Aden and Belle Taylor, who encourage her to come forward. Although initially met with skepticism by her brother Brett and denial from Robbo, Robbo is arrested after an attempted drowning incident and intervention by Charlie, who subsequently kisses Joey.

Their concealed relationship encounters homophobic opposition within the community. Charlie grapples with her sexual identity and professional challenges, prompting Joey to leave after an emotional goodbye to pursue another job opportunity.

Liam Murphy

Liam Murphy, enacted by Axle Whitehead, premiered on 5 March 2009. Whitehead, known as a musician and television presenter, secured the role through auditioning. Originally intended for a fifteen-episode arc, Liam is portrayed as a rebellious "bad boy rocker." Whitehead drew upon his own experiences to authentically represent Liam’s struggles with substance abuse.

Brendan Austin

Brendan Austin, portrayed by Kain O'Keeffe, first appeared on 25 March 2009. Cast following collaborations with other cast members, Brendan was introduced subsequent to the arrival of the Austin family. He has autism, which creates friction between his brothers Xavier and Hugo.

Brendan moves to Summer Bay to reside with his family. Previously under Xavier’s care, Brendan harbors resentment towards Hugo’s absence while Xavier faces challenges managing responsibility. His girlfriend Ruby Buckton supports Brendan in overcoming his embarrassment about his condition and encourages him to engage socially. Under Martha's supervision, Brendan runs away multiple times, including an episode where he throws a brick at Roman Harris’s car, causing Roman to lose his sight. Initially taking the blame for the incident, Xavier later reveals the truth; Roman decides against pressing charges considering Brendan’s autism. Brendan’s fear of blue cars is linked to witnessing a previous accident involving Hugo.

Later on, Brendan mentions having a girlfriend named Ruby Leeds who has Down syndrome; this initially causes confusion with Ruby Buckton. Gina Austin advocates for Brendan’s desire to move into supported accommodation and attend a specialized learning center after he heroically rescues Xavier from drowning despite limited swimming skills. Ultimately, Gina consents to Brendan living independently alongside Ruby. In 2013, following Gina's passing, Brendan did not attend her funeral due to emotional distress.

John Palmer

John Palmer, brought to life by Shane Withington, made his first appearance on 27 March 2009 as the stepfather of Trey Palmer. Withington, recognized for his role in A Country Practice, joined Home and Away in a recurring capacity. John's persona is portrayed as a "strict father figure" and an active member of the surf lifesaving community.

Claudia Hammond

Claudia Hammond, played by Alexandra Park, was introduced on 10 April 2009. She becomes romantically involved with Geoff Campbell, later discloses her pregnancy, and is central to a plot involving a caravan fire following their intimate encounter. Series producer Cameron Welsh emphasized the intricate nature of Claudia's pregnancy storyline, which includes her initially concealing the true paternity.

Claudia arrives to assist on Geoff’s farm, develops romantic feelings, and they begin a relationship. After their night together and the subsequent caravan blaze, Lachie returns and accuses Geoff. Claudia announces her pregnancy but maintains that Lachie is not the father. Lachie seeks to reconcile but is turned away.

As conflicts escalate between Geoff and Lachie, Geoff delivers a severe tackle during a football game that leaves Lachie paralyzed. Wracked with guilt, Claudia confesses that Lachie is indeed the father. Geoff responds with anger and expels her from his home. Following Lachie's aggressive behavior, Claudia denies him access to their child and eventually departs to live with her cousin in Dubbo, leaving both men behind.

Lachie Cladwell

Lachie Cladwell, portrayed by Jackson Heywood, first appeared on 4 May 2009 as Claudia Hammond's (Alexandra Park) former boyfriend. Their tumultuous relationship ended amid Claudia’s pregnancy, during which she initially claimed Lachie was not the father. After a rugby match confrontation with Geoff Campbell (Lincoln Lewis), Lachie was hospitalized with possible paralysis, prompting Claudia to admit he was the child's father. Despite his recovery and hopes for family life, Claudia rejected his involvement and permanently left Summer Bay.

The Daily Record highlighted Geoff’s mounting frustration culminating in hostility toward Lachie.

David Gardiner

David "Gardy" Gardiner, portrayed by Jeremy Sims, appeared between 13 May and 10 June 2009. His performance was lauded by the Sydney Morning Herald for its convincing and unsettling quality. Gardy is depicted as a manipulative villain.

Gardy infiltrates Roman Harris's (Conrad Coleby) residence, exploiting Roman’s recent loss of sight. After initial altercations with local residents, Gardy attempts to shock Roman into regaining his vision and subsequently coerces him into robbing a liquor store, which causes an elderly woman to suffer a heart attack. Gardy then threatens to implicate Roman in the crime and escalates his actions by taking hostages at the Palmer household.

It is revealed that Gardy is blackmailing Roman over an incident involving a wartime shooting. He masterminds a warehouse robbery in Mangrove River, leading to a shootout where Roman is injured but manages to overpower Gardy with help from Hugo Austin (Bernard Curry). Although wounded, Gardy escapes into a creek and vanishes from the storyline.

May Stone

May Stone, played by Alin Sumarwata, made her first appearance on 12 June 2009 as a new educator at Summer Bay High. She soon begins a romantic relationship with Angelo Rosetta, who is secretly involved with Charlie Buckton. Esther Anderson, the actress portraying Charlie, explained that although Charlie partly aimed to stir trouble, Angelo remained drawn to her, resulting in them sleeping together. The Daily Record remarked that Angelo might have shown more consideration toward May, who was visibly upset following their breakup.

May quickly adapts to her teaching duties and life in the community. She and Angelo embark on a relationship, but Charlie's envy creates complications. When Angelo realizes his lingering feelings for Charlie, they share an intimate encounter and attempt to keep it hidden. Eventually, Angelo ends things with May and confesses the truth about Charlie. Feeling betrayed, May chooses to resign from her position and leave Summer Bay immediately.

Harry Holden

Harry Jack Holden, portrayed by several child actors, first appeared on 30 July 2009. He is the son of Rachel Armstrong and Tony Holden. After his birth, Rachel finds it difficult to handle Harry’s constant crying and feelings of isolation. At one point, she even contemplates harming him but ultimately seeks assistance. Following accusations from Jane Avent—who blames Rachel for her own stillbirth and argues Rachel should not be a mother—Jane kidnaps Harry, triggering a police search. Jane’s husband Rex is taken aback by her actions. Fortunately, Harry is found unharmed and returned to his parents.

In August 2010, Harry relocates with his family to Boston in the United States, making a brief stop to visit the grave of his half-brother Jack before departing.

Sid Walker

Sid Walker, portrayed by Robert Mammone, first appeared on 30 July 2009 under a five-week guest contract. Due to favorable audience reception, Sid, along with Indigo and Dexter, returned as permanent characters in June 2010.

Dexter Walker

Dexter Walker, originally played by Tom Green starting 30 July 2009, was recast in 2010 with Charles Cottier assuming the role. Cottier mentioned that the character’s portrayal shifted significantly and chose not to view Green’s earlier performance. A key storyline involved Dexter’s relationship with Marilyn Chambers (Emily Symons), which Cottier found both challenging and distinctive because of their considerable age difference.

Indigo Walker

Indigo Walker, enacted by Samara Weaving, debuted on 30 July 2009 as part of the newly introduced Walker family: father Sid (Robert Mammone), mother Jody (Victoria Haralabidou), son Dexter (Tom Green), and Indigo herself. After their initial departure in September 2009, the family returned as regular characters in June 2010. Weaving noted that returning was easier while balancing her other commitments.

Robert Robertson

Robert Robertson, brought to life by Socratis Otto, appeared first on 2 August 2009. Created by James Walker for a murder-related plotline, Robertson was intended to bring humor into the show’s darker narratives. Walker highlighted that Robertson’s eccentricities and distinctive comedic style allowed the series to explore serious topics while maintaining energy and engagement. Otto drew inspiration from his comedic background and quirky detective shows to develop the character, describing it as one of his most fulfilling roles.

Robertson is a detective who arrives in Summer Bay investigating the murder of Grant Bledcoe, who is Ruby Buckton’s biological father. Initially suspecting Ruby’s mother Charlie, he later discovers through Charlie’s father, Ross Buckton, that Ross is responsible for the crime. Despite his unusual mannerisms and storytelling approach, Robertson proves highly capable as an investigator. He briefly dates Leah Patterson-Baker, though she declines to pursue a relationship further.

Returning later to investigate the disappearance of Penn Graham, Robertson teams up with Detective Graves and focuses suspicion on Alf as the main suspect. Despite multiple detentions, he fails to obtain conclusive evidence. He again attempts to initiate a romance with Leah, who remains committed elsewhere. Robertson pressures Will Smith into implicating Alf, leading to Alf’s arrest; however, Morag Bellingham discredits Will’s testimony by revealing him as dishonest. As a result, Robertson releases Alf and charges Will instead, damaging his own professional confidence. Leah offers support during this difficult period. When offered a promotion involving relocation, Robertson invites Leah and her son to join him, but she declines the offer.

Romeo Smith

Romeo Smith, brought to life by Luke Mitchell, made his first appearance on 10 September 2009. Mitchell landed this role soon after moving to Sydney without employment. Romeo is depicted as charming, mischievous, humorous, and courteous. His family on screen comprises his sister Mink Carpenter (Matylda Buczko) and mother Jill Carpenter (Josephine Mitchell). Following Annie Campbell, Romeo's notable romantic involvement is with Indigo Walker (Samara Weaving).

Others

23 April Chelsea Murphy Georgia Gorman Wife of Liam Murphy involved in media controversies linked to Liam’s drug problems; divorces and moves to Paris with their son Ash. 23–28 April Ash Murphy Dusty Piper Son of Liam and Chelsea Murphy. 1–2 June Jenena Palmer Anna Lise Phillips Mother to Trey and spouse of John Palmer. 13 June–13 July Clint Mailer Matt Zeremes Rugby coach who pressures Aden Jefferies to undermine Geoff Campbell’s career under threat of removal from the team. 14 July–18 August Jane Avent Felicity Price Mother mourning a stillborn child, blames Rachel Armstrong, harasses her, and abducts Rachel’s son Harry before admitting she needs assistance. 14 July–18 August Rex Avent Sandy Winton Jane Avent’s husband, initially supports Jane but comes to accept her need for help after the kidnapping incident. 14 July–26 January 2010 Wayan Rahardjo Dorje Swallow Hospital patient with limited English proficiency connected to Hugo Austin’s illegal activities; utilized by Angelo Rosetta during investigations. 20–21 July Paul Thomas Norrie Minor background character appearing briefly in the Bay. 23 July–18 August Squirt Ben Davy-Thorburn Friend and coworker of Aden Jefferies; attends Aden’s stag party. 29 July-27 November Marine Officer Bryant Michael Sutherland Water police officer working with Angelo Rosetta on people smuggling cases. 30 July–17 August 2011 Jody Walker Victoria Haralabidou Sid Walker’s wife who attempts reconciliation for the family’s benefit but departs after infidelity; returns briefly in August 2011. 20 August Michelle Michelle Pettigrove Charlie Buckton’s aunt who provides information regarding Charlie’s daughter Ruby Buckton’s adoption background. 24 August–8 July 2010 Therese Rose Ashton Nurse at Northern Districts Hospital involved in a short-term relationship with Sid Walker, causing workplace tensions. 28 August–11 September Andy McLeod Paul Winchester Man who befriends Rachel Armstrong through a parent group; friendship ends when boundaries are crossed amid concerns from Rachel’s husband Tony. Sophia McLeod Madeline Andrews Daughter of Andy McLeod diagnosed with hearing impairment by Rachel Armstrong. 1–16 September Grant Bledcoe Clayton Watson Biological father of Ruby Leeds accused of rape by Charlie Buckton; later murdered, sparking an extended investigation implicating Ross Buckton. 8 September Tracey Bledcoe Mary Anne Byrne Wife of Grant Bledcoe, shocked by allegations against her husband. 15 September–1 March 2012 Patrick Avery Clayton Williams Constable involved in multiple cases including bailing Sid Walker on assault charges; makes recurring appearances throughout 2012. 18–22 September Ruby Leeds Tracie Sammmut Brendan’s girlfriend advocating for his independence; they move into supported housing together. 18 September Pheobe Alisha Burton Brief acquaintance of Jai Fernandez. 30 September Jim Mark Richardson Hotel manager appearing briefly. 1 October–27 January 2010 Bambang Rahardjo Joft Prastowo Son of Wayan Rahardjo assisting Martha MacKenzie on the farm; used by Angelo Rosetta as bait in human trafficking investigations. 3 October–26 January 2010 Suzy Sudiro Tasneem Roc Ex-wife of Hugo Austin engaged in illegal immigrant smuggling; kidnaps Martha MacKenzie demanding ransom before being subdued by Charlie Buckton. 6–17 November Riley Radcliffe Tani Edgecombe School bully targeting VJ Patterson; his father Ian Radcliffe denies involvement until police uncover truth following assault incidents involving Miles Copeland. Ian Radcliffe Ben Simpson Father covering up son Riley's bullying and assault actions, attempts bribery before police intervention ends his role. 9–24 November Poppie Merrin Elouise Blair Attempts to seduce Liam Murphy causing strain in his relationship with Nicole Franklin; implicated in Liam's drug possession arrest. 17–24 November Reg Merrin Dane Carson Manager of The Sands who employs Aden Jefferies but dismisses him after an incident involving his daughter Catie Merrin at a formal event. 18–24 November Catie Merrin Tess Haubrich Daughter of Reg Merrin who manipulates situations to date Aden Jefferies; causes tension at school formal leading to Aden's job loss. 19–23 November Orson Cardillo Mark Lee Longtime gardener for Donna DeBono implicated in gun planting incident leading to Donna's imprisonment; suffers heart attack and disappears amid investigation. 20 November Bonita Cardillo Suzi Dougherty Wife of Orson Cardillo defending his innocence during murder investigations related to Donna DeBono’s case. 25 November–18 February 2010 Hazem Kassir Ben Kermode Dates Leah Patterson-Baker; victim of racist assault causing paralysis and subsequent breakup; later moves to the city for recovery. 26 November Prison Guard Joe Tarena On duty during Derrick Quaid’s escape from custody.

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Description
30 January	Bank manager	Christopher Saunders	Detects Bridget Simmons' unlawful attempt to access Leah Patterson-Baker's account and alerts Leah.
30 January–6 October	Don Gibson	Steve Anderson	Collaborates with Aden on a vessel engaged in illicit abalone harvesting; apprehended by Angelo. Tries to implicate Aden but ultimately discloses details concerning Hugo.
2–6 February	Steve Hogan	Damien Freeglass	Briefly appears as a police officer conducting inquiries in Summer Bay.
3 February	Lawyer	Blair Cutting	Provides legal counsel to Angelo Rosetta.
4 February–25 January 2010	Lou De Bono	David Roberts	Dates Irene Roberts; later dies at sea. Irene initially faces arrest but is exonerated from his murder.
9–10 February	Archie Maddock	Tim Phillipps	A homeless individual who safeguards Melody Jones and aids Miles Copeland in finding her.
10 February	Thug	Zen Ledden	Assaults Melody Jones and Archie Maddock.
19 February	Mryll Ramsay	Kim Hillas	At first declines an interview to protect her aged care facility; persuaded by Melody to cooperate.
19–25 February	Audrey Long	Wendy Playfair	Melody Jones’ grandmother; succumbs to a stroke during the storyline.
3–19 March	George	Benjamin O'Donnell	Participates in speed dating organized by Colleen Smart; briefly connects with Leah before she chooses Roman.
9 March–29 July	Brett Collins	Toby Levins	Older sibling of Joey Collins, struggles with her sexual identity, initially rejects her but later reconciles following traumatic events.
16 March–26 January 2010	Derrick Quaid	John Atkinson	Survivor of a shipwreck involved in illegal human smuggling with Hugo Austin and Suzy Sudiro; assaults Geoff Campbell and Nicole Franklin before being detained.
19 March–13 November	Jerry Thibault	Nicholas Cassim	Belle’s employer at the newspaper; involved in an affair with Paula Gill that impacts workplace relations.
19 March	Tanya Gannon	Hayley McCarthy	Robert Cruze's former partner who files a complaint against him; seriously injured in a hit-and-run accident.
20 March	Paula Gill	Paula Arundell	Colleague of Belle who has an affair with Jerry Thibault resulting in career advancement; bullies Belle over her addiction struggles.
23 March–23 November	Donna De Bono	Suzie MacKenzie	Estranged wife of Lou De Bono; attempts to implicate Irene Roberts in Lou’s death.

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