Hope Morrison

Home and Away

Company type	Television series
Industry	Entertainment
Founded	January 17, 1988 (1988-01-17)
Headquarters	Australia
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. The following section outlines characters who were introduced throughout 2016, listed according to their debut dates. All new additions were brought in by executive producer Lucy Addario. The show’s 29th season commenced broadcasting on 1 February 2016. On the same day, Dylan Carter made his first appearance. March saw the arrival of Isla Schultz and Lindsay Ford. In May, Mick Jennings and Tori Morgan joined the cast. Tori’s brothers – Brody, Justin, and Mason Morgan – were introduced in June. July brought the addition of Tabitha Ford. September featured the debuts of Hope Morrison and Raffy Morrison, followed by Jeannie Woods in November, and finally Justin’s daughter, Ava Gilbert, in December.

Dylan Carter

Dylan Carter, played by Jeremy Lindsay Taylor, first appeared on-screen on 1 February 2016. His casting was revealed on 5 August 2015. Dylan is a detective who collaborates with Katarina Chapman (Pia Miller) on investigations within Summer Bay. Taylor described the character as multifaceted and engaging, highlighting Dylan’s ties to the Bay. He returned to the role in 2017 and made a guest appearance again in September 2019.

Dylan spearheaded the inquiry into Charlotte King’s (Erika Heynatz) murder alongside Katarina and Mike Emerson (Cameron Stewart). Although previously engaged to Katarina, his arrival stirred tension due to past abuse, for which he later expressed remorse. Their investigation involved questioning several significant suspects such as Martin Ashford (George Mason), Zac MacGuire (Charlie Clausen), and Hunter King (Scott Lee). After gathering evidence implicating Zac at the crime scene, Dylan formally charged him with murder.

Morag Bellingham (Cornelia Frances) served as Zac’s defense attorney and frequently clashed with Dylan regarding his investigative methods. She subsequently revealed that Dylan had coerced a judge through blackmail to refuse Zac bail, resulting in Dylan’s suspension from duty. His conduct deteriorated further as he assaulted Ash, took hostages at 31 Saxon Avenue, and was apprehended after Katarina confronted him about his unresolved grief over losing his son Anton.

In 2017, new evidence linked Dylan to an abandoned vessel associated with amnesiac Robbo (Jake Ryan). Surveillance footage showed Dylan holding Robbo at gunpoint. During a later encounter, Dylan was discovered alive following a violent confrontation with Robbo that was initially believed to have resulted in his death. Under orders from gang leader Victor (Patrick Thompson), Dylan abducted Robbo; however, both were captured by the Australian Federal Police. Several weeks later, it was reported that Dylan had been killed while incarcerated.

Isla Schultz

Isla Schultz, brought to life by singer Samantha Jade, made her first appearance on 3 March 2016. Jade's casting was revealed on 5 September 2015, with filming commencing soon after. She wrapped up her role in November 2016. Jade characterized Isla as somewhat mischievous, carrying a troubled history, entangled with dubious individuals yet ultimately possessing good intentions.

Isla arrives in Summer Bay with questionable motives and quickly becomes romantically involved with Kyle Braxton (Nic Westaway). She discloses that she works for Dave Rogers, a man to whom Kyle owes money from a poker game. After receiving threats from Dave, Isla and Kyle are abducted and forced to dig their own graves but manage to escape. Kyle offers Isla refuge, and their relationship becomes intimate.

Isla’s ex-partner, Harry Kingswood (Wayne Bradley), arrives in Summer Bay accompanied by their daughters. When Harry threatens legal proceedings, Isla is discovered working at a brothel; Kyle convinces her to return the children to Harry. Upon learning Harry intends to relocate interstate, Isla attempts to rob the Reefton Lakes golf club but is stopped by Kyle. Kyle is arrested for the robbery and refuses to implicate Isla, choosing to protect her future by taking responsibility and submitting evidence bearing his fingerprints.

Later, Isla learns from Ricky Sharpe (Bonnie Sveen) that Kyle has been sentenced to thirteen years imprisonment. Determined to honor his sacrifice, Isla pledges to make it count before she leaves.

Lindsay Ford

Lindsay Ford, portrayed by Georgia Flood, first appeared on 17 March 2016. Flood was cast in October 2015 and described Lindsay as "really cool." Lindsay attempts to reconnect with Hunter King (Scott Lee), who initially avoids her advances. She visits the caravan park, revealing she supported Hunter after he left Summer Bay. Although she insists she does not want to interfere with Hunter’s relationship with Olivia Fraser Richards (Raechelle Banno), Lindsay later admits to kissing Hunter and hints at further involvement. This causes Olivia to end her relationship with Hunter. Lindsay heightens tensions by hosting a beach party, manipulating events to create discord between Hunter and Olivia. After stealing Alf Stewart's (Ray Meagher) ute and causing Hunter injury while trying to stop her, Lindsay flees. Olivia warns her to leave town or face legal consequences.

Mick Jennings

Mick Jennings, played by Kristian Schmid, made his debut on 5 May 2016 as Irene Roberts’ (Lynne McGranger) long-lost son. Irene had previously disclosed that she was raped at age 14 and gave up a child for adoption; this was later confirmed through DNA testing to be Mick. His storyline reveals him as the rapist of Billie Ashford (Tessa de Josselin), establishing him as a "twisted" antagonist.

Initially, Mick deceives Irene by pretending to be an uncle before kidnapping her. He also attempts to abduct Olivia Fraser Richards but is tracked down and arrested. After being released from a psychiatric facility, Mick returns to Summer Bay causing further turmoil including breaching an AVO and taking Billie's newborn daughter Luc Patterson. Following an apology to Irene and surrendering Luc, Mick is arrested once more.

Despite efforts toward parole, Mick encounters hostility from the community, including physical assaults by Billie's brother Martin Ashford (George Mason). Irene briefly supports Mick by arranging housing and job opportunities but eventually distances herself from him. Mick’s custody battle over Luc intensifies amid threats from Martin Ashford and complications involving other residents such as Ziggy Astoni (Sophie Dillman). Ultimately persuaded by Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher) to accept a mining position in Western Australia, Mick departs with Irene planning to assist his transition. Later, Irene returns after a mining accident to support Mick once again.

Tori Morgan

Tori Morgan, portrayed by Penny McNamee, made her first appearance on 5 May 2016. Announced on 22 November 2015, McNamee referred to the role as her "dream job" and began filming in early November, expressing appreciation for the support from co-star Georgie Parker. Tori is introduced as a physician seeking a new beginning in Summer Bay, carrying "dark secrets". She is the eldest of four Morgan siblings arriving to evaluate the safety of the area for her brothers, highlighting her protective attitude toward her family.

Brody Morgan

Brody Morgan, played by Jackson Heywood, debuted on 7 June 2016. Heywood, who had previously appeared on the series in 2009, joined alongside James Stewart and Orpheus Pledger as part of the newly introduced Morgan family announced on 5 December 2015. Filming commenced during the week of 7 December. While anticipating comparisons to the Braxton brothers, Heywood emphasized that Brody’s storyline and family dynamics are unique. Brody is depicted as a driven chef with clear professional ambitions.

Justin Morgan

Justin Morgan, enacted by James Stewart, also first appeared on 7 June 2016. His casting was revealed on 5 December 2015 along with co-stars Jackson Heywood and Orpheus Pledger, who portray his brothers. This role marked Stewart’s return to a regular part after taking a year off to care for his daughter. Filming started in early December. Stewart focused on establishing the new family unit rather than drawing parallels with past characters, expressing confidence about how viewers would receive them. In August 2017, he was longlisted for Best Daytime Star at the Inside Soap Awards, although he did not make it to the audience-voted shortlist.

Mason Morgan

Mason Morgan, portrayed by Orpheus Pledger, also debuted on 7 June 2016 alongside his on-screen siblings. Pledger moved from Melbourne to Sydney for this opportunity. Mason is characterized as an optimistic medical student who balances his demanding studies with an active social life and commitment to fitness.

Tabitha Ford

Tabitha Ford, played by Eliza Scanlen, appeared as a recurring student character from 21 July to 27 September 2016. Known for her antagonistic role at Summer Bay High, Tabitha was described as manipulative and targeted Olivia Fraser Richards by exploiting her vulnerabilities and attempting to undermine her relationships. Her schemes included tampering with exam results and impersonating Olivia’s abuser, which led to police involvement and parental intervention. Tabitha’s storyline concluded with her departure to boarding school, highlighting themes of conflict resolution within the show’s youth demographic.

Hope Morrison

Hope Morrison, portrayed by Jessica Falkholt, first appeared on 19 September 2016. Hope initially tries to attack Justin Morgan after overhearing him outside her residence but is stopped by Martin Ashford and Kat Chapman. She discovers that her uncle, Atticus Decker, is hospitalized following an intentional car crash. Spike Lowe and his associates attempt to abduct Hope and her younger sister Raffy Morrison; while Raffy is saved, Hope is taken hostage. Spike impersonates Hope’s husband to gain access to Decker in the hospital and attempts to administer a fatal injection but is apprehended.

Hope and Raffy are invited to stay at the farmhouse with Kat and Phoebe Nicholson, where Hope stirs tension by wearing Phoebe’s clothes and consuming her food. After breaking her phone, Hope falsely accuses John Palmer of causing the damage and demands compensation. Justin Morgan offers Hope a part-time position at the garage, where she proceeds to steal customers’ credit card information. Upon being caught, she is arrested for misappropriation.

Following her release, Hope learns that Raffy is Decker’s daughter and thus her half-sister. While attempting to flee the Bay with Raffy, Hope sustains a serious injury requiring surgery. During recovery, she warns Raffy not to trust the Morgans; however, Raffy later uncovers their familial connection. The sisters plan another escape from Summer Bay, but Hope is arrested after stealing money from Salt café. Struggling in solitary confinement, she is prescribed diazepam but suffers an accidental overdose that leads to hospitalization.

Before returning to prison, Hope apologizes to Phoebe and entrusts Raffy’s care to her, encouraging Raffy to place trust in the Morgans and requesting Justin look after her sister. A year later, Hope sends Raffy a handmade birthday card from prison.

Raffy Morrison

Raffy Morrison, brought to life by Olivia Deeble, made her first appearance on 19 September 2016. Deeble moved from Melbourne to Sydney for the role and committed to a three-year contract. She exited the show in 2019, with her final scenes broadcast on 12 September, after opting not to extend her agreement.

Raffy's narrative centers on intricate family connections; she uncovers that she is the half-sister of the Morgan siblings following a disclosure about their shared parentage. Early in her storyline, she faces a kidnapping attempt and relocates to the Farmhouse alongside prominent characters. Raffy enrolls at Summer Bay High, forms a friendship with Eloise Page, and grapples with her sense of self after uncovering her family history, which includes her parents’ murder and the siblings' involvement in witness protection.

As her brother Brody’s drug dependency worsens, Raffy is compelled to move out, subsequently residing with John Palmer and Marilyn Chambers. She endures bullying at school but eventually reconciles with peers such as Coco Astoni and cultivates a bond with Ryder Jackson. Raffy becomes entwined in major story arcs including discovering a corpse, supporting friends through cancer battles, and navigating foster care complexities.

Her romantic experiences include a brief relationship with Ty Anderson that ends when he comes out as gay. Despite facing bullying related to this breakup, she maintains friendships with both Ty and Ryder. Raffy also offers support to Ty during his familial difficulties before his departure from Summer Bay.

A significant health plotline involves Raffy being diagnosed with epilepsy following a head injury sustained on a camping trip. Despite these obstacles, she begins dating Ryder. Additionally, she learns about Tori Morgan’s pregnancy and confronts family tensions stemming from Brody’s infidelity.

Near the conclusion of her storyline, Raffy is accepted into a medical trial in Victoria, prompting her exit from Summer Bay. Prior to leaving, she writes a letter to John and Marilyn and moves in with Brody and Simone Bedford, marking the end of her time on the series.

Jeannie Woods

Jeannie Woods, portrayed by Anna Bamford, first appeared on 1 November 2016 and remained on screen for approximately six weeks. Introduced as a potential romantic interest for Brody Morgan (Jackson Heywood), Jeannie arrives in Summer Bay after being invited by Evelyn MacGuire (Philippa Northeast) to participate in a charity volleyball event.

Jeannie's initial encounter with Brody occurs when she assists him in collecting dropped barbecue items. She signs up for the volleyball match alongside Matt Page (Alec Snow), while Brody offers Evelyn $1000 to partner with Jeannie. After some early confusion involving a bracelet, Jeannie briefly disappears but returns for an interview where she learns Brody owns the restaurant. Although the interview does not go smoothly, Brody hires her, leading to flirtatious interactions during her training. Their developing relationship encounters strain when Jeannie pushes Brody away after he tries to kiss her.

Following an apology from Jeannie and her decision to quit, she later accepts Brody’s invitation to come back, culminating in a kiss and plans for dinner together. She confides personal hardships, including being expelled from her home by survivalist doomsday prepper parents. Her father, Randall (Paul Ceaser), visits and meets Brody. Jeannie and Brody agree to keep their relationship secret but face difficulties when Randall discovers them kissing. After clashes over Randall’s beliefs and an ill-received joke by Brody, their relationship ends, leading Jeannie to leave the restaurant for a new position in Yabbie Creek.

Ava Gilbert

Ava Gilbert made her debut on 8 December 2016 as the daughter of Justin Morgan (James Stewart). Originally played by Grace Thomas and subsequently by Alice Roberts, the character was recast with Annabel Wolfe in February 2023 to accommodate more complex storylines befitting Ava’s transition into adolescence. Ava returns unexpectedly to visit Justin, showing admiration for his apprentice Theo Poulos (Matt Evans). Wolfe emphasized the shifting dynamic between father and daughter and anticipated friction resulting from their contrasting viewpoints. Ava’s narrative explores conflicts surrounding her online behavior and a defiant streak that tests Justin’s parenting boundaries. She is scheduled to reappear for Justin’s wedding to Leah in April 2024.

Ava’s early plotlines included her identifying Justin after returning his cap, confirming their father-daughter relationship, and developing connections with Justin’s fiancée Phoebe Nicholson and sister Raffy Morrison. The arrival of her stepfather Brian Gilbert triggered disputes, culminating in an incident where Ava was struck by a vehicle. Subsequently, Brian granted Justin visitation rights. Ava spent time living with Justin during Nina and Brian’s absence, forging friendships with Scarlett Snow and Willow Harris. She was later abducted by Boyd Easton but rescued by Justin and Colby Thorne. Following the end of Willow and Justin’s relationship, Nina limited Ava’s contact with her father.

Upon returning to live with Justin, Ava initially showed resistance toward his new partner Leah Patterson but gradually formed a bond through shared activities. Family tensions arising from Nina and Brian's separation led to adjustments in custody arrangements, with Justin advocating for Ava’s continued relationship with Brian. Throughout family health challenges—including Tori Morgan’s hospitalization and Justin’s diagnosis of a spinal tumor—Ava remained a pivotal figure amid Justin’s personal struggles.

Others

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Circumstances
11 February	Louisa O'Brien	Claudia Cranstoun	Louisa invites Josh Barrett to join her and her HSC friends for the afternoon. When Josh cares for Casey Braxton, Louisa and others visit his home. She turns off the baby monitor to spend uninterrupted time with Josh.
	Glen Day	Logan Stevenson	Glen spends time alongside Adriana with Louisa and Josh. After Glen leaves for work, Louisa encourages Adriana to follow him so she can be alone with Josh.
	Adriana Kerr	Hana Lee Woodbridge
	Psych Nurse	Angie Diaz	The nurse permits Skye Peters to visit her mother Carol and informs Skye that Carol can hear her despite her condition.
18 February	Destiny Starr	Lara Schwerdt	Destiny goes on a first date with Chris Harrington but leaves early after realizing he is still emotionally attached to his ex.
25 February	Coach McKinnon	Warren Ekermans	At a high school basketball game, Coach McKinnon intervenes in a fight involving VJ Patterson and Hunter King, sending VJ away.
2 March	Zara Leonard	Georgia Nichols	Oscar MacGuire notices Zara at Angelo's; they discuss their university course together. Later, Skye Peters observes them kissing on the balcony.
2–17 March	Claire Lewis	Anita Hegh	Claire claims to be Irene Roberts' daughter; after DNA tests disprove this, Claire departs but develops a connection with Irene during her stay.
15 March–11 April	Harry Kingswood	Wayne Bradley	Harry brings his daughters Florence and Lulu Kingswood to visit their mother Isla Schultz. Isla takes the girls without permission, but Kyle Braxton persuades her to return them.
	Florence Kingswood	Charlee Kwintner
	Lulu Kingswood	Mia Kwintner
17 March	Alessia De Luca	Bridgette Hollitt	Alessia attends a university party at Angelo's introduced by Maddy Osborne and flirts with Oscar MacGuire.
	Tanya Hardy	Ashleigh O'Brien	Tanya meets Oscar after Alessia leaves the party; she walks away when Skye mentions Oscar was previously with another girl.
22–31 March	Drew Panton	Govinda Roser-Finch	Drew attends Lindsay Ford's beach party; Lindsay pays him to make advances toward Olivia Fraser Richards to provoke Hunter King. Drew reveals he dislikes Lindsay and only came for free drinks.
19 April–8 June	Dom Loneragan	Lindsay Farris	Photographer friend of Ricky Sharpe hired for her wedding and hospital fundraiser. Dom flirts with Phoebe Nicholson; they begin dating despite complications involving his daughter Bella and estranged wife Tess. Phoebe ends the relationship upon realizing Dom still has feelings for Tess.
20 April	Womma	Dean Kyrwood	Kat Chapman and Martin Ashford confront Womma after learning Dylan Carter paid him to intimidate witnesses and vandalize businesses.
21 April–9 March 2020	"Sergeant Phillip McCarthy"	"Nicholas Cassim"	"McCarthy replaces Sergeant Mike Emerson in Summer Bay. He handles workplace assault reports involving Dylan Carter and advises Kat Chapman to report any concerns."

External links

• Cast and characters featured on the official Home and Away site
• Cast and characters listed on the Internet Movie Database