Ian Radcliffe

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 were introduced in 2009, all under the guidance of executive producer Cameron Welsh. The show's 22nd season aired from 19 January to 27 November 2009. Early in the year, characters such as Gina and Hugo Austin made their debut in January. February brought several new faces including Robert Cruze, Trey Palmer, Freya Duric, and Joey Collins. March saw the arrival of Liam Murphy and John Palmer. In April, viewers met Lachie Cladwell and David Gardiner. June introduced May Stone, while July featured the birth of Harry Holden alongside the Walker family members: Sid, Dexter, and Indigo. Detective Robert Robertson was added to the cast in August, with September closing out new introductions with Romeo Smith.

Gina Austin

Gina Austin, brought to life by actress Sonia Todd, first appeared on-screen on 27 January 2009 and exited on 18 April 2013. According to the official series website, Gina is portrayed as a dedicated mother who has faced struggles with both her eldest and youngest sons but maintains strength without succumbing to self-pity. Industry descriptions depict her as a warm-hearted, grounded individual who consistently places her family’s needs above her own ambitions. Todd emphasizes Gina’s identity as a mother of three boys as central to her character.

Hugo Austin

Hugo Austin, played by Bernard Curry, made his initial appearance on 27 January 2009. His tenure included a departure on 26 January 2010, a return on 6 May 2010, and a subsequent exit on 9 June 2010. Curry, who previously acted in rival soap Neighbours, spoke positively about his time on Home & Away, noting the character’s charm and the demanding nature of the role. Hugo is depicted as an outdoors enthusiast with a fit build and sun-kissed complexion.

Robert Cruze

Robert "Robbo" Cruze, portrayed by Aidan Gillett, first appeared on 1 February 2009. Robbo was employed alongside Aden Jefferies and Joey Collins on a boat and frequently targeted Joey due to her sexual orientation. His harassment escalated into sexual assault, which Joey initially concealed before eventually reporting it. Despite Robbo’s denial and interference from his ex-girlfriend Tanya Gannon—who was hurt during these events—he attacked Joey again but was ultimately apprehended by authorities. Robbo faced charges and did not return to the series.

Trey Palmer

Trey Palmer, enacted by Luke Bracey, debuted on 9 February 2009. Though described as having an "angelic face," Trey quickly gained notoriety for his disruptive conduct in Summer Bay, stirring conflicts among students and faculty alike. His presence heightened tensions, especially with characters such as Geoff Campbell (Lincoln Lewis) and Nicole Franklin.

A notable storyline involved Trey recording a private sex tape with Nicole which was subsequently leaked, paralleling a recent real-world controversy involving Lincoln Lewis. This plotline attracted attention due to its provocative content. Joe Brett from Holy Soap referred to Trey as a "neurotic wolverine."

Trey’s antagonistic actions included bullying classmates like Jai Fernandez (Jordan Rodrigues) through racist insults and clashing repeatedly with teachers. He engaged in ongoing disputes with Geoff Campbell and harbored grudges against others including Miles Copeland. Although Kirsty offered some support leading to minor improvements, Trey’s romantic advances were rejected, fueling further discord. Following an altercation with Miles, Trey initially pressed charges but later withdrew them.

In attempts to reform, Trey developed a closer relationship with Nicole, culminating in dating. Their relationship escalated with the creation of a sex tape, which Trey leaked deliberately to embarrass Nicole. His growing rage ultimately led to a hostage situation on a school bus where he disclosed having planted a bomb. While most students escaped unharmed, Hugo Austin sustained serious injuries. Trey was arrested for attempted murder after this incident.

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 involving Nicole Franklin (Tessa James) and Freya sharing a kiss, which led to viewer complaints. James described their relationship as Freya representing Nicole’s former rebellious nature, which creates a magnetic pull between them. The kiss acts as a challenge, reflecting Nicole’s inner frustration and her craving for attention.

Freya arrives with the intention of reigniting a romance with Xavier Austin. Although initially resistant because of his commitment to Ruby Buckton, Xavier eventually succumbs to Freya’s relentless seduction. Gina voices her concerns about Freya to Xavier, yet their involvement continues as Freya instigates trouble locally. She becomes involved in drug dealing around the Bay, persuading Xavier to distribute drugs at Summer Bay High. After confronting Nicole and labeling her dull, Freya publicly kisses Nicole, raising Geoff’s doubts about her intentions. She manipulates Xavier for personal gain but soon loses interest and kisses his brother Hugo, unaware that Xavier witnesses the act. After Hugo ends things with her, Freya quickly exits the scene.

Joey Collins

Joey Collins, portrayed by Kate Bell, first appeared 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 featuring intimate moments. Executive producer Cameron Welsh noted Joey’s favorable reception and hinted at the possibility of her return.

Joey works aboard a boat with Aden Jefferies and Robbo Cruze, who harasses and ultimately sexually assaults her, threatening to keep her silent. She confides in Aden, and despite attempts to report Robbo, he denies all accusations while Joey faces skepticism from her brother Brett. After Robbo tries to drown her, Charlie rescues Joey and supports her through Robbo’s arrest. Their secret relationship becomes public amid homophobic backlash and rumors. Charlie struggles with her sexual identity and professional stress, which leads Joey to depart for another job following an emotional goodbye.

Liam Murphy

Liam Murphy, enacted by Axle Whitehead, debuted on 5 March 2009. Whitehead, a musician and TV presenter, earned the role through an audition; Liam was originally intended for only fifteen episodes. Whitehead described the character as a "bad boy rocker" and drew from personal experience to depict Liam’s drug use.

Brendan Austin

Brendan Austin, played by Kain O'Keeffe, appeared first on 25 March 2009. Having previously worked with cast members from other serials, O'Keeffe joined as Brendan following the Austin family’s introduction, revealing that Brendan has autism—a fact that causes tension between his brothers Xavier and Hugo.

Brendan arrives in Summer Bay with his mother Gina to live with the family. Xavier had been caring for him during Hugo's absence, which created sibling rivalry. Initially kept hidden from Xavier’s friends, Brendan is encouraged by Xavier’s girlfriend Ruby Buckton to engage socially. Later placed under Martha MacKenzie’s supervision, Brendan runs away multiple times, including an incident causing a car accident that injures Roman Harris, who loses his sight but chooses not to press charges after learning about Brendan’s condition.

Brendan claims to have a girlfriend named Ruby Leeds, who has Down syndrome—initially causing confusion with Ruby Buckton. Gina supports Brendan’s wish for independence and moving into sheltered accommodation after he heroically rescues Xavier from drowning despite his challenges. Brendan eventually moves in with Ruby Leeds but returns briefly afterward. Following Gina’s death in 2013, Brendan is reported as too distressed to attend her funeral.

John Palmer

John Palmer, brought to life by Shane Withington, made his initial appearance on 27 March 2009 as the stepfather of Trey Palmer. Withington, who had previously gained recognition through A Country Practice, joined Home and Away in a recurring capacity. John's persona is portrayed as a "strict father" figure and an active participant in the surf lifesaving club.

Claudia Hammond

Claudia Hammond, portrayed by Alexandra Park, was introduced on 10 April 2009. Her character becomes romantically involved with Geoff Campbell, later revealing her pregnancy. Their narrative includes a caravan fire following an intimate encounter. Series producer Cameron Welsh highlighted the intricacies of Claudia’s pregnancy plot, which involves deceit regarding the child’s paternity.

Claudia collaborates with Geoff on farm duties, fostering romantic feelings that lead to dating. After their caravan is set ablaze, Lachie confronts Geoff, holding him responsible. Claudia discloses her pregnancy but initially denies Lachie’s paternity, despite having ended their relationship prior to leaving him. Lachie seeks to reconcile but is turned away.

As conflicts escalate between Geoff and Lachie—resulting in Geoff injuring Lachie during a football game—Claudia confesses that Lachie is the father. Geoff reacts with anger and expels her from his life. Due to Lachie's aggressive conduct, Claudia forbids him from being part of their child’s life. Eventually, she moves away to live with her cousin in Dubbo, distancing herself from both men.

Lachie Cladwell

Lachie Cladwell, enacted by Jackson Heywood, appeared first on 4 May 2009. He is depicted as Claudia Hammond’s (Alexandra Park) intermittent ex-boyfriend. Following several breakups, Lachie endeavors to win Claudia back but ultimately consents to leave her be. Claudia announces her pregnancy, initially asserting that Lachie is not the father, which creates strain with Geoff Campbell (Lincoln Lewis). After a rugby match altercation leaves Lachie hospitalized, Claudia admits his paternity. Although Lachie's recovery sparks hope for a family unit, Claudia ultimately rejects his involvement and departs Summer Bay.

The Daily Record observed that Geoff’s mounting frustration culminated in aggression directed at Lachie.

David Gardiner

David "Gardy" Gardiner, portrayed by Jeremy Sims, made his debut on 13 May 2009. His performance was lauded for its convincing and chilling qualities, with Gardy characterized as a manipulative villain.

Gardy infiltrates the residence of his blind military comrade Roman Harris (Conrad Coleby), unsettling Roman’s daughter Nicole Franklin (Tessa James) and her friend Ruby Buckton (Rebecca Breeds). His storyline involves violent clashes and dangerous schemes, such as attempting to restore Roman’s sight via a parachute jump and coercing Roman into robbing a liquor store, which triggers a heart attack in an elderly woman.

Following Nicole's rejection of his advances, Gardy threatens to implicate Roman in the robbery. He escalates his criminal actions by robbing the Palmer household and taking Trey (Luke Bracey) and Jenena Palmer (Anna Lise Phillips) hostage. Gardy blackmails Roman over a wartime shooting incident and orchestrates a warehouse robbery in Mangrove River. During this heist, Gardy shoots Roman, engages in a gunfight, and holds Xavier Austin (David Jones-Roberts) hostage. The standoff concludes when Roman shoots Gardy in the leg, enabling police intervention. Despite injuries sustained, Gardy escapes into a nearby creek and vanishes from the storyline.

May Stone

May Stone, brought to life by Alin Sumarwata, made her first appearance on 12 June 2009 as a newly appointed teacher at Summer Bay High. She soon enters into a relationship with Angelo Rosetta, who is secretly involved with Charlie Buckton. Esther Anderson, who portrays Charlie, highlighted the complexity of their interactions, stressing that Charlie never intended to cause May any pain. The Daily Record drew attention to Angelo’s lack of sensitivity and the emotional turmoil May experienced following their breakup.

As May becomes more integrated into both the school and local community, her bond with Angelo deepens. However, despite his assurances, Angelo’s unresolved feelings for Charlie lead him into an affair. When May expresses a desire for a committed relationship, Angelo admits the truth and ends things. Devastated, May decides to resign from her teaching role and promptly departs from Summer Bay.

Harry Holden

Harry Jack Holden, portrayed by various child actors, was introduced on 30 July 2009. He is the son of Rachel Armstrong and Tony Holden. Following his birth, Rachel faces challenges coping with Harry’s incessant crying and isolation, even contemplating harming him before seeking assistance. Tensions escalate when Jane Avent wrongly accuses Rachel of causing her stillbirth and abducts Harry, triggering a police search. Fortunately, Harry is returned safely 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 prior to leaving.

Sid Walker

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

Dexter Walker

Dexter Walker, initially portrayed by Tom Green, debuted on 30 July 2009. The character was recast in 2010 with Charles Cottier when Dexter was reintroduced. Cottier remarked on the character’s development over time and opted not to view earlier episodes. A significant plotline featured Dexter’s romantic involvement with Marilyn Chambers (Emily Symons), which Cottier described as both exciting and demanding because of their considerable age difference.

Indigo Walker

Indigo Walker, enacted by Samara Weaving, first appeared on 30 July 2009. The Walker family unit—comprising Sid, Jody (Victoria Haralabidou), Dexter, and Indigo—was introduced in July 2009. They exited the storyline in September 2009 but made a return in June 2010. Weaving expressed relief at being able to juggle this role alongside her other commitments.

Robert Robertson

Robert Robertson, portrayed by Socratis Otto, arrived on screen on 2 August 2009. Created by James Walker specifically for a murder-related storyline, Robertson was designed to inject humor into the show’s darker themes through his eccentric personality and distinctive wit. Walker emphasized Robertson’s role as a multifaceted detective skilled in manipulation to involve various characters within the narrative. Otto leveraged his comedic abilities and drew inspiration from unconventional detective dramas for this role, considering it among his finest performances.

Robertson is a police detective who comes to Summer Bay investigating the murder of Grant Bledcoe, Ruby Buckton's (Rebecca Breeds) biological father. He initially suspects Ruby’s mother, Charlie, arresting her before uncovering that her father, Ross (David Downer), is actually responsible. Despite his quirky demeanor and penchant for tall tales, Robertson proves effective in his duties. He develops romantic feelings for Leah Patterson-Baker (Ada Nicodemou), but she declines his advances.

Returning later to investigate the disappearance of Penn Graham (Christian Clark), Robertson teams up with Detective Graves (Eryn Jean Norvill) and focuses suspicion on Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher). After multiple arrests without conclusive evidence, he exerts pressure on Alf while attempting to rekindle a relationship with Leah, who remains emotionally connected to her former partner Elijah Johnson (Jay Laga'aia). Robertson coerces Will Smith (Zac Drayson) into falsely implicating Alf, resulting in Alf’s arrest. However, Morag Bellingham (Cornelia Frances) exposes Will’s fabricated testimony, forcing Robertson to release Alf and charge Will instead.

Feeling defeated by these events, Robertson confides in Leah about losing his sense of self; she comforts him by reminding him that errors are part of being human. Offered a promotion involving relocation to the city, he invites Leah and her son to join him; however, Leah declines the offer.

Romeo Smith

Romeo Smith, brought to life by Luke Mitchell, made his first appearance on 10 September 2009. Mitchell landed this part after moving to Sydney without any employment prospects. Romeo is depicted as charming, mischievous, humorous, and courteous. His family on-screen includes his sister Mink Carpenter (Matylda Buczko) and mother Jill Carpenter (Josephine Mitchell). After his relationship with Annie Campbell, Romeo’s main romantic involvement is with Indigo Walker (Samara Weaving).

Others

23 April Chelsea Murphy Georgia Gorman Wife of Liam Murphy; appears amid media attention due to Liam’s drug problems; divorces and moves to Paris with son Ash. 23–28 April Ash Murphy Dusty Piper Young son of Liam and Chelsea Murphy. 1–2 June Jenena Palmer Anna Lise Phillips Mother to Trey and spouse of John. 13 June–13 July Clint Mailer Matt Zeremes Rugby coach who pressures Aden into undermining Geoff Campbell’s career. 14 July–18 August Jane Avent Felicity Price Blames Rachel Armstrong for stillbirth; harasses Rachel and abducts her son Harry before acknowledging her need for help. 14 July–18 August Rex Avent Sandy Winton Jane’s husband; initially defends Jane but eventually accepts her requirement for assistance. 14 July–26 January 2010 Wayan Rahardjo Dorje Swallow Non-English-speaking hospital patient closely connected to Hugo Austin; utilized by Angelo during investigation. 20–21 July Paul Thomas Norrie Brief background character appearing in the Bay. 23 July–18 August Squirt Ben Davy-Thorburn Aden’s friend and coworker; attends Aden’s stag party. 29 July-27 November Marine Officer Bryant Michael Sutherland Water police officer working with Angelo Rosetta on people smuggling investigation. 30 July–17 August 2011 Jody Walker Victoria Haralabidou Sid’s wife who seeks reconciliation for family reasons but departs following infidelity; returns briefly in August 2011. 20 August Michelle Michelle Pettigrove Aunt of Charlie Buckton; provides details about Charlie’s daughter Ruby. 24 August–8 July 2010 Therese Rose Ashton Nurse involved in a short relationship with Sid Walker, creating workplace friction. 28 August–11 September Andy McLeod Paul Winchester Parent group member offering parenting advice to Rachel Armstrong, raising concerns from her husband Tony. Sophia McLeod Madeline Andrews Andy’s daughter diagnosed with hearing impairment after assessment by Rachel Armstrong. 1–16 September Grant Bledcoe Clayton Watson Ruby’s biological father accused of rape by Charlie Buckton; later discovered dead from stabbing, with Charlie initially suspected until her father confesses. 8 September Tracey Bledcoe Mary Anne Byrne Grant’s wife, shocked by the accusations against him. 15 September–1 March 2012 Patrick Avery Clayton Williams Constable appearing intermittently, including bailing Sid Walker on assault charges. 18–22 September Ruby Leeds Tracie Sammmut Brendan’s girlfriend who assists Gina in supporting Brendan’s independence by moving them into sheltered accommodation. 18 September Pheobe Alisha Burton Short-term friend of Jai Fernandez. 30 September Jim Mark Richardson Hotel manager appearing briefly on screen. 1 October–27 January 2010 Bambang Rahardjo Joft Prastowo Son of Wayan aiding Martha on the farm; used by Angelo as bait in human trafficking probe. 3 October–26 January 2010 Suzy Sudiro Tasneem Roc Ex-wife of Hugo Austin involved 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 conceals abuse until police reveal the truth. Ian Radcliffe Ben Simpson Father of Riley Radcliffe who physically abuses his son and tries bribery before being exposed and disappearing. 9–24 November Poppie Merrin Elouise Blair Attempts to seduce Liam Murphy leading to breakup with Nicole Franklin and Liam’s arrest for drug possession. 17–24 November Reg Merrin Dane Carson Manager of The Sands who employs Aden Jefferies and dismisses him after an incident involving daughter Catie Merrin at a formal event. 18–24 November Catie Merrin Tess Haubrich Pressures Reg Merrin into arranging a date with Aden Jefferies, causing conflict at the formal that results in Aden's sacking. 19–23 November Orson Cardillo Mark Lee Gardener for Donna DeBono implicated in framing incident during Lou's death investigation; suffers heart attack under suspicious circumstances. 20 November Bonita Cardillo Suzi Dougherty Orson's spouse defending his innocence regarding gun planting accusations against Donna DeBono. 25 November–18 February 2010 Hazem Kassir Ben Kermode Dates Leah Patterson-Baker; suffers racially motivated assault resulting in paralysis and subsequent relocation to the city, ending their relationship. 26 November Prison Guard Joe Tarena On duty during Derrick Quaid's escape attempt from custody.

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Role Summary
30 January	Bank manager	Christopher Saunders	Detects Bridget Simmons’ attempt to unlawfully access Leah Patterson-Baker’s account and notifies Leah.
30 January–6 October	Don Gibson	Steve Anderson	Collaborates with Aden on a boat; engaged in illicit abalone trading; arrested and attempts to implicate Aden; divulges information regarding Hugo.
2–6 February	Steve Hogan	Damien Freeglass	Briefly serves as a police constable investigating in Summer Bay.
3 February	Lawyer	Blair Cutting	Legal counsel for Angelo Rosetta.
4 February–25 January 2010	Lou De Bono	David Roberts	Dates Irene Roberts; dies at sea; Irene initially detained but later exonerated.
9–10 February	Archie Maddock	Tim Phillipps	Homeless individual who safeguards Melody Jones; informs Miles Copeland of her location.
10 February	Thug	Zen Ledden	Assaults Melody Jones and Archie Maddock.
19 February	Mryll Ramsay	Kim Hillas	Initially declines interview to protect an elderly care facility; persuaded by Melody.
19–25 February	Audrey Long	Wendy Playfair	Grandmother of Melody Jones; passes away due to a stroke.
3–19 March	George	Benjamin O'Donnell	Participates in speed dating; forms a connection with Leah before she selects Roman.
9 March–29 July	Brett Collins	Toby Levins	Joey Collins’ elder brother; initially struggles with her sexual orientation; reconciles following family conflict.
16 March–26 January 2010	Derrick Quaid	John Atkinson	Survivor of a shipwreck involved in illegal human smuggling; assaults Geoff Campbell and Nicole Franklin; arrested alongside Hugo Austin and Suzy Sudiro.
19 March–13 November	Jerry Thibault	Nicholas Cassim	Employer of Belle at the newspaper; has an affair with Paula Gill; promises Belle a promotion but awards it to Paula, causing tension.
19 March	Tanya Gannon	Hayley McCarthy	Robert Cruze’s ex-partner; arrives to lodge a complaint but is struck by a vehicle.
20 March	Paula Gill	Paula Arundell	Colleague of Belle; engages in an affair with Jerry leading to promotion; bullies Belle over her pill dependency.
23 March–23 November	Donna De Bono	Suzie MacKenzie	Estranged wife of Lou De Bono; attempts to implicate Irene Roberts in Lou’s death.

External links

• Present lineup of cast and roles on the Official Home and Away site
• Current cast and roles at Holy Soap