Isla Tanaka-Brennan

Abigail Tanaka
Occupation	Fictional child character
Known for	Character on Neighbours

Curtis Perkins

Curtis Perkins, brought to life by Nathan Borg, made his first appearance on 28 January 2021. Borg’s casting was a significant moment, as he became the first actor with a cochlear implant featured on Australian television. Curtis is introduced as a newly certified teacher specializing in mathematics and physics at Erinsborough High, a role created under the guidance of executive producer Jason Herbison. The character embodies independence and is not defined solely by his hearing impairment; he also has a connection to the established character Vera Punt.

Originally signed on for an eight-week stint, Borg’s contract was extended following favorable audience feedback. Curtis’s narrative includes a romantic subplot involving Jesse Porter, which serves to explore deeper emotional and physical reactions to themes such as betrayal.

Within Erinsborough High, Curtis instructs Auslan classes and provides support to students like Hendrix Greyson and Brent Colefax through vocational initiatives and personal struggles. He proactively takes charge of Year 13 classes and introduces hands-on projects designed to enhance student participation, occasionally leading to disagreements with colleague Jane Harris over program oversight.

Curtis's contributions extend beyond classroom teaching; he aids students in circumventing custodial sentences by suggesting alternatives like enlisting in the Australian Defence Force. His personal storyline features a short-lived romance with Jesse Porter that dissolves due to conflicting priorities and misunderstandings linked to Curtis’s hearing condition.

He also addresses student behavioral issues, including concerns about Zara Selwyn’s influence, and intervenes during incidents such as a bin fire emergency. Additionally, Curtis supports transitions to homeschooling and engages in community activities alongside family members, notably Vera Punt.

Overall, Curtis Perkins exemplifies an inclusive casting approach and narrative focus that emphasize diversity while portraying educational leadership and student welfare within the series’ storytelling framework.

Jesse Porter

Jesse Porter, played by Cameron Robbie, first appeared on 19 March 2021. Robbie’s casting was revealed on 16 January 2021; he is notably the brother of actress Margot Robbie, who featured on the show between 2008 and 2011. Jesse comes from an affluent background and works as a lifeguard while taking up a summer position at Lassiter's Hotel as he contemplates his career direction. Robbie described Jesse as "fun-loving," with a storyline marked by unexpected developments. Several months into his tenure, it is unveiled that Jesse has ties to the Quill family—owners of a competing hotel chain—and has been secretly assisting them against Lassiters. Robbie highlighted this gradual revelation as adding complexity to Jesse’s character, showcasing his inner turmoil and pressure to meet others’ expectations.

Jesse serves as both bartender and ceremonial lifeguard at The Flamingo Bar near Lassiter's Lake, collaborating with staff such as Roxy Willis and Sheila Canning, while also promoting the venue. He supports Roxy’s campaign for bar manager and helps establish a volleyball court at the bar. Jesse participates in events like the Longest Workout competition, where he emerges victorious and gains recognition from Harlow Robinson. Paul Robinson leverages Jesse to communicate indirectly with Harlow regarding management issues, prompting Jesse to encourage her acceptance of an executive assistant role focused on environmental initiatives. Concurrently, Jesse develops a romantic relationship with Curtis Perkins, balancing professional responsibilities with personal life.

To assist Harlow, Jesse agrees to feign a relationship with her to deter Paul’s interference. Meanwhile, he continues reporting back to Shay Quill of the Quill Group about Lassiters’ strategies under pressure to provide competitive intelligence. Despite ongoing challenges, Jesse persists in his espionage but becomes increasingly conflicted. When the Quill Group withdraws from hosting a film festival due to legal complications, Lassiters secures the event and plans a strategic land acquisition near a Quill hotel—details Jesse conveys while managing divided loyalties. His romance with Curtis ends amid mounting tensions.

Terese Willis uncovers Jesse’s true identity as a Quill informant and terminates his employment. Jesse apologizes for his actions and distances himself from the Quill family, expressing gratitude towards Terese and Paul for their support. After being evicted by step-siblings blaming him for the collapse of the Quill hotel venture, Terese offers him shelter and mentorship at Lassiters. During staff strikes over Harlow’s promotion, Jesse remains neutral but advises her on accepting a demotion and mediates between employees. A moment of confusion arises when Terese mistakenly calls him by her late son Josh’s name, leading to deeper conversations about family trauma.

With Terese’s support, Jesse visits his mother Julie in prison while navigating tensions related to Lassiters’ investments affected by Quill debts. Paul cautions Jesse against involving Terese in these financial matters. Family concerns prompt David Tanaka to advise Jesse reconsider his relationship with Terese. Ultimately, Jesse resigns from Lassiters and departs for Sydney but returns briefly for a final conversation with Terese after Paul reaches out to him.

Sheila Canning

Sheila Canning, brought to life by Shareena Clanton, made her first appearance on 7 April 2021. Clanton's casting was revealed in March 2021, with filming conducted from October 2020 through March 2021. Her character shares a name with a well-established cast member, setting up a storyline centered on misdirected mail. Clanton’s previous work on Wentworth creates a connection to the original actress portraying the other Sheila Canning. David Knox of TV Tonight referred to this as "playful casting." Clanton publicly condemned the production environment, citing issues of racism and sexism, and announced she would not return. Despite her brief tenure, critics acknowledged her role as impactful and memorable.

Upon arriving in Erinsborough, Sheila visits The Hive, an arts co-working venue, expressing interest in acquiring it from Paul Robinson, who is stepping back from real estate. She soon realizes that her mail has been mistakenly delivered to the other Sheila Canning, leading to an initial dispute that eventually resolves amicably. A USB drive revealing The Hive’s actual financial status causes Sheila to initially withdraw her purchase offer. However, after reconsideration and inspired by Ned Willis's dedication to art, she proposes buying The Hive at a discounted rate. Ned supports Sheila by providing painting lessons and sharing personal insights, including details about his relationship with Yashvi Rebecchi.

Sheila delves into Ned’s background as she contemplates appointing him to manage The Hive as an open art space. A misplaced file incident results in Bea Nilsson losing her job at a garage. Throughout their collaboration on rebranding a gallery, Sheila offers Ned emotional support; their partnership evolves into a brief romantic involvement and a team effort in local volleyball competitions. Following Ned’s decision to leave the gallery project, Sheila opts to visit family in Perth to mend past wounds.

Sheila counsels Bea regarding her relationship with Levi Canning, urging transparency that leads to their separation. She offers to buy Levi’s car so Bea can embark on a road trip. Sheila encourages Ned to confess his feelings to Yashvi before abandoning the gallery initiative for The Hive. Conflict arises when Sheila accuses the other Sheila of playing a role in Bea and Levi’s breakup, referencing recorded conversations overheard by Yashvi.

Prior to leaving Erinsborough, Sheila says goodbye to Ned and expresses gratitude to Kyle Canning for their friendship. She apologizes to the other Sheila for earlier accusations before departing Ramsay Street alongside Bea.

Abigail Tanaka

Abigail Tanaka, portrayed by Nikita Kato, is the daughter of Leo Tanaka (Tim Kano) and Britney Barnes (Montana Cox), making her debut on 10 August 2021. The role was previously filled by infant actresses Mary Finn, Axelle Austin, and Juliet Basaraba. Abigail was introduced through a baby swap storyline involving surrogate Nicolette Stone (Charlotte Chimes), who absconded with the unborn child of David Tanaka (Takaya Honda) and Aaron Brennan (Matt Wilson). Initially credited as "Isla Tanaka-Brennan," Abigail was presented as David and Aaron's daughter until it was revealed she is actually Leo and Britney's child. This plot device ensured Leo’s continued presence in Erinsborough. After her initial exit, Abigail returned with Austin reprising the role before Basaraba took over in 2022; Nikita Kato assumed the character in the 2023 revival.

Nicolette entrusts Abigail to Paul Robinson (Stefan Dennis), claiming she is his granddaughter named Isla. Paul then passes Abigail to David and Aaron, who believe she is their daughter. Following an anemia diagnosis at the hospital, Abigail returns home where she meets key characters including Leo Tanaka and Chloe Brennan. Later, Britney kidnaps Abigail during a film festival but she is safely recovered. Britney reveals Abigail’s true parentage and explains that she entrusted her to Nicolette due to post-natal depression. Once the truth emerges, custody returns to Britney and Leo, who subsequently relocate to Wollongong, taking Abigail along to bid farewell to David, Aaron, Paul, and Harlow.

Abigail and Britney come back for Christmas; during which Britney tragically dies while shielding Abigail from a falling telegraph pole, leaving Leo as a single parent. After Abigail experiences an accident requiring hospital care, Leo contemplates giving custody to David and Aaron but ultimately decides to keep her following encouragement from Chloe. Leo continues raising Abigail, including taking her along to a Ramsay Street party in July 2022.

Evelyn Farlow

Evelyn Farlow, brought to life by Paula Arundell, first appeared on 24 August 2021. Her introduction was announced on 12 August 2021, with her presence spanning roughly two weeks. Evelyn is the mother of established character Levi Canning (Richie Morris). Due to her traditional values, Levi chooses to keep his polyamorous relationship with Amy Greenwood (Jacinta Stapleton), who is also involved with Ned Willis (Ben Hall), hidden during Evelyn’s visit.

Evelyn arrives in Ramsay Street unexpectedly to surprise Levi, staying briefly between her work engagements. Levi’s grandmother, Sheila Canning (Colette Mann), comforts Evelyn regarding Levi’s upcoming birthday celebration. Evelyn’s upbringing was strict and conservative, raised by parents who forbade her from raising Levi, as he was born from an affair. During their conversations, Evelyn and Levi connect over his career and shared interests such as a podcast and keto diet choices, with Sheila supporting Levi’s keto-friendly meals.

While dining at The Waterhole, Evelyn comments that the pub food is surprisingly good, a remark Sheila interprets as a subtle criticism. Evelyn confides feeling marginalized at Canning family gatherings, attributing this estrangement to Levi’s stepmother Jackie, whom she believes has turned the family against her. She expresses shame about her history and requests Sheila maintain some distance.

Sheila apologizes for past misunderstandings and acknowledges the difficulties involving Jackie. Evelyn contrasts her own critical stance with that of Frank Jr., highlighting existing family discord. Later at The Waterhole, Evelyn notices Amy Greenwood and Ned Willis together and questions their relationship due to their age gap. She also offers condolences to Kyle Canning for the loss of his father, Gary Canning (Damien Richardson).

Considering prolonging her stay to spend additional time with Levi, Evelyn learns of his relationship with Amy—information disclosed by Karl Kennedy (Alan Fletcher). She confronts Levi but remains critical of his lifestyle choices. Amy attempts to ease tensions by emphasizing their mutual care for Levi despite her involvement with Ned. Although Evelyn disapproves of shared romantic partners, she eventually consents to getting better acquainted with Amy.

Conflict emerges between Evelyn and Sheila over the secrecy surrounding Levi’s relationships; nonetheless, Evelyn respects Levi’s independence and places trust in his decisions. After sharing dinner with Levi and Amy, Evelyn prepares to depart the following day, leaving with lingering reservations but ultimately supportive of Levi’s choices.

Britney Barnes

Britney Barnes, played by Montana Cox, made her debut on 9 September 2021. Cox's casting marked her first acting role and was revealed through the show's Instagram account and confirmed by Digital Spy. She expressed enthusiasm about joining Neighbours and highlighted how the welcoming atmosphere facilitated her transition into acting.

Britney’s storyline revolves around her connection to David Tanaka (Takaya Honda) and Aaron Brennan (Matt Wilson) through their niece, Abigail Tanaka (Mary Finn). Initially, David and Aaron believe Abigail is their daughter Isla; however, Britney is later revealed as Abigail’s biological mother, with David’s brother, Leo Tanaka (Tim Kano), being the father. Emotional distress drives Britney to kidnap Isla, leading to a complex narrative involving mistaken identities and family tensions.

Following her departure in September, Britney and Abigail return for the Christmas episodes. Shortly after reuniting with Leo, Britney dies during a storm in Erinsborough, leaving Leo to face single parenthood.

From a business perspective, Britney’s story arc emphasizes themes of family legacy and personal hardship that resonate strongly with viewers. Her involvement in community venues such as Harold's Café and The Flamingo Bar embeds her character within key social settings, enhancing audience engagement.

Britney's interactions include stalking David, Aaron, and Isla at Lassiter's complex and breaking into Ramsay Street to retrieve Isla's toy. Her emotional struggles are underscored by post-natal depression following Abigail's birth in Canberra. The plot explores intricate relationships: Britney entrusts her baby to Paul Robinson (Stefan Dennis) via friend Nicolette Stone (Charlotte Chimes), creating tension concerning parental rights.

Britney’s return to Erinsborough involves efforts to co-parent with Leo and reconcile past disputes, aided by Terese Willis (Rebekah Elmaloglou). In business terms, Britney supports Leo’s winery ventures by organizing events like a ladies' lunch designed to attract investors. Despite disruptions caused by Vera Punt (Sally-Anne Upton) during the event, Britney’s initiatives demonstrate strategic community involvement.

Her relationship with Leo develops into a romantic reunion, culminating in a public kiss at Roxy and Kyle Canning’s (Chris Milligan) wedding. Her death following a storm incident at The Flamingo Bar significantly impacts the storyline and Leo’s character growth.

Overall, Britney Barnes plays an essential role in Neighbours narratives concerning family business dynamics, personal challenges, and community connections—delivering compelling content that aids audience retention and brand engagement.

Felicity Higgins

Felicity Higgins, played by Isabella Giovinazzo, made her first appearance on 6 October 2021. Announced on 8 July 2021, Giovinazzo joined the series in a guest capacity, praising the cast and crew for their warmth and professionalism. Felicity was introduced as a firefighter and became a romantic interest for established character Levi Canning (Richie Morris), who is involved in a polyamorous relationship with Amy Greenwood (Jacinta Stapleton) and Ned Willis (Ben Hall). Giovinazzo described Felicity as "community-oriented," "kind," and "courageous" due to her career, marking a departure from her earlier roles. She characterized Felicity's relationship with Levi as sincere and optimistic, although Felicity’s preference for monogamy creates tension within their connection.

Their initial meeting occurs at The Waterhole, sparked by a spilled drink that leads to conversation. They connect over their respective professions—firefighter and police officer—while Ned Willis observes them. They meet again after a week, unaware that Levi is also involved with Amy and Ned. During one date, Levi is called away for work, prompting Felicity to visit Harold's Café where Amy unintentionally reveals the nature of Levi’s polyamorous relationship. Feeling deceived, Felicity decides to end things with Levi.

At The 82, Felicity confides in Amy that she cannot accept a partner who has other relationships. Ned cautions Felicity that Amy oversees the local bar and encourages her to go on another date with Levi to encourage him to end things with Amy. During this outing, Amy attempts to build rapport with Felicity but is rejected following an uncomfortable discussion about Levi’s preferences. Ned arranges accommodation for Felicity and Levi at a hotel, but Amy discovers this plan. Felicity confesses the situation to Levi, who then terminates their relationship due to trust concerns. Felicity apologizes for the complications that arose.

Wendy Rodwell

Wendy Rodwell, portrayed by Candice Leask, first appeared on 2 December 2021. Introduced as the spouse of Andrew Rodwell during the Erinsborough Police Ball, Wendy and Andrew later purchase 26 Ramsay Street and are incorporated into the opening credits alongside their daughter Sadie Rodwell. Script producer Shane Isheev referred to the Rodwells as the show's significant new family addition, although plans for more children were halted following the series' cancellation. Wendy was depicted as the community’s gossip, a trait inspired by Leask’s portrayal. She remained through the planned 2022 finale and returned for the Neighbours reboot.

Additional Characters

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Context
4–11 January	Tally Rennick	Karrin Kose	Participates in an illicit blackjack game at 24 Ramsay Street; encourages Hendrix Greyson to raise his wager; later discovered carrying a firearm.
5 January	Mary Barnett	Emily Goddard	Toadfish Rebecchi’s initial Tinder date; discusses her chocolate shop and knitting interests before ending contact.
6 January	Hugh Davis	Adam Waycott	Council member serving as judge for Erinsborough's Best Dish competition; converses about culinary tastes with Dipi Rebecchi.
8–26 January	Jacinta Hay	Maurian Spearim	Councillor and competition judge; hospitalized after illness; later engages Terese Willis on workplace representation and Indigenous affairs.
1–5 February	Mira Dhaliwal	Ashleyrose Gilham	Food safety official who orders Kyle Canning to halt operations at The 82 due to poisonous mushroom concerns; misinterprets Roxy Willis’s actions.
12 February	Rai Yan	Kevin Duong	Student at Erinsborough High who alerts Hendrix Greyson about Brent Colefax’s leaked personal information online.
11 March	Khari Breen	Kulan Farah	University student attempting to flirt with Roxy Willis while offering information about a ring near an attack site; admits having no relevant details.
17 March	Linda Donaldson	Amelia Best	Emmett Donaldson’s aunt planning relocation to New Zealand; discusses foster care options with Aaron Brennan and David Tanaka.
17 March–7 May 2021, 13 July 2022	Holden Brice	Toby Derrick	Gang affiliate involved in crimes impacting Brent Colefax; coerces Brent into concealing stolen items; later apprehended and manipulated by Paul Robinson in gang-related plots.
17 March–29 June	Prue	Uncredited (voice)	A pigeon adopted by Sheila Canning believed to be the reincarnation of Prudence Wallace; causes minor disturbances near The 82 café.
29 March	Rudy Johnson	Isaac Crawley	Performer specializing in penis puppetry mistakenly hired for a Bollywood-themed event organized by Dipi Rebecchi.
4 June, 30 August	Prafulla Sahu	Ravi Chand	Human Resources manager at Lassiter's Hotel involved in discussions regarding Roxy Willis’s employment status and Harlow Robinson’s promotion concerns related to nepotism.
16–30 June	Mitch Foster Nelson Ryker	Kevin Hofbauer Rhys Mitchell	Gang members connected to Levi Canning’s childhood assault; engage in intimidation leading to arrests following police intervention.
18 June–19 July	Maya Velasco	Christina O'Neill	Pregnant attendee of antenatal classes with Nicolette Stone, Aaron Brennan, and David Tanaka; intends to parent alone.
18 June	Dara Kay	Alexander Capper	Facilitator of antenatal sessions attended by key characters.
28 June	Fifi Devenue	Carly Daniels	Friend of Jesse Porter arranged on a date with Ned Willis; interaction incites jealousy from Amy Greenwood.
30 June 2021, 16 March 2022, 27 March–14 November 2024	Travis Kellog	Liam McCarthy	Paramedic responding to multiple emergencies involving main characters such as Yashvi Rebecchi, Mackenzie Hargreaves, Krista Sinclair, Gino Esposito, and Cara Varga-Murphy.
29 July–3 August	Dr. Anna Buke	Fiona Macleod	Medical professional involved in Susan Kennedy’s multiple sclerosis treatment discussions; reveals past affair between husband Justin Buke and Melanie Pearson causing tension including restraining orders.
4 August	Nora Ahmadi	Jessica Lu	University student collaborating with Mackenzie Hargreaves; shares experience of law internship involving workplace misconduct unrelated to Justin Buke.
From 10 August–	Isla Tanaka-Brennan	Axelle Austin / Mary Finn / Hana Abe-Tucker	Infant daughter of Nicolette Stone, David Tanaka, and Aaron Brennan; central figure in custody arrangements encompassing three-way parenting agreement; returns with family in Neighbours reboot.
25 August	Lorant Mathieson	Ronn Kurtz	Director of Shorts and Briefs Film Festival who praises Amy Greenwood for event coordination.
6 September	Justin Buke	Mick O'Malley	Husband of Anna Buke with history of affair involving Melanie Pearson; mediates tensions among characters.
9 September 2021, 5 January & 30 May 2022	Rebecca Wright	Wallis Murphy-Munn	Lassiter's Hotel employee leading strike opposing Harlow Robinson’s promotion; influences staff relations within hotel operations.
13 September	Kevin Irving	Wally Elnour	Bartender serving Harlow Robinson at The Flamingo Bar.
16 September–11 November	Dr Cye Alavi	Amir Rahimzadeh	Physician conducting testicular cancer screenings for Hendrix Greyson and Kyle Canning; informs Kyle about advanced diagnosis following surgery.
27 September	Dion Rivera	PJ Van Gyen	Security personnel at The Pavilion party who removes Hendrix Greyson due to disruptive conduct.
5 October	Greg Cantor	Tony Barea	Owner of Lanzini's restaurant offering Hendrix Greyson culinary work experience based on his skills.
25 October (two entries)	Juliana Ayres & Pia Nash	Chelsea Gibb & Sarah Melody Hallam	Attorneys representing David Tanaka and Aaron Brennan in custody disputes over Isla Tanaka-Brennan; provide legal counsel regarding parental conduct documentation.
1 November	Betty De Silva	Priscilla Castel	Photographer hired for family photoshoot featuring Isla Tanaka-Brennan’s family amid ongoing tensions.
10 November	Seth Okaine	Noah Janssen	Patron at The Flamingo Bar disputing cocktail contents resulting in formal complaint against Roxy Willis.
17 November	Will Attles	Charlie Mycroft	Facilitator of Alcoholics Anonymous meetings attended by Glen Donnelly and Terese Willis.
18 November	Tilda	Natalie Lynch (voice)	Employee at Lassiter's reporting missing wedding ring status to Terese Willis.
30 November 2021, 6 January & 23 February 2022	Scott Triffett	Steven Oktaras	Delivery person handling packages for Ramsay Street residents including Terese Willis and Hendrix Greyson; inconsistently credited as Corey Triffett during final appearance.
1 December	Const. Robert Dolby	Brett Pearce	Police officer making light-hearted remarks regarding Levi Canning’s polyamorous relationship involving Amy Greenwood and Ned Willis.
2 December	Const. Reuben Elliot	Lee Jankowski	Police officer attending Erinsborough Police Ball; makes inappropriate comments about Levi Canning's relationship causing confrontation until Sergeant Andrew Rodwell intervenes.

External links

• Cast and characters on the official Neighbours site
• Cast and characters at the Internet Movie Database