Jane Holland (Home and Away)
| Company type | Television series |
|---|---|
| Industry | Television |
| Founded | January 17, 1988 |
| Founder | Seven Network |
| Headquarters | Australia |
Area served | Australia |
| Website | 7plus |
Home and Away is an Australian soap opera that premiered on the Seven Network on 17 January 1988. The third season started broadcasting on 8 January 1990. This compilation highlights characters who were introduced in 1990, all under the guidance of executive producer Des Monaghan. In January, Rebekah Elmaloglou made her first appearance as Sophie Simpson. February welcomed Craig McLachlan and Julian McMahon in the roles of schoolteacher Grant Mitchell and soldier Ben Lucini, respectively. March featured Jaiman Paget Bayly joining as the recurring character Murray "Mullet" Jensen. April introduced the Beach House owner Ernie Jacobs (David Weatherley) along with Bridget Jackson (Paula Duncan). In May, Craig Black returned portraying student Paul Jensen, accompanied by Josephine Mitchell as police officer Jane Holland. July brought siblings Blake and Karen Dean, played by Les Hill and Belinda Jarrett. September saw Kate Raison cast as Jennifer Atkinson, a romantic interest for Steven Matheson (Adam Willits). October introduced the divorced father Michael Ross (Dennis Coard) and his son Haydn Ross (Andrew Hill). November featured the arrival of Grant’s sister, Kim Mitchell, portrayed by Rachael Beck.
Sophie Simpson
Sophie Simpson, enacted by Rebekah Elmaloglou, made her debut on 23 January 1990 and remained until 1993. Elmaloglou took a hiatus due to fatigue and ultimately departed to focus on other ventures, citing health issues linked to her demanding schedule. She later returned for guest roles as Sophie in 2002, 2003, and 2005.
Grant Mitchell
Grant Mitchell, played by Craig McLachlan, first appeared on 9 February 1990. Although McLachlan exited the show within the same year, he filmed scenes that aired in 1991, with Grant’s last appearance on 20 September 1991. McLachlan described Grant as "fairly trendy for a teacher," noting his rebellious streak made him popular among students. Nevertheless, Grant was deeply committed to his teaching profession and his students’ welfare. For this portrayal, McLachlan earned the "Most Popular Actor" accolade at the 1991 Logie Awards.
Ben Lucini
Benito "Ben" Lucini, portrayed by Julian McMahon, was featured from 27 February 1990 until 1 May 1991. McMahon secured the role after four auditions, playing Ben—a laid-back, easygoing 21-year-old Italian from a large family. Initially inclined towards partying, Ben matured over time. As a soldier by profession, he developed affection for the town and character Carly Morris (Sharyn Hodgson), eventually leaving military service to settle down. Hodgson described Ben as representing "traditional values" and "stability," traits that contributed to their successful on-screen marriage. McMahon departed during the same year he joined the cast. However, Peter Holmes of The Sydney Morning Herald criticized McMahon’s acting as "wooden," likening it to an exaggerated impression of a Thunderbird.
Mullet
Murray "Mullet" Jensen, played by Jaiman Paget Bayly, appeared from 26 March to 18 July 1990. Characterized as an "energetic and lively eleven-year-old," Mullet is a typical rural boy with a cheeky and adventurous spirit. His nickname stems from his enthusiasm for fishing, which he uses to help support his family financially by selling fish to Ailsa Stewart, due to their limited income.
Mullet forms a friendship with classmate Sally Fletcher, despite her initial irritation at his persistent attention. He struggles with shame about his family’s financial situation, even inventing a story about his mother being hospitalized. Sally comforts him and invites him to attend the wedding of Carly Morris and Ben Lucini. In efforts to impress Sally, Mullet organizes a fishing trip with Tammy Newton, participates in a talent night, and assists in a magic show—though these attempts often end comically or fall short of success.
After briefly adopting a pop star persona, Mullet returns to his original self and joins the wedding reception where he dances with Sally. Though he exits the series soon after, he is later mentioned by Steven Matheson when reminiscing about past relationships.
Ernie Jacobs
Ernie Jacobs, played by David Weatherley, was featured from 16 April 1990 until 9 January 1991.
Ernie leases his beachfront property to Matt Wilson (Greg Benson), Adam Cameron (Mat Stevenson), and Marilyn Chambers (Emily Symons). The tenants devise plans to provoke him: Marilyn seduces Ernie to capture a staged photograph, which Adam then uses to confront him. After Adam damages the kitchen floor while making toffee, he replaces it with turf infested by fleas, causing a pest problem. Ernie threatens to evict them but later decides to run for a council position. When Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher) withdraws due to legal complications, Bobby Simpson (Nicolle Dickson) enters the race against Ernie to prevent his election. Marilyn discovers a compromising letter and, together with Bobby, uses it to blackmail Ernie. Ultimately, Ernie sells the house to Marilyn.
Bridget Jackson
Bridget Jackson, portrayed by Paula Duncan, first appeared on 20 April 1990 with an initial five-week contract; although producers wished to extend her role, Duncan chose other projects and preferred remaining near her family. Bridget is the mother of Emma Jackson (Dannii Minogue). Duncan described Bridget as "utterly dreadful," "unrefined and uneducated," and "a complete nightmare," appreciating the challenging nature of the character and her collaboration with Minogue.
After Emma defends herself against her stepfather, she stays with her aunt Ailsa Stewart (Judy Nunn), unaware that Bridget has another child. Bridget arrives in Summer Bay aiming to gain custody, but Ailsa resists because of their strained history—Ailsa had killed their abusive father. Bridget claims separation from her husband Barry, yet Ailsa remains doubtful. Eventually, Bridget persuades Emma to return home by offering gifts and spending time with her. However, Emma later comes back, revealing Bridget has reconciled with Barry, indicating little change in her behavior.
Paul Jensen
Paul Jensen, enacted by Craig Black, made his debut on 8 May 1990. Black had earlier appeared as Travis in a single episode. Paul is a 17-year-old student and shop assistant, son of Michael and Lorraine Jensen, and elder brother to Murray "Mullet" Jensen. He is characterized as warm, articulate, academically gifted beyond average, and musically talented—surpassing his father Michael’s failed country music career.
Lorraine initially forbids Paul from pursuing music, banning instruments at home despite his self-taught talent practiced secretly during school breaks. Teacher Grant Mitchell recognizes Paul's abilities and encourages him to apply for a music scholarship; however, Paul declines and chooses instead to work at Alf Stewart's shop in order to purchase a second-hand piano. Lorraine disapproves of his dedication, considering it a waste of effort.
Grant organizes a talent showcase for Paul’s skills, but Paul initially refuses to take part. He develops a friendship and romantic interest in Emma Jackson, who is dating Adam Cameron at the time. Emma admires Paul's music and eventually kisses him, though she remains involved with Adam. Lorraine later supports Paul's musical pursuits, leading him to perform at the concert.
When Adam learns about Paul’s relationship with Emma, he insults Paul's father and challenges Paul to a fight. Alf arranges a fair boxing match with training assistance from himself and Steven Matheson. The fight intensifies until Emma and others disrupt it by dousing both fighters with water. Paul feels hurt by Emma’s interference but they reconcile after she explains her reasons.
Following exam papers being planted in Emma's locker by Vicki Baxter—which results in Emma’s expulsion—Paul doubts her innocence and they break up. Alongside Steven, Paul uncovers Vicki’s scheme by pretending to be in a relationship with her. Emma forgives Paul later; she accepts a job opportunity on the Gold Coast, ending their romantic involvement but expressing a desire to remain friends.
Jane Holland
Jane Holland, brought to life by Josephine Mitchell, made her first appearance on 22 June 1990. Mitchell started filming in April 1990 under a contract lasting two months. Jane is introduced as a young police constable and serves as a romantic interest for Grant Mitchell (Craig McLachlan). Having previously acted in A Country Practice, Mitchell described Jane as a more assertive character, appreciating the chance to explore a different persona. The opportunity to work alongside McLachlan was a significant reason she accepted the role.
Upon arriving in Summer Bay for work, Jane quickly begins a relationship with Grant. She arrests Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher) for driving under the influence, which results in his license being suspended. Following a shootout at Yabbie Creek that claims the life of an officer, Jane is discovered alive but emotionally shaken. Later, she detains two men who are bothering Marilyn Chambers (Emily Symons) at the local diner. Concerned about her wellbeing, Grant advises Jane to take a break, prompting her to contemplate quitting. Their romance eventually ends, and Jane returns to serve with the city police force.
Blake Dean
Blake Dean, portrayed by Les Hill, was introduced on 26 July 1990. Hill had previous television experience through G.P.. His casting, alongside Belinda Jarrett who played his sister Karen Dean, was publicized before their arrival on screen. Hill found adapting to the rapid pace of production challenging.
The Home and Away Annual characterized Blake as the "kind of boy any parent would be proud to have as a son"—energetic, charismatic, and quick-witted, traits that often help him avoid trouble. He also takes on a protective role toward his sister Karen. Although Hill announced his departure from the series later on, he has returned for special episodes such as the fourteenth anniversary and the milestone 4,000th episode.
Karen Dean
Karen Dean, enacted by Belinda Jarrett, first appeared on 26 July 1990. A fan of Home and Away, Jarrett had no previous television acting experience before joining the cast. She and Les Hill were cast as siblings Karen and Blake Dean, arriving in Summer Bay following their mother Margot's death from cancer. Initially residing with an uncaring uncle, the siblings eventually move in with Ailsa and Alf Stewart after experiencing poor treatment elsewhere. Karen and Blake were introduced with storylines designed to engage viewers.
Karen is described as a "somewhat reserved" 15-year-old who struggles with body image issues. She enjoys popularity at school and shows early romantic interest but tends to avoid boys her own age. In March 1991, Seven Network chose not to renew Jarrett’s contract due to the character's low visibility and limited audience appeal. Karen’s departure was broadcast on 27 August 1991; however, she made a brief return in 1993 after being released from prison.
Seeking refuge from their uncle Alec Dean’s harshness, Karen and Blake turn to Ailsa Stewart, a close friend of their late mother. They quickly become involved in various local storylines including Karen’s unreturned affection for Steven Matheson and conflicts arising when new deputy principal Alan Stone reinstates corporal punishment by caning. Karen later develops feelings for Haydn Ross, which creates tension with Sophie Simpson but ultimately leads to reconciliation within their friend group.
Karen’s narrative takes a darker direction when she becomes involved with Maurice "Revhead" Gibson, a known criminal who drags her into thefts including robbing Alf Stewart’s store. After a car accident during an escape attempt results in David Croft’s death, Karen is arrested and sentenced to two years’ imprisonment.
Upon her parole release in early 1993, Karen returns to Summer Bay to live once again with the Stewarts and meets her half-sister Roxanne Miller. Her persistent rebelliousness causes friction with Blake and others. Following another theft from Ailsa, Karen flees to the city; Blake follows her there to provide support and keeps watch over her.
This storyline explores themes of troubled adolescence and the possibility of redemption within the broader context of the show’s narrative.
Jennifer Atkinson
Jennifer Atkinson, brought to life by Kate Raison, made her first appearance on 12 September 1990. Her casting, initially announced in TV Week on 4 August 1990, highlighted an eight-week guest stint under the name Jennifer Stewart. Jennifer's narrative centered around a contentious relationship with the adolescent Steven Matheson (Adam Willits), characterized as a "passionate affair" with profound emotional consequences.
As a cousin to Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher), Jennifer visits Summer Bay while hiding troubles stemming from her husband, Daniel Atkinson (Ken Radley), who struggles with alcoholism and abusive behavior. Steven becomes infatuated with Jennifer and embarks on a relationship with her, deceiving others about his age and schooling. Tensions arise due to jealousy over Alan Stone (Philip Hinton). When Alan informs Daniel about the liaison, Daniel assaults Steven. Jennifer ends the relationship and departs from Summer Bay, urging Steven to return to his studies. She later sends him a Christmas card; although he considers visiting her, he ultimately decides against it.
Michael Ross
Michael Ross, portrayed by Dennis Coard, entered the series on 22 October 1990 alongside his son Haydn Ross (Andrew Hill). As proprietor of the local boat shed and a foster parent, Michael quickly became a pivotal figure and romantic partner for Pippa Fletcher (Debra Lawrance). Their relationship evolved amidst challenges such as family doubts and the reappearance of Michael’s former wife Cynthia (Belinda Giblin), who attempted unsuccessfully to revive their marriage.
Michael oversaw several business enterprises including the boat shed, caravan park, and surf club kiosk. Financial difficulties arose when Haydn’s gambling addiction led him to steal loan funds, plunging Michael into debt. To aid in sustaining the boat shed, Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher) later joined as a silent partner.
After overcoming initial reservations, Michael and Pippa married and adopted Pippa’s son Christopher. They endured heartbreak with the loss of their infant son Dale due to SIDS, which tested but did not dissolve their union. The couple also fostered children such as Maya Krakajcek following a plane crash; however, she was eventually reunited with family overseas.
In 1996, producers decided to conclude Michael’s storyline by having him perish during a flood rescue mission. His courageous death ended his five-and-a-half-year presence on the show. Dennis Coard embraced this definitive exit as an opportunity to explore new ventures.
Haydn Ross
Haydn Ross, played by Andrew Hill, first appeared on 31 October 1990 and departed on 17 September 1991, returning briefly in 1994 and 1996. Hill obtained the role unexpectedly due to an agent’s mistake. In 1991, he chose to leave the series. Haydn is the son of Cynthia (Belinda Giblin) and Michael Ross (Dennis Coard) and attends private school supported by his father’s business success. According to the Home and Away Annual, Haydn is portrayed as "athletic and determined like his father" while sharing his mother’s appreciation for "culture and a comfortable lifestyle," embodying a mix of ambition and sophistication.
Kim Mitchell
Kim Mitchell, portrayed by Rachael Beck, made her debut on 8 November 1990 as the sibling of the established character Grant Mitchell (Craig McLachlan). Although producers proposed a twelve-month contract to secure Kim as a regular character, Beck declined to avoid being typecast.
At sixteen, Kim arrives in Summer Bay hiding a drug dependency. Despite her polished look and fashionable attire, she battles with substance abuse, justifying it as part of youthful indulgence. During a visit to Grant, she steals money first from his flatmate Matt Wilson (Greg Benson) and later from Carly Lucini (Sharyn Hodgson) to sustain her addiction.
Her drug problem is uncovered by Matt and Steven Matheson (Adam Willits), who encourage her to be truthful. After Kim forges a cheque to pay the dealer Eddie (Peter Williams), Steven informs Grant, who confronts Kim when he discovers speed pills. Grant arranges for her rehabilitation, even giving up his teaching role at Summer Bay High to support her recovery. He contacts their parents without disclosing the drug issue but warns Kim that he will inform them if she relapses. Several months later, Grant returns with news of Kim's improvement.
Others
| Date(s) | Character | Actor | Role Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 January | Robbo | Ned Manning | Veterinarian brought by shark hunter Zac Burgess (Mark Conroy) to investigate the cause of death of Rory Heywood (Gregor Jordan). Adam Cameron (Mat Stevenson) and Andrew Foley (Peter Bensley) ask Robbo to examine the shark, which is ultimately cleared. |
| 29 January | Henry Thompson | Tim Allen | Potential purchasers of the Blaxland mansion who are discouraged by an exorcism performed by Emma Jackson (Dannii Minogue) and Celia Stewart (Fiona Spence) due to beliefs that the property is haunted. |
| Doris Thompson | Jane Archer | ||
| 2–16 February | Greta | Jodie Gilles | Friend of Marilyn Chambers (Emily Symons). Initially rejected by Martin Dibble (Craig Thomson) because of her looks but later gains his attention before leaving. |
| 9 February–1 March | Detective Hunt | Kim Knuckey | Arrests Donald Fisher (Norman Coburn) on suspicion of Shane Wilson's murder. Investigates blackmail involving Al Simpson (Terence Donovan). Following a hostage crisis involving Bobby Simpson, Sophie Simpson, and Matt Wilson, arrests Al after his confession. |
| 27 February–8 March | Dave Porter | John Adam | Ben Lucini's (Julian McMahon) army comrade whose disruptive antics irritate Ben and sabotage bets involving Adam Cameron (Mat Stevenson) and others. |
| 12 March | Travis | Craig Black | Student in Grant Mitchell's (Craig McLachlan) Year 12 class. |
| 30 March–3 April | Reverend Christopher Goodhope | Ron Becks | African clergyman hosted by Celia Stewart for fundraising purposes. Mistakenly arrested as a burglar but later released. Eventually relocates to the city; Celia joins him as a missionary. |
| 6 April 1990, 21 May 2007 – 26 January 2012 |
Delivery Man | Steve Cox | Delivery person appearing intermittently between 1990 and 2012, responsible for delivering items such as a cot and a cake to the Surf Club and residents. |
| 16 April–11 September | Des Thompson | Brian Harrison | Bank manager who approves loans for Carly Morris (Sharyn Hodgson) and subsequently for Carly and Ben Lucini to purchase the local boatshed. |
| 17–26 April | Melody | Suzi Dougherty | Rents a room with Adam Cameron and Matt Wilson; unreliable in paying rent. Moves in her boyfriend Bruce; both are intimidated by flatmates who exploit Bruce's fear of snakes to force them out. |
| 18 April | Peter Butcher | Matthew Booker | Year 10 student who mocks Sophie Simpson for her illiteracy. |
| 25–26 April | Bruce | Bill Charlton | Melody's boyfriend recently released from prison; his violent reputation frightens flatmates until they use his fear of snakes to evict him. |
| 3 May–17 July | Minister | John Mann | Local clergyman officiating Tom Fletcher's funeral and Carly Morris' wedding to Ben Lucini. |
| 8 May–19 June | Lorraine Jensen | Elizabeth Chance | Mother of Paul and Murray Jensen; supports family through work at local bookie's; initially opposes Paul's piano aspirations but eventually accepts them. |
| 15 May–27 July | Doctor Walker | Earle Cross | Local physician treating Marilyn Chambers for chickenpox, Ben Lucini for food poisoning, and diagnosing Bobby Simpson's pregnancy. |
| 21–24 May | Helen Wakefield | Shayne Foote | Social worker investigating abuse allegations concerning Tammy Newton; facilitates reunion between Tammy, Viv Newton, and their estranged mother Angela Newton. |
| 21–23 May | Megan Tierney | Pamela Hawkesford | Carly Morris' affluent former school friend who looks down on Summer Bay; her extravagant spending causes tension with husband Julian during dinner with Carly and Ben Lucini. |
| 23 May | Julian Tierney | Cranston Brecht | Megan Tierney's wealthy spouse who argues with her over expenditures during dinner with Carly Morris and Ben Lucini. |
| 23–25 May | "Angela Newton'" | "Annie Byron" | "Estranged mother of Viv and Tammy Newton who reunites with daughters after being hidden from them due to their father's religious fanaticism; family moves to Queensland." |
| 29 May–5 September | Chris Reynolds | Jay Hackett | Participant in dating agency competing for Bobby Simpson’s attention; revealed to be married; later involved in custody battle over daughter Suzie before attempting reconciliation prior to departure. |
| 29 May–19 October | Geoff Lime | William Usic | Rival suitor for Bobby Simpson following her divorce; supports her during pregnancy; proposes but engagement ends after Bobby reconsiders. |
| 12–15 June | Gus | Harry Lawrence | Homeless man who befriends Sophie Simpson; assists her return to school through a staged treasure hunt ploy. |
| 27 June–23 July | Sheree Anderson | Beth Champion | Friend of Vicki Baxter; witness to Vicki’s plots against Emma Jackson including framing Emma for exam theft and trying to seduce Paul Jensen. |
| 11–18 July | Francesca Lucini | Kim Leon | Sister of Ben Lucini; attracted to Steven Matheson causing conflict with cousin Angelo who also shows interest in her. |
| Gina Lucini | Arianthe Galani | Ben Lucini’s mother; takes charge of Fletcher household during preparations for son’s wedding. | |
| Antonio Lucini | Alistair Duncan | Father of Ben Lucini; provides support throughout wedding events. | |
| 12–18 July | Angelo | Raj Sidhu | Cousin and best man at Ben Lucini’s wedding; causes disturbances including near-accident with Alf Stewart and confrontation with Steven Matheson; involved in prank delaying wedding; rejected by Francesca after inappropriate conduct at reception. |
| 30 July | Alec Dean | Norm Galton | Uncle to Blake and Karen Dean who assumes guardianship following sister Margot’s death. After the teenagers run away due to dissatisfaction with farm life, agrees they stay with Ailsa Stewart and Alf Stewart in Summer Bay. |
| 9 August | Anna | Rebecca George | Cousin of Vicki Baxter involved in framing Emma Jackson for exam theft; tracked down by Steven Matheson and Paul Jensen leading to Vicki’s confession and Emma’s reinstatement. |
| 29 August–5 September | Wendy Reynolds | Liz Newman | Chris Reynolds’ wife who leaves him after affairs are exposed; stays locally with daughter Suzie while visiting friend; confronts Chris over paternity issues resulting in custody dispute resolved by Suzie returning to Wendy. |
| Suzie Reynolds | Sophia Davidson | Daughter of Chris and Wendy Reynolds involved in custody dispute amid parental separation. | |
| 6 September | Vince McGrath | Felix Nobis | Delivery person from Coastal Video dating Marilyn Chambers until jealousy from housemate Adam Cameron ends relationship. |
| 10 September – 12 October | Fred Owens | Keith Holloway | Owner of local boatshed considered for purchase by Ben Lucini and Carly Morris; accepts higher bid from Michael Ross instead. |
| 14 September – 17 October | Hazel Lime | Kaye Stevenson | Geoff Lime’s mother who initially disapproves of his relationship with Bobby Simpson but later supports them including attending family meal where Geoff proposes. |
| 19 September–2 November | Alan Stone | Philip Hinton | Newly appointed Deputy Principal at Summer Bay High revealed as violent alcoholic enforcing corporal punishment. Targets Blake Dean and Karen Dean leading to conflicts culminating in transfer after intervention by Donald Fisher. |
| 9–16 October | Daniel Atkinson | Ken Radley | Violent alcoholic husband of Jennifer Atkinson confronting her relationship with Steven Matheson. Assaults Steven leading to charges after intervention by Ben Lucini, Carly Morris, and Grant Mitchell. |
| 14 November | Eddie | Peter Williams | Drug dealer supplying Kim Mitchell who is warned off by Steven Matheson. |
| "19 November 1990 – 8 March 1991" | Patricia Coleman | Pam Western | Former nun teaching at Summer Bay High supporting Blake Dean through grief while befriending Donald Fisher. Develops mutual feelings with Donald but position terminated leading her and Grant Mitchell to relocate for new roles outside Summer Bay. |
References
- Desmond, Kesta. Home and Away Annual. Grandreams Ltd, 1990. ISBN 0-86227-787-6.
- Desmond, Kesta; Nicholls, David. Home and Away Annual Authorised Edition. Grandreams Ltd, 1992. ISBN 0-86227-863-5.
- Hopwood, Clive. Home and Away Special. World International Publishing LTD, 1990. ISBN 0-7235-6899-5.
External links
- Cast and characters on the official Australian Home and Away site
- Cast and characters at the official UK Home and Away website
- Full cast list on the Internet Movie Database