Jarrod McGregor

Home and Away

Company type	Television series
Industry	Entertainment, Television
Founded	January 17, 1988 (1988-01-17)
Founder	Seven Network
Headquarters	Australia
Area served	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 the characters introduced during 2017, arranged by their debut dates. All new characters were brought in under the guidance of executive producer Lucy Addario. The show's 30th season commenced airing on 30 January 2017. The character Riley Hawkins was introduced in the episode following the season premiere. Scarlett Snow arrived in May, succeeded by the Astoni family in June, which includes parents Ben and Maggie, alongside their daughters Coco and Ziggy. Characters Robbo and Jennifer Dutton made their first appearances in July, Beth Ellis in August, Ryder Jackson in October, Willow Harris in November, and finally Jasmine Delaney in December.

Riley Hawkins

Riley Hawkins, played by Ryan O'Kane, was first seen on screen on 31 January 2017. Notably, O'Kane's roommate, Rob Mills, also auditioned for this role but was ultimately unsuccessful. Riley is introduced as a surgeon working at the local hospital and is revealed to be Tori Morgan’s (Penny McNamee) former boyfriend. He steps in to operate on Justin Morgan (James Stewart).

On his initial day at Northern Districts Hospital, Riley treats Justin Morgan and reconnects with Tori, who discloses that she and her siblings are under witness protection. Riley admits to Nate Cooper (Kyle Pryor) his desire to rekindle things with Tori, apologizing for previous unfaithfulness. Despite friction with Nate, Riley conducts a bronchoscopy on Billie Ashford (Tessa de Josselin) that uncovers a mass.

Riley attempts to pursue Tori through a cautious lunch invitation; however, she declines relocating to the city with him due to family obligations. After observing Tori’s growing closeness with Nate, Riley alters Billie’s medical records and lodges a complaint against Nate aiming to have him dismissed. When Tori discovers the tampering, she ends their relationship. Following an argument overheard by Justin, Riley resigns from the hospital and departs from town.

Scarlett Snow

Scarlett Snow, portrayed by Tania Nolan, made her debut on 8 May 2017. At the time Nolan was residing in Los Angeles but traveled to Sydney for a screen test, securing a six-month contract. She described Scarlett as "a bit of a mystery" with a sorrowful history, which influenced her decision to accept the role and move to Sydney.

Within the storyline, Scarlett becomes involved with Brody Morgan (Jackson Heywood), who is evading police attention. Initially detaining him, she later supports Brody in confronting his drug addiction and helps reconnect him with his family. Scarlett disapproves of Justin Morgan’s (James Stewart) methods regarding Brody’s rehabilitation and eventually takes employment at Alf Stewart’s bait shop after her landlord evicts her due to Brody’s theft. She settles a debt owed to Bruno Addlen, who was hired by her estranged husband Caleb to track her down.

Scarlett develops a bond with Justin’s daughter and reveals that she had a son named Max who passed away a year earlier—a tragedy contributing to her fractured marriage. After multiple interactions with Justin—including an unsuccessful romantic advance—they eventually commence a relationship. Scarlett also provides legal assistance to Brody during his court proceedings.

Her estranged husband, Caleb Snow (Josh McConville), reappears in her life, creating emotional turmoil. Following an incident at a bush cabin where Scarlett sustains injuries, Justin ends their relationship due to Caleb’s involvement. Ultimately, Scarlett opts to leave Summer Bay with Caleb, acknowledging the difficulties present in her relationship with Justin.

Ziggy Astoni

Ziggy Astoni, brought to life by Sophie Dillman, made her first appearance on 20 June 2017. She is the oldest child of Ben and Maggie Astoni. The Astoni family marks the soap’s first introduction of a traditional nuclear family unit in 17 years, following the Sutherlands who arrived in 2000. Ziggy is portrayed as a rebellious teenager with a spirited personality and was introduced as a potential romantic interest for Brody Morgan.

Ben Astoni

Ben Astoni, portrayed by Rohan Nichol, also debuted on 20 June 2017. Nichol had a previous role on the series in 2004 and relocated from Melbourne to Manly to be closer to the filming location at Palm Beach. Ben, alongside his wife Maggie and their daughters Coco and Ziggy, moves to Summer Bay. The Astoni family represents the first nuclear family introduced to the show in nearly twenty years. Nichol describes Ben as a devoted and affable character who is deeply committed to his wife.

Maggie Astoni

Maggie Astoni, played by Kestie Morassi, was introduced on 21 June 2017. Morassi’s casting was announced earlier in 2017, with detailed character information released on 4 June. She noted that filming for the show moves at a much faster pace compared to her previous work in film. Maggie relocates to Summer Bay with her husband Ben Astoni (Rohan Nichol) and their daughters Coco (Anna Cocquerel) and Ziggy Astoni (Sophie Dillman). The Astoni family is the first traditional nuclear family added to the soap since the Sutherlands in 2000.

Coco Astoni

Coco Astoni, portrayed by Anna Cocquerel, made her debut on 21 June 2017 as the youngest daughter of Ben and Maggie Astoni. The family’s arrival marked the introduction of Summer Bay’s first nuclear family in almost two decades. Coco’s storylines have included suspension from school due to cyberbullying, conflicts with her siblings, and battling bulimia, which affected both her personal relationships and social interactions.

Throughout her time on the show, Coco forms a friendship with Raffy Morrison and enters into a romantic relationship with VJ Patterson, navigating typical adolescent challenges amid the family’s relocation. Her eating disorder leads to hospitalisation and significantly impacts her connections with friends and family members. Additionally, Coco develops a romantic involvement with Ryder Jackson, experiencing ups and downs including breakups and reunions.

Supporting her mother Maggie during a cancer diagnosis, Coco also takes on the role of maid of honour at sister Ziggy’s wedding. Subsequently, she chooses to attend boarding school in Cairns, which elicits varied responses from her family. Coco makes a brief return to Summer Bay for Raffy’s birthday celebration, where she faces ongoing familial tensions before returning to school.

This storyline underscores Coco’s multifaceted character growth within Home and Away’s evolving family narratives, addressing themes pertinent to young viewers and enhancing the series’ audience engagement.

Robbo

Robbo (also known as John Doe), played by Jake Ryan, made his first appearance on 25 July 2017. Ryan admitted that he was caught off guard by the sudden popularity of the role and had lost 13 kilograms prior to his debut, stepping into the "heart-throb" position previously held by Darryl Braxton (Stephen Peacocke). Initially introduced as a mysterious figure suffering from amnesia, Robbo’s layered identity is gradually revealed over time, concluding with his death in early 2020. Ryan expressed that he chose to leave the series because he felt his "time was done," valuing the significant story arcs he experienced and departing "on a high note."

Robbo’s first scene shows him hiding on a boat, afflicted by post-traumatic amnesia and unable to remember who he is. After stealing food and crossing paths with locals such as Alf Stewart and Constable Kat Chapman, he earns the nickname "Robbo" and is permitted to stay at the Caravan Park. Attempts to piece together his history uncover tattoos connected to a woman named Rose and a burned photograph of them together; later, Rose’s body is discovered. Robbo ultimately decides to stop pursuing his past.

His background deepens when he encounters Dennis Novak, an individual from his concealed life who poses a threat to Kat. In self-defense, Robbo kills Novak but becomes the primary suspect in the case. Subsequent events include a car crash involving Kat, after which Robbo learns of her death along with their unborn child. Returning to Summer Bay, he collapses due to infection and is secretly cared for by friends during his recovery.

Robbo eventually recalls that his real name is Ryan Shaw, an undercover Australian Federal Police (AFP) agent operating under the alias Beckett Reid to investigate those responsible for his family’s murder. His official records were erased to maintain his cover. He had been assigned to protect Kat but lost his memory during this assignment.

After this revelation, Robbo opts not to rejoin the AFP and instead purchases the local gym. He develops a close bond with Jasmine Delaney that grows into a romantic relationship despite initially maintaining friendship boundaries. At the same time, Tori Morgan asks Robbo to father a child through IVF; following her miscarriage, Robbo proposes to Jasmine. Their engagement dissolves when Jasmine discovers that Tori secretly used another embryo to conceive.

Robbo and Jasmine reconcile and marry but are soon taken by AFP agents to a safe house due to ongoing threats against them. Robbo undergoes hypnotherapy in an effort to recover memories related to Dylan Carter’s disappearance; although initially unsuccessful, he eventually recalls crucial information. After suffering a serious car accident and undergoing surgery, Robbo experiences a hemorrhage and dies despite medical intervention. He later appears in Jasmine’s dream, signaling the conclusion of his storyline.

Jennifer Dutton

Jennifer Dutton, portrayed by Brittany Santariga, was introduced on 27 July 2017. Santariga’s casting was announced in June 2017, with Jennifer presented as a high school student who bullies Coco Astoni. Jennifer later becomes romantically involved with Hunter King, creating significant plotlines at Summer Bay High.

Jennifer begins as an antagonist towards Coco by teasing her and causing disruptions, including getting her detention and tampering with her locker. After Raffy Morrison stands up for Coco, Jennifer insults Coco’s appearance, which escalates into a fight resulting in Jennifer’s suspension. She then manipulates Coco’s eating disorder to secure a date with VJ Patterson, causing tension between Coco and Raffy. Jennifer also encourages Raffy to drink excessively during a fashion launch event.

During Summer Bay’s Glow Day obstacle course event, Jennifer injures her wrist and flirts with Mason Morgan, who later rejects her due to personal grief. She supports Hunter King following his breakup with Olivia Fraser Richards and eventually dates Hunter despite Olivia’s disapproval. After an incident involving alcohol at a university party, Jennifer runs away from home and briefly moves in with Hunter before being evicted by Alf Stewart. Following their breakup, Jennifer becomes homeless but ultimately returns to live with her father, Nick Dutton, before departing Summer Bay.

Beth Ellis

Elizabeth "Beth" Ellis, played by Anneliese Apps, made her first appearance on 31 August 2017. Shortly after completing her studies at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts, Apps was cast in this role. She characterized Beth as "playful, complex," and "eccentric," highlighting her intention to inspire and support those around her. Beth was introduced as a romantic partner for Mason Morgan.

Beth initially appears in the hospital setting, offering comfort to Mason while he copes with paralysis. At first, she poses as a nurse but soon discloses that she is actually a patient awaiting a heart transplant due to cardiomyopathy. This shared vulnerability strengthens their bond, leading them to engage in activities such as getting tattoos and visiting a casino together. Their relationship grows deeper despite the obstacles posed by Beth’s health issues.

Mason eventually meets Beth’s parents, Alan and Jackie Ellis, who are unaware of their relationship and caution Mason to keep his distance. Beth confronts her father, affirming her dedication to Mason. As her condition worsens, she requires a stent and is placed high on the transplant list. After a brief period of recovery, Beth experiences a fatal arrhythmia and passes away.

Following her funeral, Mason envisions Beth encouraging him to move on, providing a significant moment in his emotional journey.

Ryder Jackson

Ryder Jackson, portrayed by Lukas Radovich, was introduced on 25 October 2017. Radovich landed this role soon after graduating from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts, marking his acting debut. Ryder is the son of Quinn Jackson (Lara Cox) and grandson of Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher). His initial storyline involves breaking into the Surf Club and attempting to steal from Hunter King (Scott Lee) and VJ Patterson (Matt Little). When confronted about his actions, he reveals his connection to Alf Stewart but does not disclose his mother Quinn’s contact information, causing his aunt Roo Stewart (Georgie Parker) to suspect he has run away from home.

Willow Harris

Willow Harris (also known as Ranger), played by Sarah Roberts, first appeared on 14 November 2017. Roberts initially auditioned for other roles before being cast as Willow, a character described as strong-willed, independent, and fiercely loyal who introduces "mischief and some trouble" to Summer Bay. Portrayed as a "bad girl" with good intentions, Willow’s storyline includes becoming romantically involved with Justin Morgan (James Stewart).

Jasmine Delaney

Jasmine Delaney, brought to life by Sam Frost, debuted on 18 December 2017. Frost’s casting was revealed on 17 July 2017 after she was invited to audition while appearing on Hell's Kitchen Australia. Despite facing tough competition, she secured the part on her second audition, marking her first acting role. Frost expressed enthusiasm about joining the show, having been a longtime viewer of Home and Away.

Her casting attracted some criticism from actors who considered it a publicity move. Jasmine’s storyline begins with a car accident that results in the death of Kat Chapman, portrayed by Pia Miller. Frost described Jasmine as "reserved" with "anxious energy," concealing secrets and carrying a "troubled past."

Others

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Description
31 January–23 November	Luc Patterson	Eva Lockyer, Piper Dickson, Annabel May Sealey, Tayari Gee, Archie Freeland, Sterling McKenna Foster, Anastasia Lee Hayes, Sierra Sila, Lucas Bowman	Luc is the daughter of Billie Ashford and Mick Jennings, conceived following Mick's assault on Billie. Billie allows her partner VJ Patterson to believe he is the father until their wedding day. After fleeing a bushfire, Billie delivers Luc and names her. Mick abducts Luc but later returns her. Billie passes away from terminal cancer while holding Luc. Subsequent custody disputes involve VJ, Leah, Irene, and Ash, leading to serious health complications for Luc including bowel torsion and septicaemia. Ultimately, Mick takes Luc overseas with VJ.
1 February–	Constable Corelli	Nick Cain	Works alongside Kat Chapman investigating an arson case; later discovers CCTV footage showing Robbo being threatened at gunpoint.
2 February	Lactation Consultant	Gail Knight	Provides nursing support to Billie Ashford as she cares for her newborn daughter.
23 February–1 May	Ambulance Officer	Rob Baird	Responsible for transporting patients such as John Palmer and Zac MacGuire to hospital during medical emergencies.
27 February–8 May	Patrick Stanwood	Luke McKenzie	Introduced as the presumed-dead brother of Billie and Ash suffering from PTSD. Moves in with Kat Chapman; faces challenges over Luc’s custody; eventually develops a bond with Luc and seeks professional help.
7 March–15 August	Lena Ascot	Felicity McKay	A university student involved in drug trafficking and a brief relationship with Brody Morgan; subsequently enters rehab and attempts to lure Brody back into substance abuse.
7 March	Byron	Benjamin Winckle	Socially encourages Olivia Fraser Richards; resolves conflicts with Hunter King through Mason Morgan’s intervention.
9 March	Local Woman	Meagan Caratti	Confronts John Palmer about fires he started alongside a local man; causes tension defended by Marilyn Chambers.
	Local Man	James Caitlin
13 March–18 April	Jess Kearney	Jess Bush	Study companion to Olivia Fraser Richards; socially participates in birthday events affecting Hunter King.
21 March	Cal Whitman	Craig Scott	Resident displaced by a bushfire caused by John Palmer; expresses gratitude for John’s assistance to the community.
22 March, 6 December	Terry Diamond	Rob Flanagan	A restaurant critic who initially clashes with chef Brody Morgan but later commends his culinary skills; returns for additional dining experiences.
29 March–3 April	Donna Fields	Melissa Bonne	Visits Summer Bay to reconnect with Phoebe Nicholson; discusses Phoebe’s music career and invites her on a US tour.
29 March–29 August	Lachlan Piers	Warwick Allsopp	John Palmer’s indifferent lawyer providing advice on legal defense tactics; later involved in heritage status matters impacting Ben Astoni’s pier application.
29 March–20 April	James Mayvers	Tim Ross	Roo Stewart’s boyfriend from Hawaii; part of pregnancy and miscarriage storylines; works as a photographer covering John Palmer’s trial.
3 April–30 August	William Zannis	Caleb Alloway	Drug dealer connected to Brody Morgan’s addiction; involved in violent altercations, drug distribution, and kidnapping before being apprehended.

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... (Truncated due to length constraints while maintaining approximately 10% reduction) External links Cast and characters on the Official AU Home and Away website Cast and characters at the Internet Movie Database Ben Astoni profile on the Official AU Home and Away website Coco Astoni profile on the Official AU Home and Away website Ziggy Astoni profile on the Official AU Home and Away website