Jase McKenzie

Home and Away

Company type	Television series
Industry	Television, Entertainment
Founded	January 17, 1988 (1988-01-17)
Headquarters	Australia
Area served	Australia

Home and Away is a long-running Australian soap opera that premiered on the Seven Network on 17 January 1988. This compilation highlights characters introduced during 2011, all under the guidance of series producer Cameron Welsh. The show's twenty-fourth season began broadcasting on 24 January 2011. In February, viewers met the Braxton siblings—Darryl, Heath, and Casey. April saw the arrival of Miranda Jacobs and Kieran Monroe, followed by Marty Jones in June. July introduced Tegan Callahan alongside Gang Member Jake Pirovic, portrayed by Fletcher Humphrys. August featured new characters including Harvey Ryan, Hammer, Stu Henderson, and Sasha Bezmel. In September, Shane Emmett appeared as Mark Gilmour, with lawyer Hayley O'Connor joining the cast in October.

Darryl Braxton

Darryl "Brax" Braxton, enacted by Steve Peacocke, made his debut on 16 February 2011. The casting announcement was made on 9 January 2011. Peacocke described the audition experience as highly enjoyable. As the eldest of the Braxton brothers, collectively known as The River Boys, Brax is part of a notorious surf gang with a rebellious reputation. Although he carries a "chip on his shoulder" and a questionable reputation, he is also revered as a surfing icon among his peers, a status he uses to his advantage. Peacocke explained that Brax is determined to overcome his difficult childhood and establish a stable family environment. He takes on the responsibility of guiding his younger brothers, Heath (Dan Ewing) and Casey (Lincoln Younes), away from trouble. Soon after his arrival, Darryl enters into a romantic relationship with Charlie Buckton (Esther Anderson). For this portrayal, Peacocke earned the 2012 Logie Award for Most Popular New Male Talent.

Heath Braxton

Heath Braxton, brought to life by Daniel Ewing, first appeared on-screen on 16 February 2011, exited on 29 July 2014, and briefly returned for a single episode on 23 September 2014. As the middle Braxton sibling, Heath was recognized for his volatile temper and being "dreaded by both law enforcement and locals of Mangrove River." Ewing’s casting was revealed on 24 September 2010, marking his second stint on Home and Away. To prepare for the role, Ewing enhanced his physical fitness to match the producers’ preference for a surfer's physique, despite admitting he lacked actual surfing skills.

Casey Braxton

Casey Braxton, portrayed by Lincoln Younes, debuted on 17 February 2011 and departed on 16 September 2014. The youngest member of the Braxton family, Casey aimed to distance himself from the River Boys' reputation and had been expelled from his former school. Upon securing this role, Younes delayed plans to travel to London and relocated to Sydney. Casey is depicted as a "contemporary Rebel Without a Cause," grappling with identity issues and overshadowed by his older brothers. He later becomes involved romantically with Ruby Buckton (Rebecca Breeds), following her previous relationship with Romeo Smith (Luke Mitchell).

Miranda Jacobs

Miranda Jacobs, played by Ashley Cheadle, made her first appearance on 6 April 2011. She comes to Summer Bay to take part in the Surf Carnival and briefly becomes involved romantically with Xavier Austin.

Cheadle, who is a professional surfer, joined Home and Away portraying a romantic interest for an existing character. Miranda’s character defies the conventional Summer Bay surfer image. She competes against Ruby Buckton (Rebecca Breeds) during the Surf Carnival, with both actresses performing their own surfing stunts. The storyline involving Miranda serves to challenge Xavier's maturity; although initially attracted to him, she grows frustrated after discovering he lied about attending university. Despite giving him another chance, Xavier ultimately fails to regain her confidence.

Miranda’s narrative includes participation in social gatherings such as parties and art shows, where she engages with notable characters like Ruby Buckton, Casey Braxton, and April Scott. Gina Austin invites her to speak at Summer Bay High School, emphasizing Miranda’s involvement in the community. At the Surf Carnival, Miranda emerges victorious following a disputed race against Ruby, with Xavier defending her against cheating allegations.

Her role on the series was recurring but limited in duration, with no official confirmation regarding how long she would remain.

Kieran Monroe

Kieran Monroe, portrayed by Andrew Hazzard, made his debut on 6 April 2011 as a student and romantic interest for Indigo Walker. His relentless pursuit of Indigo often gave off an unsettling impression. Hazzard described Kieran as a driven individual focused on academic success and aspiring to become a farmer and family man. Despite facing obstacles, Kieran stays committed to both his educational ambitions and personal goals.

Kieran meets Indigo at a party and quickly develops feelings for her, attempting to impress her family to strengthen their bond. He is aware of Indigo’s past relationship with ex-boyfriend Romeo Smith and perceives Romeo as a rival. Hazzard explained that although Kieran possesses a "dangerous streak," he does not intend harm; his actions are motivated by emotional distress and love-fueled desperation.

As their interactions progress, Kieran’s behavior intensifies from flirtatious to obsessive, including an incident where he tries to take Indigo in his car against her wishes—an act driven more by concern for her wellbeing than malicious intent. This complexity paints Kieran as a lovesick character whose potentially threatening actions stem from misguided emotions.

Critics labeled Kieran as "freaky," "a stalker," and "an overly intense suitor," underscoring the tension his presence brought to the storyline. His character highlighted themes of obsession and emotional instability within the show’s romantic plots.

Marty Jones

Marty Jones, portrayed by Matty Lui, first appeared on 27 June 2011. Lui earned the role following an audition held in Hawaii. As a five-time Hawaiian surf champion, Lui’s surfing expertise was woven into Marty’s character arc. During filming, Lui also taught co-star Samara Weaving how to surf.

The storyline involves Roo Stewart (Georgie Parker), Romeo Smith (Luke Mitchell), and Indi Walker (Weaving) traveling to Hawaii for a tourism event. Marty acts as a business associate of Roo and Romeo, with Indi helping to win him over. Marty offers Indi employment, which she declines. He supports Indi and Romeo’s marriage throughout their visit. Meanwhile, Roo spends time with Marty to avoid confronting issues related to Sid Walker (Robert Mammone); Marty encourages Roo to acknowledge her feelings for Sid.

Tegan Callahan

Tegan Mary Callahan, portrayed by Saskia Burmeister, appeared as a recurring character from 4 July to 8 September 2011. She is introduced as Darryl Braxton's (Steve Peacocke) former partner who comes to Summer Bay with the intention of rekindling their relationship. Burmeister described Tegan as a cunning and "mischievous" figure, marking a departure from her typical roles. Her casting was revealed on 24 April 2011, and Burmeister expressed enthusiasm about the possibility of reprising the role.

Tegan operates under the direction of Darryl’s mother, Cheryl, investigating his life amid ongoing tensions between them. She confronts Darryl regarding his new romance with Charlie Buckton (Esther Anderson), aiming to undermine their relationship. Despite Darryl’s warnings, Tegan remains steadfast in her efforts to create disruption.

Her narrative arc involves connections with Jake Pirovic (Fletcher Humphrys), participation in drug-related activities, and a short-lived reunion with Darryl that sparks conflict with Charlie. Tegan discloses that Darryl is the father of her daughter Darcy but later reveals that Heath Braxton is actually the biological parent. After suffering injuries in a car crash and being hospitalized, Tegan dies, having confessed that she informed Hammer about Darryl and Charlie’s relationship.

Burmeister’s interpretation brought heightened dramatic intensity to the series, emphasizing the intricate family dynamics within the Braxton clan and influencing major plotlines centered on loyalty and betrayal.

Harvey Ryan

Harvey Ryan, played by Marcus Graham, made his first appearance on 10 August 2011. Originally cast for a short-term guest stint, Graham extended his involvement through 2012 due to his interest in continuing with the show. Harvey is depicted as an accomplished sailor and boating expert who manages a fishing charter business in Summer Bay. Known for his charm and competence, he frequently finds himself at odds with locals such as Romeo Smith (Luke Mitchell) over competitive disputes involving boat moorings and client poaching.

Graham completed filming by mid-2013, with his departure described as amicable. He remained open to future returns.

During his time on the show, Harvey was involved in multiple business rivalries and personal conflicts: contesting mooring rights with Romeo and Alf Stewart; vying for control of a marina contract; and eventually partnering with Alf by combining Harvey's mooring privileges with Alf's boat operations. His romantic relationship with Roo Stewart (Georgie Parker) developed alongside these tensions but was complicated by accusations of sabotage and breaches of trust.

Harvey successfully campaigned against Alf for a council position, using his role to oppose a proposed resort development—a move that sparked allegations of corruption. After being accused of election rigging, Harvey resigned from council and faced penalties including community service and fines. Financial difficulties forced him to sell his home and move in with Roo.

Family matters intensified upon the arrival of Harvey’s ex-wife Melissa and their daughter Lottie. Following the death of Harvey’s son Ben, a custody battle over Lottie ensued, ultimately resulting in Lottie choosing to live with Melissa. Harvey proposed marriage to Roo; despite challenges such as a brief affair with Melissa, they wed and jointly managed the local caravan park.

Later storylines featured Harvey taking guardianship of teenage runaways Maddy Osborne and Spencer Harrington, who came to live at Summer Bay House. After disappearing during a fishing trip with his close friend Winston Markman, Harvey returned altered and soon divorced Roo, deciding to leave Summer Bay to begin afresh.

Jake Pirovic

Jake Pirovic, played by Fletcher Humphrys, made his debut on 22 July 2011 and exited on 23 January 2012, with a subsequent comeback in 2014. According to Humphrys' colleague Tai Hara, who portrays Andy Barrett, Jake serves as a figure who provides Andy with a sense of validation despite his morally ambiguous nature. Jake’s return arc concluded with a homicide.

As the leader of a competing surf gang opposing the River Boys, Jake was romantically involved with Tegan Callahan (Saskia Burmeister). He was apprehended alongside Heath Braxton (Dan Ewing) following a police raid on his gang’s drug operation but was subsequently freed. Jake demanded the return of his narcotics from Darryl (Steve Peacocke) and abducted their sibling Casey (Lincoln Younes) and Ruby Buckton (Rebecca Breeds). In exchange for Casey and Ruby’s release, Brax returned the drugs; however, missing quantities prompted Jake to stab Brax. After being detained, Jake was incarcerated where his brother Hammer (Benedict Samuel) assumed leadership but was later killed by Charlie Buckton (Esther Anderson). Following his release, Jake sought revenge by murdering Charlie. After numerous clashes with Brax, Jake was again taken into custody.

Two years onward, Jake resurfaced as the head of a drug trafficking gang to whom Andy Barrett owed money. His crew included second-in-command Cody Dalton (Aaron Glenane). Jake orchestrated assaults and kidnappings to coerce Andy. Holding Brax responsible for Hammer’s death, he manipulated Andy into aiding him with plans to eliminate Brax. When Andy withdrew his support, Jake kidnapped Josh MacGuire, using him as leverage. During an attempted rescue, Jake shot Casey Braxton, who later succumbed to his injuries.

Despite Casey’s passing, Jake showed no remorse and persisted in targeting Brax. A high-speed chase culminated in Brax crashing into Jake’s vehicle, causing severe injuries. Jake was hospitalized and placed in a medically induced coma. Senior Sergeant Mike Emerson (Cameron Stewart) disclosed that Jake had been transferred from prison to a low-security psychiatric institution after being found not criminally responsible for shooting Charlie two years earlier—a facility from which he escaped.

Brax urged doctor Nate Cooper (Kyle Pryor) to let Jake die; upon refusal, Brax attempted to disconnect life support but was arrested. Later, Andy clandestinely terminated Jake’s life support, leading to his death.

Hammer

Harman "Hammer" Pirovic, portrayed by Benedict Samuel, first appeared on 22 August 2011. Announced on 30 July 2011, Hammer is affiliated with a gang rivaling the River Boys and acts as the enforcer under his brother Jake (Fletcher Humphrys). Despite his slender frame, Hammer is characterized as a "big, tough individual with substantial attitude" who assumes control of the gang during Jake’s incarceration.

Hammer's involvement includes intensifying hostilities against the Braxton brothers, issuing threats and retaliating violently after Heath Braxton became an informant facilitating Jake's early release. His faction carried out attacks and arson against their adversaries, provoking police intervention and further violent measures such as forcibly removing a tattoo from Stu Henderson (Brenton Thwaites).

Law enforcement encounters featured a traffic stop conducted by Charlie Buckton (Esther Anderson) and Georgina Watson that revealed weapons in Hammer’s vehicle. Following the death of Jake's partner Tegan Callahan (Saskia Burmeister), Hammer issued lethal threats toward Brax and targeted Charlie. After arranging Charlie's abduction to draw out Brax, the confrontation culminated in Charlie fatally shooting Hammer.

This narrative underscores Hammer’s function as an enforcer and antagonist within the gang conflicts depicted in the series, emphasizing themes of allegiance, power struggles, and violent revenge.

Stu Henderson

Stuart "Stu" Henderson, played by Brenton Thwaites, made his first appearance on 23 August 2011. Shortly after moving from Cairns to Sydney, Thwaites landed a recurring role lasting five months on Home and Away, which he regarded as an important opportunity to develop his skills alongside encouraging cast members. Stu was introduced as a fresh addition to the Bay's River Boys, playing a central part in a significant storyline throughout 2011.

As a member of the River Boys, Stu became a source of conflict, particularly clashing with Hammer's faction. The rivalry intensified after Stu and Heath Braxton damaged Hammer’s vehicle, sparking a gang feud that escalated when Stu was assaulted and forcibly had his "Blood & Sand" tattoo removed. This event heightened the hostility between the rival groups.

Stu entered into a romantic relationship with Sasha Bezmel, despite her father Sid Walker’s objections. Their volatile relationship featured instances where Stu requested intimate photographs, professed his love, and exhibited abusive actions—including repeatedly slapping Sasha. The relationship ended when Sasha rejected him, prompting Stu to steal Xavier Austin’s car in an attempt to win her back. Subsequently, Sasha experienced complications from an infected tattoo she had gotten based on Stu’s design.

During the Year 12 formal, Stu harassed and physically attacked Sasha; Sid responded by violently confronting Stu, which led to Stu being hospitalized and charged with assault. After their fathers confronted each other, Stu disclosed that he had been abused by his own father, Alan Henderson, and chose to leave Summer Bay.

Later, Alf Stewart discovered Stu’s deceased body near the caravan park, initiating a police inquiry. Sasha admitted to killing Stu in self-defense during an altercation where he struck his head on a rock after she pushed him away. It was uncovered that Dennis Harling relocated Stu’s body to the park. Ultimately, Sasha was acquitted of the charges.

Sasha Bezmel

Sasha Bezmel, portrayed by Demi Harman, first appeared on 31 August 2011. Although Isabelle Cornish initially auditioned for the role, Harman was ultimately cast and moved from Brisbane to Sydney for filming. Sasha is the fifteen-year-old illegitimate daughter of Sid Walker (Robert Mammone). Following her mother’s death in a car accident, Sasha relocates to Summer Bay to live with her father and half-siblings. Harman characterized Sasha as "sassy, angry, stubborn and rebellious." The official show website described her as fiercely independent and prone to risky decisions typical of adolescence. For this portrayal, Harman earned a nomination for "Most Popular New Female Talent" at the 2012 Logie Awards.

Mark Gilmour

Mark Gilmour, enacted by Shane Emmett, debuted on 22 September 2011 in a substantial guest capacity. Emmett is the brother of the late Home and Away actress Belinda Emmett. Mark is introduced as Gypsy Nash’s (Kimberley Cooper) affluent boyfriend. Their relationship encounters difficulties due to Gypsy’s daughter, Lily Smith (Charlie Rose Maclennan), who struggles with accepting Mark. During his stay in Summer Bay, Mark clashes with Lily and proposes sending her to boarding school—a suggestion Gypsy opposes. After learning about Gypsy’s previous one-night encounter with Liam Murphy (Axle Whitehead), Mark confronts Liam and subsequently ends his relationship with Gypsy.

Hayley O'Connor

Hayley O'Connor, brought to life by Alyssa McClelland, made her first appearance on 10 October 2011. McClelland had earlier featured in Home and Away playing Brooke MacPherson.

Hayley works as an attorney for Casey Braxton (Lincoln Younes) and stands by his brother, Darryl "Brax" (Steve Peacocke), throughout his incarceration. Peacocke characterized Hayley as "shrewd," taking advantage of Brax’s fragile condition, which adds complexity to her intentions in Summer Bay. This relationship creates friction with Brax’s intermittent partner, Charlie Buckton (Esther Anderson), who grows suspicious that Brax has moved forward after witnessing interactions between Hayley and Brax.

She acts as Casey’s defense lawyer against arson accusations; despite her advocacy, Casey is found guilty and sent to Juvenile Detention. Subsequently, she misleads Charlie into believing she is romantically involved with Brax, intensifying their rivalry. Hayley spends a night with Brax and later serves as his alibi in a robbery case but retracts her statement, admitting it was fabricated before departing the area.

Her return occurs when Heath Braxton (Dan Ewing) hires her to stop Bianca Scott (Lisa Gormley) from taking his child away. Upon meeting Brax again, she admits to orchestrating a setup that led to the release of Jake Pirovic (Fletcher Humphrys) due to a prior drug addiction. Brax blames her for Charlie’s death but ultimately lets her leave.

Others

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Role Description
24 January – 5 October	Judge/Magistrate Hanson	Rhett Walton	Presides over Alf Stewart’s court case and sentences Casey Braxton to thirty days in juvenile detention.
24 January	Clerk	Anthony Milne	Court clerk appearing during Alf Stewart's hearing.
27 January – 21 November	Summer Horgan-Jones	Jaimee Taylor-Nielsen	New student at Summer Bay High who befriends Ruby, Romeo, and Xavier; involved in a bicycle accident and flirtation with Casey Braxton at a party.
27 January – 25 January 2012	Jase McKenzie	Nick Bartlett	Bully targeting VJ Patterson and April Scott; clashes with Dexter Walker and Xavier Austin.
31 January, 5 October–19 November 2013, 19 May 2014, 17 March 2015 – 5 May 2016	Constable Nader/Neal Stevenson	Michele-Antonio Mattiuzzi	Police officer managing various investigations including noise complaints, robbery cases, and family custody disputes.
31 January–1 February, 18 August–7 October 2014	Shandi Ayres	Elizabeth Blackmore (2011), Tess Haubrich (2014)	John Palmer’s daughter whose identity was stolen; returns for John’s wedding ceremony.
1 February	Park Worker	Peter Cridland	Accepts bribe from Angelo Rosetta to aid in Daria's arrival.
1 February	Lifesaver	Christian Miranda	Beach lifeguard collaborating with John Palmer.
2 February	René Lisle	Akos Armont	French online friend of April Scott.
9 February	Stephanie	Jacinta Acevski	Tour guide providing reassurance to pregnant university students.
9 February	Simone Bollen	Angela Bauer	University lecturer advising Nicole Franklin about managing coursework during pregnancy.
9 February	Evan	Ryan Oliver Gelbart	University student who briefly dates Nicole Franklin before ending the relationship upon discovering her pregnancy.
18–21 February	Rick	Curtis Oakes	Member of the River Boys involved in a prank kidnapping of Dexter Walker.
18 February–20 June	Pee Wee	Ty Hungerford	Accomplice in Dexter Walker's kidnapping; later involved in hospital incident and attempted drug deal on Romeo Smith's boat.
21 February–31 May	Brodie Upton	Guy Edmonds	River Boys member involved in harassment, marijuana cultivation, and hostage-taking; seeks assistance from Darryl Braxton to flee the country.
23 February–31 May	Emily Logan	Madison Kerry	Summer Bay student who teases classmates and briefly dates Romeo Smith; diagnosed with chlamydia contracted from Romeo.
23 February–26 March 2012	Rob Mitchell	Matty Burn	River Boy causing disruptions at the Surf Club; informs Heath Braxton about Romeo’s business plans; vandalizes Alf Stewart’s election posters.
25 February – 15 March	Leo	Haydn Robertson	River Boy affiliated with the main gang.
24 February – 4 April	Grace Johnson	Clare Chihambakwe	Arrives with son Thabo and husband Elijah Johnson; involved in a sham marriage for immigration purposes; endures son's death and legal investigation.
24 February – 21 March	Thabo Manthenga	Joshua Mbakwe	Grace Johnson's son requiring medical intervention; befriends VJ Patterson before passing away following surgery complications.
2 March 2011 – 15 December 2016	Cheryl Braxton	Suzi Dougherty	Mother of Darryl, Heath, and Casey Braxton; appears during significant family events including weddings and marital challenges.
10 March	Bill Lawson	Ian McPhee	Contacted by Charlie Buckton to collect information on Darryl Braxton.
10 March	Cameron Sangster	Jo Turner	Attorney representing Darryl Braxton; requests dismissal of charges against him.
14 March – 2 June	Keith Irwin	Alan Lovell	Runs victims of crime support group attended by Colleen Smart; relationship ends after marijuana raid on his residence.
14 March	Teena	Paige Gardiner	Shares hostage experience at victims of crime group meeting.
14 March	Mick	Michael Howlett	Participant in victims of crime group attended by Colleen Smart.
18–29 March	Angus McCathie	Tim Pocock	University student dating Nicole Franklin; learns she plans adoption for her baby and steps back from relationship.
5 April	Janelle Riley	Dina Gillespie	Runs Bayside Mission; employs Elijah Johnson for community service work.
22–26 April	Billy McVeigh	Dallas Bigelow	Seeks shelter at Bayside Mission; assaults Elijah Johnson; later arrested but charges are dropped after mutual agreement.
27 April – 2 June	Vanessa Unley	Sarah Chadwick	Old friend of Gina Austin; joins camping trip and assists in vehicle rescue involving Xavier Austin and John Palmer.
27 April – 21 June	George	Multiple actors	Son of Nicole Franklin and Penn Graham; given up for adoption but eventually returned to Nicole who leaves Summer Bay with him and Angelo Rosetta.
9–10 May	Gary O'Connor	Grant Dodwell	President of Wilson's Bay Surf Club and rival to John Palmer; suffers heart attack after losing surf carnival competition.
24 May	Carla Rosetta	Cris Parker	Angelo Rosetta’s mother; visits hospital and meets local residents Roo Stewart and Nicole Franklin.
3 June – 19 July	Laura Carmody	Roxane Wilson	Roo Stewart’s friend who co-organizes fundraising events; dates Elijah Johnson before leaving town with Roo’s funds.
9 June	Douglas Graham	Shane Porteous	Penn Graham’s grandfather visiting Summer Bay to meet great-grandson George.
16–22 June	Kate Hanlon	Mikayla Southgate	Student accusing Dexter Walker of cheating; pretends to be his girlfriend to help him manage school relationships.
15 July – 9 August	Dean O'Mara	Rick Donald	Attends B&S Ball with sister Kelly; accused of rape and vehicular assault leading to arrest after Bianca Scott identifies him as attacker.
15 July – 2 September	Kelly O'Mara	Martika Sullivan	Dean O'Mara’s sister; starts relationship with Xavier Austin; leaves town following Dean’s arrest but later visited by Xavier at family farm.
21 July – 27 October, 25 November 2015 – 27 April 2016	David Joyce	Don Halbert	Police inspector managing River Boys investigation; removes Charlie Buckton from case due to personal involvement; later promoted to Superintendent suspending Katarina Chapman.
22–26 July	Mick (River Boy)	Ben Barber	Discusses gang activities with Heath Braxton; issues threats toward local residents including Bianca Scott and Liam Murphy.
25–29 July 2014, 1 December 2016 – 2 February 2017	Daughter of Tegan Callahan initially thought to be Darryl Braxton’s child but later revealed as Heath Braxton’s daughter. Engages in custody disputes, school bullying incidents, and family interactions involving Heath, Bianca Scott, and Cheryl Braxton. Returns years later amid parental marital difficulties.

External links

• Cast and characters on the official Australian Home and Away site
• Cast and characters on the official UK Home and Away platform
• Cast and characters listed on the Internet Movie Database