Jenena Palmer

Home and Away
Company type	Television series
Industry	Television
Founded	January 17, 1988; 38 years ago
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. This compilation highlights characters introduced throughout 2009, all under the direction of executive producer Cameron Welsh. The show's 22nd season was broadcast from 19 January until 27 November 2009. Early in the year, January saw the arrival of Gina and Hugo Austin, followed by February's additions of Robert Cruze, Trey Palmer, Freya Duric, and Joey Collins. March introduced Liam Murphy alongside John Palmer, with April welcoming Lachie Cladwell and David Gardiner. In June, May Stone joined the cast. July featured the birth of Harry Holden and the debut of the Walker family: Sid, Dexter, and Indigo. Detective Robert Robertson made his first appearance in August, while September closed out new introductions with Romeo Smith.

Gina Austin

Gina Austin, played by Sonia Todd, first appeared on 27 January 2009 and remained until 18 April 2013. The official series description portrays her as a committed mother who has endured difficulties with both her oldest and youngest sons but confronts these challenges without succumbing to self-pity, demonstrating considerable strength. Industry commentary depicts Gina as a genuine, approachable woman who consistently places her family above her own desires. Todd emphasizes Gina's role as a mother to three boys as a central element of her character.

Hugo Austin

Hugo Austin, enacted by Bernard Curry, made his debut on 27 January 2009. His tenure included a departure on 26 January 2010, a return on 6 May 2010, and a final exit on 9 June 2010. Curry, previously associated with rival soap Neighbours, expressed that working on Home & Away presented enjoyable challenges. Hugo is portrayed as an outdoors enthusiast, characterized by his athletic build and sun-kissed appearance.

Robert Cruze

Robert "Robbo" Cruze, portrayed by Aidan Gillett, entered the series on 1 February 2009. Robbo was employed on a boat alongside Aden Jefferies and Joey Collins, frequently instigating conflicts, particularly targeting Joey due to her sexual orientation. After an incident where he pushed Joey overboard escalating to sexual assault, he threatened her to keep silent. Eventually, Joey reported him, leading to legal proceedings. Robbo denied all accusations; meanwhile, his former girlfriend Tanya Gannon tragically died after being struck by a vehicle. Subsequently, Robbo assaulted Joey again and attempted to drown her but was interrupted and apprehended. He faced charges and did not return to the show.

Trey Palmer

Trey Palmer, played by Luke Bracey, first appeared on 9 February 2009. Although described as having an "angelic face," Trey engaged in mischievous and disruptive behavior that generated significant viewer interest and introduced tension with characters such as Geoff Campbell (Lincoln Lewis) and Nicole Franklin. A notable storyline involved Trey recording a private sex tape with Nicole that was later leaked—paralleling a real-life scandal involving Lincoln Lewis.

Initially seen attending the local school, Trey bullied fellow students including Jai Fernandez (Jordan Rodrigues) and frequently clashed with teachers. He developed an ongoing rivalry with Geoff Campbell and expressed animosity toward his stepfather, John. Trey also held grudges against Miles Copeland but showed romantic interest in Kirsty; after she rejected him, tensions escalated resulting in Trey filing charges against Miles that were eventually withdrawn.

Trey’s relationship with Nicole progressed from mutual attraction to dating and ultimately sexual intimacy. Their decision to create a private sex tape ended disastrously when Trey leaked it in retaliation, causing Nicole significant humiliation. His growing anger culminated in a school bus hostage crisis during which he revealed he had planted an explosive device beneath the vehicle. While many students escaped unharmed, Hugo Austin sustained serious injuries from the blast. Trey was subsequently arrested on charges of attempted murder.

Freya Duric

Freya Duric, brought to life by Sophie Hensser, made her first appearance on 10 February 2009.

In 2009, the show featured two lesbian narratives, one of which involved a storyline between Nicole Franklin (Tessa James) and Freya that triggered complaints from some viewers. James described their dynamic by explaining that Freya embodies Nicole’s former rebellious persona—something Nicole recognizes but tends to downplay. Freya kisses Nicole to demonstrate her attraction, which leads Nicole to confront the dullness she has fallen into.

Freya arrives with the intention of reigniting a previous relationship with Xavier Austin. Though initially hesitant due to his involvement with Ruby Buckton, Xavier succumbs to Freya’s advances, causing unrest within the community. Her influence intensifies as she begins distributing drugs at Summer Bay High and persuades Xavier to become involved in selling them. After a confrontation with Nicole, Freya kisses her openly, irritating local resident Geoff who suspects ulterior motives. She exploits Xavier for personal gain but quickly loses interest and kisses his brother Hugo, unaware that Xavier witnesses this betrayal. Following Hugo’s decision to end things with her, Freya hastily leaves town.

Joey Collins

Joey Collins, portrayed by Kate Bell, debuted on 12 February 2009.

Her storyline centered around a burgeoning lesbian romance with fellow character Charlie Buckton (Esther Anderson), crafted to enhance viewer engagement. Over the course of five weeks, their friendship deepens into a romantic relationship, including intimate scenes. Executive producer Cameron Welsh highlighted Joey’s appeal and hinted at the possibility of her return.

Joey works aboard a boat alongside Aden Jefferies and Robbo Cruze, who subjects her to harassment. After Robbo pushes her into the water, she confides her sexuality to Aden and develops feelings for Charlie. Joey’s brother Brett disapproves of her orientation and forces her out of their home, leading Joey to move in with Charlie.

Robbo escalates his abuse to sexual assault and intimidates Joey into silence. Supported by Aden and Belle Taylor, Joey files a formal complaint; however, Robbo denies the allegations and Brett remains skeptical. Charlie assists in bringing Robbo’s ex Tanya as a witness, but Tanya becomes the victim of a hit-and-run accident. Robbo attempts to drown Joey but is stopped by Charlie and subsequently arrested. Following this, Charlie kisses Joey.

Their clandestine relationship encounters homophobic hostility from the community. Charlie experiences internal conflict over her sexuality and professional pressures, causing strain between them. Ultimately, Joey departs tearfully for another job after bidding farewell to Charlie.

Liam Murphy

Liam Murphy, enacted by Axle Whitehead, first appeared on 5 March 2009. Whitehead, known as a musician and presenter, earned the role through an audition process; Liam was initially slated for just fifteen episodes. Whitehead described Liam as a "bad boy rocker" and incorporated aspects of his own experiences to portray the character's struggles with drug use.

Brendan Austin

Brendan Austin, portrayed by Kain O'Keeffe, made his debut on 25 March 2009. Cast after collaborating with other cast members from the series, Brendan was introduced following the arrival of the Austin family, revealing his autism which created tension with his brothers Xavier and Hugo.

Brendan comes to Summer Bay accompanied by his mother Gina to live with family members. Previously under Xavier’s care during Hugo’s absence, Brendan’s presence causes friction—Xavier resents the responsibility while Brendan harbors dislike toward Hugo. Initially kept hidden from friends, Brendan eventually gains acceptance through Xavier’s girlfriend Ruby Buckton, who encourages him to engage socially.

While in Martha MacKenzie’s care, Brendan runs away multiple times. On one occasion, startled by the color of Roman Harris's car, he inadvertently causes an accident that results in Roman losing his sight. Xavier assumes responsibility for the incident, but Roman later forgives Brendan after understanding his condition. Brendan’s fear of blue cars stems from witnessing a prior crash that injured Hugo and killed his girlfriend.

Brendan claims he has a girlfriend named Ruby Leeds who has Down syndrome; this initially causes confusion with Ruby Buckton. Gina supports Brendan’s independence but hesitates about approving his move into sheltered accommodation until Ruby convinces her otherwise. Demonstrating courage, Brendan rescues Xavier from drowning despite limited swimming skills, prompting Gina to allow him to live with Ruby. Brendan mistakenly attends what he believes is Hugo’s funeral; however, Hugo later reappears alive. After Gina’s death in 2013, Brendan was unable to attend her funeral due to emotional distress.

John Palmer

John Palmer, brought to life by Shane Withington, made his first appearance on 27 March 2009 as the stepfather of Trey Palmer. Withington, known for his previous work on A Country Practice, joined the cast of Home and Away in a recurring guest capacity. The character was characterized as a "strict father" figure and an active member of the surf lifesaving club.

Claudia Hammond

Claudia Hammond, portrayed by Alexandra Park, was introduced on 10 April 2009. She becomes romantically involved with Geoff Campbell and later reveals she is pregnant, setting off a storyline filled with complicated paternity questions and interpersonal drama.

Claudia starts working alongside Geoff on the farm, which leads to their romantic involvement. After they share an intimate moment, they become trapped in a caravan fire. Initially, Claudia denies that her ex-partner Lachie is the father of her child but later admits he is after Lachie sustains injuries during a confrontation with Geoff. This admission prompts Geoff to ask Claudia to leave his home.

Lachie's violent tendencies intensify, resulting in abuse directed at Claudia. She refuses his attempts to reconcile and ultimately chooses to move away with her cousin Dubbo, prioritizing her safety and autonomy over either relationship. This plotline explored themes such as accountability, conflict resolution, and personal development within the series.

Lachie Cladwell

Lachie Cladwell, enacted by Jackson Heywood, first appeared on 4 May 2009. He is Claudia Hammond’s (Alexandra Park) former boyfriend. After several breakups, Lachie returns seeking to rekindle their relationship but eventually agrees to leave her alone. When Claudia announces her pregnancy and initially denies Lachie’s paternity, tension arises between him and Geoff Campbell (Lincoln Lewis). Following a violent incident during a rugby match that leaves Lachie hospitalized with potential paralysis, Claudia confesses that Lachie is indeed the father. Despite Lachie's desire for family involvement, Claudia opts to exclude him from her child's life and departs Summer Bay.

The Daily Record highlighted Geoff's mounting frustration culminating in anger directed at Lachie.

David Gardiner

David "Gardy" Gardiner, played by Jeremy Sims, arrived on screen on 13 May 2009. His performance earned praise from the Sydney Morning Herald for being both believable and unsettling. The Daily Record labeled Gardy as a "villain" despite his charismatic demeanor.

Gardy invades the home of Roman Harris (Conrad Coleby), a blinded military veteran friend, causing friction with local residents. He undertakes dangerous attempts aimed at restoring Roman’s sight and later coerces him into committing a liquor store robbery that results in an elderly woman suffering a heart attack. Gardy then threatens Roman with false charges related to the crime while making unwanted advances toward Roman’s daughter Nicole Franklin (Tessa James).

Escalating his criminal activities, Gardy robs the Palmer household and takes hostages. It emerges that he has been blackmailing Roman over an incident during wartime. Gardy orchestrates a warehouse heist in Mangrove River but is confronted by Roman and others during a violent shootout. Although injured, Gardy manages to flee after police arrive and subsequently disappears from the storyline.

May Stone

May Stone, brought to life by Alin Sumarwata, made her first appearance on 12 June 2009 as an educator at Summer Bay High. She swiftly enters into a romantic relationship with Angelo Rosetta, who secretly rekindles an affair with Charlie Buckton. Esther Anderson, the actress behind Charlie, highlighted the emotional complexity of their situation, stressing that Charlie never intended to cause May pain. The Daily Record drew attention to Angelo's lack of sensitivity and May’s emotional turmoil following their breakup.

May integrates into the local community and begins a relationship with Angelo. Despite his assurances, Angelo’s lingering attachment to Charlie results in an affair. When May expresses a desire for commitment, Angelo admits the truth and ends things between them. Feeling betrayed, May resigns from her teaching position and promptly leaves Summer Bay.

Harry Holden

Harry Jack Holden, the child of Rachel Armstrong and Tony Holden, was introduced on 30 July 2009, portrayed by several young actors over time. After his birth, Rachel faces challenges bonding due to Harry’s persistent crying, which leads to significant emotional strain. Following a confrontation with Jane Avent, who unjustly accuses Rachel of causing her own stillbirth and abducts Harry, law enforcement intervenes and safely returns him to his parents.

In August 2010, Harry moves with Rachel and Tony to Boston, pausing briefly at the grave of his half-brother Jack before their departure.

Sid Walker

Sid Walker, played by Robert Mammone, first appeared on 30 July 2009 under a five-week guest engagement. Due to strong audience demand, Sid along with Indigo and Dexter returned as permanent characters in June 2010.

Dexter Walker

Dexter Walker, initially portrayed by Tom Green from 30 July 2009, was recast in 2010 with Charles Cottier upon the character’s reintroduction. Cottier described Dexter as distinctly different from the original portrayal. A prominent storyline featured Dexter’s relationship with Marilyn Chambers (Emily Symons), which Cottier found both thrilling and challenging given their considerable age gap.

Indigo Walker

Indigo Walker, enacted by Samara Weaving, debuted on 30 July 2009 as part of the newly introduced Walker family, which included father Sid (Robert Mammone), mother Jody (Victoria Haralabidou), and brother Dexter (Tom Green). The family departed from the series in September 2009 but returned in June 2010. Weaving remarked that managing the return was more convenient alongside her other professional commitments.

Robert Robertson

Robert Robertson, portrayed by Socratis Otto, first appeared on 2 August 2009. Conceived by James Walker for a murder-related plotline, Robertson was crafted to bring comedic relief amid darker story elements. Walker characterized him as a chameleon-like detective whose eccentricities and distinctive humor inject energy rather than gloom into serious narratives. Otto utilized his comedic background and inspiration from quirky investigators in drama series to develop the character, calling it one of his finest roles.

Robertson is a detective investigating the homicide of Grant Bledcoe, the biological father of Ruby Buckton (Rebecca Breeds). Initially suspecting Ruby’s mother Charlie, he arrests her but later discovers that Charlie’s father Ross had confessed. Known for his unconventional perspective and exaggerated stories, Robertson remains an effective officer. He briefly dates Leah Patterson-Baker (Ada Nicodemou) but develops feelings she does not return.

He later returns to investigate the disappearance of Penn Graham (Christian Clark), working alongside Detective Graves (Eryn Jean Norvill) and focusing suspicion on Alf as the primary suspect. Despite multiple detentions, Robertson is unable to obtain sufficient evidence against Alf. He attempts again to pursue Leah romantically, but she rejects him due to unresolved feelings for her former partner. Robertson pressures Will Smith (Zac Drayson) into accusing Alf, resulting in Alf’s arrest; however, Morag Bellingham (Cornelia Frances) challenges this evidence by revealing Will’s dishonesty, leading to Alf’s release and Will being charged instead.

Struggling with feelings of failure, Robertson confides in Leah about losing his sense of self; she comforts him by affirming that errors are part of being human. When offered a promotion, he invites Leah and her son to relocate with him to the city, but she declines.

Romeo Smith

Romeo Smith, played by Luke Mitchell, made his first appearance on 10 September 2009. Mitchell landed this role after moving to Sydney without employment. Romeo is depicted as charming, witty, confident, and courteous. His family on the show includes his sister Mink Carpenter (Matylda Buczko) and mother Jill Carpenter (Josephine Mitchell). His main romantic arc centers on his relationship with Indigo Walker (Samara Weaving).

Additional Characters

-' 'Ian Radcliffe' ' -' Ben Simpson' -' Father of Riley Radcliffe responsible for assault injuries, attempts bribery, exposed by police investigation.' '- '- |9–24 November -' 'Poppie Merrin' -' Elouise Blair' -' Learns guitar from Liam Murphy, causes relationship issues leading to Liam's drug possession arrest.' '- '- |17–24 November -' 'Reg Merrin' -' Dane Carson' -' Manager of The Sands who employs Aden Jefferies, dismisses him after formal event due to conflicts involving daughter Catie.' '- '- |18–24 November -' 'Catie Merrin' -' Tess Haubrich' -' Daughter of Reg Merrin who manipulates situations leading to Aden's termination.' '- '- |19–23 November -' 'Orson Cardillo' -' Mark Lee (Australian actor)' -' Gardener for Donna De Bono implicated in gun planting incident, suffers heart attack, truth remains undisclosed.' '- '- |20 November -' 'Bonita Cardillo' -' Suzi Dougherty' -' Orson Cardillo’s wife defending his innocence regarding gun incident.' '- '- |25 November–18 February 2010 -' 'Hazem Kassir' -' Ben Knight (actor)' -' Dates Leah Patterson-Baker; victim of racially motivated attack causing paralysis, ends relationship, relocates to city.' '- '- |26 November -' 'Prison Guard' -' Joe Tarena' -' On duty during Derrick Quaid's escape from custody.' '- -|}

External links

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Role Summary
30 January	Bank manager	Christopher Saunders	Detects unauthorized attempt by Bridget Simmons to access Leah Patterson-Baker's bank account.
30 January–6 October	Don Gibson	Steve Anderson	Collaborates with Aden on a vessel engaged in illicit abalone harvesting; attempts to implicate Aden; discloses details regarding Hugo.
2–6 February	Steve Hogan	Damien Freeglass	Police officer investigating incidents occurring in Summer Bay.
3 February	Lawyer	Blair Cutting	Legal counsel for Angelo Rosetta.
4 February–25 January 2010	Lou De Bono	David Roberts	Dates Irene Roberts; dies at sea, resulting in Irene being wrongly accused.
9–10 February	Archie Maddock	Tim Phillipps	Local resident who supports Melody Jones and stands up for her.
10 February	Thug	Zen Ledden	Assaults Melody Jones and Archie Maddock.
19 February	Mryll Ramsay	Kim Hillas	Initially declines interview to protect an aged care facility; persuaded by Melody to reconsider.
19–25 February	Audrey Long	Wendy Playfair	Grandmother of Melody Jones; passes away due to a stroke.
3–19 March	George	Benjamin O'Donnell	Participant in speed dating event; forms a connection with Leah before she selects Roman.
9 March–29 July	Brett Collins	Toby Levins	Joey Collins' brother; struggles with her sexual identity; later apologizes and attributes family problems to Charlie Buckton.
16 March–26 January 2010	Derrick Quaid	John Atkinson	Survivor of a shipwreck involved in illegal human trafficking; assaults Geoff Campbell and Nicole Franklin; apprehended alongside Hugo Austin and Suzy Sudiro.
19 March–13 November	Jerry Thibault	Nicholas Cassim	Employer of Belle at the newspaper; engages in an affair with Paula Gill; promises Belle a promotion but awards it to Paula instead.
19 March	Tanya Gannon	Hayley McCarthy	Robert Cruze's former partner who files a complaint following assault; hit by a vehicle upon arriving in Summer Bay.
20 March	Paula Gill	Paula Arundell	Colleague of Belle; involved romantically with Jerry Thibault; bullies Belle over her pill dependency.
23 March–23 November	Donna De Bono	Suzie MacKenzie	Estranged wife of Lou De Bono; accuses Irene Roberts of involvement in Lou's demise.
' Chelsea Murphy	' Georgia Gorman	' Wife of Liam Murphy; publicly disputes Liam's drug issues; divorces and moves to Paris with their son Ash.
' Ash Murphy	' Dusty Piper	' Son of Liam and Chelsea Murphy.
' Jenena Palmer	' Anna Lise Phillips	' Mother to Trey Palmer and spouse of John Palmer.
' Clint Mailer	' Matt Zeremes	' Rugby coach who pressures Aden Jefferies into undermining Geoff Campbell’s career.
' Jane Avent	' Felicity Price	' Bereaved mother who holds Rachel Armstrong responsible for stillbirth; abducts Rachel’s son Harry.
' Rex Avent	' Sandy Winton	' Husband of Jane Avent, initially supportive but recognizes her need for assistance.
' Wayan Rahardjo	' Dorje Swallow	' Hospital patient connected to Hugo Austin’s illicit activities; utilized by Angelo Rosetta during investigations.
' Paul	' Thomas Norrie	' Briefly appears as an extra in Summer Bay.
' Squirt	' Ben Davy-Thorburn	' Friend and coworker of Aden Jefferies; attends Aden’s stag party.
' Marine Officer Bryant	' Michael Sutherland	' Water police officer working with Angelo Rosetta on people smuggling investigations.
' Jody Walker	' Victoria Haralabidou	' Sid Walker’s spouse; attempts reconciliation but departs after infidelity; returns briefly in August 2011.
' Michelle	' Michelle Pettigrove	' Aunt to Charlie Buckton who provides information about Charlie’s daughter Ruby.
' Therese	' Rose Ashton	' Nurse involved in workplace disputes concerning Sid Walker and Nicole Franklin.
' Andy McLeod	' Paul Winchester	' Advises Rachel Armstrong on child-rearing; friendship causes marital strain.
' Sophia McLeod	' Madeline Andrews	' Daughter of Andy McLeod diagnosed with hearing impairment by Rachel Armstrong.
' Grant Bledcoe	' Clayton Watson	' Biological father of Ruby Leeds accused by Charlie Buckton of rape; later discovered murdered, prompting police investigation involving Ross Buckton.
' Tracey Bledcoe	' Mary Anne Byrne	' Wife of Grant Bledcoe, stunned by allegations against him.
' Patrick Avery	' Clayton Williams	' Police constable engaged in multiple cases including bailing Sid Walker on assault charges.
' Ruby Leeds	' Tracie Sammmut	' Brendan’s girlfriend who supports his independence before relocating them to sheltered accommodation.
' Pheobe	' Alisha Burton	' Brief acquaintance of Jai Fernandez.
' Jim	' Mark Richardson	' Hotel manager appearing briefly.
' Bambang Rahardjo	' Joft Prastowo	' Son of Wayan Rahardjo assisting Martha MacKenzie on the farm while being used by Angelo in human trafficking inquiries.
' Suzy Sudiro	' Tasneem Roc	' Former spouse of Hugo Austin involved in illegal immigrant smuggling; kidnaps Martha MacKenzie demanding ransom but subdued by Charlie Buckton.
' Riley Radcliffe	' Tani Edgecombe	' School bully targeting VJ Patterson; father Ian Radcliffe denies involvement until police uncover truth following assault incident involving Miles Copeland.