Jess Fielding

Neighbours

Company type	Television soap opera
Industry	Television production
Founded	March 18, 1985 (1985-03-18)
Founder	Reg Watson
Headquarters	Australia
Website	www.neighbours.com.au

Neighbours is a long-running Australian soap opera created by Reg Watson, which premiered on 18 March 1985. This compilation highlights characters who were introduced in 2001, all under the guidance of executive producer Stanley Walsh. The show's seventeenth season commenced broadcasting on 15 January 2001. Characters introduced throughout the year include Jess Fielding in February; Matt Hancock in March; followed by his father Evan and Jack Scully arriving in April; Maggie Hancock joining in May; Larissa Calwell appearing in June; Tim Collins introduced in September; Sandy Allen arriving from October; Mitch Foster debuting in November; and finally Liz Conway, Stuart Parker, and Elly Conway making their first appearances in December, alongside the first birth of the year, Ben Kirk.

Jess Fielding

Jessica "Jess" Fielding, portrayed by Elisha Gazdowicz, made her debut on 14 February 2001. As a student at Erinsborough High, Jess quickly became notable for accusing teacher Susan Kennedy (Jackie Woodburne) of physical assault and being suspected of planting a bomb. Characterized as a "vixen" and "wild child," Jess was known for stirring up drama within Ramsay Street.

Gazdowicz expressed some apprehension regarding Jess’s contentious role but hoped the audience would embrace her character. Jess faced academic difficulties and clashed with Susan after receiving a poor grade, which escalated into an incident where Susan struck Jess in self-defense, leading to Susan’s suspension while an inquiry was conducted. Initially, Jess denied the true circumstances but ultimately admitted that Susan was innocent.

During her time at Erinsborough High, Jess attracted attention from Tad Reeves (Jonathon Dutton), despite showing little enthusiasm for her studies. Their relationship evolved amid tensions arising from Jess’s affluent family background and the arrival of her sister Mary’s newborn, which shifted parental focus. After a bomb threat at school, suspicion fell on Jess until it was uncovered that Colin Rogers was responsible. Feeling isolated due to accusations from both Susan and Tad, Jess confronted them following another low mark that led to the incident involving Susan’s defensive strike. Once Susan’s innocence was established, Jess sought comfort with Tad amid family turmoil; however, their relationship ended when Tad realized it was becoming too serious.

Matt Hancock

Matthew "Matt" Hancock, played by Stephen Hunt, first appeared on-screen on 26 March 2001. He was the initial member introduced from the five-person Hancock family. As the eldest sibling, Matt often assumed a more mature role within his family. James Joyce from The Newcastle Herald described Matt as bright but unfocused academically, with parents concerned about his future yet appreciative of his charm and intelligence.

Evan Hancock

Evan Hancock, brought to life by Nicholas Opolski, made his first appearance on 13 April 2001. Introduced alongside the newly added Hancock family to invigorate the cast, Evan serves as the patriarch and works as a teacher at Erinsborough High. His history includes a previous marriage to Genevieve Murdoch, with whom he fathered sons Chris and Matt, followed by his marriage to Maggie Hancock, with whom he shares two children, Leo and Emily. The Hancock family was designed to represent an authentic Australian household.

Evan's persona was characterized by his modern teaching philosophy and strong devotion as a parent, though he often struggled to juggle professional responsibilities with family demands. His storyline featured conflicts with coworkers and neighbors, financial difficulties, and familial disputes, including legal troubles involving his son Matt. Additionally, Evan ventured into local politics, securing a council position in a contest against Joe Scully.

The Hancock family's narrative concluded in 2002 when they were removed from the series. Critics recognized Evan as a well-liked educator and courageous figure for addressing complex issues such as bullying and domestic challenges.

Jack Scully

Jack Scully, enacted by Paul Pantano, first appeared on 17 April 2001. Although the Scully family had been introduced in 1999, Jack was mentioned repeatedly before being cast and shown on screen. The character was reintroduced in 2002 with Jay Bunyan assuming the role after auditioning in New Zealand. A BBC commentator described Jack as "a little feisty," capturing the attention of local teenage girls upon his arrival in Erinsborough.

Maggie Hancock

Maggie Hancock, portrayed by Sally Cooper, debuted on 9 May 2001. She was introduced along with her family to refresh the cast following several departures. Maggie is the Hancock family's matriarch, married to Evan Hancock (Nicholas Opolski). Together they have two children, Leo and Emily, along with stepchildren Matt and Chris. Maggie balances her blended family life while pursuing law studies.

The Hancocks relocate to Erinsborough when Evan accepts a teaching position at the local high school. Early on, Maggie forms a professional partnership with Toadfish Rebecchi by assisting him with a legal case. This alliance creates strain when Evan learns their relationship extended beyond professional boundaries, leading Maggie to reconsider her marital commitment. After their son Matt sustains injuries in a car accident, Maggie persuades Evan to mend their relationship, highlighting their focus on family unity.

Maggie's storylines cover coping with the loss of their daughter Francesca, managing financial hardships worsened by Emily’s disappearance, and dealing with neighborhood disputes involving Evan. Professionally, she balances her law education and work at Toadie's legal firm despite increasing personal tensions and criticisms aimed at Evan’s controlling nature.

As pressures intensify, Maggie grows closer to Toadie but ultimately remains devoted to her family rather than pursuing romance. Subsequently, Evan requests a divorce; however, after selling their home to fund Matt's legal expenses, the family reconciles and moves to Albury.

The BBC spotlighted Maggie’s decision to reject Toadie as her defining moment, underscoring her dedication to family amidst both personal and career challenges.

Larissa Calwell

Larissa Calwell, brought to life by Leah De Niese, made her debut on 11 June 2001. De Niese had earlier appeared in Neighbours portraying Miranda Starvaggi at the age of eleven. Larissa was depicted as a "cunning manipulator" and became a pivotal figure in a romantic triangle involving Paul McClain (Jansen Spencer) and Tad Reeves (Jonathon Dutton). Tad sends emails to Larissa pretending to be Paul, which Larissa uncovers and cleverly exploits by choosing to date both men simultaneously, ultimately deciding between them. Both Paul and Tad vie for her attention, with Larissa taking pleasure in their competition.

While traveling in Paris, Paul forms a friendship with Larissa, who later returns to Australia and initiates relationships with both Paul and Tad. Their outings contrast Paul's affectionate demeanor with Tad's adventurous spirit. When Felicity Scully (Holly Valance) learns about this arrangement, she urges Larissa to cease her manipulative behavior; however, Larissa maintains she is merely enjoying herself. After her parents prohibit her from continuing online courses due to excessive chatting, Larissa enrolls at Erinsborough High.

Larissa shows up at one of Paul's football matches, where she encounters Tad and claims the meeting was accidental. Subsequently, she is seen sharing a kiss with Tad at a nightclub event attended by Paul. This sparks a confrontation between the two men, but they ultimately choose to preserve their friendship by disregarding Larissa's scheming.

Tim Collins

Tim Collins, portrayed by Ben Anderson, first appeared on-screen on 27 September 2001. As a practicing lawyer, Tim has represented numerous residents of Ramsay Street and is widely recognized as an adversary of Toadfish Rebecchi (Ryan Moloney). Media descriptions have labeled him "ruthless" and "unscrupulous," with one Sunday Mail journalist dubbing him "creepy." Anderson returned to the role in 2013, and Tim reappeared in the show's concluding episodes in July 2022, delivering crucial insights into Paul Robinson's (Stefan Dennis) conduct.

Tim began his legal career at Stewart, Whitehead and Moore, where he initially crossed paths with Toadie. After departing from that firm, he established Tim Collins & Associates, later moving his practice into offices within the Lassiter's complex. He often divided his time between Melbourne and Sydney branches, frequently entrusting duties to Toadie and Rosetta Cammeniti (Natalie Saleeba). Tim's leadership involved setting competitive billing objectives, which contributed to Toadie and Rosetta founding their own firm, Rebecchi Cammeniti.

Over the course of his legal profession, Tim handled several high-profile cases: representing Kirsten Gannon (Nikola Dubois) in a custody dispute; defending Paul Robinson in a hit-and-run incident; and acting for Erinsborough Hospital during its contentious IVF disagreement with the Kennedy family. He also managed confrontational cases involving Declan Napier (James Sorensen) and Johnno Brewer (Damien Aylward), frequently utilizing aggressive legal strategies. Tim participated in real estate transactions as well, including an unsuccessful attempt to acquire 26 Ramsay Street for redevelopment purposes.

Tim was deeply involved in local politics as an elected council member and served as interim mayor. His administration featured contentious decisions such as shutting down the community centre and closing a local bridge. He engaged in political rivalry with Mayor Sonya that escalated into smear campaigns run through his newspaper, the West Waratah Star, where he held the role of editor. His editorial influence extended to shaping public opinion regarding prominent figures like Paul Robinson and Terese Willis.

His business ventures often overlapped with personal conflicts; for instance, he was blackmailed by Ryan Prescott over covertly recorded footage but successfully negotiated control over the material. Tim’s daughter, Courtney Grixti, played significant roles in storylines involving familial relationships and legal challenges. By leveraging media assets strategically, Tim enhanced his influence but also sparked friction with other characters.

In subsequent years, Tim provided counsel on legal issues related to Lassiter's Hotel, including intellectual property disputes concerning new uniform designs created by Amy Greenwood (Jacinta Stapleton). He used this expertise to counter corporate threats effectively. Additionally, Tim exploited insider knowledge to undermine competing law firms, notably interfering with Toadie's client base.

Tim maintained a multifaceted relationship with Paul Robinson that oscillated between cooperation and rivalry. He supplied Shane Ramsay with incriminating documents about Paul's past misdeeds, demonstrating his readiness to wield sensitive information as leverage. Despite warnings from Paul regarding his tactics, Tim persisted in assertively navigating Erinsborough’s legal and political spheres.

Sandy Allen

Sandy Allen, brought to life by Catherine Hill, made her debut on 5 October 2001. After a DNA test confirmed that her husband John Allen was the biological father of Louise "Lolly" Carpenter, Sandy and John journey to Erinsborough to meet their daughter. They eventually secure full custody of Lolly and relocate to a rural area. Sandy takes up a role as a pre-school teacher near Ramsay Street and initially establishes a warm relationship with Lolly.

Years later, following the birth of two children through IVF, Sandy's bitterness toward Lolly intensifies, fueled by reminders of John's unfaithfulness. This tension escalates into both mental and physical abuse directed at Lolly. When Lolly returns to Erinsborough and subsequently runs away, Sandy consents to temporarily care for her. During a confrontation by the pool, Sandy suffers a fall and injures herself; Lolly rescues her and discloses the abuse to Lou Carpenter. After her recovery, Sandy becomes increasingly isolated—losing her husband's support and access to her children—and departs once social services intervene.

Mitch Foster

Mitch Foster, played by Hugh Sexton, was introduced on 14 November 2001 as a criminal figure connected to Larry "Woody" Woodhouse (Andrew Curry). A BBC reporter characterized Mitch as "an opportunist" with a "sinister" edge. He begins dating Woody’s former partner Stephanie Scully (Carla Bonner), who initially defends him against allegations of criminal activity until she uncovers his deceit, leading to their separation. Subsequently, Mitch robs the courier company where Steph is employed and vanishes. After gifting Steph a motorbike, she reports him to the authorities but becomes a suspect herself, prompting her to seek Mitch’s assistance.

Mitch stands by Steph when she endures harassment at the local pub and delivers equipment for Joe Scully (Shane Connor). He invites Steph out, mentioning his friendship with Woody—unaware that Woody recently died in a car crash. Mitch remains secretive about his prison history. During dinner with Steph and her mother Lyn (Janet Andrewartha), he impresses them by resolving a workplace issue. He aids Joe in handling an intimidating client, and he and Steph plan a trip to Sydney. However, Woody reappears from witness protection and reveals Mitch’s prison sentence for homicide, prompting Steph to sever ties with both men.

Half a year later, Mitch reemerges injured from an alleged motorbike accident before disappearing once more. Following news reports of an armed robbery, Mitch threatens Steph at MOCO with a firearm, robs the cash register, and implicates her in the crime. Steph and Stuart Parker (Blair McDonough) discover Mitch ill in the bush; Stuart records Mitch confessing that Steph’s innocence cannot be proven. This recording leads to Mitch’s arrest after he apologizes to Steph.

The BBC singled out Mitch’s most memorable moment as "Holding up MOCO and robbing Steph." Media coverage also highlighted the damage caused to Steph’s reputation due to her association with him.

Liz Conway

Liz Conway made her first appearance on 5 December 2001, originally portrayed by Christine Keogh. Introduced as the elder sister of Susan Kennedy (Jackie Woodburne), Liz arrives in Erinsborough requesting Susan take care of her "difficult" teenage daughter while she spends six months abroad. On 29 June 2018, Sophie Dainty from Digital Spy confirmed Liz's return with Debra Lawrance assuming the role for an extended guest appearance. Lawrance described Liz as "self-centered, quite selfish and rather flighty," contrasting sharply with Susan’s character.

Liz returns to reconnect with her daughters Elly Conway (Jodi Anasta) and Bea Nilsson (Bonnie Anderson). Following this comeback, Bridget McManus of The Sydney Morning Herald praised Lawrance’s portrayal, emphasizing the intricate mother-daughter relationships depicted. The character reappeared again on 24 June 2019.

After their mother's passing, Liz and Susan experience estrangement. Liz marries Ian Conway (Peter Maver), with whom she has Elly. When offered employment in Sweden, Liz visits Susan to apologize and requests that Susan care for Elly during her absence. Later, Liz returns pregnant with a new partner named Lars. Elly suspects that Susan’s husband Karl Kennedy (Alan Fletcher) might be her biological father; Liz reassures her that Ian is indeed Elly's father. Acting on Karl’s advice, Liz takes Elly to Sweden.

Sixteen years later, Liz comes back after Susan informs her that Elly and Bea require support following manipulation and hostage incidents involving Finn Kelly (Rob Mills). She discovers Bea had been homeless at age 15. Tensions escalate when Bea learns Liz wanted her gone because she reminded Liz of her father Lars. After an unsuccessful attempt at reconciliation and fabricating a story about being mugged by Finn, Liz confesses the truth to her daughters and verbally lashes out at Susan before offering an apology. Susan decides to accompany Liz in confronting her past.

Liz stays with Susan and her daughters over Christmas, revealing that a recent retreat helped her overcome alcoholism. She expresses dedication to supporting the family amid Susan’s legal challenges. During this period, Liz flirts with Bea's boyfriend Ned Willis (Ben Hall) and Mark Brennan (Scott McGregor). She also discovers a love note from Mark's sister Chloe Brennan (April Rose Pengilly) addressed to Elly and advises Chloe to keep her feelings confidential.

Elly Conway

Elly Conway made her debut on 13 December 2001, initially played by Kendell Nunn. She is characterized as the "rebellious niece" of Susan Kennedy (Jackie Woodburne). Portrayed as intelligent and perceptive with a defiant nature, Elly was reintroduced on 18 July 2016 with Jodi Anasta taking on the role under a three-year contract. Following in her aunt Susan's footsteps, Elly is now a schoolteacher, and Anasta highlighted that the part fulfilled a childhood ambition while bringing a spirited dimension to the character.

Stuart Parker

Stuart Parker, portrayed by Blair McDonough, first appeared on 13 December 2001. McDonough was cast shortly after finishing as runner-up on the inaugural season of Big Brother Australia, initially signing for three months which later extended to six. Originating from Oakey, Queensland, Stuart is introduced as the younger brother of one of Drew Kirk's (Dan Paris) acquaintances and eventually follows Drew to Erinsborough. McDonough described Stuart as straightforward and fun-loving, while media outlets labeled him a "good-natured country boy." In 2002, he earned a nomination for the Logie Award for Most Popular New Male Talent.

Ben Kirk

Ben Kirk, originally played by Noah Sutherland from 14 December 2001, is the son of Libby Kennedy and Drew Kirk. His birth posed serious risks to Libby’s health, necessitating intensive medical care, though she ultimately recovered. Valentine, who portrayed Libby, commended Sutherland’s natural acting ability. The role was later taken over by Blake O'Leary. A Network Ten writer described Ben as a staunch supporter of his mother.

Additional Characters

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Role Details
16 January–15 February	Jeannie Truman	Libby Stone	Mother to Allana and Clementine Truman; controlling and unwell, she persuades Allana against pursuing a relationship with Lance Wilkinson but ultimately endorses their relocation to America.
16 January–15 March	Richie Hampson	Michael O'Malley	Salesman for Beauty Tree who deceives Lyn Scully into investing; Teresa Bell initially trusts him before uncovering his self-interested agenda.
19 January–2 February	Alice Jamison	Pip Sallabank	Partner to Darcy Tyler and co-owner of his medical practice; their relationship deteriorates leading to separation.
20–21 February	Fergus MacLeod	Tommy Dysart	Drew Kirk’s great uncle from Scotland who attends Drew and Libby’s wedding, performing traditional songs and reciting poetry.
21 February	Sally Kirk	Niobe Dean	Siblings of Drew Kirk visiting for his wedding.
	Stuart Kirk	Stephen Godfrey
21 February–12 April	Reverend Loftus	Bill Johnston	Conducts the wedding ceremony for Libby and Drew as well as Madge Bishop’s funeral service.
1–22 March	Glen Goldman	Gerard Cogley	Radio DJ hosting a quiz show; Lance Wilkinson wins money but exposes the contest as rigged.
6 March–5 July 2002	Nathan Tyson	Luke Hemsworth	Footballer for Eastside Dingoes who uses steroids; after being caught and dropped from the team, he becomes a bailiff repossessing properties.
29 March, 6 April	Steve Crandall	Travis Clark	MOCO delivery driver laid off due to company downsizing; departs after securing better employment.
30 March	Dave Patrick	Chris Gaffney	Veteran MOCO driver dealing with personal loss; initially retained but leaves following Steve’s resignation.
6 April	Brian Curtis	Ron Bingham	Food critic evaluating Lou's Place for a competition; impressed by a special dish prepared in honor of terminally ill Madge Bishop.
17 April–17 May	Veronica Anderson	Monika Karwan	Housemate of Teresa Bell who develops an unhealthy obsession with Drew Kirk, resulting in intervention by her father.
20–26 April	Elly Turnbull	Cherise Donovan	Classmate of Michelle Scully excelling in mathematics; develops an infatuation with new teacher Evan Hancock.
20 April–11 May	Aleks Rama	Dean Ali	Close friend of Leo Hancock; stays with the Hancock family during his parents’ absence.
23 April–13 September	Barry Burke	David Whiteley	Criminal associate threatening witness Larry Woodhouse; implicated in violent incidents culminating in a staged fatal car crash.
25 April–6 March 2002	Genevieve Murdoch	Julie Campbell	First wife of Evan Hancock; provides financial support for their son Matt but clashes over ambitions and family issues.
27 April–26 July	Nigel Armstrong	Andy Poulter	"Noisy" upstairs neighbor to Drew Kirk and Libby Kennedy; disputes over noise levels are resolved through compromise.
10 May–6 June	Adrien Foley	"Skateboarder dating Felicity Scully; relationship ends amicably due to lingering feelings for Joel Samuels."

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Role Description
15 May–6 June	Amanda Levy	"British traveler who meets Joel Samuels in London; relationship ends when Joel's feelings for Felicity Scully remain."
17 May	Lachlan MacDonald	"Father of Pamela McAdam (Veronica Anderson); removes his daughter from Erinsborough following her obsession with Drew Kirk."
23 May–2 February 2012	Audrey	"Cairn terrier adopted by Drew Kirk and Libby Kennedy; becomes a well-known pet in Ramsay Street until euthanasia due to illness."
14 June–2 July	Jason Buckley	"Physical education teacher at Erinsborough High who bullies Leo Hancock; resigns after internal inquiry."
18 June–6 July	Fiona Choi	"Dates Matt Hancock; her profession as a strippogram causes tension resulting in breakup though they remain friends."
28 June–4 November 2002	Henry Ismailiw	"Toy store owner involved in dispute over missing doll with Hancock children; later supports Michelle Scully’s exchange program."
18–19 July	Helen Noonan	"Dame Margaret initially refuses then grants Libby Kennedy an interview while assisting during pregnancy complications."
13 August–17 October	David Gould	"Representative from Total Cover Healthcare negotiating purchase of Erinsborough medical centre; withdraws offer due to site complications."
15–22 August	Brenda Addie	"Mother of Sheena Wilson who attempts to seduce Toadfish Rebecchi following Sheena’s breakup."
29 August–10 September	Desmond Connellan	"Doctor recruited by Darcy Tyler in scheme to take over medical practice; plan uncovered by Dee Bliss."
4–11 September	Jacqi Swallow	"Year twelve student suspended after underage drinking incident during camping trip."
13 September–7 October 2002	Nicholas Colla	"Erinsborough High student bullying Leo Hancock and Boyd Hoyland; becomes cricket captain and befriends Max Hoyland."
24 September–14 November	Adrian Mulraney	"Has an affair with Cheryl Stark; establishes paternity of Louise Carpenter and gains custody, relocating with family."
3 October–4 February 2002	Jerry Booth	"Senior partner at Stewart, Whitehead and Moore law firm offering Toadfish Rebecchi internship amid firm corruption."
4 October–6 February 2002	Owen Lee	"Michelle Scully’s boyfriend attending Erinsborough High School; relationship ends amid rumors and social challenges."
29 October–25 July 2003	Justine Press	"Mediator in custody dispute between John Allen and Lou Carpenter; later represents Cameron Hodder legally against Karl Kennedy."
16 November–6 December	Vince Gil	"Marine biologist employing Joel Samuels on dive team after initial doubts about his qualifications."
21 November–30 January 2002	Philip Cameron Smith	"Friend of Drew Kirk seeking financial aid for farm; exploits old injury emotionally before receiving employment from Lou Carpenter."
28 November–5 March 2002	Ruth Callum	"Receptionist at medical practice involved in prescription pad thefts leading to police investigation."

External links

• Cast and characters on the Official Australian Neighbours site
• Cast and characters on the Official UK Neighbours site
• Cast and characters at the Internet Movie Database