Jillian Williams (Home and Away)
| Company type | Television series |
|---|---|
| Industry | Entertainment, Television |
| Founded | January 17, 1988 |
| Headquarters | Australia |
Area served | Australia |
| Website | 7plus |
Home and Away is a long-running Australian soap opera that premiered on the Seven Network on 17 January 1988. Below is an overview of characters introduced during 1999, all under the leadership of then-executive producer John Holmes. The show's twelfth season commenced broadcasting on 11 January 1999. The first new character that year was Nick Smith, portrayed initially by Matt Juarez in March. Nick's father, Ken, played by Anthony Phelan, made his debut the following month. In May, Aleetza Wood joined the cast as Peta Janossi. Cameron Welsh took on the role of Mitch McColl starting in July. August saw the arrival of Bianca Zeboat and lifeguard Shauna Bradley, played by Kylie Watson. Science teacher Harry Reynolds, enacted by Justin Melvey, was introduced in September. Finally, in October, Anna Hruby and Stephen James King appeared as acting principal Judith Ackroyd and her son, Edward Dunglass, respectively.
Nick Smith
Nick Smith made his debut on 18 March 1999, initially appearing in a guest capacity portrayed by Matt Guarez. The character returned as a series regular in 2000 with Chris Egan taking over the role until Nick’s departure on 9 September 2003. Additionally, Aaron Puckeridge portrayed Nick in flashback scenes during 2003. For his portrayal, Egan received a nomination for "Best New Male Talent" at the 2001 Logie Awards.
Peta Janossi
Peta Janossi, brought to life by Aleetza Wood, first appeared on 27 May 1999 and exited the series on 14 July 2000. Wood secured this role while still attending university. According to Series Producer Russell Webb, her "fresh-faced" appearance was a key factor in her casting. Wood’s performance earned her a nomination for "Most Popular New Female Talent" in 2000.
Mitch McColl
Mitch McColl, played by Cameron Welsh, was introduced on 15 July 1999. Welsh originally auditioned for a guest role before being cast as Mitch.[1] In 2000, Welsh took a six-week hiatus due to a herniated disc diagnosis; during this period, Mitchell McMahon temporarily portrayed Mitch. Welsh resumed the role on 3 April 2000.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name He later returned briefly in 2005 for the show’s milestone 4000th episode, celebrating Alf Stewart’s birthday.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name Subsequently, Welsh transitioned into producing Home and Away, attributing his acting experience as Mitch to his enhanced understanding of production.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name His work earned him a "Best New Male Talent" nomination at the 2000 Logie Awards.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name
James Joyce from The Newcastle Herald praised Mitch’s impactful introduction and emphasized the significance of Mitch and Hayley’s "long-awaited" first kiss as a moment that captivated audiences.[2] A columnist from Daily Record highlighted Mitch’s departure as one of the week’s notable television events.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name
Bianca Zeboat
Bianca Zeboat, portrayed by Lara Cox, entered the series on 11 August 1999. Cox landed this guest part shortly after completing work on Heartbreak High, managing roles in both shows simultaneously. She described Bianca as a "manipulative" and "unkind" character, which contrasted sharply with her previous role as Anita Scheppers. Bianca is depicted as a model and actress vying for the lead role in the film adaptation of Alan Fisher’s novel On the Crest of a Wave. She arrives in Summer Bay seeking insider details from Jesse McGregor (Ben Unwin), who is smitten with her and views her as both a romantic partner and maternal figure. After being dismissed by film director Roger Landowne (Tony Bonner), Bianca ends her relationship with Jesse and departs from Summer Bay.
Shauna Bradley
Shauna Bradley, portrayed by Kylie Watson, made her debut on 16 August 1999 and remained on the show until July 2002. Watson secured the role soon after relocating back to Canberra, despite initial hesitation about auditioning. This was her inaugural acting role, which motivated her to enroll in acting lessons. For her performance, Watson received a nomination for Most Popular New Female Talent at the 2000 Logie Awards. Shauna has been characterized as both "feisty" and "sassy," with Andrew Mercado referring to her as a "sexy lifesaver." Her storylines, especially those involving Harry and Gavin, were filled with considerable drama. In 2012, Channel 5 featured an episode where Shauna confronts her adoption in their "From Day One" segment, highlighting it as a fan favorite.
Harry Reynolds
Harry Reynolds, enacted by Justin Melvey, was part of the series from 13 September 1999 until 26 January 2001. Prior to joining the cast, Melvey had experience in modelling and formal acting training. After auditioning in Sydney, he landed the role and subsequently relocated from Los Angeles. His portrayal of Harry earned him the "Most Popular New Male Talent" Logie Award in 2000.
Judith Ackroyd
Judith Ackroyd, played by Anna Hruby, appeared between 21 October 1999 and 21 November 2000. Hruby had previously been seen in Prisoner Cell Block H. Judith assumed the position of principal at Summer Bay High during Donald Fisher’s leave. Her tenure involved overcoming rumors about her appointment and dealing with conflicts involving students such as Gypsy Nash, who falsely accused her.
Her son, Edward Dunglass, inherited Huntington's disease from his deceased father, Edward Dunglass Sr. Judith showed patience with Edward’s rebellious streak and stood by him through his diagnosis. She grew close to Donald Fisher after helping him with his novel and later entered into a relationship with Joel Nash following Donald’s separation.
Tensions arose when Edward secretly married Peta Janossi and planned to cohabit, but Judith eventually consented to Peta moving in. After Joel sustained an injury and reconciled with his former wife Natalie, Judith prioritized her career and accepted a position in Switzerland. Before leaving, she recommended Donald return as principal and appointed Sally Fletcher as her successor.
Edward Dunglass
Edward Dunglass, portrayed by Stephen James King, first appeared on 28 October 1999 and departed on 14 July 2000. King balanced this debut television role alongside his high school studies, having predominantly worked in theatre beforehand. He commended the seasoned cast for their support, describing his integration as swift and welcoming. Edward’s unique goth style distinguished him in Summer Bay, challenging the typical blond surfer image and eliciting mixed reactions from other characters.
His introduction occurs on the beach where Will Smith (Zac Drayson) mocks Edward’s goth appearance, met with Edward’s sarcastic comebacks. After rescuing Duncan Stewart (Brendan McKensy) from bullies, Edward receives an invitation to join local teens’ go-kart trials, impressing everyone by recording the fastest lap time. Their new principal, Judith Ackroyd (Anna Hruby), interrupts—who is revealed to be Edward’s mother.
Donald Fisher (Norman Coburn) recognizes Edward’s surname and recalls his late father, Edward Sr (Peter Sumner), who died from Huntington's disease—a condition that Edward fears he has inherited. He quickly forms friendships with Peta Janossi (Aleetza Wood) and Mitch McColl (Cameron Welsh). Edward assists Peta in holding a candlelight memorial for her grandmother, which stirs local rumors about occult practices.
Edward’s friendship with Duncan creates tension with Alf and Ailsa Stewart (Judy Nunn). His candid opinions about illness upset Donald Fisher until Edward reveals his own diagnosis. Confronted with a potentially shortened life expectancy, Edward pursues adrenaline-filled activities that concern those around him. After breaking up with Peta due to a dangerous dive stunt, they reconcile and attend self-defense classes together following harassment incidents. Early symptoms of Huntington's—such as muscle spasms and paralysis—begin to manifest while Edward continues seeking intense experiences. He attempts to seduce Peta but is interrupted by her foster father, Joel Nash (David Woodley). The couple privately marry, consummate their relationship, and decide to live together with Judith’s approval but Joel’s disapproval. Conflicts arise when they attempt matchmaking efforts for Judith.
Upon turning eighteen, Edward tests positive for Huntington's but initially minimizes its impact until an emotional breakdown leads Judith to share a video message recorded by Edward Sr before his death. Though initially upset by receiving it late, Edward finds some solace in the message. He then abandons his gothic image and requests access to his trust fund to travel with Peta. Judith arranges for them to stay with her sister in Rome. As his symptoms worsen before departure, Edward worries about Peta’s dedication; she reassures him before they leave after an emotional farewell. Will visits them the following year and confirms that Edward’s condition is deteriorating.
Others
| Date(s) | Character | Actor | Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 January–3 March | Dr. Noble | Mariette Rups-Donnelly | Psychiatrist assigned to treat Gypsy Nash (Kimberley Cooper) following her abduction; also serves as a counselor for Joey Rainbow (Alex O'Han) coping with schizophrenia. |
| 14–25 January | Mr Gilkey | Ben Ager | A driver exhibiting road rage who confronts Ailsa Stewart (Judy Nunn) after a traffic accident, insisting on payment despite insurance involvement. |
| 14 January–21 May | Troy | Lucas Sinkovic Luke Jacobz |
Cricket teammate of Tom Nash (Graeme Squires) during their Year 12 season. |
| 18–19 January | Rhonda | Samantha Braniff | Utilized by David D'Angelo (Toni Poli) as bait in the kidnapping of Joel Nash (David Woodley). |
| 21 January–10 February | Brian Matthews | Scott Swalwell | Companion of Sam Marshall and Hayley Smith (Bec Cartwright); involved in graffiti vandalism and fatally injured from a fall. |
| 3–12 February | Geraldine Peterson | Anna Lee | Participant in The Wednesday Club; falsely claims charity achievements, leading to disputes with Rebecca Nash (Belinda Emmett) and ultimately Rebecca’s resignation. |
| 5 February | Mo Matthews | Pat Sands | Father of Brian Matthews; discovers Brian and Sam Marshall engaged in tagging. |
| 8–18 February | Kaia Stokes | Blazey Best | Provides support to Joey Rainbow during his schizophrenic episodes but departs when his hallucinations worsen. |
| 19 February–6 October | Bob Playford | Tony Morgan | Real estate agent contracted by Diana Fraser (Kerry McGuire) to develop a caravan park; local residents intervene by purchasing the property themselves. |
| 4–23 March | Brooke Taylor | Bridie Carter | Mara’s sister; pursues Travis Nash unaware of his marital status; reveals family secrets prior to leaving. |
| 4–5 March | Mara Taylor | Ann Burbrook | Sister of Brooke; meets Travis and Joel Nash; shows interest in Joel. |
| 10–17 March | Denise Hennessy | Lauren Clair | Former prison cellmate of Kylie Burton; adopts the alias "Maggie Crowley"; becomes involved with Jesse McGregor before fleeing town. |
| 11 March | Eleanor Mace | Deborah Piper | Candidates interviewed by Donald Fisher for the role of nanny to Byron Fisher. |
| Patsy Little | Jillian O'Dowd | ||
| Skye | Karren Lewis | ||
| 16 March–11 May | Ellen Porter | Anne Grigg | Nanny appointed to care for Donald Fisher’s newborn; has a history involving manslaughter but earns trust before departing after confessing her feelings for Donald. |
| 17–22 March | "Jim Woods" | "Nick Hogan" | "Local police officer investigating Denise Hennessy and drug-related matters involving Will and Nick Smith." |
| Date(s) | Character | Actor | Context |
|---|
| 19–23 March | "Johnno" | "Josef Ber" | "Drug dealer chasing Nick Smith over debts; assaults him but leaves after debt is considered paid." |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24 March | "Ted Williams" | "Kim Knuckey" | "Nick Smith’s foster father; arrives to collect him from the beach house." |
| 24 March 1999–26 April 2000 | "Wendy Williams" | "Monette Lee / Lisa Cameron" | "Foster mother of Nick Smith; returns him to live with his biological father due to behavioral issues." |
| 26 March–20 April | "Miranda Porter" | "Lauren Hewett" | "Daughter of Ellen Porter; HIV-positive student who fears discrimination, supported by Joey Rainbow before departing." |
| 29 March–7 April | "Claire Andrews" | "Kate Beahan" | "Half-sister to Travis and Joel Nash; causes turmoil through theft but leaves after charges are dropped." |
| 21 April–14 June | "Jack" | "Eamon Davern" | "Friend of Duncan Stewart involved in constructing a bomb that injures Alf Stewart." |
| 4–5 May | "Organist" | "Gregg Arthur" | "Performs music at the wedding of James Fraser and Chloe Richards." |
| 7 May–19 August | "Wendy Collins" | "Jayne Leslie" | "Mother who, alongside husband Steve, falsely accuses childminder Justine Welles of child abuse, resulting in wrongful conviction." |
| 11 May–19 August | "Steve Collins" | "Don Halbert" | "Father complicit in framing Justine Welles for child abuse; later admits guilt." |
| 11–19 May | "Ruby Collins " | "Kiara Bleskas / Tara McKellar / Brittany Jones / Sian Tierney" | "Daughter of Steve and Wendy Collins; dies while under Justine Welles’ care, sparking legal proceedings." |
| 24–25 May | "Guy North" | "Drayton Morley" | "Friend to Marilyn Fisher during her post-natal depression phase; offers reassurance to Donald Fisher." |
| 3 June 1999, 8 November 2004 |
"Father O'Hearn" | "Alan Russell" | "Catholic priest officiating Marilyn Fisher’s confession and conducting Owen Dalby’s funeral." |
| 7 June–2 July | "Hope Benedict" | "Brooke Harmon" | "Member of church group who rejects advances from Duncan Stewart." |
| 9–23 June | "John Russell" | "John Moore / Marbuck Khan (flashback)" | "Indigenous teacher at Summer Bay High instructing Indigenous Studies; seeks reconciliation with estranged mother." |
| 16 June–20 July | "David Janossi" | "Philip Edwards" | "Brother of Peta Janossi living off their late grandmother’s pension; leaves after securing employment in the city." |
| 28 June–9 September | "Roger Lansdowne" | "Tony Bonner" | "Film producer attempting to purchase rights to Alan Fisher’s autobiography; manipulates locals but fails." |
| 28 June | "Reverend Lee" | "Stewart Reade" | "Conducts Lachlan Fraser’s funeral service." |
| 28 June–19 July | "Annie Matthews" | "Carole Skinner" | "Homeless woman impersonating Peta Janossi’s grandmother; reunites with estranged daughter Frances Kennedy." |
| 12 July–20 August | "Angus Halliday" | "Gabriel Andrews" | "University peer of Sally Fletcher causing jealousy in Vinnie Patterson." |
| 19 July | "Frances Kennedy" | "Alice Livingstone" | "Daughter of Annie Matthews, reunited with her mother through Peta Janossi and Will Smith’s assistance." |
| 28 July–26 August | "Sharon Welles" | "Shayne Francis" | "Estranged mother of Justine Welles; former addict who aids in obtaining Justine’s confession under journalistic pressure." |
| 28 July–9 August | "Leon Watson" | "David Webb" | "Attorney representing Justine Welles during her trial concerning Ruby Collins’ death." |
| 30 July–31 August | "Jeff Berger" | "Jonathon Speer" | "Journalist exploiting Sharon Welles to secure a confession from Justine Welles regarding Ruby Collins’ demise." |
| 6–9 August | 'Kelly McCane' | 'Laurie Foell' | 'Prosecutor at Justine Welles’ trial, conducting cross-examinations.' |
| 10-18 August | 'Gemma' | 'Alyssa McClelland' | 'Cellmate sharing confinement with Justine Welles.' |
| 23 August | 'Mrs. Brown' | 'Jan Merriman' | 'Spouse of local farmer Jack Brown hosting teenagers for fruit picking.' |
| 24 August 1999 – 26 February 2000 | 'Jack Brown' | 'Paul Chubb' | 'Farmer employing teens for orchard work; experiences family tragedy linked to farming chemicals resulting in farm sale.' |
| 31 August – 30 September | 'Anthony Doyle' | 'Kim Knuckey' | 'Dates Irene Roberts; relationship ends following foster son Will Smith admitting car theft.' |
| 10 – 22 September | 'Jillian Williams' | 'Alexandra Davies' | 'Former flatmate stalking Shauna Bradley under the alias "Amber"; frames Adam Cameron before being arrested.' |
| 14 September | 'Darryl' | 'Jeremiah Tickell' | 'Shauna Bradley’s ex-partner who vandalizes Adam Cameron’s vehicle.' |
| 23 September 1999 –16 June 2003 | 'Ralph Patterson' | 'Alan Cinis' | 'Conman and father to Vinnie Patterson who exploits Vinnie financially, resulting in fraud charges and incarceration.' |
| '27 September –8 October' | 'Gazza Boyd' | 'Sebastian Huber' | 'Associate of Duncan Stewart involved in locating money tied to escaped prisoner David D’Angelo.' |
| '11 –13 October' | 'Lauren Healy' | 'Merridy Eastman' | 'Partner-in-crime with David D’Angelo during Duncan Stewart's kidnapping.' |
| '14 October 1999 –24 March 2000' | 'Claire Rogers' | 'Talia Marmount / Jaime Mears' | 'Student harboring unreciprocated feelings for Harry Reynolds causing peer tension.' |
| '15 October 1999 –21 February 2000' | 'Danielle McCarthy' | 'Claire Paradine' | 'Nursing Unit Manager briefly involved romantically with James Fraser.' |
| '20 October 1999 –5 April 2000' | 'Juliette Bellatti' | 'Nicole Nabout' | 'Nurse attracted to James Fraser leading to a relationship before leaving.' |
| '2 November 1999 –31 January 2000' | 'Mick Dwyer' | 'John Brumpton' | 'Ex-criminal pressuring Jesse McGregor into illicit activities, culminating in arrest following a crash.' |
| '3 November 1999 –27 March 2000' | 'Rosemary Myers' | 'Anita Bochnik' | 'Student competing for school captaincy and participating in protests with peers.' |
| '4 –9 November' | 'Christian' | 'John Atkinson' | 'Hitman hired by an American research firm targeting Harry Reynolds; apprehended after hostage incident.' |
| '24 November 1999 –2 February 2000 ' | 'Alison ' | 'Jenny Apostolou ' | 'Harry Reynolds’ former fiancée visiting from the United States, influencing his romantic decisions.' |
External links
- Cast and characters on the Official Australian Home and Away site
- Cast and characters on the Official UK Home and Away site
- Cast and characters at the Internet Movie Database