Joanne Schwartz

Neighbours

Company type	Television series
Industry	Entertainment
Founded	March 18, 1985 (1985-03-18)
Headquarters	Australia
Area served	Australia
Website	www.neighbours.com.au

Neighbours is a long-running Australian soap opera that premiered on 18 March 1985 and is currently broadcast on the digital channel Eleven. This compilation focuses on characters introduced during 2017, all of whom were brought in under the guidance of executive producer Jason Herbison. The show's 33rd season commenced on 9 January 2017. That January saw the arrival of Andrea and Willow Somers. In March, the character Finn Kelly, a teacher, was introduced. April's new additions included Dipi, Kirsha, Yashvi Rebecchi, and Mishti Sharma, who is Dipi's sister. June featured Jeremy Newell and Mannix Foster, while July brought in Evan Lewis and Fay Brennan. Hamish Roche appeared in September, followed by Cassius Grady (whose presence remained uncredited until May 2018) and Rory Zemiro in November. The year concluded with Joanne Schwartz’s introduction in December.

Andrea Somers

Andrea Somers, played by Madeleine West, made her debut on 20 January 2017. West was previously known for portraying Dee Bliss, a character presumed dead after a car crash in 2003. In September 2016, West returned to filming by reprising the role of Dee. Nevertheless, it was disclosed on 2 February 2017 that the character was actually an impostor named Andrea Somers who was masquerading as Dee to gain access to the Bliss family inheritance.

Andrea involved her daughter Willow Somers (Mieke Billing-Smith) in this deception by falsely claiming that Willow was Toadie Rebecchi’s child. West made an unexpected comeback on 14 August 2017, credited only as a "Special appearance," which led to speculation about the true identity of her character. She appeared once more during the season finale on 8 December 2017, observing Toadie's vow renewal ceremony from a taxi; her character’s name was not revealed at that time. Her presence was again noted in the episode aired on 8 January 2018. It was subsequently confirmed that Andrea had been secretly watching Toadie and was likely the woman seen in the taxi. Flashback scenes aired on 27 June 2018 revealed Andrea became pregnant following an encounter with Toadie and subsequently left town, entrusting their son Hugo Somers (John Turner) to Sindi Watts (Marisa Warrington). In July 2019, it was disclosed that Andrea and the real Dee are twins who were separated shortly after birth.

Jasmine Udagawa

Jasmine Udagawa, portrayed by Kaori Maeda-Judge, made her debut on 26 January 2017 as a recurring figure challenging business adversary Paul Robinson. Jasmine becomes entangled in the mystery surrounding the parentage of David Tanaka and Leo Tanaka, ultimately focusing her attention on Leo, whom she suspects to be connected to her family. To block his inheritance of Lassiter's, she plots to undermine his backpackers' enterprise, aiming to force him out of Erinsborough. Terese Willis grows wary of Jasmine’s vendetta and uncovers a confidential file suggesting Leo might have a claim on Lassiter's. This narrative arc, noted for its intense twists, advances as Amy Williams reveals the truth behind Jasmine’s motives. In the end, Jasmine’s suspicions turn out to be unfounded.

Terese initially mistakes Jasmine for the aide to her investor James Udagawa, who clarifies that Jasmine is his sister and cautions Terese to be vigilant as he prepares to leave. Jasmine introduces their grandfather, Toshiro Udagawa, at a Lassiter’s event and reacts strongly when Leo is mentioned. She encourages Terese to further destabilize Paul's business but later directs her to push Leo’s backpackers out of Erinsborough. Terese’s doubts lead her to examine Jasmine’s secret dossier on Leo, prompting Jasmine to warn that Leo might inherit the hotel. Amy overhears this warning and begins her own inquiry.

Jasmine tries to bribe Leo, which only raises his doubts about their supposed connection. When confronting Toshiro, Jasmine discovers through Kim Tanaka that her sons are not related to the Udagawas but are in fact Paul’s biological children. Later, Jasmine senses something amiss with Terese and finds out about her breast cancer diagnosis. She then informs Terese that the Udagawa board has decided to pull their investment from Lassiter's.

Willow Somers

Willow Somers, played by Mieke Billing-Smith, first appeared on 31 January 2017. Introduced as the teenage daughter of Andrea Somers (Madeleine West), Willow was central to a significant plot where Andrea impersonated Dee Bliss to deceive Toadfish Rebecchi (Ryan Moloney), claiming Willow was his child. Executive producer Jason Herbison commended Billing-Smith’s portrayal and hinted at Willow’s potential return, which occurred several times between 2017 and 2019.

Willow’s storyline commenced when Andrea brought her to Erinsborough as part of a scheme targeting Toadie. Although hesitant, Willow became involved and bonded with Toadie over her aspiration to become a pilot; he assisted her enrollment in a private school. She became entangled in a fake ID scam and attempted to blackmail Elly Conway (Jodi Anasta) with manipulated photographs. After fleeing with Andrea to London, Toadie tracked them through social media. Following Andrea’s exposure, Willow sought reconciliation but was unable to prevent Toadie from being injured in an accident. She visited him in hospital and unsuccessfully urged Andrea to return stolen funds.

Upon returning several months later, Willow took a job at Sonya Rebecchi’s garden nursery after escaping from Andrea. Lacking financial independence, she stayed with Toadie and Sonya, who provided both shelter and employment. Willow later moved into an apartment with Toadie and decided to meet her biological father, Fergus Olsen (Andrew Percy), who resided in Port Macquarie with his family. After visiting Fergus, Willow opted to live with him, accompanied by Toadie who helped her settle in. Before departing, she hinted at romantic feelings toward Ben but left on amicable terms.

Willow returned as a bridesmaid for Sonya and Toadie's vow renewal ceremony. Later, she cautioned Toadie against contacting Andrea despite ongoing communication between them. When a private investigator located Andrea in Perth, Willow requested that neither Toadie nor Sonya make contact. The secret of Andrea’s baby son, Hugo Somers, came to light when Sindi Watts arrived with the child after Andrea’s disappearance; Toadie and Sonya assumed custody while tracking Andrea down at a psychiatric facility where she believed herself to be Dee Bliss.

Willow subsequently discovered that her grandmother, Heather Schilling (posing as "Alice Wells"), had poisoned Sonya. She alerted Toadie just in time for Sonya's rescue, though the family upheaval deeply affected Willow. Following Sonya’s death from ovarian cancer, Willow returned for the memorial service.

In later developments, Willow remained in Erinsborough to keep an eye on Andrea’s intentions toward Hugo amid revelations that Dee Bliss was still alive. Andrea pushed Dee off a cliff and resumed impersonating Dee on Ramsay Street. However, when Dee returned accompanied by Heather, Willow confronted Andrea during an arrest attempt that resulted in Andrea’s hospitalization. Disowning her mother, Willow moved back to Port Macquarie but maintained contact with Dee via Skype. It was later revealed that Willow had passed her final exams and commenced pilot training, progressing toward her earlier ambitions.

Finn Kelly

Finn Kelly, played by Rob Mills, made his first appearance on 15 March 2017. The announcement of both the character and casting occurred on 15 November 2016, with Mills commencing filming that same week. Finn is introduced as a forward-thinking and well-regarded educator at Erinsborough High, employed by Susan Kennedy (Jackie Woodburne), and is later revealed to be the ex-boyfriend of Elly Conway (Jodi Anasta). Executive producer Jason Herbison described Finn as "a highly compelling character" harboring unexpected secrets. After his initial stint as a guest, Radio Times labeled Finn as "one of the most villainous characters Neighbours has ever featured." Mills reprised the role in 2018 and was elevated to the main cast in 2019.

Mishti Sharma

Mishti Sharma, portrayed by Scarlet Vas, debuted on 18 April 2017. She is introduced as the sister of Dipi Rebecchi (Sharon Johal) and arrives in Erinsborough accompanied by Dipi's spouse, Shane Rebecchi (Nicholas Coghlan). The actor playing Shane described Mishti as "a close confidante" who shares deep and serious conversations with him. Mishti arrives seeking a new beginning in Erinsborough, although her character carries an underlying melancholy.

Dipi Rebecchi

Dipi Rebecchi, brought to life by Sharon Johal, first appeared on-screen on 24 April 2017. Although initially auditioning for the role of Mishti, Johal was cast as Dipi after producers revised the character's concept. Dipi is married to Shane Rebecchi, who is the older sibling of established character Toadfish Rebecchi (Ryan Moloney). The couple returns to Erinsborough with their daughters, Yashvi (Olivia Junkeer) and Kirsha (Vani Dhir). Known for her lively and cheerful personality, Dipi injects enthusiasm into her surroundings and takes over the lease of Harold Café.

Kirsha Rebecchi

Kirsha Rebecchi, portrayed by Vani Dhir, made her debut on 24 April 2017. Discovered through the Young Australian Broadway Chorus stage school, Dhir managed to balance her acting commitments alongside her studies. Kirsha is the daughter of Shane and Dipi Rebecchi, depicted as intelligent yet reserved, facing difficulties fitting in after relocating to Erinsborough. Dhir exited the series on 22 November 2019 when Kirsha earned a scholarship to study in Sydney but returned for guest appearances throughout 2020.

Kirsha arrives in Erinsborough alongside her family; Shane rents their residence and purchases Harold's Café for Dipi. Initially having trouble adjusting, Kirsha forms a friendship with Jimmy Williams. To lift her spirits, Shane later reacquires her dog Clancy. Kirsha becomes involved in family enterprises such as promoting a solar-powered lawnmower but encounters setbacks including accidentally damaging it. At school, she deals with bullying and anxiety while building friendships and learning to play guitar.

A major storyline centers on Kirsha experiencing hearing loss caused by fireworks, prompting her to learn sign language with support from her family. Despite facing bullying related to her hearing impairment, she gains self-assurance and uncovers family developments like Mishti's pregnancy. Kirsha encourages Jimmy's romantic interests but faces social hurdles during a school camp, including becoming lost with teacher Susan Kennedy before being found.

Kirsha takes part in the Face of Lassiters campaign; after posters are vandalized, she confesses to being responsible to prevent further bullying but then becomes subject to blackmail from Marisa Taylor, leading to the family losing their place in the campaign. She survives an incident involving hydrogen cyanide gas poisoning at school and is later held hostage at the café, managing to alert authorities.

After selling their house, the Rebecchis move in with uncle Toadfish Rebecchi. Kirsha spearheads a petition backing teacher Elly Conway and assists Toadie with financial matters while expressing feelings of neglect. Encouraged to follow her aspirations despite parental concerns about her anxiety, Kirsha applies for and wins a scholarship to attend school in Sydney. She leaves independently but promises to stay in regular contact.

Kirsha makes brief returns for New Year celebrations and later attends Yashvi’s police academy graduation as well as a science camp.

Yashvi Rebecchi

Yashvi Rebecchi, brought to life by Olivia Junkeer, made her first appearance on 24 April 2017. Her casting was revealed on 27 March 2017. Yashvi is introduced as the elder daughter of Shane (Nicholas Coghlan) and Dipi Rebecchi (Sharon Johal). Portrayed as a lively and fearless character who thrives on attention, she is more accurately described as an opportunist rather than a mere troublemaker. On 5 July 2021, Junkeer announced her decision to leave Neighbours after four and a half years, motivated by her on-screen family's departure and a wish to explore new opportunities. Her final scenes were broadcast the following week.

Jeremy Newell

Jeremy "Jezza" Newell, portrayed by Robbie Ryde, first appeared on-screen on 22 June 2017. Ryde’s involvement was disclosed on 8 June; prior to this role, he had appeared as an extra. Jeremy is depicted as a carpenter who often appears in social gatherings alongside Amy Williams (Zoe Cramond). Ryde described the character as an antagonist with conflicting viewpoints, which added complexity to the role.

During Amy’s housewarming event at Lassiter’s Penthouse, Jeremy observes David Tanaka (Takaya Honda) and Tom Quill (Kane Felsinger) sharing a kiss. When David attempts to engage him in conversation, Jeremy responds with homophobic comments and warns Amy against raising her son Jimmy Williams (Darcy Tadich) around David. Offended by his remarks, Amy threatens to expel him from the party, leading to Jeremy’s departure.

Mannix Foster, enacted by Sam Webb, was introduced on 26 June 2017. Webb described Mannix as a troublemaker and a close acquaintance of Leo Tanaka (Tim Kano). Mannix emerges as a complicated figure from Leo’s past who is falsely suspected of being an informant. After being stabbed, he seeks assistance from Leo. His wounds are treated by Leo’s brother David Tanaka (Takaya Honda), and Mannix admits that his stabbing was retaliation for exposing illicit activities at a nightclub. After receiving threats from Leo’s father Paul Robinson (Stefan Dennis), Mannix vanishes. Critics observed that the storyline's conclusion appeared overly straightforward given Mannix’s leverage. He returned briefly in December 2018 and January 2019, with Webb reprising the role again in March 2020 when Mannix deceives and scams Paul’s associate Jane Harris (Annie Jones).

Leo arranges for Mannix to stay at the Robinsons motel; however, co-owner Stephanie Scully (Carla Bonner) grows suspicious due to frequent visitors and uncovers a bag of cash in his room. Paul orders Mannix to vacate within a week. Mannix reconnects with Elly Conway (Jodi Anasta) from their clubbing days in Sydney but soon isolates himself, revealing his stabbing incident to Leo. After David provides medical care, Paul orchestrates threats against Mannix and arranges for him to be admitted to a regional hospital under an alias. Paul later confesses to abandoning Mannix in a remote location; nevertheless, Mannix survives, recuperates at a motel, and escapes to Indonesia. He admits to misleading Delaney Renshaw’s father regarding Leo’s police tip-off and attempts to blackmail David over stolen hospital medication but departs town after David reports him.

In retaliation against Paul, Mannix catfishes Jane Harris and cons her out of her savings. When Paul intervenes, Mannix claims the money was spent on purchasing a car and threatens to expose Jane’s messages unless further payment is made. Paul demands that Mannix sell the vehicle and work for him to reimburse Jane. Jane confronts Mannix about the scam; despite his efforts to make amends, she refuses reconciliation.

Subsequently, Mannix moves in with Mackenzie Hargreaves (Georgie Stone) to share living costs but restricts access to his room and remains wary of visitors. During a police raid involving Mackenzie and Harlow Robinson (Jemma Donovan), Mannix flees but is apprehended at Paul’s residence while offering stolen electronics as partial repayment. He is arrested after being spotted by Harlow and tackled by her partner Hendrix Greyson (Benny Turland), admitting that he was scouting properties for burglary.

Evan Lewis

Evan Lewis, brought to life by Joe Klocek, made his first appearance on 7 July 2017. Introduced as a competing mechanic to Ben Kirk (Felix Mallard), Evan was recruited by Tyler Brennan (Travis Burns) as an apprentice at Fitzgerald Motors, where he displayed greater expertise than Ben. Additionally, Evan emerged as a potential romantic interest for Yashvi Rebecchi (Olivia Junkeer), with their shared enthusiasm for BMX biking serving as a connection.

At Fitzgerald Motors, Evan quickly proved his capabilities, collaborating closely with Tyler and Ben. He developed a rapport with Yashvi through their mutual BMX hobby and participated in various events, including assisting in the search when her sister disappeared. However, their relationship deteriorated after Yashvi uncovered that Evan was the online troll targeting Piper Willis (Mavournee Hazel). A confrontation ensued where Yashvi accidentally struck Evan with her car, leading him to coerce her into keeping quiet about his cyberbullying.

Shortly afterward, Evan resigned from his position at the garage. Following an encounter with Yashvi's aunt Mishti Sharma (Scarlet Vas) and subsequent arrest for harassment, he was placed on a 12-month good behaviour bond, concluding his narrative arc.

Fay Brennan

Fay Brennan, portrayed by Zoe Bertram, first appeared on 28 July 2017. She is the mother of Mark Brennan, Aaron Brennan, and Tyler Brennan. Bertram’s casting was revealed in July 2017 after the passing of actor Russell Kiefel, who portrayed the brothers’ father, prompting a storyline revision that introduced Fay. Her arrival brought unresolved familial tensions to light, particularly concerning Tyler’s history. Fay’s diagnosis of Huntington’s disease became a key storyline upon her return in 2020, with her condition progressively worsening until her death in March 2021.

Fay visits Erinsborough aiming to reconnect with her sons. While Mark warmly welcomes her presence, Aaron approaches her sudden reappearance with suspicion. She offers Tyler an apology for past neglect and abuse inflicted by their father Russell, which Tyler accepts, though Aaron remains bitter. Fay discloses that during a difficult period with Russell, she had an affair resulting in Tyler being biologically fathered by Hamish Roche rather than Russell. This revelation creates friction, especially with Tyler who initially rejects her.

After relocating to Erinsborough, Fay takes over management of The Waterhole but resigns as family conflicts escalate. She provides both financial and emotional support to Chloe Brennan amid Chloe’s relationship struggles and pregnancy complications. As Fay’s Huntington’s disease advances, the family organizes care arrangements including hiring live-in nurse Nicolette Stone.

Fay’s relationships are multifaceted; she forms a bond with Nicolette despite underlying tensions involving Chloe and Pierce Greyson’s marriage. She amends her will to include Nicolette, causing concern among family members but eventually forgiving Nicolette’s previous actions. As Fay’s health rapidly declines due to pneumonia triggered by an infection, she fulfills items on her bucket list before passing away peacefully surrounded by family. Her funeral takes place in Adelaide.

Hamish Roche

Hamish Roche, played by Sean Taylor, made his first appearance on 4 September 2017 as the biological father of Tyler Brennan. Introduced by Jason Herbison, Hamish arrived following the disclosure of Tyler’s mother, Fay Brennan’s, affair. Characterized as a "smooth operator," he aimed to establish connections with Tyler and his siblings while concealing a shadowy history involving a playing card tied to their father, Russell Brennan.

The narrative surrounding Hamish revolved around property development and intricate familial relationships. He interacted with prominent characters such as Sheila Canning and manipulated Tyler by undermining his work at the garage, which ultimately led to Tyler’s termination. Hamish’s objective was to claim a boat inherited from Russell with plans to escape the country alongside his partner Louise McLeod and Tyler, in order to avoid a substantial tax liability. His strategy included fabricating infidelity evidence to isolate Tyler and create rifts among the Brennan brothers.

Eventually, Louise betrayed Hamish by threatening to reveal their shared criminal activities, including interference with Russell’s will and his murder. In retaliation, Hamish poisoned Louise, resulting in her coma. However, investigations by Mark Brennan and Sheila Canning uncovered clues that led to Louise’s recovery and exposed Hamish’s bankruptcy and illicit dealings.

The storyline reached its peak at the Guy Fawkes Gala when Tyler accused Hamish of murdering Russell. Shortly thereafter, Hamish was discovered dead in the hot tub of the Canning family home. Authorities treated it as a homicide; Tyler admitted to assaulting Hamish and was subsequently incarcerated. Later revelations came from Hamish’s other son, Cassius Grady, who confessed to drowning Hamish after Tyler had left.

Hamish Roche’s character arc underscored themes of betrayal, financial deceit, and familial strife within the Neighbours series, intertwining the business of property development with personal vendettas.

Cassius Grady

Cassius Grady, brought to life by Joe Davidson, first appeared uncredited on 6 November 2017, with his casting officially confirmed on 18 May 2018. Davidson praised the cast for their strong sense of family and grounded demeanor. Cassius is a gardener whose storyline revealed deeper complexities, including being responsible for the murder of his father, Hamish Roche. His final appearance was on 6 November 2018.

Cassius initially advertises his gardening services around Ramsay Street. After initial reluctance from Sheila Canning due to her busy schedule, she hires him. He later secures an exclusive contract with Sheila over Dipi Rebecchi. Early interactions include apologizing to Piper Willis after accidentally damaging her apples. Elly Conway introduces him to Susan and Karl Kennedy, where he offers complimentary work to demonstrate his abilities. Despite attempts to impress Karl, Cassius is eventually dismissed alongside Shane Rebecchi after their wives observe their work.

He enters a romantic relationship with Piper that is complicated by her lingering feelings for her imprisoned ex-boyfriend Tyler Brennan. Their relationship rekindles after Piper discovers Cassius is the anonymous book underliner she had been intrigued by. Cassius admits he had passed through Erinsborough months earlier and declares his love for Piper despite the risks involved in staying.

Cassius assists Xanthe Canning with physiotherapy following her injury but declines offers to move in due to Xanthe's crush on him. When Piper accepts new employment, Sonya Rebecchi hires Cassius at the nursery as her replacement. Their plans to deepen their relationship are interrupted when Piper is reminded of Tyler.

His backstory unfolds with the arrival of his mother, Elissa Gallow, who urges him to leave before his past is uncovered. It comes to light that Cassius killed Hamish Roche during an altercation and allowed Tyler to be blamed. Returning undercover as a gardener, Cassius searches for a medallion dropped during the incident but refuses to leave because of his love for Piper.

Cassius steals Tyler's case file from Rebecchi Law and responds sharply when confronted by Bea Nilsson. After burning a jacket given by Piper, he agrees to attend therapy following her suggestion. He consummates his relationship with Piper but tensions escalate when he learns Elissa has booked a flight to Senegal, beyond extradition reach. Cassius attempts to convince Piper to run away with him; she declines.

When confronted by Piper about Hamish's murder, Cassius admits guilt and is arrested. He remains silent until assured of his mother’s safety but eventually confesses and is transferred to Warrinor Prison. He apologizes to Sheila Canning for the consequences of Hamish's death; she accepts this understanding Hamish’s mistreatment of both families.

Visits from Bea Nilsson and Ned Willis illustrate how Cassius’ actions have affected others. Tyler Brennan confronts him over lost years caused by wrongful blame. Following an assault by another inmate requiring surgery, Ned reveals he arranged protection for Cassius through gang contacts. After Piper experiences a pregnancy scare that resolves negatively, she bids farewell to Cassius as he remains behind bars.

Rory Zemiro

Rory Zemiro, played by Ash Williams, first appeared on 7 November 2017. Williams, shifting from comedic roles to drama, characterized Rory as a multifaceted individual working as both an exotic dancer and yoga instructor, with intertwined motives related to business and romance. Rory is introduced as Aaron Brennan's (Matt Wilson) ex-partner, their connection having originated through a dance company.

The storyline sees Rory track down Aaron in Paris by using social media and informing him about the Rough Trade dance troupe’s tour across Europe. Subsequently, Rory arrives in Erinsborough and witnesses Aaron’s boyfriend, David Tanaka (Takaya Honda), propose marriage. After injuring his back at Aaron’s gym, Rory receives medical care from David and later gets offered a yoga teaching position by Amy Williams (Zoe Cramond) at The Flame Tree Retreat. Rory motivates Aaron to try out for Rough Trade, even coaching him on a dance routine.

When David uncovers the history between Aaron and Rory and their recent encounter in Paris, it leads to his breakup with Aaron. While Rory observes Aaron’s attempts to mend things with David, he himself pursues Aaron romantically, culminating in a kiss that Aaron declines. The arrival of Rough Trade fan Mick Allsop (Joel Creasey) prompts Rory to reveal Mick’s troublesome behavior and confront him directly. Following this, Rory and Aaron spend the night together after Rory exposes David’s new dating profile.

Aaron later confronts Rory after learning Mick had been involved with Rory during their relationship and suspects that Rory manipulated events to cause their breakup and Aaron’s exclusion from Rough Trade in order to keep things casual. Although Rory denies these accusations, Mick’s confirmation solidifies Aaron’s doubts, leading him to sever ties with Rory.

Joanne Schwartz

Joanne Schwartz, portrayed by Val Lehman, made her debut on 1 December 2017. Lehman’s casting was announced on 5 September 2017; scenes were filmed at Nunawading studios, where she had previously worked on Prisoner. This role reunited her with former co-star Colette Mann. Lehman expressed both surprise and enthusiasm about joining Neighbours. Joanne is introduced as an old acquaintance of Sheila Canning (Mann), whom Daniel Kilkelly of Digital Spy described as an "unexpected blast from Sheila's colourful past." According to Lehman, the two characters have a contentious relationship.

Joanne and Sheila were once best friends during high school but became estranged due to a misunderstanding involving tickets for a Daddy Cool concert. Joanne also invited Sheila's crush—and eventual husband—Frank Canning to the school dance. Years later, Joanne returns to Erinsborough seeking reconciliation with Sheila. They reminisce before confronting unresolved tensions from their youth and family dynamics. Joanne attends Sheila's one-woman show but disrupts it by laughing loudly during technical feedback, causing Sheila to momentarily leave the stage. Joanne admits she harbored jealousy toward Sheila in school, especially after Frank left her for Sheila. She also confesses she was supposed to purchase the Daddy Cool tickets but got distracted. Sheila suggests they go to a concert featuring Daddy Cool’s lead singer Ross Wilson, on the condition that Joanne buys the tickets herself.

Others

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Context
12 January	Rachel Walker	Jessica Tregear	Rachel serves as Maxine Cowper's physiotherapist and approaches Ned Willis at The Waterhole to confirm their scheduled meeting. Ned attempts to introduce her to Elly Conway. Later, Elly observes Ned and Rachel leaving his pool, mistakenly believing they are romantically involved, but Ned clarifies that Rachel is assisting Maxine with hydrotherapy.
16 January	Wendell Danson	Kurtis Lowden	Wendell offers to buy a drink for Paige Smith at a club, but she refuses. David Tanaka intervenes and warns Wendell to back off, prompting him to leave.
18 January–26 October	Li-Kim Chen	Kate Song	Li-Kim is a hardworking student admired by Xanthe Canning. She purchases a counterfeit ID from Piper Willis and spreads gossip about Ben Kirk and Yashvi Rebecchi. Additionally, Li-Kim encourages Elly Conway to arrange counseling sessions with Jack Callahan.
23 January–1 March	Lee Darwin	Laura Edwards	Lee conducts ultrasounds for Sonya Rebecchi, revealing the baby’s gender as female. Later, she informs David Tanaka about possible complications in the pregnancy.
24 January	Wombat handler	Andrea McKewen	The handler brings Warnie, the wombat joey, to the Erinsborough Backpackers launch event.
24–27 January	Warnie	Uncredited	Warnie resides in the Backpackers enclosure but goes missing. A ransom note demands $1500. It is eventually revealed that Gary Canning took Warnie but returns him anonymously.
2 February	Jacqueline Rosser	Janet Foye	Jacqueline has lunch with Jack Callahan and church members, expressing interest in Ned Willis's community service efforts.
8 February	Hassan "Ace" Nasir	Riley Evans	Ace volunteers to assist Amy Williams with fixing a leak but intentionally causes damage before meeting Leo Tanaka, who pays him.
9 February	Neil Strong	Joe Petruzzi	Neil confronts Gary Canning on behalf of Kev McNally, warning him to keep away from his family.
	Bibiana Nasir	Christine Kaman	Ace’s grandmother discusses with Jack Callahan Ace's sabotage at the Flame Tree restaurant and his unwillingness to apologize.
10 February	Bruce McNally	Gil Tucker	Bruce, father of Kev McNally, is approached by Sheila Canning to mediate between Kev and Gary; he expresses disappointment over his son’s behavior.
17 February	Eva Solis	Jasmine Vaughns	Eva visits Erinsborough Backpackers and cautions Piper Willis not to lose sight of her boyfriend Tyler Brennan.
17 February–17 March	Maria Buraczek	Linda Jean Bruno	Maria manages the Back Lane Bar and dismisses Tyler Brennan after he escorts Elly Conway out during a disturbance.
24 February–15 June	Bishop Green	Mirko Grillini	Bishop Green supervises the development of refugee housing and advises Paige Smith to keep her baby's paternity confidential to protect Jack Callahan's church position. He later suspends Jack and closes the parish when Jack decides to leave.
27 February–13 September 2017, 21 May 2018	Freya Stone	Adele Wilson	Freya pressures Piper Willis into obtaining fake IDs and hosts a post-formal party where she spikes drinks with ADHD medication. She also investigates rumors regarding Yashvi Rebecchi’s relationship with Ben Kirk.
2 March 2017, 3 May–11 June 2018	Olive Murray	Karenza Stevens	Nurse Olive oversees Xanthe Canning’s work experience at Erinsborough Hospital and later raises concerns about disagreements between Clive Gibbons and Rita Newland concerning hospital management.
6–14 March	Keith Schmidt	Joshua Diaz	Keith operates a garage involved in a police sting operation and assists Tyler Brennan in borrowing equipment for accident response efforts.
7 March 2017 – 22 October 2018	Dr. Rob Carson	Christopher Farrell	'Dr. Carson' conducts medical procedures including amniocentesis and suturing wounds. He dates Amy Williams but their relationship ends following conflicts involving Gary Canning; subsequently, he disrupts a public event by spraying urine on attendees.

External links

• Official Neighbours site: Characters and cast
• Full cast and characters on the Internet Movie Database
• Andrea Somers profile on the Official Neighbours website
• Dipi Rebecchi page at the Official Neighbours site
• Kirsha Rebecchi profile on the Official Neighbours website
• Yashvi Rebecchi information on the Official Neighbours website