Jody Walker

Home and Away

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

Home and Away is a long-running Australian soap opera that premiered on the Seven Network on 17 January 1988. This compilation highlights characters introduced during 2009, all brought in under the direction of executive producer Cameron Welsh. The show's 22nd season spanned from 19 January to 27 November 2009. Among the early arrivals were Gina and Hugo Austin in January. February introduced Robert Cruze, Trey Palmer, Freya Duric, and Joey Collins. March saw the debuts of Liam Murphy and John Palmer, while April brought in Lachie Cladwell and David Gardiner. In June, May Stone was added to the cast, followed by July's birth of Harry Holden and the introduction of the Walker family members: Sid, Dexter, and Indigo. Detective Robert Robertson appeared in August, with Romeo Smith joining in September.

Gina Austin

Gina Austin, played by Sonia Todd, made her first appearance on 27 January 2009 and departed on 18 April 2013. According to the show's official site, Gina is a committed mother who openly acknowledges past errors involving her eldest and youngest sons but faces challenges with strength rather than self-pity. Industry commentary portrays Gina as a warm-hearted, grounded individual who consistently places her family’s needs above her own ambitions. Todd emphasizes that Gina’s maternal role to three sons is central to her character.

Hugo Austin

Hugo Austin, portrayed by Bernard Curry, debuted on 27 January 2009, exited on 26 January 2010, returned on 6 May 2010, and left again on 9 June 2010. Curry, who had previously acted in rival soap Neighbours, praised his experience on Home & Away as his most enjoyable television role to date. Hugo is depicted as an outdoors enthusiast with a toned physique and sun-kissed complexion.

Robert Cruze

Robert "Robbo" Cruze, enacted by Aidan Gillett, first appeared on screen on 1 February 2009. Robbo was employed aboard a boat alongside Aden Jefferies and Joey Collins. He frequently antagonized Joey due to her sexual orientation, culminating in pushing her overboard, persistent harassment, and ultimately sexually assaulting her. Initially silenced by fear, Joey later reported the assault after receiving support from others. Robbo denied all allegations; his former partner Tanya Gannon arrived to assist but was struck by a vehicle. In retaliation for Joey’s complaint, Robbo assaulted her again and attempted drowning, but intervention by Charlie prevented further harm. Robbo was subsequently arrested, charged, and did not return to the series.

Trey Palmer

Trey Palmer, portrayed by Luke Bracey, made his debut on 9 February 2009. Although described as possessing "the face of an angel," Trey’s conduct was marked by "devilish behaviour," generating audience intrigue and conflict—especially involving Geoff Campbell (Lincoln Lewis) and Nicole Franklin. A significant plotline featured Trey filming a private sex tape with Nicole that was leaked publicly—reflecting a real-life incident involving Lincoln Lewis. Joe Brett from Holy Soap labeled Trey as a "neurotic wolverine."

Trey arrives in Summer Bay as a troubled youth who bullies peers such as Jai Fernandez (Jordan Rodrigues) and clashes with school staff. He engages in ongoing disputes with Geoff Campbell and harbors animosity toward his stepfather, John Palmer. Trey also develops unreturned feelings for Kirsty, sparking additional tensions involving Miles Copeland. Following a violent altercation, Trey initially files charges against Miles but later retracts them.

Seeking change, Trey grows closer to Nicole; they begin dating and become intimate before creating a sex tape that Trey later leaks in retaliation, causing Nicole public embarrassment. His actions escalate when he seizes control of a school bus during a field trip, revealing he planted an explosive beneath it. Although most students escape unharmed, Hugo Austin sustains serious injuries from the blast. Trey is arrested on charges of attempted murder.

Freya Duric

Freya Duric, portrayed by Sophie Hensser, made her first appearance on 10 February 2009.

In 2009, the show featured two lesbian narratives, one of which involved Freya sharing a kiss with Nicole Franklin (Tessa James), leading to complaints from viewers. James described their relationship as Freya embodying the more rebellious side Nicole once had, which intrigues Nicole despite her hesitation. The kiss was Freya’s way of expressing her attraction, causing Nicole to confront the dullness she felt in herself.

Freya arrives intent on rekindling a romance with Xavier Austin but encounters resistance since he is involved with Ruby Buckton. She persistently tempts Xavier and causes disruptions around Summer Bay. Her actions escalate to dealing drugs locally, persuading Xavier to distribute them at Summer Bay High. To assert her daring nature, she publicly kisses Nicole, then exploits Xavier for personal gain. Eventually growing disinterested, Freya kisses his brother Hugo without knowing Xavier has seen it. Following the resulting conflict, she promptly leaves town.

Joey Collins

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

The producers introduced Joey to develop a lesbian storyline alongside Charlie Buckton (Esther Jackie Anderson), aiming to increase viewership. Their friendship gradually evolves over five weeks into a romantic relationship featuring intimate moments. Executive producer Cameron Welsh highlighted Joey’s favorable reception and left open the possibility of her return.

Joey works aboard a boat alongside Aden Jefferies and Robbo Cruze, who harasses and eventually sexually assaults her. After confiding in Aden and Belle Taylor, Joey files a complaint, but Robbo denies the allegations and her brother Brett refuses to believe her, even forcing her out of their home. Charlie supports Joey and intervenes when Robbo attempts to drown her; Robbo is subsequently arrested. This leads to Charlie and Joey starting a secret relationship.

Their romance becomes public amid homophobic reactions in Summer Bay. Charlie struggles with accepting her sexuality while managing work stress, causing strain between them. Ultimately, Joey departs after an emotional goodbye to Charlie for a new job opportunity elsewhere.

Liam Murphy

Liam Murphy, played by Axle Whitehead, was introduced on 5 March 2009. Musician and presenter Whitehead earned the role through auditioning; Liam was initially intended for only fifteen episodes. Whitehead described Liam as a "bad boy rocker" and incorporated his own experiences to authentically portray the character's drug use.

Brendan Austin

Brendan Austin, portrayed by Kain O'Keeffe, first appeared on 25 March 2009. Having previously collaborated with series cast members on a film project, O'Keeffe joined the show following the introduction of the rest of the Austin family. Brendan’s character has a mental disability that generates tension within the family.

Brendan arrives in Summer Bay accompanied by his mother Gina and is diagnosed with autism. His younger brother Xavier had been his primary caregiver during older brother Hugo’s absence, which caused friction among the siblings. Initially socially isolated, Brendan began engaging more after encouragement from Xavier’s girlfriend Ruby Buckton. Under Martha MacKenzie’s supervision, Brendan ran away multiple times, including an incident where he threw a brick at Roman Harris’s car, causing Roman to lose his sight. Roman chose not to press charges, recognizing Brendan’s limited culpability.

Brendan fears blue cars due to witnessing a previous accident involving Hugo. He later introduces his girlfriend Ruby Leeds, who has Down syndrome—initially causing confusion because of her name's similarity to Ruby Buckton. Gina was reluctant about Brendan moving into supported housing but changed her mind after seeing his development and courage when he saved Xavier from drowning despite not being a strong swimmer. Brendan moved out to live with Ruby but returned briefly for what he believed was Hugo’s funeral; however, Hugo survived. After Gina passed away in 2013, Brendan did not 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 capacity. His character was portrayed as a "strict father figure" and an active participant in 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, later reveals she is expecting a child, and is central to a plotline where their caravan catches fire following an intimate encounter. Series producer Cameron Welsh highlighted the complexity surrounding Claudia’s relationship with Geoff, especially concerning the uncertainty over her baby's paternity.

Working alongside Geoff on the farm, Claudia develops romantic feelings that lead to dating and intimacy. After the caravan fire, Lachie—her former boyfriend—blames Geoff for injuries he sustained. Claudia initially asserts that Geoff is the father but eventually confesses that Lachie is the biological parent, which sparks conflict. Geoff responds by evicting her from his home, while Lachie’s aggressive conduct prompts Claudia to deny him access to their child. Ultimately, she decides to leave Summer Bay and move in with her cousin in Dubbo, severing ties with both men.

Lachie Cladwell

Lachie Cladwell, enacted by Jackson Heywood, entered the series on 4 May 2009 as Claudia Hammond’s (Alexandra Park) ex-boyfriend. Their intermittent relationship ended when Claudia developed feelings for Geoff Campbell (Lincoln Lewis). Lachie attempts to rekindle their romance but eventually concedes to leave her be. When Claudia announces her pregnancy, she initially denies Lachie’s paternity, creating tension with Geoff. Following a rugby match altercation that lands Lachie in hospital, Claudia admits he is the father. Despite Lachie’s desire to build a family together, Claudia decides he should not be involved and departs Summer Bay for good.

The Daily Record observed that during this time, Geoff—usually even-tempered—directed his anger towards Lachie.

David Gardiner

David "Gardy" Gardiner, portrayed by Jeremy Sims, first appeared on 13 May 2009. The Sydney Morning Herald commended Sims for delivering a compelling and chilling portrayal of Gardy, who is depicted as a villainous character with a "cheeky smile" masking dangerous motives.

Gardy infiltrates the household of his blind military comrade Roman Harris (Conrad Coleby), unsettling Roman’s daughter Nicole Franklin (Tessa James) and her friend Ruby Buckton (Rebecca Breeds). Although initially accepted, Gardy soon escalates tensions by involving Roman in criminal activities such as robbing a liquor store and threatening Nicole. He manipulates Roman into further illegal acts through blackmail tied to a wartime incident.

Gardy’s criminal endeavors culminate in a hostage crisis at the Palmer residence and a violent robbery at a warehouse in Mangrove River. During a subsequent shootout where Roman sustains injuries, others intervene; Gardy is shot in the leg but manages to flee into a nearby creek, vanishing afterward.

This narrative arc underscores Gardy’s role as a disruptive antagonist whose actions significantly affect key characters and heighten dramatic tension within the series.

May Stone

May Stone, played by Alin Sumarwata, made her first appearance on 12 June 2009 as a new educator at Summer Bay High. She soon begins a romantic relationship with Angelo Rosetta, who is secretly involved with Charlie Buckton. Esther Anderson, the actress portraying Charlie, explained that although Charlie partly sought to create complications, Angelo remained drawn to her, resulting in their affair. The Daily Record remarked that Angelo might have shown greater consideration toward May, who was visibly upset after their split.

After settling in Summer Bay, May starts dating Angelo. However, despite his promises, Angelo’s lingering feelings for Charlie lead him to rekindle their relationship. When May discovers the truth, she ends things and chooses to leave town, resigning from her teaching role.

Harry Holden

Harry Jack Holden, portrayed by various child actors, first appeared on 30 July 2009. He is the son of Rachel Armstrong and Tony Holden. Following Harry’s birth, Rachel faces difficulty bonding due to his incessant crying and briefly contemplates smothering him before seeking assistance. After Jane Avent accuses Rachel of a stillbirth, Jane abducts Harry, triggering a police search. The child is safely returned once Jane’s husband reveals the facts. In August 2010, Harry relocates with his parents to Boston, pausing briefly at his half-brother Jack’s gravesite before departing.

Sid Walker

Sid Walker, enacted by Robert Mammone, arrived on screen on 30 July 2009 under an initial guest contract lasting five weeks. Following favorable audience reception, Sid, along with Indigo and Dexter, was brought back as a permanent cast member in June 2010.

Dexter Walker

Dexter Walker, originally portrayed by Tom Green from 30 July 2009, was recast in 2010 with Charles Cottier when the character returned. Cottier observed that Dexter’s personality shifted notably from the original portrayal. One significant storyline featured Dexter’s relationship with Marilyn Chambers (Emily Symons), which Cottier described as both awkward and thrilling due to their considerable age gap.

Indigo Walker

Indigo Walker, played by Samara Weaving, debuted on 30 July 2009. The Walker family—Sid, Jody (Victoria Haralabidou), Dexter, and Indigo—was introduced as a new household in Home and Away. After leaving in September 2009, they returned in June 2010; Weaving noted that balancing academic commitments with acting was easier during this return.

Robert Robertson

Robert Robertson, portrayed by Socratis Otto, first appeared on 2 August 2009. Created by James Walker for a murder mystery plotline, Robertson was designed to provide comic relief amidst darker themes through his lively and witty demeanor. Otto drew upon his comedic background and inspiration from quirky detective archetypes for this role, describing it as one of his most fulfilling performances.

As a detective investigating the murder of Grant Bledcoe, Ruby Buckton’s (Rebecca Breeds) biological father, Robertson initially suspects Ruby’s mother Charlie and arrests her before Ross Buckton (David Downer) confesses. Known for his eccentric storytelling and sharp investigative skills, Robertson pursues Leah Patterson-Baker (Ada Nicodemou) romantically; however, she declines his advances.

He returns to investigate Penn Graham’s (Christian Clark) disappearance alongside Detective Graves (Eryn Jean Norvill). Robertson focuses suspicion on Alf Stewart as the main suspect, collecting evidence and attempting to obtain a confession. Despite several arrests, he fails to secure definitive proof. He again tries to pursue Leah romantically but she refuses due to her lingering feelings for Elijah Johnson (Jay Laga'aia).

Robertson coerces Will Smith (Zac Drayson) into implicating Alf at the scene of Penn’s murder. Although Alf is detained, Morag Bellingham (Cornelia Frances) challenges the case against him by revealing Will as dishonest. Consequently, Alf is released and Will is charged instead. Battling self-doubt over the investigation's outcome, Robertson confides in Leah who offers reassurance. When offered a promotion requiring relocation to the city, he invites Leah and her son to join him; she declines.

Romeo Smith

Romeo Smith, brought to life by Luke Mitchell, first appeared on 10 September 2009. Mitchell obtained the role shortly after moving to Sydney while unemployed. Romeo is depicted as charming, "mischievous, humorous, and courteous". His immediate family on the show includes his sister Mink Carpenter (Matylda Buczko) and mother Jill Carpenter (Josephine Mitchell). After his relationship with Annie Campbell, Romeo's notable romantic involvement is with Indigo Walker (Samara Weaving).

Others

23 April Chelsea Murphy Georgia Gorman Spouse of Liam Murphy, faces public scrutiny due to Liam’s drug problems; divorces and moves to Paris with their son Ash. 23–28 April Ash Murphy Dusty Piper Young son of Liam and Chelsea Murphy. 1–2 June Jenena Palmer Anna Lise Phillips Mother of Trey and wife to John Palmer. 13 June–13 July Clint Mailer Matt Zeremes Rugby coach who pressures Aden Jefferies into undermining Geoff Campbell’s career. 14 July–18 August Jane Avent Felicity Price Grieving mother after stillbirth, blames Rachel Armstrong, abducts Rachel’s son Harry before seeking help. 14 July–18 August Rex Avent Sandy Winton Jane's husband who initially supports her accusations against Rachel. 14 July–26 January 2010 Wayan Rahardjo Dorje Swallow Hospital patient unable to speak English, connected to Hugo Austin’s smuggling ring; used by Angelo Rosetta during investigations. 20–21 July Paul Thomas Norrie Briefly appears as an extra. 23 July–18 August Squirt Ben Davy-Thorburn Friend and colleague of Aden Jefferies; attends Aden’s stag party. 29 July-27 November Marine Officer Bryant Michael Sutherland Water police officer working with Angelo Rosetta on human smuggling investigations. 30 July–17 August 2011 Jody Walker Victoria Haralabidou Sid Walker’s spouse who attempts reconciliation but departs following infidelity; returns for a family visit in August 2011. 20 August Michelle Michelle Pettigrove Charlie Buckton’s aunt who reveals Ruby Buckton’s biological mother to her. 24 August–8 July 2010 Therese Rose Ashton Nurse involved in workplace disputes involving Sid Walker and Nicole Franklin. 28 August–11 September Andy McLeod Paul Winchester Member of parent group offering parenting advice to Rachel Armstrong; friendship causes marital strain. Sophia McLeod Madeline Andrews Daughter of Andy McLeod diagnosed with hearing difficulties by Rachel Armstrong. 1–16 September Grant Bledcoe Clayton Watson Biological father of Ruby Leeds accused of rape by Charlie Buckton; later found murdered, prompting an investigation implicating Ross Buckton. 8 September Tracey Bledcoe Mary Anne Byrne Wife of Grant Bledcoe responding to allegations against him. 15 September–1 March 2012 Patrick Avery Clayton Williams Police constable appearing in various cases, including bailing Sid Walker out on assault charges. 18–22 September Ruby Leeds Tracie Sammmut Girlfriend of Brendan advocating for his independence through sheltered accommodation. 18 September Pheobe Alisha Burton Short-term friend of Jai Fernandez. 30 September Jim Mark Richardson Hotel manager appearing in one episode. 1 October–27 January 2010 Bambang Rahardjo Joft Prastowo Son of Wayan Rahardjo assisting Martha MacKenzie on the farm; used as bait in smuggling investigation. 3 October–26 January 2010 Suzy Sudiro Tasneem Roc Hugo Austin’s ex-wife involved in human smuggling activities; kidnaps Martha MacKenzie demanding ransom before being subdued by Charlie Buckton. 6–17 November Riley Radcliffe Tani Edgecombe School bully targeting VJ Patterson; father Ian attempts cover-up but is exposed by police authorities. Ian Radcliffe Ben Simpson Father who injures son Riley to conceal bullying incident and extorts Miles Copeland before truth emerges. 9–24 November Poppie Merrin Elouise Blair Manipulates Liam Murphy into conflict with Nicole Franklin leading to Liam's drug possession arrest. 17–24 November Reg Merrin Dane Carson Manager at The Sands who employs Aden Jefferies and later dismisses him following a fabricated scandal involving his daughter Catie Merrin. 18–24 November Catie Merrin Tess Haubrich Reg Merrin's daughter who orchestrates a false scandal against Aden Jefferies at a formal event resulting in his termination. 19–23 November Orson Cardillo Mark Lee Gardener for Donna De Bono implicated in a mysterious gun planting event leading to Donna's imprisonment; suffers heart attack during inquiry. 20 November Bonita Cardillo Suzi Dougherty Wife of Orson Cardillo defending him amidst accusations related to Donna De Bono’s case. 25 November–18 February 2010 Hazem Kassir Ben Kermode Dates Leah Patterson-Baker; suffers racist assault causing paralysis; ends relationship and relocates to the city. 26 November Prison Guard Joe Tarena Guard during Derrick Quaid's escape from custody.

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 boat; participates in illegal abalone trading; apprehended after trying to implicate Aden; provides information regarding Hugo.
2–6 February	Steve Hogan	Damien Freeglass	Police officer conducting investigations in Summer Bay.
3 February	Lawyer	Blair Cutting	Legal representative for Angelo Rosetta.
4 February–25 January 2010	Lou De Bono	David Roberts	Dates Irene Roberts; later perishes at sea; Irene is initially suspected of his murder.
9–10 February	Archie Maddock	Tim Phillipps	Homeless individual protecting Melody Jones; informs Miles Copeland about her location.
10 February	Thug	Zen Ledden	Attacker of both Melody Jones and Archie Maddock.
19 February	Mryll Ramsay	Kim Hillas	Initially declines interview to safeguard a nursing home; convinced by Melody to cooperate.
19–25 February	Audrey Long	Wendy Playfair	Melody Jones’s grandmother who dies following a stroke.
3–19 March	George	Benjamin O'Donnell	Participates in speed dating; briefly connects with Leah before she opts for Roman.
9 March–29 July	Brett Collins	Toby Levins	Joey Collins's elder brother; struggles with her sexual orientation; ultimately reconciles after family disputes.
16 March–26 January 2010	Derrick Quaid	John Atkinson	Survivor of a shipwreck involved in human smuggling alongside Hugo Austin and Suzy Sudiro; assaults Geoff Campbell and Nicole Franklin; taken into custody.
19 March–13 November	Jerry Thibault	Nicholas Cassim	Newspaper employer engaged in an affair with Paula Gill; promises Belle a promotion but later withdraws it.
19 March	Tanya Gannon	Hayley McCarthy	Robert Cruze’s former partner who files a complaint against him; struck by a vehicle upon arriving in Summer Bay.
20 March	Paula Gill	Paula Arundell	Colleague of Belle; involved romantically with Jerry Thibault; bullies Belle concerning her addiction struggles.
23 March–23 November	Donna De Bono	Suzie MacKenzie	Estranged wife of Lou De Bono; attempts to implicate Irene Roberts in Lou's death.

External links

• Present cast and roles on the Official Home and Away site
• Present cast and roles at Holy Soap