Joey Collins

Home and Away is a long-running Australian soap opera that premiered on the Seven Network on 17 January 1988. This compilation highlights characters who were introduced during 2009, all under the guidance of executive producer Cameron Welsh. The show's 22nd season ran from 19 January to 27 November 2009. Early in the year, the series welcomed Gina and Hugo Austin in January; February saw the additions of Robert Cruze, Trey Palmer, Freya Duric, and Joey Collins. March featured the arrival of Liam Murphy and John Palmer, followed by Lachie Cladwell and David Gardiner in April. In June, May Stone was introduced. July included the birth of Harry Holden alongside the Walker family members: Sid, Dexter, and Indigo. Detective Robert Robertson made his debut in August, with Romeo Smith being the last new character introduced in September.

Gina Austin

Gina Austin, brought to life by actress Sonia Todd, made her first appearance on 27 January 2009 and remained until 18 April 2013. She is portrayed as a devoted mother who has endured difficulties with both her eldest and youngest sons, demonstrating strength without indulging in self-pity. Gina is characterized as a warm, down-to-earth woman who places her family’s needs above her own ambitions. Todd emphasizes that Gina’s role as a mother to three boys is central to her character’s identity.

Hugo Austin

Hugo Austin, played by Bernard Curry, first appeared on 27 January 2009. His initial departure occurred on 26 January 2010, followed by a return on 6 May 2010, and a subsequent exit on 9 June 2010. Curry, who had previously acted in rival soap Neighbours, described his experience working on Home & Away as both enjoyable and challenging. Hugo is depicted as an outdoors enthusiast with a fit build and sun-kissed complexion.

Robert Cruze

Robert "Robbo" Cruze, portrayed by Aidan Gillett, was introduced on 1 February 2009. Robbo worked alongside Aden Jefferies and Joey Collins on a boat and frequently targeted Joey due to her sexual orientation. His antagonism escalated to sexual assault, where he threatened Joey to keep silent about his actions. After she reported him, Robbo denied all allegations. His former girlfriend Tanya Gannon came to support Joey but was subsequently struck by a vehicle. In retaliation for the complaint, Robbo physically assaulted Joey and attempted to drown her; however, Charlie intervened, preventing further harm. Robbo was arrested, charged, and did not return to the series.

Trey Palmer

Trey Palmer, enacted by Luke Bracey, made his debut on 9 February 2009. Despite possessing an "angelic" appearance, Trey is notorious for his "devilish behaviour," which provoked strong reactions from viewers and disrupted the show's narrative balance. His storyline included conflicts with characters such as Geoff Campbell (Lincoln Lewis) and Nicole Franklin, culminating in a contentious plot involving a leaked sex tape, mirroring a recent real-life scandal.

Trey arrived as a troubled student at Summer Bay High School, bullying classmates like Jai Fernandez (Jordan Rodrigues) and frequently clashing with faculty members. He engaged in ongoing disputes with Geoff Campbell and harbored resentment toward his stepfather, John Palmer. Trey also antagonized Miles Copeland but began showing signs of change under Kirsty’s influence; however, after she rejected his advances, tensions escalated further, leading to legal proceedings that Trey eventually withdrew.

In an effort to reform his image, Trey developed a romantic relationship with Nicole Franklin; their bond deepened into dating and sexual involvement. They recorded a private sex tape together, which Trey later leaked as an act of revenge, severely damaging Nicole’s reputation. His mounting anger culminated in a hostage situation aboard a school bus where he revealed the presence of an explosive device. The resulting blast caused serious injuries to Hugo Austin and led to Trey’s arrest on charges of attempted murder.

Freya Duric

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

In 2009, the series explored two lesbian narratives, one of which involved Nicole Franklin (Tessa James) and Freya. Their on-screen kiss generated viewer complaints. James described their relationship by stating that Freya embodies Nicole’s uninhibited side, which initially appeals to Nicole but soon becomes discomforting. Freya’s daring behavior forces Nicole to confront her own perceived dullness.

Freya arrives with the intention of reigniting a romance with Xavier Austin, who resists due to his commitment to Ruby Buckton. Despite Gina's cautions, Freya successfully seduces Xavier and creates turmoil within the community. She intensifies her hold by introducing drugs, persuading Xavier to distribute them at Summer Bay High. After a confrontation with Nicole, Freya publicly kisses her to assert control, provoking Geoff’s suspicion of manipulation. Freya takes pleasure in manipulating Xavier but grows disinterested and kisses his brother Hugo, unaware that Xavier witnesses the act. This incident leads to their breakup and Freya’s prompt exit from town.

Joey Collins

Joey Collins, portrayed by Kate Bell, was first seen on 12 February 2009.

The producers brought Joey into the storyline to develop a lesbian plotline with Charlie Buckton (Esther Jackie Anderson) aimed at enhancing viewer engagement. Over a five-week arc, their relationship evolves from friendship into romance, featuring intimate moments. Executive producer Cameron Welsh acknowledged Joey’s favorable reception and hinted at potential future appearances.

Joey works alongside Aden Jefferies and Robbo Cruze on a boat, where Robbo harasses her until an attempted assault compels her to confide in Aden. Despite opposition from her brother Brett—who ultimately evicts her—Joey remains close to Charlie. Robbo’s threats escalate until he attempts to drown Joey, but Charlie intervenes and ensures Robbo is arrested.

Their secret relationship faces scrutiny through local gossip and homophobic reactions. Charlie experiences internal conflict regarding her sexuality alongside professional pressures, straining their bond. Eventually, Joey departs for a new job after an emotional farewell.

Liam Murphy

Liam Murphy, enacted by Axle Whitehead, first appeared on 5 March 2009. Whitehead, known as a musician and presenter, secured the role following a successful audition process. Initially slated for only fifteen episodes, Liam is portrayed as a "bad boy rocker." Whitehead incorporated his personal experiences to deliver an authentic portrayal of Liam’s struggles with substance abuse.

Brendan Austin

Brendan Austin, played by Kain O'Keeffe, debuted on 25 March 2009. Introduced alongside the Austin family, Brendan is characterized by a developmental disability that causes tension with his brothers Xavier and Hugo.

Brendan arrives in Summer Bay accompanied by his mother, revealing his autism diagnosis. Xavier had served as Brendan’s primary caregiver, which creates sibling rivalry. Initially kept hidden from friends, Brendan gains confidence socially through Xavier’s girlfriend Ruby Buckton. When placed under Martha's supervision, Brendan runs away several times, including an incident where he throws a brick at Roman Harris’s car causing an accident. Roman suffers temporary blindness but chooses not to press charges after understanding Brendan’s condition.

Brendan’s aversion to blue cars originates from witnessing a traumatic event involving Hugo. He later introduces Ruby Leeds as his girlfriend; she has Down syndrome, which initially causes some confusion due to her name. Gina Austin supports Brendan’s wish to transition into supported living and attend a specialized educational facility after he rescues Xavier from drowning despite limited swimming ability. Brendan ultimately leaves Summer Bay to live with Ruby. In 2013, following Gina’s passing, Brendan was absent from her funeral due to emotional distress.

John Palmer

John Palmer, played by Shane Withington, made his first appearance on 27 March 2009 as the stepfather of Trey Palmer. Withington, known for his previous role in A Country Practice, joined Home and Away in a recurring guest capacity. John is depicted as a "strict father" figure and is actively involved in the surf lifesaving community.

Claudia Hammond

Claudia Hammond, portrayed by Alexandra Park, was introduced on 10 April 2009. She becomes romantically involved with Geoff Campbell and later reveals she is expecting a child. Their storyline includes a dramatic incident where they are trapped inside a caravan fire following an intimate encounter, which also highlights Geoff’s internal struggle with his religious beliefs.

Series producer Cameron Welsh described Claudia’s pregnancy plot as complex, involving her initial dishonesty about the identity of the father. After Lachie suffers an injury caused by Geoff, Claudia discloses that Lachie is the biological father, which creates tension and leads to Geoff asking her to leave his home. Lachie’s aggressive behavior ultimately destroys any possibility of reconciliation, prompting Claudia to depart Summer Bay accompanied by her cousin Dubbo.

Claudia’s narrative delves into themes of relationship turmoil and self-discovery, significantly affecting characters Geoff and Lachie while contributing to major dramatic moments within the series.

Lachie Cladwell

Lachie Cladwell, enacted by Jackson Heywood, first appeared on 4 May 2009. He is Claudia Hammond’s (Alexandra Park) former boyfriend, with their on-again, off-again romance spanning six months marked by volatility. Claudia, who develops feelings for Geoff Campbell (Lincoln Lewis), is taken aback when Lachie reenters her life attempting reconciliation but eventually agrees to step away. Claudia announces her pregnancy and initially denies Lachie’s paternity, but later admits he is the father after Lachie sustains injuries during a rugby altercation with Geoff. Despite Lachie’s desire to build a family, Claudia refuses his involvement and permanently leaves Summer Bay.

The Daily Record observed that Geoff’s mounting frustration culminated in anger directed toward Lachie during this storyline.

David Gardiner

David "Gardy" Gardiner, portrayed by Jeremy Sims, appeared between 13 May and 10 June 2009. His performance was commended by the Sydney Morning Herald for its authenticity, especially in his unsettling interactions with Roman Harris (Conrad Coleby). The Daily Record labeled Gardy as a "villain" despite his charismatic demeanor.

Gardy intrudes upon Roman's residence, causing unease for Roman’s daughter Nicole Franklin (Tessa James) and her friend Ruby Buckton (Rebecca Breeds). Although recently blinded, Roman recognizes Gardy’s voice and reluctantly permits him to stay. Shortly afterward, Gardy becomes involved in a violent confrontation with John Palmer (Shane Withington) and his associates. He attempts daring methods to assist Roman in regaining sight, including a parachute jump stunt, but these efforts prove unsuccessful.

Once Roman recovers his vision, Gardy coerces him into participating in a liquor store robbery that triggers a heart attack in an elderly woman. When Nicole rejects Gardy’s advances, he threatens to implicate Roman falsely. Gardy escalates his criminal actions by robbing the Palmer household and taking hostages Trey (Luke Bracey) and Jenena (Anna Lise Phillips).

He blackmails Roman over a wartime shooting incident and orchestrates a warehouse heist in Mangrove River. During police intervention, Gardy renders Roman unconscious and threatens Nicole to ensure compliance. The robbery culminates in heightened tension as Gardy plans to eliminate witnesses; Roman resists and sustains a gunshot wound. A shootout follows involving Xavier Austin (David Jones-Roberts) and Hugo Austin (Bernard Curry). Hugo attempts to stop Gardy using a spear gun but fails; ultimately, Roman incapacitates Gardy by shooting him in the leg. Despite injuries sustained, Gardy escapes into a nearby creek and vanishes.

May Stone

May Stone, brought to life by Alin Sumarwata, made her first appearance on 12 June 2009 as a new educator at Summer Bay High. She soon enters into a romantic relationship with Angelo Rosetta, who is secretly involved with Charlie Buckton. Despite Angelo's assurances, he admits his ongoing attraction to Charlie, leading to them being intimate. Upon uncovering the affair, May terminates their relationship and promptly resigns from her teaching role before leaving.

Harry Holden

Harry Jack Holden, portrayed by various child actors, was introduced on 30 July 2009. He is the offspring of Rachel Armstrong and Tony Holden. After his birth, Rachel experiences difficulty bonding with Harry and managing his crying, at one point contemplating smothering him before seeking assistance. When Jane Avent abducts Harry, a police search is launched, resulting in his safe recovery. In August 2010, Harry relocates to Boston alongside his parents, pausing briefly at the grave of his half-brother Jack before departing.

Sid Walker

Sid Walker, enacted by Robert Mammone, first appeared on 30 July 2009 under a five-week guest contract. Due to favorable audience reception, Sid and his children Indigo and Dexter returned as permanent characters in June 2010.

Dexter Walker

Dexter Walker, originally portrayed by Tom Green, debuted on 30 July 2009. The character was recast with Charles Cottier in 2010 when Dexter re-entered the storyline. Cottier observed a change in the character’s depiction and highlighted an early plot involving Dexter’s romantic involvement with Marilyn Chambers (Emily Symons), which he described as both challenging and distinctive because of their substantial age difference.

Indigo Walker

Indigo Walker, played by Samara Weaving, also made her debut on 30 July 2009 as part of the newly introduced Walker family, which included father Sid (Robert Mammone), mother Jody (Victoria Haralabidou), son Dexter, and Indigo herself. After their initial departure in September 2009, the Walkers returned in June 2010, with Weaving commenting on the improved balance between her acting responsibilities and academic commitments.

Robert Robertson

Robert Robertson, portrayed by Socratis Otto, first appeared on 2 August 2009. Created by James Walker for a murder-related plotline, Robertson was crafted to blend serious themes with humor, functioning as a "chameleon" detective adept at deception to engage various characters in investigations. Otto utilized his comedic skills and drew inspiration from quirky investigator archetypes to develop the role, considering it one of his most fulfilling performances.

As a police detective arriving in Summer Bay to investigate the murder of Grant Bledcoe, Ruby Buckton's biological father, Robertson initially suspects Ruby's mother Charlie and detains her before learning that Ross Buckton confessed to the crime. Despite his eccentric mannerisms and tall tales, Robertson demonstrates competence in his duties. He briefly dates Leah Patterson-Baker, who declines to pursue a more serious relationship.

Returning to probe the disappearance of Penn Graham, Robertson collaborates with Detective Graves and identifies Alf Stewart as the main suspect. Following several arrests and attempts to elicit a confession, conclusive evidence remains lacking. He again attempts to court Leah, who rejects him due to unresolved feelings for her former partner. Robertson pressures Will Smith into falsely accusing Alf, resulting in Alf's arrest; however, Morag Bellingham exposes Will’s deceit, leading to Alf’s release and Will being charged instead. Troubled by this failure, Robertson confides in Leah about losing his sense of self; she comforts him by reminding him that errors are part of being human. When offered a promotion in the city, he invites Leah and her son to accompany him, but she declines.

Romeo Smith

Romeo Smith, brought to life by Luke Mitchell, made his first appearance on 10 September 2009. Mitchell landed this role after moving to Sydney without any employment lined up. Romeo is depicted as attractive, cheeky, humorous, and courteous. His family on-screen includes his sister Mink Carpenter (played by Matylda Buczko) and mother Jill Carpenter (Josephine Mitchell). Following his relationship with Annie Campbell, Romeo's significant romantic involvement is with Indigo Walker (Samara Weaving).

Additional Characters

Sophia McLeodMadeline Andrews Daughter of Andy McLeod diagnosed by Rachel Armstrong with a hearing impairment. Grant BledcoeClayton Watson Biological father of Ruby Leeds accused of rape by Charlie Buckton; later discovered dead from stab wounds, creating complex family dynamics. Tracey Bledcoe Mary Anne Byrne Wife of Grant Bledcoe, surprised by allegations against him. Patrick Avery Clayton Williams Constable appearing intermittently, notably bailing Sid Walker from assault charges in 2012. Ruby Leeds Tracie Sammmut Brendan's girlfriend advocating for his transition into independent sheltered accommodation. Pheobe Alisha Burton Brief acquaintance of Jai Fernandez. Jim Mark Richardson Brief appearance as hotel manager. "Bambang Rahardjo" Joft Prastowo Son of Wayan Rahardjo; assists Martha MacKenzie on the farm and serves as bait for Angelo Rosetta's smuggling probe. "Suzy Sudiro" Tasneem Roc Ex-wife of Hugo Austin involved in people smuggling ring; kidnaps Martha MacKenzie demanding ransom before being subdued by Charlie Buckton. Riley Radcliffe Tani Edgecombe School bully targeting VJ Patterson; conflict escalates involving Riley's father Ian Radcliffe and Miles Copeland. Ian Radcliffe Ben Simpson Father of Riley Radcliffe who assaults his son to conceal bullying incident; exposed and subsequently disappears. Poppie Merrin Elouise Blair Attempts to seduce Liam Murphy leading to false accusations and Liam's arrest for drug possession. Reg Merrin Dane Carson Manager of The Sands who hires Aden Jefferies but dismisses him after misunderstandings involving his daughter Catie Merrin. Catie MerrinTess Haubrich Daughter of Reg Merrin known for stalking behavior causing problems for Aden Jefferies resulting in his termination. Orson CardilloMark Lee Gardener for Donna De Bono implicated in framing her for firearm-related crime; suffers heart attack during police investigation. Bonita Cardillo Suzi Dougherty Wife of Orson Cardillo defending his innocence amid investigation into Donna De Bono case. Hazem KassirBen Kermode Dates Leah Patterson-Baker until assaulted by racists causing paralysis; ends relationship and moves to the city. Prison Guard Joe Tarena On duty during Derrick Quaid’s escape from custody.

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Role Description
30 January	Bank manager	Christopher Saunders	Detects unauthorized access to funds by Bridget Simmons and informs Leah Patterson-Baker.
30 January–6 October	Don Gibson	Steve Anderson	Collaborates with Aden on a boat; implicated in illegal abalone harvesting; apprehended after trying to implicate Aden.
2–6 February	Steve Hogan	Damien Freeglass	Briefly appears as a police constable investigating 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 dies at sea, resulting in Irene’s wrongful arrest.
9–10 February	Archie Maddock	Tim Phillipps	Homeless individual protecting Melody Jones; helps Miles Copeland locate her.
10 February	Thug	Zen Ledden	Assaults Melody Jones and Archie Maddock.
19 February	Mryll Ramsay	Kim Hillas	Initially declines an interview to save the elderly home; persuaded by Melody.
19–25 February	Audrey Long	Wendy Playfair	Grandmother of Melody Jones; passes away due to a stroke.
3–19 March	George	Benjamin O'Donnell	Participates in speed dating; forms a connection with Leah before she chooses Roman.
9 March–29 July	Brett Collins	Toby Levins	Joey Collins’ older brother; initially disapproves of her sexuality but later reconciles.
16 March–26 January 2010	Derrick Quaid	John Atkinson	Survivor of a shipwreck involved in illegal people trafficking; assaults Geoff Campbell and Nicole Franklin; arrested with accomplices Hugo Austin and Suzy Sudiro.
19 March–13 November	Jerry Thibault	Nicholas Cassim	Employer of Belle at the newspaper; has an affair with Paula Gill; denies Belle a promised promotion.
19 March	Tanya Gannon	Hayley McCarthy	Robert Cruze’s ex-partner who files a complaint against him; suffers injuries in a hit-and-run incident.
20 March	Paula Gill	Paula Arundell	Works alongside Belle; engages in an affair with Jerry Thibault; bullies Belle over her addiction to pills.
23 March–23 November	Donna De Bono	Suzie MacKenzie	Estranged wife of Lou De Bono; accuses Irene Roberts of involvement in Lou’s death.
23 April	Chelsea Murphy	Georgia Gorman	Wife of Liam Murphy; involved in public conflicts concerning Liam’s drug issues; divorces and moves to Paris with their son Ash.
23–28 April	Ash Murphy	Dusty Piper	Child of Liam and Chelsea Murphy.
1–2 June	Jenena Palmer	Anna Lise Phillips	Trey’s mother and John Palmer’s spouse.
13 June–13 July	Clint Mailer	Matt Zeremes	Rugby coach who urges Aden Jefferies to undermine Geoff Campbell’s career.
14 July–18 August	Jane Avent	Felicity Price	Holds Rachel Armstrong responsible for stillbirth; kidnaps Rachel’s son Harry during her period of grief-driven harassment.
14 July–18 August	Rex Avent	Sandy Winton	Supports Jane Avent following their baby’s death; recognizes Jane requires help after the kidnapping episode.
14 July–26 January 2010	Wayan Rahardjo	Dorje Swallow	Hospital patient with no English proficiency connected to Hugo Austin’s smuggling operation; used by Angelo Rosetta during investigation.
20–21 July	Paul	Thomas Norrie	Minor role as an extra in Summer Bay.
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 cooperating with Angelo Rosetta on the human smuggling investigation.
30 July–17 August 2011	Jody Walker	Victoria Haralabidou	Sid Walker’s wife who tries to reconcile for her family but departs after infidelity; returns briefly in August 2011.
20 August	Michelle	Michelle Pettigrove	Charlie Buckton’s aunt who reveals Ruby Buckton is Charlie’s daughter.
24 August–8 July 2010	Therese	Rose Ashton	Nurse involved in a short affair with Sid Walker, resulting in workplace tension with Nicole Franklin.
Andy McLeod	Paul Winchester	Provides parenting advice to Rachel Armstrong; friendship causes marital concerns due to perceived closeness.

External links

• Present cast and roles on the Official Home and Away portal
• Present cast and roles via Holy Soap