Joey Dimato
| Company type | Television series |
|---|---|
| Industry | Television soap opera |
| Founded | March 18, 1985 |
| Headquarters | Australia |
Area served | Australia |
| Website | www |
Neighbours is a long-running Australian soap opera that premiered on 18 March 1985 and currently broadcasts on the digital channel Eleven. This section details the characters introduced in 2015, all under the guidance of executive producer Jason Herbison. The show's thirty-first season commenced on 5 January 2015.[1] Notable character debuts include Cat Rogers in January; Michelle Kim, Tyler Brennan, and Nick Petrides in February; Jimmy Williams, Aaron Brennan, and Mary Smith in June; Russell Brennan in July; Courtney Grixti in August; Piper Willis in September; Shay Daeng in October; and Cecilia Saint arriving in November.
Cat Rogers
Catriona "Cat" Rogers, brought to life by Maleeka Gasbarri, made her first appearance on 19 January 2015.[2] Gasbarri secured the role after being noticed by a Neighbours casting representative while attending an Australian Film and Television Academy course in Perth. She sent an audition tape from her hometown of Dunsborough and commenced filming two weeks afterward.[2]
Cat is the daughter of Erin Rogers (Adrienne Pickering), who was placed into care due to her mother's struggles with substance abuse. Erin informs Sonya Mitchell (Eve Morey) that Cat prefers minimal contact, mostly communicating through Facebook. Sonya’s spouse, Toadfish Rebecchi (Ryan Moloney), organizes a meeting between Cat and Erin; however, Cat initially withdraws due to anxiety. Eventually, she meets with them, forming a connection with Toadie through BMX biking and rekindling her relationship with Erin via cricket. When Erin suddenly departs from town, Sonya and Toadie offer Cat a temporary place to stay. Cat is hesitant to return to her foster parents, who are expecting a child. After discussing the situation with her foster mother Lorraine, Cat chooses to go back home but is reassured she can visit Sonya and Toadie whenever she wishes.
Michelle Kim
Michelle Kim, portrayed by Ra Chapman, debuted on screen on 6 February 2015. Chapman finished filming her role by April 2015. Michelle is connected to the shady entrepreneur Dennis Dimato (David Serafin). Chapman characterized Michelle as "resilient" and "unyielding," managing an illicit car operation and progressively becoming more ruthless.
When Matt Turner (Josef Brown) starts working as a security officer at Dimato Industries, Michelle guides him through his responsibilities and attempts to gain his trust to secure his allegiance for Dimato’s interests. Matt resigns after uncovering Dimato’s illegal activities but later returns due to financial pressures. Michelle persuades Tyler Brennan (Travis Burns) to dismantle stolen vehicles for parts, exploiting his troubled relationship with his brother Mark (Scott McGregor) to involve him in criminal acts. Following a police-tracked stolen car incident leading to Dimato's arrest, he and Michelle take over Fitzgerald Motors as a cover operation. When Dimato escapes, Michelle assumes leadership.
After a stolen car involving Bailey Turner (Calen Mackenzie), Michelle demands Tyler either replaces the vehicle or pays $8,000. Upon learning that Paige Smith (Olympia Valance) reported the theft, Michelle blackmails Paige into assisting Tyler and appoints her as garage assistant. A police raid forces them both to flee; Michelle injures her ankle but eventually agrees to Paige’s proposal to legitimize the garage business. When Dimato returns, suspicions arise that Tyler might be informing law enforcement. During another raid attempt, Michelle tries to escape but is apprehended after Paige intervenes.
Months later, following her release, Michelle seeks Mark’s assistance to counter Dimato’s retaliation. She develops a rapport with Paige over concerns for safety but deceives her by faking injuries to implicate Paige in a burglary plot. Despite being physically assaulted by Dimato during an altercation, Michelle persists with the scheme until Paige discovers stolen items linked to herself. Michelle alerts authorities; however, Paige removes the evidence before police arrive. Subsequently, Paul Robinson (Stefan Dennis) forces Dimato out of town, leading to Michelle's departure from Erinsborough.
Tyler Brennan
Tyler Brennan, brought to life by Travis Burns, made his first appearance on 6 February 2015. His casting was officially announced on 3 November 2014. Burns completed his audition while in the United States and expressed excitement about joining Neighbours during its milestone 30th anniversary. Tyler is introduced as the younger sibling of the established character Mark Brennan (Scott McGregor). Burns's prior connection with McGregor through their shared modelling agency contributed to his successful casting. Tyler works as a mechanic and is portrayed as a "bad boy with a heart," often described as "troublesome" and a "charmer with women."
Nick Petrides
Nick Petrides, portrayed by Damien Fotiou, first appeared on-screen on 19 February 2015. His casting was revealed on 20 November 2014 through a behind-the-scenes feature by Neighbours. Nick is introduced as the brother of Terese Willis (Rebekah Elmaloglou) and an oncologist who arrives in Erinsborough to reconnect with family. Fotiou clarified that Nick’s storyline was not centered around medical cases but driven by personal agendas. Nick forms a friendship with nurse Georgia Brooks (Saskia Hampele), which creates friction with her husband Kyle Canning (Chris Milligan). Fotiou described Nick as a layered character possessing good intentions but capable of unexpected actions.
For the role, Nick underwent a transformation to adopt a more conservative appearance. His plotline involved a fabricated cancer diagnosis, marking one of the show's more sinister story arcs. Fotiou returned to this role in 2017 during Terese’s breast cancer storyline, reprising his role from 31 July.
Nick arrives in Erinsborough for an interview at the hospital with Karl Kennedy (Alan Fletcher) and quickly becomes involved with Terese’s family. He secures a position at the hospital and develops a contentious dynamic with Georgia, even making a wager with Paul Robinson (Stefan Dennis) concerning her. In a manipulative scheme, Nick falsifies medical test results to simulate leukemia and begins chemotherapy, aiming to gain support for establishing a cancer research facility.
Georgia accuses Nick of misconduct, which leads to her suspension after he frames her by hacking into her social media accounts. Nick’s deceit is eventually uncovered when Mark Brennan investigates, resulting in Nick’s suspension and subsequent arrest. Paul vows to dismantle Nick’s research center and revoke his medical credentials.
In 2017, Terese’s fiancé Gary Canning (Damien Richardson) visits Nick in prison seeking assistance for Terese’s failing breast cancer treatment. With backing from hospital COO Clive Gibbons and despite Paul’s opposition, Nick is granted parole under strict conditions to oversee Terese’s treatment and continue his research.
Nick reconnects with his niece Piper Willis (Mavournee Hazel) and works under the supervision of David Tanaka. Media attention surrounding Nick’s involvement at the hospital sparks controversy but improves following favorable press coverage.
He develops a relationship with Amy Williams (Zoe Cramond), collaborating on plans for a wellness center dedicated to cancer patients at Robinsons Motel, generously offered by Stephanie Scully (Carla Bonner). Paul attempts to buy out Nick's stake to relocate the center, but Nick declines.
After suspicions arise regarding stolen drugs, Mark Brennan uncovers evidence implicating Nick, leading to the revocation of his parole despite Paul admitting he framed him. Following an assault on a prison guard, Nick remains incarcerated, which strains Amy’s relationship with Paul. Subsequently, Paul hires top-tier legal counsel for Nick, who intends to return to Darwin to visit family upon release.
Jimmy Williams
Jimmy Williams, brought to life by Darcy Tadich, first appeared on 10 June 2015. Tadich secured this role after a single audition, marking his debut in television acting. Jimmy is the son of the returning character Amy Williams and represents the first grandchild of the long-standing character Paul Robinson. Due to a past estrangement, Paul was initially unaware of Jimmy's existence but was "thrilled" upon discovering he had a grandson. Jimmy is portrayed as a carefree and cheerful student with a keen interest in video games. Tadich departed the series in May 2018 when Jimmy relocated to New York City with his father, though he made guest returns in 2019 and 2020.
Following encouragement from Amy's cousin Daniel Robinson to reconnect with Paul in Erinsborough, Jimmy meets his grandfather and they form a bond through shared stories. Amy remains wary of Paul's tendency to spoil Jimmy. Their relationship includes Paul giving Jimmy lavish presents, which Amy often returns, stressing the importance of discipline over material indulgence. Jimmy’s inquisitiveness leads him to uncover secrets among residents, which he exploits to blackmail several individuals for treats, provoking disputes and subsequent apologies.
Jimmy forms friendships with Kyle Canning and Charlie Hoyland, son of Stephanie Scully. His father, Liam Barnett, visits, creating tension when Liam accepts a bribe from Paul to cut ties with Amy and Jimmy, straining Jimmy’s bond with his grandfather. After Paul is arrested in connection with an explosion, Jimmy experiences emotional turmoil that results in reckless behavior, including dares that cause injury to Charlie and a serious bicycle accident necessitating surgery.
The living arrangements for Amy and Jimmy fluctuate between Kyle’s house and Paul’s penthouse. Jimmy becomes involved in minor offenses such as selling stolen alcohol, which leads to consequences for others. His romantic interests begin with a crush on Poppy Ryan that develops into dating until disputes arise over bullying accusations.
Liam returns briefly but soon departs again for New York City after receiving a job offer, inviting Jimmy to join him. Though initially hesitant, Jimmy agrees to spend six months abroad, supported by both Amy and Paul.
In 2019, Amy’s partner Gary Canning brings Jimmy back for her birthday and surprise wedding. When Amy declines to marry Gary and leaves with Jimmy, Paul attempts to sway Jimmy’s opinions about Amy’s relationships but ultimately respects his choices.
Later on, Amy discovers that during his return to Erinsborough, Jimmy faced typical teenage challenges. Conflicts involving Liam and associations with disapproved peers lead to behavioral problems including theft. When Jimmy brings his girlfriend—who is fleeing an abusive father—to Australia, he urges Amy to relocate to New York with him. Amid difficulties in her relationship with Kyle, Amy decides to leave Erinsborough accompanied by Jimmy and Leo.
Aaron Brennan
Aaron Brennan, played by Matt Wilson, made his debut on 16 June 2015. The announcement of both the character and casting was made on 17 May 2015. Wilson moved from Sydney to Melbourne specifically for filming purposes. Aaron is introduced as the third Brennan brother following Mark and Tyler Brennan. Wilson described Aaron as "a very confident young man" who enjoys bringing joy to others and remains unfazed by many challenges. His entrance was notable as he appeared as a male stripper before reuniting with his brothers. Aaron is openly gay and was identified as a potential romantic interest for Nate Kinski. Industry observers expressed surprise at the inclusion of a gay Brennan brother and hoped Wilson's character would have depth beyond physical appearance.
Mary Smith
Mary Smith, portrayed by Gina Liano, made her debut on 30 June 2015. Liano’s casting, which marked her first acting role, was announced on 6 April 2015 after she impressed casting directors during a screen test. She commenced filming on 14 April and expressed excitement about embracing this new opportunity. Mary serves as the adoptive mother of Paige Smith; Olympia Valance, who plays Paige, endorsed Liano as perfectly suited for the character. The decision to cast Liano was influenced by the fact that Mary’s personal style remained consistent with Liano’s own. Mary returned to the series in February 2016.
Mary arrives in Erinsborough to celebrate Paige’s 21st birthday and encounters Paige’s biological parents, Lauren Carpenter and Brad Willis. She apologizes for her unexpected visit and shares that her son Ethan has been keeping her informed about Paige’s life. Mary expresses her wish for Paige to relocate to Singapore with her, but Paige declines due to an ongoing police investigation. Before departing, Mary tells Paige how proud she is of her and mentions Terese's encouragement for Paige to consider moving abroad. Although initially unable to attend Paige’s wedding to Mark Brennan, Mary surprises everyone by showing up, only to discover the wedding has been canceled after Mark arrests Paige. She offers comfort to Paige and convinces her to return to Singapore together.
Russell Brennan
Russell Brennan, brought to life by Russell Kiefel, first appeared on 29 July 2015. His casting was revealed on 29 June 2015. Russell is the father of Mark (Scott McGregor), Tyler (Travis Burns), and Aaron Brennan (Matt Wilson). At the heart of a contentious domestic violence storyline, Russell had previously abused his sons, causing estrangement and making his efforts at reconciliation highly strained. Kiefel commented on the difficulty of convincing his sons that he had genuinely changed. Claire Crick from All About Soap noted Russell’s capacity to generate conflict despite lacking the charm his sons possess. Plans for Kiefel’s return in a significant Brennan family storyline were altered following his passing in 2016, leading to the introduction of their mother, Fay (Zoe Bertram).
After Mark reaches out, Russell visits Ramsay Street attempting to rebuild relationships with his sons. He remarks to Aaron that it is uncommon for all three brothers to be together, though Aaron and Tyler initially avoid him. Russell meets Mark’s girlfriend Paige Smith (Olympia Valance) and flirts with Sheila Canning (Colette Mann). Discovering Aaron works as an exotic dancer, Russell admits he struggles to relate but continues efforts to bond, organizing a barbecue and apologizing to Tyler for past mistreatment.
Russell begins dating Sheila; she offers financial assistance for him to purchase Fitzgerald Motors after difficulties selling his garage in Port Lincoln. Mark uncovers that Sheila's son, Gary Canning (Damien Richardson), provided the funds, which Gary subsequently hands over to police. Mark and Aaron then pool their savings to help buy the garage. During an outing with Tyler and Ben Kirk (Felix Mallard), Russell loses his temper over pranks but is restrained by Karl Kennedy (Alan Fletcher). Tyler’s behavior worsens, culminating in a physical confrontation with Russell that prompts Mark and Aaron to confront their father about his abusive history and ask him to leave. Sheila declines to accompany him, urging him instead to seek professional help.
Two years later, Russell suffers a heart attack and requests a visit from his ex-wife Fay. He dies before his sons and Sheila can see him. It is subsequently revealed that Hamish Roche (Sean Taylor) is Tyler's biological father and that Russell was murdered by Hamish along with nurse Louise McLeod (Maria Theodorakis).
Courtney Grixti
Courtney Grixti, portrayed by Emma Lane, made her first appearance on 4 August 2015. Lane, who was romantically involved with Travis Burns (Tyler Brennan) at the time, shared her enthusiasm about joining the series. Initially cast in a guest capacity, she resumed filming early in 2016.
Courtney initially works as a bartender at The Waterhole before advancing to manage the spa at Lassiter's Hotel. Her early narratives focus on romantic entanglements with Josh Willis and Tyler Brennan, creating friction with Piper Willis. Piper inadvertently reveals Courtney’s link to her father, Tim Collins—who is running for mayor—resulting in familial and legal disputes that Courtney helps to navigate.
After conflicts arise involving Tim and Tyler, Courtney redirects her attention toward supporting Paige Smith and decides to leave university. She is then employed by Terese Willis at the Lassiter's spa, where she offers unique massage treatments that blend psychological and emotional therapy, attracting male patrons and arousing suspicion. Following a misunderstanding that leads to her dismissal, Courtney resigns voluntarily and subsequently initiates a $5 million lawsuit against Terese.
Courtney comes back engaged to Paul Robinson, who convinces her to withdraw the lawsuit due to his financial stake in Lassiter's. Under Paul's guidance, she takes on the role of Rejuvenation Consultant. Their engagement prompts doubts among Paul's relatives and others. Despite occasional flirtations, Courtney remains loyal until Paul discloses that their relationship was fabricated as part of a scheme against Terese and Tim.
With Paul’s assistance, Courtney organizes events at The Waterhole and proposes formalizing their partnership. They claim to have wed but later admit no marriage took place. After mending ties with Tim Collins, Courtney leaves her position at Lassiter's while maintaining her engagement status with Paul.
Piper Willis
Piper Willis, brought to life by Mavournee Hazel, debuted on 16 September 2015. As the youngest child of Brad and Terese Willis, Piper had been mentioned since her family’s arrival in 2013. Hazel’s casting was confirmed in August 2015, prompting her move to Melbourne for filming commitments. Piper was characterized as "feisty" and "quirky," traits that resonated with Hazel’s interpretation of the role. Before appearing on screen, Piper starred in webisodes titled Hey Piper, where she engaged with family members through video chats. Her background includes studying abroad in Canada.
Shay Daeng
Shay Daeng (also known as Quill), portrayed by Yasmin Kassim, made her debut on 29 October 2015. Kassim filmed this guest role over several months in Melbourne, depicting Shay as a "cool" assistant manager at Lassiter's Hotel who encounters both personal and workplace challenges. She reprised this character in 2021.
Shay meets Kyle Canning via a dating app and is introduced to important figures such as Kyle’s grandmother and coworkers. She takes over management responsibilities at Lassiter's during Terese Willis’ recovery from injuries and receives commendations for her performance. Nonetheless, Terese becomes wary of Shay, who is ultimately unmasked as an informant for the Quill Group—the new proprietors of Lassiter's. Shay implements hotel restructuring plans, retains Terese as manager, terminates Kyle's contract, and departs for Dubai following retaliatory actions.
Half a decade later, Shay returns while collaborating with Jesse Porter, an employee at Lassiter's aligned with the Quill Group, aiming to restore the company’s reputation after prior scandals involving Julie Quill. Conflicts emerge regarding tactics and loyalty as Shay pressures Jesse for results while Terese advocates for a more forgiving approach. Shay emphasizes the urgent need for fresh funding as the Quill Group faces potential collapse; meanwhile, possible investment from Lassiter's is delayed owing to Paul's personal complications.
Cecilia Saint
Cecilia Saint, introduced on 11 November 2015 and played by Candice Alley, was cast after a successful audition. Alley commended the friendly atmosphere among the cast and crew. She characterized Cecilia as an enigmatic figure involved in a plot targeting Stephanie Scully (Carla Bonner), and valued the opportunity to portray a single mother. Filming for her initial scenes took place in August 2015, with Alley reprising the role in 2016 to further develop the character's arc.
Cecilia arrives at Fitzgerald Motors seeking brake pad repairs from Steph, bringing along her son Harrison (Zebedee Howell), whom she refers to as Charlie when Steph is present. After a disagreement regarding the service, Steph's manager Tyler Brennan (Travis Burns) issues a refund to Cecilia. Subsequently, Cecilia contacts Paul Robinson (Stefan Dennis) to inform him that she has unsettled Steph as planned. Later, Harrison reaches out to Steph, expressing that he misses her.
Several months onward, Paul employs Cecilia to disrupt the Citizen of the Year ceremony at Lassiter's Hotel. Following an explosion that devastates the venue, Paul tries to contact Cecilia but receives no response. After Paul's arrest, Steph confronts Cecilia, who denies any involvement and declines to assist law enforcement.
Later, Cecilia approaches Terese Willis (Rebekah Elmaloglou) looking for her daughter Piper (Mavournee Hazel), who had posted an interview referencing Cecilia. Convinced of Paul's guilt, Cecilia agrees to accept Terese’s payment in exchange for providing false testimony against him and is offered employment. During the trial, Cecilia lies under oath until Terese admits to bribing her.
Others
| Date(s) | Character | Actor | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9 January | Margot Bisco | Diana Joselle | Margot, a friend of Naomi Canning, gifts Naomi a car for sale and later provides mechanic Mark Brennan with its maintenance records at Fitzgerald Motors. |
| 12 January | Errol Gill | Eyawn Harry | Errol inspects a classic MG vehicle at Fitzgerald Motors that Naomi Canning has put up for sale. |
| Timmy Fogerty | Michael Foster | Erin Rogers encounters Timmy during a drug purchase. | |
| Darren Mayer | Jamie Sheather | Darren attacks Sonya Mitchell, shoving her against a wall and stealing her handbag. | |
| 16 January | Marco James | Khisraw Jones-Shukoor | Marco serves birthday cake to his employer Paul Robinson while working at The Waterhole. |
| 21 January 2015–28 January 2016 | Dennis Dimato | David Serafin | Dimato is a local businessman with criminal ties who attempts to sponsor the Erinsborough Festival but faces opposition from mayor Paul Robinson. He offers bribes through Naomi Canning and threatens her when she declines. Dimato operates an illicit car theft and parts business involving employees like Tyler Brennan and blackmails Matt Turner. Despite multiple arrests and bail evasion, Dimato returns to revive his illegal enterprise but is eventually removed from Erinsborough through police action and Paul's blackmail. |
| 23 January | Phil Lloyd | Colin Masters | Phil works for Dimato and informs Mark Brennan about being dismissed from Grease Monkeys. |
| 27 January 2015, 3 March 2016 | Andres Serna | Henry Torres | Andres begins as a bartender at The Waterhole. Struggling with English proficiency initially, he later joins Harold's Store under Lou Carpenter’s guidance and delivers carpentry supplies. |
| 28 January–6 July | Snr Sgt Milov Frost | Hadrian Jonathan | Senior Sergeant Frost oversees police operations including budget management and investigations into Dimato’s crimes. He coordinates undercover operations involving associates like Michelle Kim and utilizes Tyler Brennan in covert roles. |
| 2 February 2015, 5 February 2018 | Bill Warley | Darren Mort | Bill is Sue Parker’s husband and Jayden Warley’s father; he confronts Paul Robinson over past conflicts. Later involved in inquiries connected to a fireworks incident, he also maintains a secret relationship with Fay Brennan. |
| 3 February | Lorraine Newman | Michelle Celebicanin | Lorraine discusses foster daughter Cat’s living situation with Sonya Mitchell and Toadfish Rebecchi, persuading Cat to return home. |
| 4 February–5 August | Joey Dimato | Steven Sammut | Joey, Dennis Dimato’s nephew, engages in criminal acts such as theft and intimidation. He confronts Amber Turner and receives warnings from Matt Turner. Joey coerces Tyler Brennan into stealing vehicles. After arrests by police, he escapes custody but is later apprehended following a hostage situation involving Paige Smith. |
| 16–17 February | Bryson Jennings | Brodie Derrick | Bryson meets Paige Smith through an online friendship in Erinsborough; initial suspicions regarding theft are resolved. They develop a connection but Bryson ends their relationship upon realizing Paige does not share romantic feelings. |
| 25 February | Janice Stedler | Helen Noonan | A friend of Hilary Robinson; Janice attends the Erinsborough Community Centre flu clinic with Hilary and later participates in a photo shoot arranged by Paul Robinson. |
| Jane Crozier | Maria Papas | A journalist who interviews Paul Robinson about the Erinsborough Festival. | |
| 4 March | Baby Sebastiana | Izabella Anderson | The daughter of Vanessa Villante and Lucas Fitzgerald; present during the Erinsborough Festival. |
| 19 March | Ryan Holt | Preston Taura | A volunteer at the festival who unknowingly secures an open drain cover beneath which Daniel Robinson and Imogen Willis become trapped. |
External links
- Cast and characters on the Official Australian Neighbours site
- Cast and characters on the Official UK Neighbours platform
- Cast and characters at the Internet Movie Database