Lauren Healy
| Company type | Television series |
|---|---|
| Industry | Television soap opera |
| Founded | January 17, 1988 |
| Headquarters | Australia |
| Website | 7plus |
Home and Away is a long-running Australian soap opera that premiered on the Seven Network on 17 January 1988. This section outlines the characters introduced in 1999, all under the direction of then-executive producer John Holmes. The show's twelfth season commenced on 11 January 1999. The first new character of the year was Nick Smith, portrayed by Matt Juarez in March. Nick’s father, Ken, played by Anthony Phelan, made his debut in April. Aleetza Wood joined the cast as Peta Janossi in May, followed by Cameron Welsh taking on the role of Mitch McColl in July. August saw the arrival of Bianca Zeboat and lifeguard Shauna Bradley, portrayed by Kylie Watson. Science teacher Harry Reynolds, enacted by Justin Melvey, was introduced in September. In October, Anna Hruby and Stephen James King were added to the series as acting principal Judith Ackroyd and her son, Edward Dunglass, respectively.
Nick Smith
Nick Smith made his first appearance on 18 March 1999, initially played by Matt Guarez in a guest capacity before becoming a regular character in 2000 with Chris Egan assuming the role. Nick’s tenure concluded on 9 September 2003. Additionally, Aaron Puckeridge portrayed Nick in flashback scenes during 2003. For his portrayal, Egan received a nomination for "Best New Male Talent" at the Logie Awards in 2001.
Peta Janossi
Peta Janossi, brought to life by Aleetza Wood, debuted on 27 May 1999 and remained until 14 July 2000. Wood was cast while still attending university, with Series Producer Russell Webb selecting her for her youthful and natural appearance. Her performance earned her a nomination for "Most Popular New Female Talent" at the 2000 awards.
Mitch McColl
Mitch McColl, portrayed by Cameron Welsh, first appeared on-screen on 15 July 1999. Welsh originally auditioned for a guest spot but secured this more prominent role. In 2000, after being diagnosed with a herniated disc, Welsh took a six-week hiatus during which Mitchell McMahon temporarily filled his role. He returned to the series on 3 April 2000. Welsh reprised Mitch briefly in 2005 for the show’s milestone 4000th episode, celebrating Alf Stewart’s (Ray Meagher) birthday. Subsequently, Welsh transitioned into producing Home and Away, crediting his acting background as beneficial to his production work.
For his role as Mitch, Welsh received a nomination for "Best New Male Talent" at the Logie Awards in 2000. Critics praised Mitch’s impactful introduction and noted the chemistry between Mitch and Hayley, especially highlighting their much-anticipated first kiss as a fan favorite moment. The character’s exit was also spotlighted as a notable television moment by the Daily Record.
Bianca Zeboat
Bianca Zeboat, played by Lara Cox, arrived on-screen on 11 August 1999. Cox landed this guest role shortly after completing work on Heartbreak High, leading to her simultaneous appearances on two series unexpectedly. She described Bianca as a "manipulative" and "nasty" figure, contrasting sharply with her previous role as Anita Scheppers—emphasizing Bianca’s assertiveness and toughness. An Inside Soap columnist remarked that Bianca’s entrance at the Summer Bay Diner foreshadowed forthcoming drama.
Bianca is an actress and model pursuing the lead role in the film adaptation of Alan Fisher’s 1989 novel On the Crest of a Wave. She cultivates a friendship with Jesse McGregor (Ben Unwin) to better understand the part. Jesse, who is looking for both a partner and maternal figure for his daughter, becomes infatuated with Bianca despite overlooking her negative traits. After being dismissed by the film’s director Roger Landowne (Tony Bonner), Bianca ends her relationship with Jesse and leaves Summer Bay.
Shauna Bradley
Shauna Bradley, portrayed by Kylie Watson, made her debut on 16 August 1999 and exited the series in July 2002. Watson secured the role soon after returning to Canberra, initially feeling uncertain but persuaded by her agent to audition. This marked her first professional acting engagement, leading her to undertake acting lessons to enhance her abilities. For her performance, Watson received a nomination for Most Popular New Female Talent at the 2000 Logie Awards.
Described as "sassy" by Karman Kregloe of AfterEllen and "feisty" by The People, Shauna was also labeled a "sexy lifesaver" by Andrew Mercado. Inside Soap emphasized Shauna’s tumultuous romance with Harry, highlighting its numerous fluctuations, and warned viewers about her entanglement with Gavin. In 2012, Channel 5 included an episode revealing Shauna’s adoption in their "From Day One" viewer-selected feature.
Harry Reynolds
Harry Reynolds, enacted by Justin Melvey, first appeared on 13 September 1999 and departed on 26 January 2001. Melvey transitioned from modelling and acting studies to earn this role, relocating from Los Angeles to Sydney for filming purposes. His portrayal of Harry earned him the "Most Popular New Male Talent" award at the 2000 Logie Award ceremony.
Judith Ackroyd
Judith Ackroyd, brought to life by Anna Hruby, was featured from 21 October 1999 until 21 November 2000. Hruby had previous acting experience on Prisoner Cell Block H. Judith took over as principal of Summer Bay High during Donald Fisher’s sabbatical. She faced professional obstacles including speculation surrounding her appointment and disputes with student Gypsy Nash over the school captain position.
Judith’s son, Edward Dunglass, born from an affair with a deceased lecturer who suffered from Huntington's disease, displayed rebellious tendencies. She provided support to Edward and his girlfriend Peta Janossi when they moved into her home despite initial hesitations. After enduring personal losses, Judith developed a closer bond with Donald Fisher but eventually began a relationship with Joel Nash.
Their partnership deteriorated following Joel’s injury and his reunion with ex-wife Natalie, who relocated him to Queensland. Judith accepted a teaching post in Switzerland, advised Donald to resume his role as principal, and appointed Sally Fletcher before her departure.
Edward Dunglass
Edward Dunglass, played by Stephen James King, appeared from 28 October 1999 until 14 July 2000. King managed his high school education alongside this inaugural television role, having mostly acted in theatre prior. He described the cast as welcoming and noted that Edward’s goth style distinguished him within Summer Bay, challenging typical local stereotypes. The character was regarded as a unique addition to the usual ensemble. Herald Sun critic Jackie Brygel remarked that Edward was "a young chap who may possibly wear more lipstick and eyeliner than an Avon saleslady."
Edward’s introduction occurs on the beach where Will Smith (Zac Drayson) mocks his gothic appearance; Edward responds with sarcasm. After rescuing Duncan Stewart (Brendan McKensy) from bullies, Edward is invited to join local youths at go-kart trials. He impresses by setting the fastest lap before being interrupted by the new principal Judith Ackroyd (Anna Hruby), who is later revealed as his mother.
Donald Fisher (Norman Coburn) recognizes Edward’s surname, recalling his late father Edward Sr (Peter Sumner), who succumbed to Huntington's disease—a condition Edward fears he has inherited. Edward quickly becomes friends with Peta Janossi (Aleetza Wood) and Mitch McColl (Cameron Welsh). He helps Peta organize a memorial for her grandmother that raises suspicions of occult involvement among locals like Colleen Smart (Lyn Collingwood).
Edward’s association with Duncan causes tension with Alf and Ailsa Stewart (Judy Nunn). His candid remarks about death related to illness upset Donald Fisher until Edward’s own diagnosis is revealed. Confronted with a potentially shortened lifespan, Edward engages in risky behavior that alarms those around him. Following a breakup due to these dangerous stunts, he reconciles with Peta; together they start self-defense classes after facing harassment.
As symptoms of Huntington's—such as muscle spasms and paralysis—manifest, Edward pursues heightened experiences. He attempts to seduce Peta but is interrupted by her foster father, Joel Nash (David Woodley). The couple privately "marry" and consummate their relationship, deciding to live together despite Joel's objections; Judith agrees to Peta moving in.
Upon reaching eighteen, Edward tests positive for Huntington's but initially minimizes its impact. After an emotional breakdown triggered by laughter, Judith shares a video message from Edward Sr recorded before his death. Although initially upset about the delay in viewing it, Edward finds solace afterward. He removes his gothic makeup and requests access to his trust fund to travel with Peta; Judith arranges accommodation with her sister in Rome.
In the days leading up to their departure, Edward becomes fatigued and irritable but finds comfort in Peta’s support. They leave after farewells are exchanged. The following year Will visits them and confirms that Edward’s condition has deteriorated further.
Others
| Date(s) | Character | Actor | Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 January–3 March | Dr. Noble | Mariette Rups-Donnelly | Served as psychiatrist for Gypsy Nash after her abduction; subsequently provides support to Joey Rainbow during his schizophrenia episodes. |
| 14–25 January | Mr Gilkey | Ben Ager | Aggressive driver exhibiting road rage who confronts Ailsa Stewart following a collision; issues an apology that is declined. |
| 14 January–21 May | Troy | Lucas Sinkovic Luke Jacobz |
Year 12 peer and cricket teammate of Tom Nash. |
| 18–19 January | Rhonda | Samantha Braniff | Utilized by David D'Angelo as bait in the kidnapping of Joel Nash. |
| 21 January–10 February | Brian Matthews | Scott Swalwell | Companion to Sam Marshall and Hayley Smith; involved in graffiti activities; dies due to a fall. |
| 3–12 February | Geraldine Peterson | Anna Lee | Member of The Wednesday Club who fabricates success in charity fundraising, prompting Rebecca Nash to leave the group. |
| 5 February | Mo Matthews | Pat Sands | Father of Brian Matthews; discovers Brian and Sam Marshall tagging a tower. |
| 8–18 February | Kaia Stokes | Blazey Best | Provides support to Joey Rainbow during his schizophrenic episodes but departs as his hallucinations worsen. |
| 19 February–6 October | Bob Playford | Tony Morgan | Real estate agent appointed to assess caravan park development; locals purchase the property to prevent development. |
| 4–23 March | Brooke Taylor | Bridie Carter | Mara Taylor's sister; pursues Travis Nash due to resemblance to her deceased fiancé; discloses family secrets before leaving. |
| 4–5 March | Mara Taylor | Ann Burbrook | Brooke's sibling; encounters Travis and Joel Nash following a boating accident; shows interest in Joel. |
| 10–17 March | Denise Hennessy | Lauren Clair | Former cellmate of Kylie Burton using an alias; forms a bond with Jesse McGregor but flees when police suspect her escape. |
| 11 March | Eleanor Mace | Deborah Piper | Candidates interviewed by Donald Fisher for Byron Fisher’s nanny position. |
| Patsy Little | Jillian O'Dowd | ||
| Skye | Karren Lewis | ||
| 16 March–11 May | Ellen Porter | Anne Grigg | Employed as nanny for Donald Fisher's infant son despite previous manslaughter acquittal; assists Marilyn in settling before departure. |
| 17–22 March | Jim Woods | Nick Hogan | Police officer suspecting Denise Hennessy is an escaped prisoner; investigates drug-related activities involving Will Smith's brother. |
| 19–23 March | ' Johnno '' | ' Josef Ber' | ' Drug dealer pursuing Nick Smith over outstanding debt; assaults Nick but later considers debt settled. |
| 24 March | ' Ted Williams '' | ' Kim Knuckey' | ' Foster father of Nick Smith; arrives with wife Wendy to retrieve Nick from the beach house. |
| 24 March 1999–26 April 2000 | ' Wendy Williams '' | ' Monette Lee Lisa Cameron' |
' Foster mother of Nick Smith; returns him to his father when behavioral issues arise. |
| 26 March–20 April | ' Miranda Porter '' | ' Lauren Hewett' | ' Ellen Porter's daughter; HIV-positive student who dates Joey Rainbow but leaves due to fear of social stigma. |
| 29 March–7 April | ' Claire Andrews '' | ' Kate Beahan' | ' Half-sister to Travis and Joel Nash; stays with Rebecca Nash, commits theft, then departs after charges are dropped. |
| 21 April–14 June | ' Jack ' | ' Eamon Davern' | ' Friend of Duncan Stewart involved in constructing a homemade bomb that injures Alf Stewart. |
| 4–5 May | ' Organist ' | ' Gregg Arthur' | ' Performs music at James Fraser and Chloe Richards' wedding ceremony. |
| 7 May–19 August | ' Wendy Collins '' | ' Jayne Leslie' | ' Wife of Steve Collins who falsely accuses childminder Justine Welles of abuse, leading to wrongful imprisonment before admitting guilt. |
| 11 May–19 August | ' Steve Collins '' | ' Don Halbert' | ' Husband of Wendy Collins; participates in framing Justine Welles for abuse, later confesses resulting in Justine’s release. |
| 11–19 May | ' Ruby Collins '' | ' Kiara Bleskas Tara McKellar Brittany Jones Sian Tierney' |
' Daughter of Steve and Wendy Collins; dies while under Justine Welles’ care, triggering a wrongful conviction later overturned. |
| 24–25 May | ' Guy North '' | ' Drayton Morley' | ' Friend of Marilyn Fisher during her post-natal depression; reveals past feelings but confirms platonic relationship with Donald Fisher. |
| 3 June 1999, 8 November 2004 |
' Father O'Hearn '' | ' Alan Russell' | ' Catholic priest conducting Marilyn Fisher’s confession and officiating Owen Dalby’s funeral service. |
| 7 June–2 July | ' Hope Benedict '' | ' Brooke Harmon' | ' Member of church group pursued by Duncan Stewart, whose inappropriate advances lead to her departure. |
| 9–23 June | ' John Russell '' | ' John Moore Marbuck Khan (flashback)' |
' Aboriginal educator at Summer Bay High who leads an anti-racism class and searches for estranged mother with Joel Nash’s assistance before leaving town. |
| 16 June–20 July | ' David Janossi '' | ' Philip Edwards' | ' Older sibling of Peta Janossi; departs town after obtaining a city job amidst unresolved pension fraud involving their late grandmother’s benefits. |
| 28 June–9 September | ' Roger Lansdowne '' | ' Tony Bonner' | ' Film producer aiming to secure rights for Alan Fisher’s autobiography; attempts to cast locals but faces resistance and criticism as "sleazy." |
| 28 June | ' Reverend Lee '' | ' Stewart Reade' | ' Officiates Lachlan Fraser’s funeral service. |
| 28 June–19 July | ' Annie Matthews '' | ' Carole Skinner' | ' Homeless woman impersonating Peta Janossi’s grandmother; invited to stay with Peta before reuniting with estranged daughter Frances Kennedy who takes her home. |
| 12 July–20 August | ' Angus Halliday '' | ' Gabriel Andrews' | ' University classmate of Sally Fletcher whose presence sparks jealousy from Vinnie Patterson, resulting in expulsion from their shared accommodation. |
| 19 July | ' Frances Kennedy '' | ' Alice Livingstone' | ' Estranged daughter of Annie Matthews brought back by Peta Janossi and Will Smith, convincing Annie to return home with her. |
| 28 July–26 August | " Sharon Welles '" | " Shayne Francis" | " Estranged mother of Justine Welles who pressures her for methadone, obtains a false confession leading to wrongful conviction, later disowned by Justine after release." |
| 28 July–9 August | " Leon Watson '" | " David Webb" | " Attorney representing Justine Welles during her trial concerning Ruby Collins’ death." |
| 30 July–31 August | " Jeff Berger '" | " Jonathon Speer" | " Journalist who offers Sharon Welles payment for Justine’s confession and later approaches Justine post-release with an offer she declines." |
| 6–9 August | " Kelly McCane '" | " Laurie Foell" | " Prosecutor at Justine Welles’ trial, rigorously cross-examining key witnesses." |
| 10–18 August | " Gemma '" | " Alyssa McClelland" | " Cellmate sharing incarceration with Justine Welles." |
| 23 August | " Mrs. Brown '" | " Jan Merriman" | " Wife of farmer Jack Brown who accommodates local teenagers responding to fruit-picking job advertisements." |
| 24 August 1999–26 February 2000 | " Jack Brown '" | " Paul Chubb" | " Local farmer employing teens for orchard work; dismisses workers due to laziness and alcohol concerns. Sells farm following chemical contamination linked to grandson’s death." |
| 31 August–30 September | " Anthony Doyle '" | " Kim Knuckey" | " Dates Irene Roberts but ends relationship after foster son is involved in a joyride incident." |
| 10–22 September | " Jillian Williams '" | " Alexandra Davies" | " Former flatmate stalking Shauna Bradley under the alias Amber; frames Adam Cameron causing his eviction prior to arrest." |
| 14 September | " Darryl '" | " Jeremiah Tickell" | " Shauna Bradley’s ex-boyfriend who vandalizes Adam Cameron’s car accusing him of stalking Shauna." |
| 23 September 1999–16 June 2003 | " Ralph Patterson '" | " Alan Cinis" | " Vinnie Patterson’s father and con artist who fraudulently offers support, frames Vinnie for fraud, then reappears seeking forgiveness while secretly assisting financially." |
| 27 September–8 October | " Gazza Boyd '" | " Sebastian Huber" | " Friend of Duncan Stewart who discovers suitcase money linked to escaped convict David D'Angelo; involved in hostage situation resolved by police." |
| 11–13 October | " Lauren Healy '" | " Merridy Eastman" | " Accomplice of David D'Angelo in kidnapping Duncan Stewart thwarted by Joel Nash and law enforcement." |
| 14 October 1999–24 March 2000 | " Claire Rogers '" | " Talia Marmount Jaime Mears" |
" Student infatuated with Harry Reynolds who fabricates rumors about an affair causing conflict among peers before admitting the truth." |
| 15 October 1999–21 February 2000 | " Danielle McCarthy '" | " Claire Paradine" | " Manager of Nursing Unit interested in James Fraser; engages in brief dating without further progression." |
| 20 October 1999–5 April 2000 | Juliette Bellatti | Nicole Nabout | Nurse at Northern Districts Hospital attracted to James Fraser; anonymously celebrates his birthday before beginning a relationship and leaving Summer Bay together. |
| 2 November 1999–31 January 2000 | Mick Dwyer | John Brumpton | Former criminal associate pressuring Jesse McGregor into stolen vehicle dealings resulting in a crash and Mick’s arrest after rescue efforts by Joel Nash and Jesse. |
| 3 November 1999–27 March 2000 | Rosemary Myers | Anita Bochnik | Summer Bay High student unsuccessfully competing for school captainship and protesting alongside peers against Edward Dunglass’ newsletter content. |
| 4–9 November | Christian | John Atkinson | Hitman employed by U.S. scientific research firm targeting Harry Reynolds; taken hostage by Shauna Bradley before being subdued and arrested. |
| 24 November 1999–2 February 2000 | Alison | Jenny Apostolou | Harry Reynolds’ former fiancée from America whose arrival prompts Harry’s temporary plans to return before he chooses Shauna Bradley, leading Alison to depart alone. |
External links
- Cast and characters on the Official AU Home and Away site
- Cast and characters on the Official UK Home and Away site
- Cast and characters at the Internet Movie Database