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Les Palmer (Home and Away)

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Martha Stewart

Martha Stewart initially appeared between 25 January and 13 February 1989, portrayed by Alison Mulvaney. Introduced through flashbacks as the first wife of Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher), the character was reintroduced on 27 March 2018 with Belinda Giblin taking over the role; Giblin had previously been part of the series. It is said that Meagher recommended Giblin for this recasting. Martha holds the distinction of having the longest interval between appearances on Home and Away.

Her return coincided with the show's 30th anniversary, where it was revealed that Martha, previously believed to have drowned in a sailing accident in 1985, was actually alive. Alf informs their daughter Roo Stewart (Georgie Parker) of this revelation, which leads Roo to search for her mother unsuccessfully until Martha arrives in Summer Bay. The following year, Martha comes back and rekindles a romantic relationship with Alf. Her storyline explores her battle with borderline personality disorder (BPD), which triggers anxiety and impacts her personal connections.

Martha was once married to Alf Stewart and is the mother of their daughter, Ruth "Roo" Stewart. Thought dead for years, she appeared only in flashbacks and diary entries connected to other characters. When Alf fears he might die after an explosion, he confides in Roo about Martha’s survival. Martha later meets both Alf and Roo in Summer Bay but departs after explaining that her mental health issues were the reason behind her earlier absence.

After undergoing treatment for BPD, Martha tries to rebuild her relationships with Roo and Alf but faces difficulties due to anxiety and feelings of guilt. She eventually offers an apology and keeps in touch, although Roo requests that she leave for Alf’s sake. Months later, Alf reaches out to Martha, leading to renewed contact and a blossoming relationship. They decide to pursue their connection despite the challenges presented by her condition.

Martha relocates back to Summer Bay but initially finds adjusting difficult and seeks ongoing support for her mental health. Following a tragic event involving other residents, Alf proposes marriage once more; after some hesitation, Martha accepts. They marry and briefly leave before returning again. Martha owns a home and studio in Merimbula, which causes some friction since Alf wants her to sell it; however, they come to an understanding about its significance as a place of security for her.

Martha discloses to Roo and Alf that she has a son, Kieran Baldivis (Rick Donald), whom she had kept hidden out of fear of losing her family. Kieran eventually arrives in Summer Bay, adding complexity to their family dynamics. Meanwhile, Martha continues living in Merimbula while Alf visits regularly.

Vicki Baxter

Vicki Baxter, played by Nana Coburn, made her first appearance on 22 February 1989. Coburn’s father, Norman Coburn, was also part of the cast as Donald Fisher, headmaster of Summer Bay High. Vicki was portrayed as the community’s "resident trouble-maker." Coburn admitted she was initially hesitant about playing a character who was disliked but grew fond of the role over time. She appeared on a semi-regular basis until filming her last scenes in June 1990, regarding the experience as valuable professionally.

Within Steven Matheson’s class at Summer Bay High, Vicki acted as an antagonist known for bullying classmates such as Emma Jackson. She falsely accused teacher Grant Mitchell of inappropriate behavior, which led to his suspension before she admitted the truth under pressure. Later on, Vicki framed Emma for theft, resulting in Emma’s expulsion from school. Ultimately, Vicki herself was expelled after Steven and Paul Jensen exposed her wrongdoing with assistance from her cousin Anna.

Rebecca Fisher

Rebecca Fisher was first portrayed by Jane Hall beginning 3 April 1989, introduced as the daughter of the school principal, Donald Fisher. She became romantically linked with Steven Matheson. The chemistry between Hall and Willits was well-received, prompting producers to consider intermittent returns for the character. In 1994, Danielle Carter took over the role for a seven-week period, followed by Belinda Emmett’s casting in 1996.

Belinda Emmett’s performance garnered her several Logie Award nominations, including Most Popular New Talent in 1997, Most Popular Actress in both 1998 and 1999, and the distinguished Gold Logie for Most Popular Personality on Australian Television.

Marilyn Chambers

Marilyn Chambers, played by Emily Symons, made her debut on 18 May 1989. Symons departed the series in 1992 but returned from 1995 until 1999. Although Dannii Minogue initially auditioned for Marilyn, she was instead cast as Emma Jackson, allowing Symons to secure the role. Holy Soap described Marilyn as a "bubbly" and "dizzy blonde beautician."

Duncan Stewart

Duncan Stewart first appeared on 14 June 1989, with Brendan McKensy’s portrayal earning a nomination for Best Young Actor at the 1999 Inside Soap Awards.

Adam Cameron

Adam Cameron, portrayed by Mat Stevenson, joined the cast on 28 June 1989. Stevenson had previously acted in the rival soap Neighbours as a minor criminal, which helped him approach Adam’s character with a more grounded perspective. He relocated from Melbourne to Sydney to film and exited the show in 1994. Stevenson described Adam as somewhat of a "layabout," favoring leisure over responsibility, contrasting with his own more conscientious personality. An Inside Soap columnist referred to Adam as a "one-time joker" and "happy-go-lucky." Stevenson returned briefly in 1999 and considered seeking a full-time return due to his enjoyment of the role.

Viv Newton

Viv Newton, enacted by Mouche Phillips, appeared from 5 July 1989 until 25 May 1990. Phillips began filming shortly after Justine Clarke's departure from the series. She commented on enjoying the bustling atmosphere on set, often making herself difficult to find during production.

Emma Jackson

Emma Jackson, played by Dannii Minogue, was featured from 22 September 1989 to 22 August 1990. Though originally auditioning for Marilyn Chambers, Minogue was cast as Emma instead. She left after one year to pursue her music career. Despite speculation about a return for the show's 20th anniversary in 2008, she did not reprise her role. Minogue received a nomination for "Most Popular Actress on Australian Television" at the 1989 Logie Awards. Holy Soap listed her among Home and Away's "Sexiest girls ever."

Others

Date(s) Character Actor Notes
25 January Les Palmer Graham Lancaster Les is Celia Stewart’s deceased fiancé appearing in flashbacks from 1970; their engagement party is interrupted before Les dies in the Vietnam War.
26 January–16 March Nicholas Walsh Robert Taylor Nicholas arrives in Summer Bay engaged to Stacey Macklin; conspires with her father to acquire the caravan park; frames Roo Stewart with poison pen letters and assaults Stacey before being stopped by Tom Fletcher.
1 February–5 September Kim Patterson Jacqui Townsend Younger sister of Alison Patterson who attends Summer Bay Primary; discovers Morag Bellingham’s memoir manuscript and debates local legends with Sally Fletcher.
13 February–20 March Richard Bellingham John Bonney Morag Bellingham’s husband who separates from her after learning she is Bobby Simpson’s mother; warns Roo Stewart to avoid Morag.
20 February–21 November James Donahue Richard Morgan Journalist investigating Morag’s secret identity; manipulates Celia Stewart and attempts to fabricate a shark sighting story with Lance Smart’s assistance.
22 February–5 April Leanne Dunn Kylie Foster Illiterate girlfriend of Martin Dibble who misreads his intentions; involved in a fight with ex-boyfriend; leaves town breaking Martin's heart.
1 March–12 November Enid Jan Oxenbould Friend of Celia Stewart attending a town meeting about a local shark threat.
8 March Nola Dibble Denise Roberts Mother of Martin Dibble appearing when he introduces Leanne Dunn to his family.
8 March Scott Dibble / Errol Dibble Uncredited Brothers of Martin Dibble present at a family dinner.
21 March–24 May Nigel Taggart Gary Down Former assistant to Morag Bellingham who works at Blaxland mansion; befriends Celia Stewart but resigns seeking independence.
28 March Ross Maybury John Banas Talk-show host interviewing Donald Fisher and Bobby Simpson regarding family revelations.
4–5 April Meat Axe Joseph Dicker Leanne Dunn’s ex-boyfriend who fights Martin Dibble and leaves with Leanne after her breakup with Martin.
18 April–17 August 1989,
8 September–23 October 1995		 Brian "Dodge" Forbes Kelly Dingwall Troublemaker responsible for theft and arson causing Philip Matheson’s death; fostered by Fletchers but bullies Sally Fletcher and frames Simon Yates; imprisoned after confession; paroled in 1995 committing further crimes including murder and framing Steven Matheson before vanishing after cliffside confrontation.
20 April–16 May Simon Yates Christopher Saunders Ex-convict working at Bayside diner dating Roo Stewart; harassed by Steven Matheson; framed for arson but later sends Roo a letter promising repayment to Alf Stewart.
2–9 May Andrew Foley Senior Alan Tobin Estranged father attempting reconciliation with son Andrew Foley; dies leaving an inheritance and apology letter.
10 May 1989 – 22 February 1990 Howard West Richard Rowe Childcare Services official overseeing foster placements including Dodge Forbes; investigates abuse allegations against John Newton; temporarily removes Donald Fisher's guardianship of Viv Newton during legal proceedings.
11 May Peter Braithwaite Ron Blanchard Insurance assessor suspicious of Celia Stewart's claim following store fire.
18–29 May Kyoko Sakamoto Yuka Mitani Interpreter for Japanese clients visiting Macklin family business.
2–8 June Peter Bedford Bevan Wilson Investor hesitant about Macklin development due to Frank Morgan's history but convinced by Martin Dibble to invest.
2 June Claire Bedford Linda Anning Wife of investor Peter Bedford attending dinner with Fletchers.
8 June–18 July Flynn Mark McCann Labourer at Macklin corporation involved in strike resolved through Roo Stewart's negotiation; assists in rescue efforts for Marilyn Chambers.
13 June Jay Everett Andrew Doyle Motivational speaker temporarily managing Macklin development office; positively influences Martin Dibble but fails to motivate Roo Stewart during family crisis.
6 July–13 September Nina Olivera Raquel Suarstzman Friend of Stacey Macklin forming music group Image with Lance Smart, Martin Dibble, and Marilyn Chambers; departs for promotion job in Los Angeles after group disbands.
11 July Beulah Robyn Gurney Homeless woman assisting Viv Newton during her time on streets.
19 July Sgt. Col Baker Simon Westaway Police officer questioning Dodge Forbes over stolen car incident later claimed by Steven Matheson.
21 July–1 August John Newton John Gregg Reverend and abusive father of Viv and Tammy Newton; abuse leads to Child Services intervention and loss of custody.
27 July 1989 – 25 May 1990 Tammy Newton Katy Edwards Younger sister of Viv Newton involved in custody battles due to father's abuse; reunites with mother Angela Newton after years apart and moves to Queensland with family.
9 August 1989 – 16 April 1990 Rex Wilson Barry Donnelly Matt Wilson's uncle and local council member securing Matt a job but resigns following health issues.
9 August Freddie Hudson Mark Arbib Student visiting Andrew Foley's Youth advice centre at Bayside diner.
18–31 August Ross Keating James Gleeson Estranged uncle of Sally Keating seeking custody but leaves when Sally chooses to stay with Fletchers.
23–31 August Louise Keating Felicity Soper Wife of Ross Keating unable to have children; bonds with niece Sally before departing Summer Bay.
29 August 1989,
23 March 1990		 Len Baxter Uncredited / Damian Cudmore Father of Vicki Baxter reacting strongly to allegations against teacher Grant Mitchell; demands removal until allegations are withdrawn.
29 August–10 November Danny Farnsworth Justin Connor Son of incarcerated man seeking revenge on Morag Bellingham under false pretenses; holds her hostage during psychotic episode before fleeing town despite Bobby Simpson declining his offer to leave together.
30 August 1989 – 8 July 1996 Chris Hale John Meillon Jr. Police constable promoted to sergeant involved in multiple cases including arrests and accidental hit-and-run causing Shane Parrish's death; admits guilt leading to suspension.
11 September Doctor Ellis, Doctor Williamson, Ian McTavish, Samantha Walker, Millicent Staples, Henry Whiting, Sylvia Wilson, Rory Heywood, Mick, Chas, Rosemary White, Zac Burgess, Drew Howard

Various actors || Includes medical staff attending Tom Fletcher; Ian McTavish explorer pursuing local legend; Samantha Walker youth worker informing Ailsa Stewart; Millicent Staples wealthy client stranding Adam Cameron; Henry Whiting hot dog vendor; Sylvia Wilson Matt Wilson's aunt; Rory Heywood whose shark attack drives major plotlines; Mick drug-addicted friend causing conflict; Chas pool player hustled by Mick; Rosemary White Rory Heywood's sister revealing his true identity; Zac Burgess shark hunter stirring community tension; Drew Howard TV producer interacting with Marilyn Chambers.


External links

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