List of Home and Away characters introduced in 1990

Home and Away

Company type	Television series
Industry	Television soap opera
Founded	January 17, 1988 (1988-01-17)
Founder	Seven Network
Headquarters	Australia
Area served	Australia
Website	7plus.com.au/home-and-away

Home and Away is an Australian soap opera that premiered on the Seven Network on 17 January 1988. The series' third season commenced broadcasting on 8 January 1990. Below is a compilation of characters introduced during 1990, all under the guidance of executive producer Des Monaghan. In January, Rebekah Elmaloglou made her debut portraying Sophie Simpson. February saw the arrival of Craig McLachlan and Julian McMahon, who took on the roles of educator Grant Mitchell and military man Ben Lucini, respectively. March introduced Jaiman Paget Bayly in the recurring role of Murray "Mullet" Jensen. April welcomed Beach House owner Ernie Jacobs (David Weatherley) alongside Bridget Jackson (Paula Duncan). In May, Craig Black returned to portray student Paul Jensen, while Josephine Mitchell joined as law enforcement officer Jane Holland. July brought siblings Blake and Karen Dean, enacted by Les Hill and Belinda Jarrett. September featured Kate Raison as Jennifer Atkinson, a romantic interest for Steven Matheson (Adam Willits). October introduced divorced father Michael Ross (Dennis Coard) along with his son Haydn Ross (Andrew Hill). November included the addition of Grant's sister, Kim Mitchell, portrayed by Rachael Beck.

Sophie Simpson

Sophie Simpson, brought to life by Rebekah Elmaloglou, first appeared on 23 January 1990 and remained until 1993. Elmaloglou stepped back from filming due to fatigue and eventually departed to explore other opportunities, as the demanding schedule impacted her well-being. She later returned for guest spots as Sophie in 2002, 2003, and 2005.

Grant Mitchell

Grant Mitchell, played by Craig McLachlan, made his initial appearance on 9 February 1990. Although McLachlan exited the show within the same year, he filmed additional scenes that were broadcast in 1991. Grant’s final episode aired on 20 September 1991. McLachlan characterized Grant as a fashionable teacher who challenges authority, endearing him to students. Nevertheless, Grant is deeply committed to his teaching role and cares for his students. For this portrayal, McLachlan earned the "Most Popular Actor" accolade at the 1991 Logie Awards.

Ben Lucini

Benito "Ben" Lucini, portrayed by Julian McMahon, featured from 27 February 1990 until 1 May 1991. After attending four auditions, McMahon secured the part of Ben, a laid-back and easygoing 21-year-old Italian from a large family. Initially inclined towards partying, Ben evolves into a more mature character over time. A soldier by profession, he develops a romantic relationship with established character Carly Morris (Sharyn Hodgson) and leaves military service to settle down. Hodgson described Ben as representing "traditional values" and "stability," traits that Carly finds appealing. The couple marries, with Hodgson anticipating a strong marriage due to their shared dedication. McMahon departed Home and Away in the same year his character was introduced. Nevertheless, Peter Holmes of The Sydney Morning Herald criticized McMahon’s acting as "wooden," comparing it to an exaggerated "impression of a Thunderbird."

Mullet

Murray "Mullet" Jensen, played by Jaiman Paget Bayly, was featured from 26 March until 18 July 1990. Characterized as a lively and spirited eleven-year-old, Mullet represents a typical rural child with a mischievous and adventurous streak. His nickname stems from his enthusiasm for fishing, which he relies on to help support his family’s modest earnings. Mullet’s mother, Lorraine Jensen, faces financial difficulties, resulting in Mullet and his brother living without extras or allowance; to earn money, he sells fish to Ailsa Stewart (Judy Nunn).

Mullet forms a bond with his schoolmate Sally Fletcher (Kate Ritchie), despite initially irritating her with his persistence. He unintentionally causes conflict when he brings home a crab belonging to Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher), but offers to assist Alf with fishing as a way to make amends. Hesitant to disclose the hardships at home, Mullet even fabricates a story about his mother being hospitalized, which Sally eventually discovers and accepts. She invites him to join Carly Morris (Sharyn Hodgson) and Ben Lucini's (Julian McMahon) wedding, which he attends.

After participating in the Surf Club talent night alongside Sally, where their comedic errors are well received, Mullet’s aspirations expand. He also helps Adam Cameron (Mat Stevenson) with a magic performance that is unfortunately ruined by Mullet’s premature departure. Following a brief phase trying out a pop star persona, Mullet reverts to his original style. At the wedding reception, he dances with Sally and is later mentioned by Steven Matheson (Adam Willits) years afterward when reflecting on Sally’s previous relationships.

Ernie Jacobs

Ernie Jacobs, portrayed by David Weatherley, appeared from 16 April 1990 through 9 January 1991.

Ernie leases a beach house to Matt Wilson (Greg Benson), Adam Cameron (Mat Stevenson), and Marilyn Chambers (Emily Symons). The tenants conspire against him by fabricating a photograph showing Ernie kissing Marilyn. After they cause damage to the property, including substituting the kitchen linoleum with turf infested by fleas, Ernie threatens to evict them. He later runs for local councilor and gains an advantage when his opponent Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher) withdraws due to legal troubles. Bobby Simpson (Nicolle Dickson) also contests the election, and upon Marilyn uncovering compromising information, she and Bobby blackmail Ernie. Ultimately, Ernie sells the house to Marilyn.

Bridget Jackson

Bridget Jackson, enacted by Paula Duncan, first appeared on 20 April 1990. Although initially signed for only five weeks, producers wished to extend her role indefinitely; however, Duncan had various other job opportunities and personal obligations. Bridget is the mother of Emma Jackson (Dannii Minogue). Duncan described Bridget as "utterly dreadful," "unrefined and uneducated," and "a complete monster," expressing enjoyment in playing such a demanding character alongside Minogue.

After Emma defends herself against her stepfather, Bridget arrives in Summer Bay seeking to take Emma back from her aunt Ailsa Stewart (Judy Nunn), with whom she shares a tense relationship due to previous family abuse. Bridget tries to rebuild her connection with Emma by buying gifts and spending time together, eventually convincing her to return home. However, Emma later comes back to Summer Bay revealing that Bridget has resumed her relationship with the abusive stepfather Barry.

Paul Jensen

Paul Jensen, brought to life by Craig Black, made his debut on 8 May 1990. At 17 years old, Paul is both a student and a shop assistant, the son of Michael and Lorraine Jensen, and the elder sibling of Mullet Jensen. Known for his warm personality and eloquence, he possesses academic skills above the norm. Additionally, Paul is a self-taught musician whose talent exceeds that of his father, who unsuccessfully pursued a music career. Despite his mother Lorraine forbidding musical instruments at home, Paul practices secretly on pianos at school and the local surf club.

Paul’s teacher, Grant Mitchell, notices his musical promise and urges him to seek a scholarship in music. However, Paul declines this opportunity and instead takes a job at Alf Stewart’s store to afford a used instrument. Lorraine’s disapproval of his musical interests creates friction within the family. To highlight Paul’s abilities, Grant organizes a talent show, though Paul initially refuses to participate.

Paul develops both a friendship and romantic feelings for Emma Jackson, who is involved with Adam Cameron. This love triangle sparks tension and eventually leads to a physical altercation between Paul and Adam after Adam insults Paul’s father. Alf Stewart steps in to arrange a fair boxing match between them, but the fight intensifies until Emma and others intervene by disrupting it. This incident temporarily damages Paul’s relationship with Emma.

When Emma faces wrongful accusations of cheating due to exam papers planted by Vicki Baxter, Paul teams up with Steven Matheson to reveal Vicki’s deception, thereby clearing Emma’s reputation. Encouraged by community support, Emma forgives Paul, but she later relocates to the Gold Coast for work. Their romantic relationship ends, though they remain friends.

Jane Holland

Jane Holland, portrayed by Josephine Mitchell, first appeared on 22 June 1990. Mitchell began filming in April 1990 under a two-month contract. Jane is introduced as a young police constable and becomes a romantic interest for Grant Mitchell (Craig McLachlan). Known for her role in A Country Practice, Mitchell noted that Jane’s assertive demeanor marked a shift from her previous characters. She valued producer Andrew Howie’s faith in casting her.

Upon arriving in Summer Bay, Jane quickly starts dating Grant. She arrests Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher) for drink-driving, resulting in his license being suspended. After a shootout in Yabbie Creek where an officer is killed, Jane survives but is deeply shaken by the event. She also steps in when two men harass Marilyn Chambers (Emily Symons) at the diner. Concerned about her well-being, Grant advises Jane to take some time off; she contemplates leaving the force altogether. Eventually, their relationship ends and Jane returns to work with the city police department.

Blake Dean

Blake Dean, portrayed by Les Hill, debuted on 26 July 1990. Hill had previous television experience on G.P.. His casting was announced alongside Belinda Jarrett as his sister Karen Dean in TV Week. Hill found adapting to the show’s rapid production schedule demanding.

Characterized as the kind of son any parent would be proud of, Blake is lively, charming, and quick-thinking. He often assists his sister in avoiding trouble. Hill later revealed plans to leave the series but returned for special guest appearances during its fourteenth anniversary celebration and for the milestone 4,000th episode.

Karen Dean

Karen Dean, brought to life by Belinda Jarrett, made her debut on 26 July 1990. Jarrett, who had no prior experience in television, joined the cast alongside Les Hill, who played her brother Blake Dean. Their characters arrived in Summer Bay following the passing of their mother Margot from cancer and were taken under the guardianship of Ailsa and Alf Stewart. Initially residing with a distant uncle, they later moved in with the Stewarts after suffering mistreatment. Karen and Blake were introduced with the intention of delivering "engaging storylines" aimed at increasing audience interest.

At fifteen years old, Karen is portrayed as a student at Summer Bay High—attractive yet shy, grappling with insecurities about her body image, and possessing a kind but self-conscious disposition. Early plots focus on her journey of self-discovery and social relationships, including an unreturned infatuation with Steven Matheson and friendships with Sophie Simpson and Haydn Ross.

In 1991, Network Seven opted not to renew Jarrett's contract due to Karen's minimal impact and limited popularity. She departed the series in August 1991 but made a brief return in 1993 following her character’s release from prison.

Karen’s storyline includes clashes with deputy principal Alan Stone over the reinstatement of corporal punishment, participation in activism such as protesting to save a historic tree, and a turbulent romance with criminal Maurice "Revhead" Gibson. Her involvement in illegal activities culminates in a fatal car crash that results in a two-year prison sentence.

After being paroled in 1993, Karen returns to Summer Bay and reconnects with family members including her half-sister Roxanne Miller but faces difficulties reintegrating into normal life. Her unpredictable conduct creates friction within the Stewart household and leads to theft and fleeing to the city. Blake follows her there and decides to move permanently to support his sister.

Karen Dean’s character arc explores themes of adolescent struggles, family loyalty, and the challenges of redemption, aligning with the show's broader strategy to attract younger viewers through relatable narratives.

Jennifer Atkinson

Jennifer Atkinson, portrayed by Kate Raison, was introduced on 12 September 1990 for an eight-week guest stint. Jennifer became involved in a contentious relationship with teenage Steven Matheson (Adam Willits), described as a "passionate affair" that had significant repercussions for the storyline. Jennifer is Alf Stewart’s cousin and reveals that her husband Daniel Atkinson is abusive. Steven, drawn to Jennifer, deceives about his age to pursue their relationship. Following confrontations involving Alan Stone, Daniel assaults Steven. Jennifer ends the relationship and leaves Summer Bay, advising Steven to focus on completing his education before sending him a Christmas card.

Michael Ross

Michael Ross, portrayed by Dennis Coard, first appeared on 22 October 1990 alongside his son Haydn Ross (Andrew Hill). As the new proprietor of the local boat shed, Michael quickly became a central figure and romantic partner for Pippa Fletcher (Debra Lawrance). Their relationship initially faced opposition from family members and was complicated by the arrival of Michael’s ex-wife Cynthia; however, they eventually married and blended their families, including adopting Pippa’s son Christopher.

Michael managed several business ventures such as the boat shed, caravan park, and surf club kiosk. Financial difficulties arose after Haydn accumulated gambling debts that left Michael heavily indebted, forcing him to auction off the boat shed. Alf Stewart later invested as a silent partner, enabling Michael to continue operating while balancing family and financial pressures.

The couple endured personal tragedy when their infant son Dale died from SIDS—a loss that strained but ultimately strengthened their marriage. Michael also fostered children like Maya Krakajcek after she was orphaned in a plane crash; however, she eventually returned overseas to relatives.

In 1996, producers concluded Michael’s storyline by scripting his heroic death during a flood rescue attempt in Summer Bay. Coard expressed contentment with this definitive exit, highlighting that it provided a strong conclusion without resorting to supernatural returns.

Haydn Ross

Haydn Ross, brought to life by Andrew Hill, first appeared on 31 October 1990 and departed on 17 September 1991, with subsequent returns in 1994 and 1996. Hill was cast in the role due to an unexpected mistake by his agent. He opted to leave the show in 1991. Haydn is the son of Cynthia (Belinda Giblin) and Michael Ross (Dennis Coard), attending a private school financed by his father's company. According to the Home and Away Annual, Haydn is characterized as "athletic and determined like his father," while also possessing "a passion for culture and a comfortable lifestyle" inherited from his mother, combining ambition with sophistication.

Kim Mitchell

Kim Mitchell, portrayed by Rachael Beck, made her debut on 8 November 1990 as the sister of established character Grant Mitchell (Craig McLachlan). Although producers offered Beck a one-year contract to establish Kim as a permanent character, she declined in order to avoid being typecast.

At sixteen, Kim arrives in Summer Bay hiding a drug addiction. Beck described her character as someone who maintains a flawless appearance despite her difficulties, living by the philosophy, "Why not enjoy life to the fullest while you are young?" Upon visiting Grant, Kim steals money from his flatmate Matt Wilson (Greg Benson) to support her habit. After stealing from Carly Lucini (Sharyn Hodgson) and forging a cheque, she eventually confesses to months-long drug use. Grant arranges for her rehabilitation, sacrificing his teaching position at Summer Bay High to aid her recovery. When he returns after several months, Grant reports that Kim has made considerable progress.

Others

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Description
8 January	Robbo	Ned Manning	Veterinarian brought to Summer Bay by shark hunter Zac Burgess (Mark Conroy) to determine if a shark caused a fatality; after examination, the shark is cleared of involvement.
29 January	Henry Thompson	Tim Allen	Potential purchasers of the Blaxland mansion who are scared away by an exorcism conducted by Emma Jackson (Dannii Minogue) and Celia Stewart (Fiona Spence).
	Doris Thompson	Jane Archer
2–16 February	Greta	Jodie Gilles	Marilyn Chambers' (Emily Symons) friend; initially met with resistance from Martin Dibble (Craig Thomson) but eventually develops a rapport before leaving.
9 February–1 March	Detective Hunt	Kim Knuckey	Investigates Donald Fisher (Norman Coburn) for an old homicide; probes blackmail involving Al Simpson (Terence Donovan); ultimately arrests Simpson following a hostage crisis.
27 February–8 March	Dave Porter	John Adam	Ben Lucini's (Julian McMahon) army comrade on leave; stirs conflict with Carly Morris (Sharyn Hodgson) and attempts to undermine local competitions.
12 March	Travis	Craig Black	Student enrolled in Grant Mitchell's (Craig McLachlan) Year 12 class.
30 March–3 April	Reverend Christopher Goodhope	Ron Becks	African clergyman hosted by Celia Stewart; mistakenly detained as a burglar; subsequently departs for the city; inspires Celia's missionary aspirations.
6 April 1990, 21 May 2007 – 26 January 2012	Delivery Man	Steve Cox	Recurring delivery person appearing intermittently over several years, providing goods and interacting with main characters at the Surf Club and residences.
16 April–11 September	Des Thompson	Brian Harrison	Bank manager who approves loans for Carly Morris, including financing the purchase of the local boatshed alongside Ben Lucini.
17–26 April	Melody	Suzi Dougherty	Tenant at the Beach House who is unreliable with rent payments; brings in boyfriend Bruce who intimidates housemates, prompting their departure.
18 April	Peter Butcher	Matthew Booker	Year 10 student who mocks Sophie Simpson about her illiteracy.
25–26 April	Bruce	Bill Charlton	Melody's recently paroled boyfriend; housemates exploit his fear of snakes to encourage both him and Melody to leave.
3 May–17 July	Minister	John Mann	Local clergyman officiating Tom Fletcher's funeral and Carly Morris' wedding to Ben Lucini.
8 May–19 June	Lorraine Jensen	Elizabeth Chance	Mother of Paul and Murray Jensen; supports family through work at a bookmaking shop; initially disapproves of Paul's piano aspirations but later embraces them.
15 May–27 July	Doctor Walker	Earle Cross	Local physician treating Marilyn Chambers for chickenpox, Ben Lucini for food poisoning, and diagnosing Bobby Simpson's pregnancy.
21–24 May	Helen Wakefield	Shayne Foote	Social worker investigating abuse allegations involving Tammy Newton; facilitates reunion between Tammy, Viv Newton, and their estranged mother Angela.
21–23 May	Megan Tierney	Pamela Hawkesford	"Wealthy school friend of Carly Morris whose lavish lifestyle causes tension during dinner with Carly and Ben Lucini."

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Description
23–25 May	"Angela Newton'"	"Annie Byron"	"Estranged mother of Viv and Tammy Newton; reconciles with daughters before departing for Queensland."
	29 May–5 September	"Chris Reynolds'"	"Jay Hackett"	"Member of dating agency involved with Bobby Simpson post-divorce; marital difficulties lead to custody dispute over daughter Suzie."
"Geoff Lime'"		"William Usic"	"Competes for Bobby Simpson’s affection through dating agency; engagement ends after proposal."
"12–15 June"	"Gus'"	"Harry Lawrence"	"Homeless man who befriends Sophie Simpson, encouraging her return to education."
"27 June–23 July"	"Sheree Anderson'"	"Beth Champion"	"Witnesses Vicki Baxter’s attempts to frame Emma Jackson."
"11–18 July"	"Francesca Lucini'"	"Kim Leon"	"Ben Lucini's sister attracted to Steven Matheson, provoking jealousy from cousin Angelo."
"11–18 July"	"Gina Lucini'"	"Arianthe Galani"	"Ben Lucini’s mother managing family dynamics during wedding preparations."
"11–18 July"	"Antonio Lucini'"	"Alistair Duncan"	"Ben Lucini’s father providing support throughout family events."
"12–18 July"	"Angelo'"	"Raj Sidhu"	"Ben’s cousin and best man causing disruptions during wedding festivities."
"30 July"	"Alec Dean'"	"Norm Galton"	"Uncle assuming custody of Blake and Karen Dean; agrees they remain in Summer Bay under foster care."
"9 August"	"Anna'"	"Rebecca George"	"Cousin assisting Vicki Baxter in framing Emma Jackson for theft."
"29 August–5 September"	"Wendy Reynolds'"	"Liz Newman"	"Chris Reynolds' wife who leaves him due to infidelity, caring for daughter Suzie in Summer Bay."
"29 August–5 September"	"Suzie Reynolds'"	"Sophia Davidson"	"Daughter caught in custody dispute between Chris and Wendy Reynolds."
"6 September"	"Vince McGrath'"	"Felix Nobis"	"Delivery man dating Marilyn Chambers but overshadowed by jealous housemate Adam Cameron."
"10 September – 12 October"	"Fred Owens'"	"Keith Holloway"	"Owner of boatshed negotiating sale between Ben and Carly Lucini and Michael Ross."
"14 September – 17 October "	"Hazel Lime'"	"Kaye Stevenson"	'Mother of Geoff Lime who initially disapproves but later supports his relationship with Bobby Simpson.'
"19 September–2 November"	'Alan Stone'	'Philip Hinton'	'New Deputy Principal revealed as an abusive alcoholic enforcing harsh discipline until dismissed.'
'9–16 October'	'Daniel Atkinson'	'Ken Radley'	'Violent husband confronting wife Jennifer's relationship with Steven Matheson; charged with assault.'
'14 November'	'Eddie'	'Peter Williams'	'Drug dealer supplying Kim Mitchell who is intimidated away by Steven Matheson.'
'19 November 1990 – 8 March 1991'	'Patricia Coleman'	'Pam Western'	'Former nun teaching at Summer Bay High supporting Blake Dean and Sally Fletcher; develops relationship with Donald Fisher before relocating.'

References

• Desmond, Kesta. Home and Away Annual. Grandreams Ltd, 1990. ISBN 0-86227-787-6.
• Desmond, Kesta; Nicholls, David. Home and Away Annual Authorised Edition. Grandreams Ltd, 1992. ISBN 0-86227-863-5.
• Hopwood, Clive. Home and Away Special. World International Publishing LTD, 1990. ISBN 0-7235-6899-5.

External links

• Cast and characters on the Official Australian Home and Away site
• Cast and characters on the Official UK Home and Away platform
• Cast and characters at the Internet Movie Database