List of Home and Away characters introduced in 1999
| Company type | Television soap opera |
|---|---|
| Industry | Television |
| 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. The following compilation enumerates characters introduced throughout 1999, all of whom were brought in under the guidance of then-executive producer John Holmes. The show's twelfth season commenced broadcasting on 11 January 1999. The first new character of the year was Nick Smith, portrayed initially by Matt Juarez in March. In April, Nick's father Ken, played by Anthony Phelan, made his debut. May saw Aleetza Wood join the cast as Peta Janossi. Cameron Welsh appeared as Mitch McColl starting in July. August introduced both Bianca Zeboat and lifeguard Shauna Bradley, played by Kylie Watson. Science educator Harry Reynolds, enacted by Justin Melvey, was added in September. October brought the arrival of Anna Hruby and Stephen James King portraying acting principal Judith Ackroyd and her son, Edward Dunglass, respectively.
Nick Smith
Nick Smith made his first appearance on 18 March 1999, initially portrayed by Matt Guarez in a guest capacity before Chris Egan assumed the role as a series regular from 2000 until his final episode on 9 September 2003. Additionally, Aaron Puckeridge depicted Nick in flashback sequences during 2003. For his performance, Egan received a nomination for "Best New Male Talent" at the 2001 Logie Awards.
Peta Janossi
Peta Janossi, played by Aleetza Wood, debuted on 27 May 1999 and remained until 14 July 2000. Wood was cast while she was still attending university. Series Producer Russell Webb chose her due to her "fresh-faced" appearance. For this role, Wood earned a nomination for "Most Popular New Female Talent" in 2000.
Mitch McColl
Mitch McColl, portrayed by Cameron Welsh, first appeared on-screen on 15 July 1999. Welsh originally auditioned for a guest part before securing this role. In 2000, he took a six-week hiatus following a diagnosis of a herniated disc; during this period, Mitchell McMahon temporarily filled in as Mitch. Welsh returned to the character on 3 April 2000. He later filmed a cameo for the show's milestone 4000th episode in 2005, marking Mitch's return to celebrate Alf Stewart's (Ray Meagher) birthday. Subsequently, Welsh became a producer for Home and Away, attributing his time playing Mitch with deepening his understanding of production processes. His portrayal earned him a "Best New Male Talent" nomination at the Logie Awards in 2000.
Critics praised Mitch’s impactful introduction and highlighted his romantic storyline with Hayley, noting viewers’ enthusiasm for their much-anticipated first kiss and the resulting dramatic tension. The character’s departure was also cited as a memorable television moment by the Daily Record.
Bianca Zeboat
Bianca Zeboat, enacted by Lara Cox, appeared from 11 August 1999. Cox secured this extended guest role shortly after completing work on Heartbreak High, managing to appear concurrently on both series. She characterized Bianca as a "manipulator" and "nasty," which contrasted sharply with her earlier role as Anita Scheppers. Bianca is depicted as both a model and actress aiming to secure the lead role in a film adaptation of Alan Fisher’s novel On the Crest of a Wave, published in 1989. Upon arriving in Summer Bay for filming, she befriends Jesse McGregor (Ben Unwin) to extract insider information. Jesse develops strong feelings for Bianca, viewing her as both a romantic partner and maternal figure, unaware of her scheming tendencies. 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 shortly after returning to Canberra, despite initial hesitation about auditioning. As her inaugural acting position, she undertook training to enhance her craft. For this portrayal, Watson received a nomination for Most Popular New Female Talent at the 2000 Logie Awards. Shauna was characterized as "bold" and "spirited," with commentator Andrew Mercado referring to her as a "seductive lifesaver." Her romantic entanglements, particularly with Harry and Gavin, were marked by considerable conflict, which Inside Soap described as turbulent. In 2012, Channel 5 featured an episode in their viewer-selected "From Day One" segment highlighting Shauna’s confrontation with Margaret regarding her adoption.
Harry Reynolds
Harry Reynolds, brought to life by Justin Melvey, first appeared on 13 September 1999 and departed on 26 January 2001. Prior to joining Home and Away, Melvey concentrated on modelling while developing his acting abilities. Upon landing the role, he relocated from Los Angeles to Australia. His portrayal of Harry earned him the "Most Popular New Male Talent" Logie Award in 2000.
Judith Ackroyd
Judith Ackroyd, enacted by Anna Hruby, was present on the show from 21 October 1999 until 21 November 2000. Hruby had earlier performed in Prisoner Cell Block H. Judith stepped into the position of principal at Summer Bay High during Donald Fisher’s (Norman Coburn) sabbatical. Initially met with doubt regarding her appointment, she soon asserted her leadership following clarifications.
Her storyline included managing her son, Edward Dunglass, who inherited Huntington's disease from his deceased father, Edward Dunglass Sr. Judith juggled her professional responsibilities alongside family struggles, including Edward’s rebellious tendencies and his relationship with Peta Janossi. She also pursued a romantic involvement with Joel Nash, which concluded when he reunited with his former wife, Natalie.
Judith aided Donald Fisher in revising his novel and experienced conflict with student Gypsy Nash over the school captaincy, which sparked gossip about her private life. After Joel’s exit, Judith accepted a teaching role in Switzerland, advised Donald to resume his principal duties, and appointed Sally Fletcher (Kate Ritchie) before departing.
Edward Dunglass
Edward Dunglass, played by Stephen James King, first appeared on 28 October 1999 and left on 14 July 2000. King balanced his acting commitments with high school education, marking his first television role following theatre work. He commended the veteran cast for their support and described Edward as a misunderstood figure due to his goth style, contrasting sharply with Summer Bay’s typical residents.
Edward’s initial appearance occurs on the beach where Will Smith (Zac Drayson) mocks his gothic look; Edward retorts with sarcasm. He earns respect by rescuing Duncan Stewart (Brendan McKensy) from bullies and impresses during go-kart trials before revealing that his mother is the new principal, Judith Ackroyd (Anna Hruby).
Donald Fisher (Norman Coburn) identifies Edward’s father, Edward Sr (Peter Sumner), who succumbed to Huntington's disease—a condition Edward fears he has inherited. He quickly bonds with Peta Janossi (Aleetza Wood) and Mitch McColl (Cameron Welsh), assisting Peta in honoring her late grandmother, which arouses local suspicion about his motives.
Edward’s candid opinions about illness create tension with locals such as Alf and Ailsa Stewart. As his symptoms worsen—muscle spasms and paralysis—he seeks adrenaline-fueled experiences. After initial conflicts, Edward and Peta reconcile, enroll in self-defense classes together, deepen their bond by privately "marrying," and cohabit despite objections from Peta’s foster father, Joel Nash (David Woodley).
Upon reaching adulthood at eighteen, Edward tests positive for Huntington's disease but initially minimizes its impact. A crisis leads him to view a video message recorded by his late father before passing away. Edward then discards his gothic makeup and requests access to his trust fund to travel alongside Peta. Judith arranges accommodations with her sister in Rome for them. As Edward's condition deteriorates further, they leave supported by friends; a later visit confirms his decline.
Others
| Date(s) | Character | Actor | Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 January–3 March | Dr. Noble | Mariette Rups-Donnelly | Serves as psychiatrist for Gypsy Nash (Kimberley Cooper) following her abduction by David D'Angelo (Toni Poli). Later provides counseling to Joey Rainbow (Alex O'Han) during his struggle with schizophrenia. |
| 14–25 January | Mr Gilkey | Ben Ager | A driver exhibiting road rage who confronts Ailsa Stewart (Judy Nunn) after a car accident, demanding compensation. Although he apologizes, Ailsa declines to accept it. |
| 14 January–21 May | Troy | Lucas Sinkovic Luke Jacobz |
Classmate in Year 12 and teammate on the cricket team alongside Tom Nash (Graeme Squires). |
| 18–19 January | Rhonda | Samantha Braniff | Employed by David D'Angelo (Toni Poli) as bait in the kidnapping of Joel Nash (David Woodley). |
| 21 January–10 February | Brian Matthews | Scott Swalwell | Companion of Sam Marshall (Ryan Clark) and Hayley Smith (Bec Cartwright). After admiring Hayley's graffiti art, he fatally falls while tagging a tall building. |
| 3–12 February | Geraldine Peterson | Anna Lee | Member of The Wednesday Club; pretends ignorance regarding a fundraising credit dispute with Rebecca Nash (Belinda Emmett), which prompts Rebecca to resign. |
| 5 February | Mo Matthews | Pat Sands | Brian Matthews' father; 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 when he converses with apparitions of his deceased father. |
| 19 February–6 October | Bob Playford | Tony Morgan | Real estate agent engaged by Diana Fraser to explore purchasing and developing the caravan park. The development is halted after locals raise funds to acquire the property themselves. |
| 4–23 March | Brooke Taylor | Bridie Carter | Alongside her sister Mara, expresses interest in the Nash brothers. Attempts to pursue Travis Nash due to his resemblance to her late fiancé. Leaves after disclosing family secrets. |
| 4–5 March | Mara Taylor | Ann Burbrook | Brooke's sister; reckless driver who courts Joel Nash, unaware he is married. |
| 10–17 March | Denise Hennessy | Lauren Clair | Former prison cellmate of Kylie Burton using the alias "Maggie Crowley." Visits Kylie's ex-fiancé Jesse McGregor and flees town when police suspect her status as an escapee. |
| 11 March | Eleanor Mace | Deborah Piper | Candidates interviewed by Donald Fisher (Norman Coburn) for the nanny position of Byron Fisher. |
| Patsy Little | Jillian O'Dowd | ||
| Skye | Karren Lewis | ||
| 16 March–11 May | Ellen Porter | Anne Grigg | Nanny employed for Donald Fisher's newborn son Byron. Previously acquitted of manslaughter involving a child in her care. Departs after admitting romantic feelings for Donald. |
| 17–22 March | 'Jim Woods' | 'Nick Hogan' | 'Local police officer who suspects Denise Hennessy of being a fugitive; also investigates local drug-related matters. |
| 19–23 March | 'Johnno' | 'Josef Ber' | 'Drug dealer who pressures Nick Smith over outstanding debts; assaults Nick before leaving town. |
| 24 March | 'Ted Williams' | 'Kim Knuckey' | 'Acts as 'foster father' to Nick Smith; arrives with wife Wendy to retrieve him from the beach house. |
| 24 March 1999–26 April 2000 | '\'\'Wendy Williams\'\'\' | 'Monette Lee Lisa Cameron' |
'Foster mother of Nick Smith; returns Nick to live with his biological father when behavioral issues arise. |
| 26 March–20 April | '\'\'Miranda Porter\'\'\' | 'Lauren Hewett' | 'Daughter of Ellen Porter; an HIV-positive student concerned about discrimination in Summer Bay; briefly dates Joey Rainbow. |
| 29 March–7 April | '\'\'Claire Andrews\'\'\' | 'Kate Beahan' | 'Half-sister to Travis and Joel Nash; involved in theft and departs town after charges are dropped. |
| 21 April–14 June | 'Jack' | 'Eamon Davern' | 'Friend of Duncan Stewart who assists in creating a homemade bomb that injures Alf Stewart. |
| 4–5 May | 'Organist' | 'Gregg Arthur' | 'Performs at the wedding of James Fraser and Chloe Richards. |
| 7 May–19 August | '\'\'Wendy Collins\'\'\' | 'Jayne Leslie' | 'Mother who, with husband Steve, employs Justine Welles as a childminder. Attempts to falsely accuse Justine of abuse but later admits guilt, resulting in Justine’s release from prison. |
| 11 May–19 August | '\'\'Steve Collins\'\'\' | 'Don Halbert' | 'Father supporting Wendy in framing Justine Welles for child abuse; eventually confesses guilt leading to Justine’s freedom. |
| 11–19 May | '\'\'Ruby Collins \'\'\' | 'Kiara Bleskas Tara McKellar Brittany Jones Sian Tierney' |
'Daughter of Steve and Wendy Collins; dies under suspicious circumstances which lead to Justine Welles’ trial and conviction, later overturned. |
| 24–25 May | '\'\'Guy North\'\'\' | 'Drayton Morley' | 'Friend to Marilyn Fisher during her post-natal depression; clarifies relationship status with Donald Fisher before departing town. |
| 3 June 1999, 8 November 2004 |
'\'\'Father O'Hearn\'\'\' | 'Alan Russell' | 'Catholic priest involved in Marilyn Fisher’s confession and officiates Owen Dalby's funeral service. |
| 7 June–2 July | '\'\'Hope Benedict\'\'\' | 'Brooke Harmon' | 'Member of church group attended by the Stewarts; rejects Duncan Stewart’s romantic advances before leaving the group. |
| 9–23 June | '\'\'John Russell\'\'\' | 'John Moore Marbuck Khan (flashback)' |
'Aboriginal educator at Summer Bay High teaching Indigenous Studies; explores past trauma and leaves town searching for his mother. |
| 16 June–20 July | '\'\'David Janossi\'\'\' | 'Philip Edwards' | 'Older sibling of Peta Janossi; lives off late grandmother’s pension without reporting her death. Leaves after securing employment in the city. |
| 28 June–9 September | '\'\'Roger Lansdowne\'\'\' | 'Tony Bonner' | 'Film producer attempting to acquire rights for Alan Fisher’s autobiography. Manipulates locals into acting roles but departs following controversy over casting decisions. |
| 28 June | 'Reverend Lee' | 'Stewart Reade' | 'Conducts funeral service for Lachlan Fraser. |
| 28 June–19 July | '\'\'Annie Matthews\'\'\' | 'Carole Skinner' | 'Homeless woman impersonating Peta Janossi’s grandmother; causes disruptions before reuniting with estranged daughter Frances Kennedy. |
| 12 July–20 August | '\'\'Angus Halliday\'\'\' | 'Gabriel Andrews ' | 'University peer of Sally Fletcher whose presence provokes jealousy from Vinnie Patterson. |
| 19 July | 'Frances Kennedy' | 'Alice Livingstone ' | 'Estranged daughter of Annie Matthews; reconciles with her mother after being located by Peta Janossi and Will Smith. |
| 28 July–26 August | 'Sharon Welles' | 'Shayne Francis ' | 'Estranged mother of Justine Welles; former addict who aids in securing Justine's conviction but is later rejected by her daughter. |
| 28 July–9 August | 'Leon Watson' | 'David Webb ' | 'Attorney defending Justine Welles during the trial concerning Ruby Collins’ death. |
| 30 July–31 August | 'Jeff Berger' | 'Jonathon Speer ' | 'Journalist who pays Sharon Welles for a confession from Justine Welles and later offers money directly to Justine, which she declines. |
| 6–9 August | 'Kelly McCane' | 'Laurie Foell ' | 'Prosecutor at Justine Welles’ trial noted for aggressive cross-examination of key witnesses. |
| 10–18 August | 'Gemma' | 'Alyssa McClelland ' | 'Cellmate sharing incarceration with Justine Welles. |
| 23 August | 'Mrs. Brown' | 'Jan Merriman ' | 'Spouse of local farmer Jack Brown; hosts local teenagers employed as fruit pickers. |
| 24 August 1999–26 February 2000 | 'Jack Brown' | 'Paul Chubb ' | 'Local farmer employing teens as fruit pickers; dismisses workers for poor performance but later reconciles with son following a farming-related tragedy that leads to farm sale. |
| 31 August–30 September | 'Anthony Doyle' | 'Kim Knuckey ' | 'Dates Irene Roberts but ends their relationship after foster son Will Smith confesses joyriding incident involving Anthony’s vehicle. |
| 10–22 September | 'Jillian Williams' | 'Alexandra Davies ' | 'Former flatmate stalking Shauna Bradley under the alias "Amber"; frames Adam Cameron resulting in his eviction before being apprehended. |
| 14 September | 'Darryl' | 'Jeremiah Tickell ' | "Shauna Bradley's ex-boyfriend who accuses Adam Cameron of stalking Shauna and vandalizes Adam's car." |
| 23 September 1999–16 June 2003 | Ralph Patterson | Alan Cinis | Father of Vinnie Patterson who initially provides financial support but is later exposed as a conman framing Vinnie for fraud before fleeing town. Returns seeking forgiveness but is rejected. |
| 27 September–8 October | Gazza Boyd | Sebastian Huber | Friend of Duncan Stewart who discovers stolen money linked to escaped prisoner David D'Angelo, triggering a hostage situation resolved by police intervention. |
| 11–13 October | Lauren Healy | Merridy Eastman | Accomplice in David D'Angelo's kidnapping plot against Duncan Stewart; both are thwarted by Joel Nash and law enforcement. |
| 14 October 1999–24 March 2000 | Claire Rogers | Talia Marmount Jaime Mears |
Student infatuated with Harry Reynolds, fabricates an affair causing turmoil before confessing truth and departing amid personal conflicts. |
| 15 October 1999–21 February 2000 | Danielle McCarthy | Claire Paradine | Nursing Unit Manager interested romantically in James Fraser; brief relationship without further progression. |
| 20 October 1999–5 April 2000 | Juliette Bellatti | Nicole Nabout | Nurse at Northern Districts Hospital harboring feelings for James Fraser; they date briefly before leaving Summer Bay together. |
| 2 November 1999–31 January 2000 | Mick Dwyer | John Brumpton | Former criminal associate pressuring Jesse McGregor into illicit activities; involved in crash investigated by Joel Nash leading to Mick's arrest. |
| 3 November 1999–27 March 2000 | Rosemary Myers | Anita Bochnik | Student competing for school captaincy and protesting Edward Dunglass’ newsletter alongside Peta Janossi. |
| 4–9 November | Christian | John Atkinson | Hitman employed by US scientific company targeting Harry Reynolds; captured following hostage situation involving Shauna Bradley. |
| 24 November 1999–2 February 2000 | Alison | Jenny Apostolou | Harry Reynolds’ ex-fiancé visiting from America during his breakup with Shauna Bradley; departs alone when Harry chooses Shauna over her. |
External links
- Cast and characters on the Official Australian Home and Away website
- Cast and characters on the Official UK Home and Away website
- Cast and characters at the Internet Movie Database