List of Neighbours characters introduced in 2013
Nell Rebecchi | |
|---|---|
| Occupation | Fictional character |
| Years active | 2013–2025 |
| Known for | Character on the Australian soap opera Neighbours |
Nell Rebecchi
Nell Rebecchi, brought to life by Scarlett Anderson (2013–2022) and later by Ayisha Salem-Towner (2023–2025), first appeared on 7 January 2013. She is the child of Sonya and Toadie Rebecchi. Anderson was merely four weeks old when she debuted. Eve Morey, who plays Sonya, expressed great fondness for working alongside Anderson and highlighted the natural storyline progression that led to Sonya and Toadie becoming parents. Both Morey and Alin Sumarwata (who portrayed Vanessa Villante) wore prosthetic pregnancy bellies during filming.
Within the narrative, Sonya chooses to give birth at home but encounters complications that necessitate a caesarean delivery. Nell’s arrival marks a significant event, with Toadie initially fearing the worst before discovering she is healthy. Anderson’s last portrayal occurred in the 2022 series finale; Salem-Towner took over the role when Neighbours resumed in 2023, incorporating a two-year time jump in the storyline. The actor portraying Toadie praised Salem-Towner’s interpretation and observed the character’s increased prominence in plots.
Nell’s storylines cover early conception difficulties caused by Toadie’s low sperm count, a naming ceremony attended by family members, and childhood episodes such as a parental digital detox, a fall leading to DHS involvement, and hospitalization after a bee sting. She displays behavioral challenges influenced by phone applications and develops fear of Toadie’s wheelchair following his paralysis, which is addressed through imaginative play.
After Sonya and Toadie separate, Nell primarily resides with Sonya but continues contact with Toadie. She forms a close bond with family friend Mark Brennan, which creates friction with Toadie. Nell suffers an accidental opiate overdose after ingesting medication. Following Sonya’s ovarian cancer diagnosis and subsequent passing, Toadie assumes single parenthood of Nell and her half-brother Hugo.
Nell navigates family transitions such as the departure of relatives Shane and Dipi Rebecchi and confusion over Amy Greenwood’s simultaneous relationships with Ned Willis and Levi Canning. She takes part in family gatherings like Father’s Day picnics and builds connections with Melanie Pearson, who later reunites with Toadie. Nell becomes attached to a crystal ball through which she imagines communicating with her deceased mother, symbolizing her coping strategy.
Later, Nell experiences an incident involving spiked alcoholic jelly shots but recovers swiftly. She attends Toadie’s wedding to Terese Willis yet opposes their marriage, preferring Melanie instead. Nell plants reminders of Melanie and Paul Robinson around the household before seeking out Melanie herself; this leads to her being found unconscious after an encounter with an intruder. Melanie rescues her and safely returns her to Ramsay Street.
Amber Turner
Amber Turner, played by Jenna Rosenow, made her debut on 7 February 2013. Her casting was revealed on 4 November 2012. Rosenow had previously appeared as an extra on Neighbours. She described Amber as "a typical 17-year-old" with traits of naivety alongside a hidden secret. Amber is the sole daughter of Matt (Josef Brown) and Lauren Turner (Kate Kendall). An online spin-off titled Amber's Blog follows her family’s relocation from Mount Isa to Erinsborough.
Bailey Turner
Bailey Turner, portrayed by Calen Mackenzie, made his debut on 7 February 2013. His casting was revealed on 4 November 2012. Prior to this role, Mackenzie appeared in Neighbours as Thomas McPhee. Initially signed for a four-year contract, he expressed enthusiasm about joining the long-running series. Bailey is the youngest son of Matt Turner (Josef Brown) and Lauren Carpenter (Kate Kendall). Kendall described Bailey as intellectually sharp, while his personality is marked by a mischievous and curious nature that embraces his geeky traits.
Matt Turner
Matt Turner, played by Josef Brown, first appeared on 7 February 2013. Announced in November 2012, Matt is married to Lauren Carpenter (Kate Kendall) and father to Mason, Amber, and Bailey Turner. The family moves from Mount Isa to Erinsborough, where Matt takes up a position as a police sergeant. Brown characterized the Turners as a unique family with hidden secrets and complex dramas beneath the surface.
Robbo Slade
Robert Alan "Robbo" Slade, enacted by Aaron Jakubenko, arrived on-screen on 15 February 2013. Jakubenko had previously portrayed different roles in Neighbours during 2009 and 2011. Robbo is introduced as Mason Turner's friend from Mount Isa, involved in criminal schemes including a botched factory burglary that resulted in Mason’s arrest by his father, Matt Turner. After moving to Erinsborough, Robbo breaks into the Turner household and later reveals himself as Amber Turner's clandestine boyfriend.
Portrayed as a manipulative "bad boy," Robbo convinces Mason to engage in additional robberies, which are thwarted due to enhanced security measures. Following an encounter with Sonya Mitchell, Robbo briefly leaves town but returns several months later. His comeback intensifies tensions: he threatens residents, menaces Sonya’s family, and coerces Amber through blackmail using recorded footage. Robbo also becomes involved with Paul Robinson in a rigged poker game, accumulating significant debt.
Robbo’s antagonistic actions reach a climax when he is involved in a hit-and-run accident that leaves him hospitalized. While attempting to disclose information about Mason before suffering cardiac arrest, Robbo dies; the incident is subsequently connected to Hudson Walsh’s confession of involvement.
Mason Turner
Mason Turner, played by Taylor Glockner, made his first appearance on 22 February 2013. Glockner’s casting was announced on 4 November 2012, with filming commencing several weeks prior to the December production hiatus. Mason is the eldest child of Lauren Carpenter (Kate Kendall) and Matt Turner (Josef Brown). He is described as "smouldering" and rebellious, embodying a "bad boy" persona with a fundamentally good heart who often errs for justifiable reasons. His relationship with his father is strained, and he enjoys teasing his sister Amber (Jenna Rosenow). Mason arrives after serving time in juvenile detention for a robbery conviction in which he was wrongfully implicated and quickly starts flirting with Kate Ramsay (Ashleigh Brewer).
Rhiannon Bates
Rhiannon Bates, portrayed by Teressa Liane, made her debut on 8 April 2013. To embody Rhiannon’s unique appearance, Liane altered her hair color to brunette and applied striking makeup. Rhiannon, introduced as Mason Turner's former girlfriend from Mount Isa, is characterized by her audacious and memorable nature. She arrives in Erinsborough aiming to reconnect with Mason, creating a dramatic moment by entering through his bedroom window. Her arrival disrupts Mason’s developing relationship with Kate Ramsay.
She discloses that she left her son Jackson in the care of her sister and chooses to remain in Erinsborough after Mason refuses to return with her to Mount Isa. Taking up residence at Number 26 Ramsay Street, Rhiannon becomes entangled in local conflicts, including sending a threatening message to Matt Turner due to his treatment of Mason. Facing financial difficulties, she reinvents herself to gain power, seducing Paul Robinson to obtain political advantages but eventually exposes him for bribery.
Upon returning several months later, Rhiannon aids Matt in a corruption investigation against Paul and negotiates employment at Lassiter's in return for retracting her statement. She places her son Jackson with Karl and Susan Kennedy at Number 28. Though she desires a closer bond with Mason, she accepts a cleaning position at Lassiter’s but ultimately departs for Darwin after Mason declines to live with her.
Critics likened Rhiannon to a daring Australian equivalent of the British McQueen family from Hollyoaks, emphasizing her cheeky and provocative character along with a significant makeover that transformed her from vulnerable to empowered within the narrative.
Jayden Warley
Jayden Warley, played by Khan Oxenham, first appeared on 6 May 2013. Oxenham's casting was revealed in February 2013, with subsequent returns in 2015 and 2018. He described the role as both challenging and relatable, noting parallels between his own experiences and Jayden’s occasional lack of motivation academically. Jayden made another return on 8 February 2018.
His storyline includes bullying Bailey Turner and clashing with other residents, such as engaging in a fight with Ben Fitzgerald; he avoids suspension by blackmailing Bailey. Jayden sustains an injury while attempting skateboarding tricks and causes damage at Sonya’s Nursery during Paul Robinson’s mayoral campaign. Paul pressures Jayden into confessing and convinces his mother Sue to resign as interim mayor to prevent legal consequences.
Jayden admits channeling familial anger into football aggression after intervention by Brad Willis. He forms a bond with Bailey over acts of vandalism and drinking but later disagrees on sensitive issues. Discovering police identification belonging to Matt Turner, Jayden and Bailey use it to stop vehicles. After Paige Smith accuses him of theft, Jayden tries to blackmail her but is countered when Paige records his awkward reply, leading to mutual blackmail.
Following a fire at the school, Jayden is suspected due to his fingerprints on a jerry can; he confesses to attempting to implicate Stephanie Scully after mistakenly believing he caused the blaze.
Three years later, Jayden struggles during an interview with Amy Williams but earns a trial at her construction yard. Despite poor performance and workplace challenges—including working without protective gear—Amy offers him an apprenticeship. After Leo Tanaka is injured by falling concrete slabs loosened at Sue’s request, both Jayden and Sue are questioned by police and receive six-month prison sentences each.
Terese Willis
Terese Willis, brought to life by Rebekah Elmaloglou, made her first appearance on 14 May 2013. The character and casting details were unveiled on 7 February 2013. Elmaloglou and her family moved to Melbourne to accommodate filming schedules. Prior to shooting, she requested a modification in the pronunciation of Terese's name. Terese is introduced as the second wife of Brad Willis (Kip Gamblin), joining him along with their teenage twins, Josh (Harley Bonner) and Imogen (Ariel Kaplan). Elmaloglou depicted Terese as a well-organized individual with whom she could easily relate. Terese arrives in Erinsborough to meet Paul Robinson (Stefan Dennis), who believes he is conducting an interview for a role at Lassiter's Hotel.
Imogen Willis
Imogen Willis, portrayed by Ariel Kaplan, debuted on 20 May 2013. The character was announced on 7 February 2013, with Kaplan’s casting confirmed on 18 February. At the time, Kaplan was studying at Melbourne’s 16th Street Actors Studio when she was offered the part. Imogen is the twin sister of Joshua and daughter to Brad and Terese Willis. Kaplan described her character as self-assured and comfortable with herself, serving as a positive example for young women. Within the storyline, Imogen often feels eclipsed by her brother Joshua’s swimming pursuits, showcasing a nuanced sibling relationship emphasized by Harley Bonner.
Josh Willis
Joshua "Josh" Willis, played by Harley Bonner, first appeared on 20 May 2013. His casting was announced on 7 February 2013 and confirmed on 18 February. Encouraged by his agent, Bonner auditioned for the role and noted feeling nervous initially due to quickly forming an on-screen family bond. Josh is the teenage son of Brad (Kip Gamblin) and Terese Willis (Rebekah Elmaloglou). Bonner described Josh as ambitious and resolute, with a complicated dynamic involving his twin sister Imogen (Ariel Kaplan). As an elite swimmer, Bonner underwent extensive training at local swimming pools to prepare for the role.
Walter Mitchell
Walter Mitchell (also referred to as Dave), portrayed by Chris Haywood, debuted on 17 June 2013. His casting was announced on 5 June, with further confirmation on 14 June, accompanied by a promotional trailer released on 8 June. Walter is introduced as Sonya Mitchell’s (Eve Morey) long-lost uncle, previously believed deceased by her. Initially keeping his distance, he reveals who he is after Sonya confronts him. Sonya welcomes his stories and photographs, although her partner, Toadfish Rebecchi (Ryan Moloney), urges caution.
Upon arriving in Erinsborough, Walter mingles with locals at Charlie’s bar and reconnects with Sonya and her children, Nell and Callum. Despite Toadie’s initial unease, he offers Walter accommodation. However, Walter’s hidden struggle with alcoholism emerges when Sonya contacts her aunt and uncovers his history. Following incidents involving theft and drinking episodes, Walter attends Alcoholics Anonymous meetings but finds maintaining sobriety challenging. Eventually, he steals money from Sonya’s nursery intending to leave town but returns to repay it and discloses his true identity as Dave. He explains that he met the real Walter Mitchell at a halfway house where they exchanged life stories before parting ways.
Hudson Walsh
Hudson Walsh, played by Remy Hii, made his first appearance on 28 June 2013. Announced on 12 June 2013, this role marked Hii’s debut on the show while he was unemployed and visiting Melbourne. His character was introduced as a new romantic interest for the established Chris Pappas (James Mason). Hii characterized Hudson as a sensitive and driven competitive swimmer who is starting to explore life beyond his athletic career.
Hudson soon emerges as a competitor to Joshua Willis (Harley Bonner), with both being top-tier swimmers in the local scene. Their rivalry escalates following Hudson’s inclusion in the swim team and his interactions with coach Don Cotter (John Adam). Hudson’s narrative involves a romantic relationship with Chris, complicated by his use of performance-enhancing drugs, which causes tension and leads to a temporary split.
After the revelation of his drug use, Hudson loses the support of coach Don but gains backing from Brad Willis (Kip Gamblin). Additionally, he secures a sponsorship from Paul Robinson (Stefan Dennis) despite initial doubts about his past drug issues. Over time, Hudson and Josh resolve their differences, which strengthens Hudson’s standing within the swimming community.
Hudson becomes entangled in a blackmail scheme when Mason Turner (Taylor Glockner) seeks assistance against threats involving explicit footage of his sister. This situation culminates in a critical event where Hudson is involved in a hit-and-run that results in the death of antagonist Robbo Slade. Initially, Hudson covers for Josh but eventually admits responsibility for the accident, leading to a four-year prison sentence.
While serving time, Hudson’s relationship with Chris remains complicated, marked by communication challenges and emotional strain. Their relationship ultimately ends after Hudson suspects Chris may be involved with someone else; however, Chris clarifies his intentions before they part ways.
Marty Kranic
Marty Kranic, portrayed by Darius Perkins, first appeared on 29 July 2013. Perkins, originally recognized for his role as Scott Robinson in 1985, was signed on for a one-month stint. Marty is characterized as a "shady associate" of Paul Robinson (Stefan Dennis), adept at handling difficult situations. Perkins expressed enthusiasm about playing an antagonist, contrasting with his earlier role.
Paul invites Marty to participate in a poker game to utilize his card shark expertise against Robbo Slade (Aaron Jakubenko). In exchange for teaching Paul how to use marked cards, Marty gains unrestricted access to Lassiter's executive suite and agrees to keep an eye on Robbo for leverage. Unable to penetrate Robbo's poker circle directly, Marty tries to recruit Lucas Fitzgerald (Scott Major) but is unsuccessful. Following Robbo's fatal hit-and-run, Lucas reveals that Marty claimed Robbo used marked cards. Marty denies any involvement in the accident but cautions Paul against implicating him, threatening consequences.
During police interrogation, Terese Willis (Rebekah Elmaloglou) identifies Marty, who falsely accuses Toadfish Rebecchi (Ryan Moloney) of the hit-and-run incident. Months later, Marty reappears attempting to blackmail Paul amid his mayoral campaign and offers damaging information to Paul's rival, Karl Kennedy (Alan Fletcher), who refuses to act on it.
Josie Lamb
Josie Lamb, brought to life by Madison Daniel, made her debut on 12 August 2013. Prior to this role, Daniel appeared as Claudia Howard in Neighbours during 2012. Initially signed for a recurring role lasting ten months, Daniel reprised the character in 2016, with Josie returning to screens from February 2017.
Introduced as a self-assured student and friend of Callum Jones, Josie developed romantic feelings for him but endeavored to alter her appearance to mirror Imogen Willis, whom Callum admired. This led to Josie engaging in extreme dieting and exercise routines, raising concerns from Callum’s mother, Sonya Mitchell. The narrative tackled issues surrounding eating disorders by exploring the experiences of both Josie and Imogen. Josie's excessive exertion resulted in her collapsing during a community fun run, necessitating hospitalization due to malnutrition. Her recovery encompassed both physical rehabilitation and psychological support.
Josie also endured bullying at school because of her intellect, looks, and having two mothers. After resolving a misunderstanding about a birthday gift, she and Callum formed a friendship that eventually blossomed into a romantic relationship. They navigated challenges including Josie’s struggles with body image and societal pressures. Josie remained supportive when Callum departed for a scholarship opportunity in the United States.
During her university years, Josie's parents Ellen and Victoria separated. When they attempted reconciliation, Josie returned and became entangled in conflicts arising from Victoria’s feelings toward Stephanie Scully. After tensions escalated, Josie filed an intervention order against Steph; this was later revealed to have been orchestrated by Ellen and was subsequently dismissed.
Josie's story arcs highlight adolescent challenges such as eating disorders, complex family relationships, and teenage romance, enriching Neighbours' engagement with pertinent social topics.
Alek Pocoli
Alek Pocoli, played by Damian De Montemas, first appeared on 9 September 2013. His casting was announced on 30 August 2013. De Montemas explained that Alek’s role demanded a distinctive accent combining multiple cultural influences to reflect his upbringing in England and residence in the United States. Alek is the estranged former husband of established character Vanessa Villante (Alin Sumarwata). His arrival in Erinsborough brings news that unsettles Vanessa’s life and disrupts her fiancé Lucas Fitzgerald (Scott Major). The actor appreciated Alek’s sense of humor, which serves to irritate Lucas.
Alek seeks out Vanessa by first visiting her home before finding her at Harold's Store. He reveals that he never filed their annulment papers to avoid family embarrassment and expresses his desire to reconnect with Vanessa. Apologizing for his past conduct, Alek invites Vanessa to discuss matters privately. Lucas discovers they remain legally married. Having accumulated significant wealth since their marriage, Alek offers Vanessa $100,000 to relinquish any claims on his assets. She accepts the offer, leading to the finalization of their annulment. Before leaving to reunite with his fiancée, Alek references a hotel they stayed at in Tirana, Albania, signifying their farewell.
Gemma Reeves
Gemma "Gem" Reeves, portrayed by Kathryn Beck, first appeared on 7 October 2013. Beck's casting was confirmed in September 2013 after the character had been mentioned previously on-screen. Beck described Gem as someone who pushes boundaries and escalates situations beyond expectations. Gem is cousin to established characters Georgia Brooks (Saskia Hampele) and Toadfish Rebecchi (Ryan Moloney). She arrives in Erinsborough aiming to reconnect with Georgia, whom she admires greatly. Georgia welcomes Gem warmly and convinces her to move into Toadie's residence, setting up forthcoming dramatic developments. A TV Week journalist characterized Gem as a "blonde bombshell" and "hottie."
Eric Edwards
Eric Edwards, enacted by Paul O'Brien, made his first appearance on 10 October 2013. His casting was revealed on 2 October 2013; O'Brien filmed this role during a break from shooting a feature film in Jakarta, which required him to grow a beard. Eric is involved in legal proceedings as a client of local lawyer Toadfish Rebecchi (Ryan Moloney).
Eric claimed he sustained a back injury due to a defective gym stepping machine and initiated legal action against the gym while hiring Toadfish as his attorney. However, the lawsuit was dropped when it emerged that the injury occurred during a skiing accident. Toadfish considered pursuing action against the ski instructor but discovered Eric had been intoxicated at the time and had provided false information regarding the incident. Upon learning that Brad's daughter, Imogen (Ariel Kaplan), worked at Toadfish's firm during his case, Eric sued Toadfish for negligence. When Eric’s wife, Mandy (Emelia Burns), found out about the lawsuit, she moved out with their daughter. Following an uncomfortable lunch hosted by Toadie and his wife Sonya (Eve Morey), Eric and Mandy confronted their marital difficulties. Ultimately, Eric withdrew the legal claim and reconciled with Mandy, who returned home.
Jacob Holmes
Jacob Holmes, portrayed by Clayton Watson, debuted on 28 November 2013 as a widowed father struggling with single parenthood; he was introduced through Sonya Rebecchi's (Eve Morey) parenting blog storyline. After nearly losing his son Elliott's (Ryder Smyth) pram near Lassiter’s Lake, Jacob temporarily entrusts Elliott to Sonya’s care. She later offers Jacob employment building a juice bar at her nursery while caring for Elliott herself. This professional assistance sparks hope for romance between them, culminating in Jacob sharing a kiss with Sonya before promptly apologizing.
Jacob reveals that his wife Hannah passed away shortly after Elliott’s birth, leaving him without familial support. When Hannah’s parents challenge Jacob for custody of Elliott, he seeks legal help from Sonya’s husband, Toadfish Rebecchi (Ryan Moloney). Despite tension arising from suspicions that Toadie leaked information to Hannah’s parents—an accusation Jacob later regrets—the mediation progresses with Toadie's involvement. Following the kiss incident, Sonya distances herself from Jacob and encourages colleague Georgia Brooks (Saskia Hampele) to provide him support instead.
Eventually considering giving up custody of Elliott, Jacob is persuaded by Sonya to continue fighting for his son’s care. He admits his feelings for Sonya; however, she rejects him, prompting Jacob's decision to move to Adelaide closer to his in-laws.
Others
| Date(s) | Character | Actor | Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 January | Gabby Ross | Hannah Vanderheide | Gabby along with Eloise and Michaela apply for waitressing positions at Charlie's but face sabotage from Natasha Williams driven by jealousy. |
| Eloise Russell | Amy Arnott | ||
| Michaela Douglas | Caitlin Pascoe | ||
| 16 January–11 March | Brian O'Loughlin | Paul Denny | Brian assists Priya Kapoor with organising a school board meeting and defends her against accusations from Paul Robinson. After falsely accusing Priya of harassment, he blackmails her into spending time with him overnight. Susan Kennedy investigates and threatens exposure unless Brian retracts his claims; he resigns subsequently. |
| 16 January | Nate Fuller | Ryan Jones | Nate attends a soccer game accompanied by colleagues where he injures Aidan Foster following a tense confrontation. |
| 17 January | Tony Corvus | Mick Alford | Tony discusses his divorce with Ajay Kapoor at Simmons & Colbert; after overhearing Tony argue with his wife, Ajay resigns from working for him. |
| Sheree Corvus | Jacqui Sundbery | ||
| 21–31 January | Brett Letson | Brendan McCallum | Brett purchases Rhys Lawson's car and questions its history involving Lucas Fitzgerald. |
| 23 January | Will Clifton | Garth Ploog | Will is arranged on a date with Chris Pappas, who declines due to not being ready for a relationship. |
| 23 January | Lyndall Stokes | Clare Griggs | Lyndall dates Karl Kennedy, but Karl admits he remains emotionally attached to an ex-partner. |
| 24 January | Daryl Banick | Mark Doggett | Daryl complains about Sonya Mitchell breastfeeding her child publicly. |
| 24–25 January | Polly Lipcer | Kylie Trounson | Polly encourages Sonya to make a complaint after being asked to leave due to breastfeeding and involves media attention. |
| 4 February–7 October 2014, 5 May–14 June 2016 | Wendy Leung | Natalia Ko | Receptionist at Lassiter's Hotel who assists guests with arrangements; later provides information related to Paige Smith's stay and events surrounding an explosion at the hotel. |
| 6 February–2 April | Alistair O'Loughlin | Rahart Sadiqzai | Student who cyberbullies the Kapoor family; suspended after confrontation by Priya; later attempts an apology following family issues. |
| 8 February | Phillipa Curtis | Louise Rocchi | Meets Ajay Kapoor during karate classes; later socializes with him at Charlie's bar. |
| 18 February | Diane Stevens | Mahalia Brown | Dates Rhys Lawson during a double date event; leaves early accompanied by him. |
| 18–28 February | Jana Noviac | Kyrie Capri | Dates Kyle Canning; relationship ends due to Kyle's lack of interest. |
| 21–26 February | Ralphie Mahone | Daniel Bowden | Assists Chris Pappas with vehicle repairs; involved in illegal car dealings; pressures Chris for payment. |
| 25 February | Janette O'Loughlin | Wendy John | " Accompanies Alistair to school; reacts strongly upon witnessing his bullying behavior towards Priya Kapoor. |
| Date(s) | Character | Actor | Context |
|---|
External links
- Official AU Neighbours Characters & Cast
- Full Cast & Characters at IMDb
- Hudson Walsh profile at Official AU Neighbours