Lorraine Jensen

Home and Away

Company type	Television series
Industry	Television, Entertainment
Founded	January 17, 1988 (1988-01-17)
Headquarters	Australia
Website	7plus.com.au/home-and-away

Home and Away is a long-running Australian soap opera that premiered on the Seven Network on 17 January 1988. The third season commenced broadcasting on 8 January 1990. Below is a compilation of characters introduced throughout 1990, all under the guidance of executive producer Des Monaghan. In January, Rebekah Elmaloglou joined the cast as Sophie Simpson. February saw the arrival of Craig McLachlan and Julian McMahon, portraying schoolteacher Grant Mitchell and soldier Ben Lucini, respectively. March introduced Jaiman Paget Bayly in the recurring role of Murray "Mullet" Jensen. April brought in Beach House proprietor Ernie Jacobs (David Weatherley) alongside Bridget Jackson (Paula Duncan). In May, Craig Black returned as student Paul Jensen, accompanied by police officer Jane Holland (Josephine Mitchell). July featured siblings Blake and Karen Dean, enacted by Les Hill and Belinda Jarrett. September introduced Kate Raison as Jennifer Atkinson, who became a romantic interest for Steven Matheson (Adam Willits). October added the divorced character Michael Ross (Dennis Coard) and his son Haydn Ross (Andrew Hill). November saw Rachael Beck cast as Grant's sister, Kim Mitchell.

Sophie Simpson

Sophie Simpson, played by Rebekah Elmaloglou, made her first appearance on 23 January 1990 and remained on the show until 1993. Elmaloglou took a hiatus from filming due to fatigue and eventually departed to focus on other ventures, citing health issues caused by her demanding schedule. She later returned for guest roles in 2002, 2003, and 2005.

Grant Mitchell

Grant Mitchell, portrayed by Craig McLachlan, debuted on 9 February 1990. Although McLachlan exited the show within that year, additional scenes featuring him were filmed and broadcast in 1991. His final episode aired on 20 September 1991. McLachlan characterized Grant as a "fashionable" educator who challenges authority, earning him popularity among his students. Nevertheless, Grant remains committed to his teaching responsibilities and pupils. For this portrayal, McLachlan received the "Most Popular Actor" accolade at the 1991 Logie Awards.

Ben Lucini

Benito "Ben" Lucini, enacted by Julian McMahon, first appeared on 27 February 1990 and stayed until 1 May 1991. McMahon underwent four auditions before landing the part. Ben is depicted as a laid-back, easygoing 21-year-old Italian from a large family. Initially inclined towards partying, he matures over time. A soldier by profession, Ben falls for the town and established character Carly Morris (Sharyn Hodgson), eventually leaving military service. Hodgson described Ben as representing "traditional values" and "stability," traits that Carly appreciates, which lead to their marriage. McMahon left Home and Away during his debut year. Critic Peter Holmes of The Sydney Morning Herald disparaged McMahon’s acting as "wooden," comparing it unfavorably to a "splendid impression of a Thunderbird."

Mullet

Murray "Mullet" Jensen, played by Jaiman Paget Bayly, appeared on Home and Away from 26 March until 18 July 1990. He is characterized as an "energetic and lively eleven-year-old" with a mischievous streak and adventurous spirit. Mullet is an ordinary country boy who enjoys simple activities such as fishing; his nickname stems from this passion. His family struggles financially; his mother, Lorraine Jensen, finds it difficult to afford extras for him and his older brother, Paul Jensen. With no pocket money available, Mullet sells fish to Ailsa Stewart (Judy Nunn).

Mullet forms a friendship with classmate Sally Fletcher (Kate Ritchie), despite her initial irritation at his persistent attention. He once brings home a crab that turns out to be the pet of Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher), leading to an apology and a subsequent fishing outing with Alf. To hide his family's financial difficulties from Sally, Mullet fabricates a story about his mother being hospitalized; Sally comforts him and invites him to the wedding of Carly Morris (Sharyn Hodgson) and Ben Lucini (Julian McMahon), which he attends.

Jealousy arises when Mullet takes Tammy Newton (Katy Edwards) fishing with him. Later, he and Sally perform at the Surf Club’s talent night; their errors are mistaken for comedic acts by the audience. Mullet also helps Adam Cameron (Mat Stevenson) with a magic trick that goes wrong. After receiving dance lessons from Marilyn Chambers (Emily Symons), Mullet briefly adopts a pop star persona but soon reverts to his original style. He dances with Sally at the wedding reception, marking his final on-screen appearance. Ten years later, he is mentioned by Steven Matheson (Adam Willits) when discussing Sally’s previous relationships.

Ernie Jacobs

Ernie Jacobs, played by David Weatherley, was featured on the show from 16 April 1990 until 9 January 1991.

Ernie leases his beachfront property to Matt Wilson (Greg Benson), Adam Cameron (Mat Stevenson), and Marilyn Chambers (Emily Symons). The trio plots to unsettle Ernie: Marilyn attempts to charm him while Matt and Adam try to capture the moment on film. After an unsuccessful photo attempt, Adam confronts Ernie with the image. Following an incident where Adam and Matt accidentally burn the kitchen linoleum while making toffee, Adam replaces it with flea-infested turf, causing a pest problem. When Ernie confronts Adam about this, a flea bomb is set off but thrown out the window, worsening the situation and leading Ernie to threaten eviction.

Ernie campaigns for a councilor position, gaining an advantage when his competitor Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher) withdraws due to legal complications. Bobby Simpson (Nicolle Dickson) enters the race against Ernie to prevent his election. Marilyn later discovers a compromising letter and, with Bobby's help, blackmails Ernie. Ultimately, Ernie sells his house to Marilyn.

Bridget Jackson

Bridget Jackson, portrayed by Paula Duncan, made her debut on 20 April 1990. Although Duncan was initially contracted for five weeks, producers wanted her character to become permanent; however, she declined due to other acting projects, producing responsibilities, and family priorities.

Bridget is the mother of Emma Jackson (Dannii Minogue). Duncan described Bridget as "utterly dreadful," "rough and unrefined," and "a complete nightmare." Despite this, she enjoyed playing such a layered character and developed a close working relationship with Minogue.

After Emma defends herself against her stepfather, Bridget arrives in Summer Bay seeking custody of Emma from her aunt Ailsa Stewart (Judy Nunn), unaware that Ailsa has been estranged from her because of previous family abuse. Bridget claims separation from her husband Barry following his abuse toward Emma. Although Ailsa initially resists, Bridget wins Emma over through gifts and outings, convincing her to return home. However, Emma later reveals that Bridget has resumed her relationship with Barry, confirming ongoing family strife.

Paul Jensen

Paul Jensen, enacted by Craig Black, first appeared on 8 May 1990. At 17 years old, Paul is a student and shop assistant; he is the son of Michael and Lorraine Jensen and elder brother to Mullet Jensen. Known for being warm-hearted and articulate with above-average intellect, Paul shares a close friendship with Steven Matheson.

Michael Jensen’s unsuccessful attempt at a country music career led to his separation from Lorraine. Despite Paul's evident musical ability, Lorraine forbids him from pursuing music at home and bans instruments. Teaching himself in secret, Paul practices piano during lunch breaks at school and the surf club. His teacher Grant Mitchell recognizes Paul's talent and encourages him to apply for a music scholarship. Paul declines this opportunity and instead takes a job at Alf Stewart’s store to afford a second-hand instrument.

Lorraine dismisses Paul’s musical pursuits as futile. Grant organizes a school concert intended to highlight Paul's skills; although initially reluctant, Paul eventually agrees to perform. He develops both a friendship and romantic interest with Emma Jackson, who is dating Adam Cameron at the time. Emma appreciates Paul's music, deepening their bond despite complexities.

Eventually supported by Lorraine in his ambitions, Paul performs at the concert. When Adam learns of Emma’s feelings for Paul, he insults Michael Jensen and challenges Paul to a fight. Alf Stewart arranges a fair boxing match with training assistance from himself and Steven. The fight escalates until Emma and friends intervene by dousing both fighters with water. Though initially upset, Paul reconciles with Emma afterward.

After Vicki Baxter plants exam papers in Emma’s locker leading to her expulsion, Paul doubts Emma’s innocence and they break up. Together with Steven, Paul uncovers Vicki’s plot, clearing Emma’s name. Encouraged by Ailsa Stewart and Bobby Simpson, Emma forgives Paul but later moves to the Gold Coast for work, ending their romantic relationship while maintaining friendship.

Jane Holland

Jane Holland, played by Josephine Mitchell, made her first appearance on 22 June 1990. Mitchell began filming her guest role, which lasted two months, in April 1990. Introduced as a young police constable, Jane serves as a romantic interest for Grant Mitchell (Craig McLachlan). Known for her previous work on A Country Practice, Mitchell described Jane as a more assertive character and valued the chance to explore a different type of role. The opportunity to work alongside McLachlan was a significant factor in her decision to join the cast.

Jane arrives in Summer Bay while dating Grant and carrying out her policing duties, including arresting Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher) for drink-driving. Following a shootout that leads to the death of a fellow officer, Jane is deeply affected but remains committed to safeguarding the community, stepping in when Marilyn Chambers (Emily Symons) faces harassment. Although Grant urges her to take a break due to the stress, Jane contemplates resigning from the force. Their relationship ultimately deteriorates, and Jane returns to the city police department.

Blake Dean

Blake Dean, portrayed by Les Hill, first appeared on 26 July 1990. Before this role, Hill had minor appearances in G.P.. His casting alongside Belinda Jarrett, who played his sister Karen Dean, was announced shortly prior to their debut. Hill found the fast production schedule demanding.

According to the Home and Away Annual, Blake is characterized as an energetic and charismatic young man with quick thinking who often steps in to shield his sister from trouble. Although Hill eventually left the series, he returned for special occasions such as the fourteenth anniversary and the 4,000th episode celebrations.

Karen Dean

Karen Dean, enacted by Belinda Jarrett, debuted on 26 July 1990. A fan of Home and Away, Jarrett had no previous television acting experience before securing this role. She and Les Hill were cast as siblings Karen and Blake Dean, introduced following the death of their mother Margot from cancer. Initially placed under the care of Ailsa and Alf Stewart after living with a distant uncle who treated them poorly, they eventually moved into Summer Bay. Their introduction was intended to generate "exciting storylines" designed to attract viewers.

Writers David Nicholls and Kesta Desmond depicted Karen as a 15-year-old struggling with body image issues, shy yet kind-hearted, with budding romantic interests—although she avoided boys her own age. Popular among her peers at school, Karen’s character was expected to evolve positively; however, in March 1991, Seven chose not to renew Jarrett's contract due to limited audience appeal. Karen departed in August 1991 but made a brief return in early 1993 following her character’s release from prison.

Karen and Blake arrive in search of Ailsa Stewart after falling out with their uncle Alec Dean. Despite Alf Stewart’s initial reluctance, they settle into Summer Bay life. Karen quickly becomes involved in local storylines, including developing a crush on Steven Matheson that ends when he points out their significant age difference. She experiences feelings of exclusion when Blake begins dating Sophie Simpson.

Tensions rise when deputy principal Alan Stone reintroduces caning at school and targets both siblings before he transfers away. Karen develops an affection for Haydn Ross, who favors Sophie instead; this causes friction but eventually leads to reconciliation within their friend group. She participates in environmental activism and later dates Maurice "Revhead" Gibson—a known criminal whom Alf warns against. Revhead draws Karen into illegal activities culminating in a robbery and fatal car accident. After confessing her involvement, Karen serves two years' imprisonment.

Following her parole in 1993, Karen returns to live with the Stewarts and meets her half-sister Roxanne Miller. Her rebellious attitude remains unchanged; after stealing money from Ailsa, she flees to the city. Blake follows her there to provide support during her rehabilitation process.

Jennifer Atkinson

Jennifer Atkinson, brought to life by Kate Raison, made her first appearance on 12 September 1990. Initially cast for an eight-week guest stint, Jennifer became central to a provocative romantic plot involving Steven Matheson (Adam Willits), described as a "passionate affair" that pushed societal boundaries. Jennifer, who is Alf Stewart's cousin, visits Summer Bay while hiding the difficulties in her marriage to Daniel Atkinson, an abusive alcoholic. Steven, drawn to Jennifer, deceives her about his age and school enrollment to pursue their relationship. After jealousy-driven incidents concerning Alan Stone, their romance culminates in a sexual encounter. Upon discovering the affair, Daniel violently attacks Steven. Jennifer subsequently ends the relationship and leaves, advising Steven to focus on returning to school. She later sends him a Christmas card, though he ultimately opts not to visit her.

Michael Ross

Michael Ross, portrayed by Dennis Coard, first appeared on 22 October 1990 alongside his son Haydn Ross (Charlton Hill). He quickly established himself as an important character in Summer Bay as the proprietor of the boat shed and a foster parent, notably developing a significant romantic relationship with Pippa Fletcher (Debra Lawrance). Their courtship initially faced obstacles due to Pippa’s recent widowhood and Michael’s divorce, further complicated by the arrival of his former wife Cynthia.

Michael managed several business interests including the boat shed, caravan park, and surf club kiosk. He dealt with family challenges such as fostering children, adopting Pippa’s son Christopher, and enduring the tragic loss of their infant son Dale to SIDS—a hardship that tested but ultimately fortified their marriage.

Financial difficulties arose when Haydn’s gambling addiction resulted in theft and debts, forcing Michael to attempt selling the boat shed. Although the sale was unsuccessful, Alf Stewart intervened as a silent partner, enabling Michael to continue operating the business. The combined pressures of work and family strained Michael and Pippa's marriage, leading him to temporarily move out and seek counseling with Pippa—a decision that helped restore their relationship.

Michael also played a vital role during community emergencies, organizing search efforts after a seaplane crash that led him to foster Maya Krakajcek following her parents' deaths. His dedication extended beyond biological ties into fostering and community involvement.

In 1996, writers concluded Michael’s storyline by scripting his heroic death during a flood rescue attempt. He saved foster child Sam Marshall but was swept away by powerful currents. Actor Dennis Coard embraced this conclusive exit, expressing his wish to explore new opportunities without returning in a ghostly capacity.

Haydn Ross

Haydn Ross, played by Andrew Hill, debuted on 31 October 1990 before leaving on 17 September 1991, with subsequent returns in 1994 and 1996. Hill landed the role unexpectedly due to an agent’s mistake. In 1991, he chose to depart from the series. Haydn is the son of Cynthia (Belinda Giblin) and Michael Ross (Dennis Coard) and enjoyed benefits from his father’s business ventures while attending private school. Characterized as "athletic and determined like his father" with "a passion for culture and a privileged lifestyle" inherited from his mother, Haydn embodied ambition combined with sophistication.

Kim Mitchell

Kim Mitchell, portrayed by Rachael Beck, made her debut on 8 November 1990 as the sibling of the already established character Grant Mitchell (Craig McLachlan). The producers proposed a twelve-month contract to Beck to secure Kim as a recurring character, but she declined in order to avoid being stereotyped.

Kim arrives in Summer Bay hiding a drug dependency at the age of sixteen. Beck commented that although Kim maintains a flawless outward appearance, she is grappling with addiction, justifying it with the belief that "everyone else is doing it" and embracing the mindset "Why not enjoy life to the fullest while you are young?" Upon visiting Grant, she soon resorts to stealing money from his flatmate Matt Wilson (Greg Benson) to support her habit. When confronted by Matt and Steven Matheson (Adam Willits), who uncover her drug use, Kim initially denies it but ultimately confesses to months of substance abuse.

Her thefts escalate, including stealing Carly Lucini's (Sharyn Hodgson) purse and forging Grant’s signature on a cheque to pay dealer Eddie (Peter Williams). After Steven informs Grant, he steps in by disposing of her speed pills and arranging for her rehabilitation. Grant gives up his job at Summer Bay High to assist her recovery. He later communicates that Kim is making headway, emphasizing a storyline focused on familial support and healing.

Others

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Circumstances
8 January	Robbo	Ned Manning	Veterinarian brought by shark hunter Zac Burgess to Summer Bay to confirm a shark's role in a death. Initial suspicions arise but the shark is eventually cleared.
29 January	Henry Thompson	Tim Allen	Potential purchasers of the Blaxland mansion deterred by an exorcism performed by locals.
	Doris Thompson	Jane Archer
2–16 February	Greta	Jodie Gilles	Friend of Marilyn Chambers; initially rejected as a date by Martin Dibble but later accepted. Departs shortly after.
9 February–1 March	Detective Hunt	Kim Knuckey	Arrests Donald Fisher over an old murder; probes blackmail claims; eventually apprehends true offender Al Simpson following hostage incident.
27 February–8 March	Dave Porter	John Adam	Ben Lucini's army friend; creates friction with Carly Morris; attempts to disrupt bets and beauty contest but is exposed.
12 March	Travis	Craig Black	Year 12 student in Grant Mitchell's class.
30 March–3 April	Reverend Christopher Goodhope	Ron Becks	African reverend hosted by Celia Stewart; mistakenly arrested for burglary; departs for city, inspiring Celia towards missionary work.
6 April 1990, 21 May 2007 – 26 January 2012	Delivery Man	Steve Cox	Delivery person appearing intermittently, providing goods and parcels to Surf Club and residents over several years.
16 April–11 September	Des Thompson	Brian Harrison	Bank manager who approves loans for Carly Morris and later for Carly and Ben Lucini to purchase the local boatshed.
17–26 April	Melody	Suzi Dougherty	Rents a room at Beach House; unreliable with rent payments; moves parolee boyfriend Bruce in; both expelled after prank exploiting his ophidiophobia.
18 April	Peter Butcher	Matthew Booker	Year 10 student who mocks Sophie Simpson about her illiteracy.
25–26 April	Bruce	Bill Charlton	Parolee boyfriend of Melody; intimidating figure; flees after snake prank by flatmates Adam and Matt.
3 May–17 July	Minister	John Mann	Local Reverend officiating Tom Fletcher's funeral and Carly Morris and Ben Lucini's wedding.
8 May–19 June	Lorraine Jensen	Elizabeth Chance	Mother supporting her family through bookmaker work; initially disapproves but later supports son's musical pursuits; uncovers son's deception regarding her injury.
15 May–27 July	Doctor Walker	Earle Cross	Local physician attending Marilyn Chambers, Ben Lucini, and Bobby Simpson during illness and pregnancy.
21–24 May	Helen Wakefield	Shayne Foote	Social worker investigating abuse allegations; facilitates reunion between estranged mother Angela Newton and daughters Tammy and Viv.
21–23 May	Megan Tierney	Pamela Hawkesford	Wealthy school friend of Carly Morris who looks down on Summer Bay; clashes with husband Julian over spending during dinner with Carly and Ben Lucini.
23 May	Julian Tierney	Cranston Brecht	"Affluent couple with Megan Tierney whose disagreements emerge during dinner with Carly and Ben Lucini."

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Circumstances
23–25 May	'Angela Newton'	'Annie Byron'	'Estranged mother seeking daughters Tammy and Viv with assistance from social worker Helen Wakefield. Reveals family history issues before departing with daughters for Queensland.'
	'Chris Reynolds'	'Jay Hackett'	'Client of dating agency who briefly dates Bobby Simpson. Revealed to be married, causing conflict. Returns to find wife Wendy has left him. After turmoil involving daughter Suzie, exits defeated.'
'Geoff Lime'	'William Usic'	'Competes for Bobby Simpson’s attention. Supports her throughout pregnancy despite disapproval from his mother. Proposes but engagement ends.'
'Gus'	'Harry Lawrence'	'Homeless man who befriends Sophie Simpson, encouraging her return to school through a staged treasure hunt.'
'Sheree Anderson'	'Beth Champion'	'Friend of Vicki Baxter involved in framing Emma Jackson for exam theft.'
'Francesca Lucini'	'Kim Leon'	'Ben Lucini’s sister attracted to Steven Matheson, sparking jealousy from cousin Angelo.'
'Gina Lucini'	'Arianthe Galani'	'Ben Lucini’s mother managing family dynamics during wedding events.'
'Antonio Lucini'	'Alistair Duncan'	'Ben Lucini’s father providing family support.'
'Angelo'	'Raj Sidhu'	'Ben Lucini’s cousin and best man causing disruption through reckless conduct at wedding.'
'Alec Dean'	'Norm Galton'	'Uncle taking custody of Blake and Karen Dean after sister’s death; agrees they remain with Alf Stewart.'
'Anna'	'Rebecca George'	'Cousin assisting Vicki Baxter in framing Emma Jackson; ultimately leads to confession and Emma’s reinstatement.'
'Wendy Reynolds'	'Liz Newman'	'Chris Reynolds’ estranged wife who leaves him, remains locally, confronting relationship issues involving Bobby Simpson and their daughter Suzie.'
'Suzie Reynolds'	'Sophia Davidson'	'Daughter of Chris and Wendy Reynolds involved in custody disputes.'
'Vince McGrath'	'Felix Nobis'	'Delivery man who dates Marilyn Chambers but faces interference from jealous housemate Adam Cameron.'
'Fred Owens'	'Keith Holloway'	'Owner of local boatshed selling property amid competition between Ben Lucini and Michael Ross.'
'Hazel Lime'	'Kaye Stevenson'	'Mother opposing son Geoff Lime’s relationship with Bobby Simpson but ultimately offers support.'
'Alan Stone'	'Philip Hinton'	'New Deputy Principal revealed as violent alcoholic enforcing corporal punishment on students. Removed after confrontation involving Blake Dean.'
'Daniel Atkinson'	'Ken Radley'	'Violent alcoholic husband confronting wife's relationship with younger man; charged with assault following altercation.'
'Eddie'	'Peter Williams'	'Drug dealer supplying Kim Mitchell but driven away by intervention from Steven Matheson.'
'Patricia Coleman'	'Pam Western '	'Former nun teaching at Summer Bay High, offering emotional support to students. Develops relationship with Donald Fisher before relocating for new career opportunities.'

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 website
• Cast and characters listed at the Internet Movie Database