Margaret Woolstead

Neighbours

Company type	Television series
Industry	Television soap opera
Founded	March 18, 1985 (1985-03-18)
Founder	Reg Watson
Key people	Stanley Walsh (executive producer)
Products	Soap opera
Website	www.neighbours.com.au

Neighbours is an Australian soap opera created by Reg Watson, which premiered on 18 March 1985. This compilation highlights characters introduced throughout 2001, all under the guidance of executive producer Stanley Walsh. The 17th season commenced broadcasting on 15 January 2001. Jess Fielding made her debut in February, followed by Matt Hancock in March; Evan Hancock and Jack Scully arrived in April. Maggie Hancock joined the cast in May, Larissa Calwell in June, Tim Collins in September, Sandy Allen in October, Mitch Foster in November, and December saw the introduction of Liz Conway, Stuart Parker, Elly Conway, alongside the birth of Ben Kirk.

Jess Fielding

Jessica "Jess" Fielding, played by Elisha Gazdowicz, first appeared on-screen on 14 February 2001 as a student at Erinsborough High involved in a significant plot where she accused teacher Susan Kennedy (Jackie Woodburne) of assault and was suspected of planting an explosive device. Jess was portrayed as a controversial "vixen" and rebellious "wild child" who disrupted the harmony on Ramsay Street.

Gazdowicz expressed concerns about audience reactions to Jess and highlighted her own personality as quite different. Jess’s storyline featured her confronting Susan over a poor grade, which escalated into Susan’s suspension after defending herself during their conflict. Jess’s boyfriend Tad Reeves (Jonathon Dutton) witnessed the event and urged honesty; eventually, Jess admitted Susan’s innocence, resulting in the complaint being withdrawn.

Joining Year 12, Jess quickly drew Tad’s attention. Despite coming from a wealthy family and experiencing familial neglect—her parents focused on her sister Mary’s newborn—Jess showed little enthusiasm for academics and became more defiant. After a bomb detonated on school grounds, suspicion initially fell on Jess but was cleared when Colin Rogers was identified as responsible. Following mounting tensions with Susan and family discord, Jess turned to Tad for support, but their relationship ended as Tad realized it was becoming too serious.

Matt Hancock

Matthew "Matt" Hancock, portrayed by Stephen Hunt, made his first appearance on 26 March 2001 as the eldest member of the five-person Hancock family. Matt strives to take on a responsible role within his household. James Joyce from The Newcastle Herald characterized Matt as clever yet academically challenged, with parents who worry about his prospects but admire his charm and intellect.

Evan Hancock

Evan Hancock, enacted by Nicholas Opolski, first appeared on 13 April 2001. He was introduced alongside the new five-member Hancock family to rejuvenate the cast following several departures, serving as a high school teacher and head of the family. His background includes a divorce from Genevieve Murdoch, with whom he fathered two sons, Chris and Matt. He later married Maggie, with whom he has two children named Leo and Emily.

Evan is characterized by his dedication to innovative teaching methods and his role as a committed father, though he struggles to balance professional responsibilities with family demands. His storylines involved clashes with colleagues as well as difficulties managing his children’s behavior and financial issues. Evan also secured a seat on the local council, introducing a political aspect to his character.

Due to financial strain following legal problems involving Matt, the Hancocks were forced to sell their home. Marital tensions developed between Evan and Maggie triggered by personal challenges including her academic pursuits and external romantic interests. Ultimately, the entire family exited the series in 2002.

Evan’s introduction was regarded as a deliberate effort to attract younger viewers through his role at Erinsborough High. Critics praised his courage in accepting this position, while the BBC noted his significant storyline revolving around a bullying incident at school.

Jack Scully

Jack Scully, brought to life by Paul Pantano, made his first appearance on 17 April 2001. Although the Scully family was introduced in 1999, Jack’s character was often referenced before his actual debut on screen. The producers eventually selected Pantano to portray him. In 2002, the role was recast with Jay Bunyan, who secured the part after auditioning in New Zealand. A BBC writer described Jack as "a little feisty" and noted that his arrival in Erinsborough captured the attention of the local teen demographic.

Maggie Hancock

Maggie Hancock, portrayed by Sally Cooper, first appeared on 9 May 2001. Introduced alongside her family to rejuvenate the cast during a period of several departures, Maggie serves as the Hancock family matriarch. She is married to Evan (Nicholas Opolski) and is mother to Leo (Anthony Hammer) and Emily (Isabella Oldham), as well as stepmother to Chris and Matt (Stephen Hunt). As a law student juggling a blended household and career ambitions, Maggie collaborated with Toadfish Rebecchi (Ryan Moloney) on a legal matter; although their interactions hinted at underlying tension, their relationship remained professional.

The Hancocks relocated to Erinsborough when Evan accepted a teaching role at the local high school. Early struggles included the disappearance of their youngest son Leo and confronting the anniversary of their daughter Francesca's passing. Maggie involved herself in community legal issues, notably supporting Libby Kennedy's unfair dismissal claim, while managing financial difficulties intensified by Emily’s disappearance and missing valuables.

As Maggie’s responsibilities at a law firm increased, marital tensions grew due to Evan’s frustration over her time away from home. Family disputes arose around Leo’s secret breakdancing lessons, creating friction between parents and children. Despite failing an exam initially, Maggie ultimately graduated and began working with Toadie, whose romantic interest complicated their professional relationship. When Matt and Leo were injured in a car accident, Maggie renewed her focus on family life and declined Toadie's advances despite their growing closeness.

Following these challenges, Evan requested a divorce; however, after selling their house to cover legal expenses, the couple reconciled and moved to Albury. The BBC identified Maggie’s refusal of Toadie's proposal as a pivotal moment in her narrative.

Larissa Calwell

Larissa Calwell, played by Leah De Niese, first appeared on 11 June 2001. Prior to this role, De Niese had guest-starred on Neighbours as Miranda Starvaggi. Larissa was depicted as a "cunning manipulator" who became central to a romantic triangle involving Paul McClain (Jansen Spencer) and Tad Reeves (Jonathon Dutton). Tad sent emails impersonating Paul to Larissa; once uncovered, Larissa reversed the situation by suggesting she date both men simultaneously before choosing between them. Both Paul and Tad agreed, competing for her affection during separate outings.

While visiting Paris, Paul developed a friendship with Larissa, who later emailed him—though Tad responded pretending to be Paul. Upon uncovering this deception, the three agreed on honesty and allowed Larissa to make her choice. She dated Paul initially, sharing intimate moments, then Tad, whose impulsive nature she found appealing. Both sought guidance from Felicity Scully (Holly Valance), who advised Larissa to cease her manipulative behavior. After her parents limited her internet access, Larissa transferred from correspondence schooling to Erinsborough High.

Larissa attended one of Paul's football matches where she unexpectedly ran into Tad; later she was seen kissing Tad at a nightclub event also attended by Paul. This sparked a confrontation between the two men but ultimately they prioritized preserving their friendship over rivalry for Larissa’s attention.

Tim Collins

Tim Collins, brought to life by Ben Anderson, made his debut on 27 September 2001. As a practicing attorney, Tim has represented numerous Ramsay Street residents and is often depicted as a "ruthless" and "unscrupulous" figure, frequently at odds with Toadfish Rebecchi (Ryan Moloney). Anderson returned to the role in 2013 and once again appeared in the series' concluding episodes in July 2022.

Tim launched his legal profession at Stewart, Whitehead and Moore, where he initially crossed paths with Toadie. He subsequently established his own firm, Tim Collins & Associates, with branches in Melbourne and Sydney. Despite their differences, Tim and Toadie collaborated effectively until Toadie and Rosetta Cammeniti (Natalie Saleeba) departed to create their own practice. Tim managed several prominent cases, including child custody disputes, corporate litigation, and criminal defense for major characters such as Paul Robinson.

His approach to business was marked by assertive strategies, including incentivizing employees through pay increases linked to billable hours competition and employing legal tactics that served both his clients' interests and his own ambitions. Tim broadened his reach by investing in real estate and engaging in local politics, securing a position on the Erinsborough council and eventually serving as interim mayor.

During his tenure as interim mayor, Tim made contentious choices like shutting down community amenities and opposing political adversaries such as Sonya Brennan. He also took on the role of editor for the West Waratah Star newspaper, leveraging it to launch smear campaigns and sway public sentiment to advance his commercial goals.

Tim's relationships with other characters frequently intertwined professional rivalry with personal matters. A significant revelation was discovering Courtney Grixti was his daughter, which influenced some of his legal decisions. He played a key role in complex dealings involving Lassiter's Hotel, managing legal conflicts over trademarked uniforms and addressing blackmail scenarios linked to covert surveillance.

Throughout his time on the show, Tim maintained an ongoing feud with Paul Robinson, supplying confidential information to others aimed at damaging Paul's standing while preserving leverage for future negotiations. His adept use of media platforms combined with legal acumen established him as a formidable power player within Erinsborough’s commercial and political spheres.

In subsequent years, Tim provided counsel to clients such as Amy Greenwood on intellectual property issues and sustained his influence over local matters through media ventures. Occasionally, his professional ethics were questionable, demonstrated by actions like sabotaging Toadie's cases to attract clients to himself.

Tim Collins stands out as a central character illustrating how legal expertise can intersect with media control and municipal governance to amass influence within a close-knit community.

Sandy Allen

Sandy Allen, portrayed by Catherine Hill, first appeared on 5 October 2001. After a DNA test confirmed that her husband John Allen (Adrian Mulraney) fathered Louise "Lolly" Carpenter, Sandy and John met Lolly and ultimately secured full custody. Sandy works as a preschool teacher near Ramsay Street, where she initially fostered a good rapport with both Lolly and local resident Lou Carpenter.

Following their relocation to the countryside and having two children through IVF treatments, Sandy’s hostility toward Lolly intensified due to constant reminders of John’s infidelity. This animosity escalated into both mental and physical abuse directed at Lolly. When Lolly returned to Erinsborough, Sandy consented to care for her temporarily; however, tensions soon worsened. During an altercation beside the pool, Sandy suffered a fall resulting in injury; Lolly came to her aid and disclosed the abuse to Lou.

After Sandy was hospitalized, allegations surfaced leading to her losing contact with Lolly when Lou alerted John and social services became involved. Ultimately, Sandy left after losing both her husband and children.

Mitch Foster

Mitch Foster, played by Hugh Sexton, made his initial appearance on 14 November 2001 as a recurring figure. Mitch is characterized as a criminal and is connected to Larry "Woody" Woodhouse. Known for his opportunistic and menacing nature, Mitch becomes involved with Woody's former partner Stephanie Scully, who initially supports him despite his unlawful actions. Their relationship ends once Steph uncovers his dishonesty. Subsequently, Mitch commits a robbery at the courier company where Steph works and then vanishes.

After the theft, Steph reports Mitch to law enforcement but soon finds herself under suspicion, with police questioning her possible complicity. Despite growing doubts from others, she chooses to trust Mitch and seeks him out. Mitch takes advantage of Steph’s confidence, further entangling her in difficulties.

Mitch provides assistance to Steph when she experiences harassment and later delivers equipment to Joe Scully’s garage, gaining favor with the family despite initial skepticism. He and Steph start dating, and he helps Joe handle a threatening customer. However, plans for a getaway are interrupted when Woody returns, revealing he was in witness protection and exposing Mitch’s prior manslaughter conviction. Distrusting both men, Steph cuts ties.

Half a year later, an injured Mitch reappears seeking aid from Steph but disappears after receiving care. Shortly thereafter, an armed robbery implicates Mitch; he threatens Steph at her workplace, steals money from the register, and flees—placing Steph under investigation for involvement. Eventually, Mitch is found gravely ill in the wilderness by Steph and Stuart Parker. He admits that no evidence will exonerate Steph. Stuart records this confession and submits it to the authorities; Mitch expresses remorse before being taken into custody.

Mitch’s most significant incident involves robbing MOCO and stealing from Steph, underscoring the dangers of associating with criminals within professional settings.

Liz Conway

Liz Conway first appeared on 5 December 2001, originally portrayed by Christine Keogh. Introduced as Susan Kennedy’s (Jackie Woodburne) elder sister, Liz arrives in Erinsborough requesting Susan to look after her "difficult" teenage daughter during her six-month overseas stay. On 29 June 2018, Sophie Dainty of Digital Spy announced Liz’s return, with former Home and Away actress Debra Lawrance recast for an extended guest role. Lawrance described Liz as "self-centered, quite selfish and somewhat flighty," contrasting sharply with Susan.

Liz comes back to reconnect with her daughters Elly Conway (Jodi Anasta) and Bea Nilsson (Bonnie Anderson). Following her return, Bridget McManus of The Sydney Morning Herald commended Lawrance's portrayal, emphasizing the intricate mother-daughter relationships depicted. The character reappeared again on 24 June 2019.

After their mother’s passing, Liz and Susan experience a falling out. Liz marries Ian Conway (Peter Maver), and they have Elly (Kendell Nunn; later Jodi Gordon/Anasta). When offered employment in Sweden, Liz asks Susan to care for Elly during her absence. Upon returning, she reveals she has a new partner named Lars and is expecting a child. Elly suspects that Susan’s husband Karl Kennedy (Alan Fletcher) might be her biological father; however, Liz confirms Ian is Elly's father. Following Karl’s advice, Liz takes Elly to Sweden.

Sixteen years later, Liz returns after Susan informs her that Elly and Bea require support following manipulation by Finn Kelly (Rob Mills). She discovers Bea had been homeless at age fifteen. Initially reassuring Elly that she never rejected Bea, Liz later admits she wanted Bea away because she reminded her of her father Lars. The sisters confront Liz and ask her to leave; Susan encourages them to reconcile. During lunch, Liz drinks excessively and further alienates everyone. After falsely claiming she was mugged by Finn, Liz confesses she fabricated the story. She verbally lashes out at Susan but apologizes before departing; Susan decides to accompany her to help face her past.

Liz stays with Susan’s family over Christmas, sharing that attending a retreat helped her overcome drinking problems. She expresses dedication to supporting the family amid Susan’s legal challenges. Liz flirts with Bea’s boyfriend Ned Willis (Ben Hall) and Mark Brennan (Scott McGregor) during lunch. Upon discovering a love note from Mark’s sister Chloe Brennan (April Rose Pengilly) addressed to Elly, Liz advises Chloe to keep her feelings private.

Elly Conway

Elly Conway made her debut on 13 December 2001, initially portrayed by Kendell Nunn. She is characterized as the "rebellious niece" of Susan Kennedy (Jackie Woodburne). A writer for Neighbours.com described Elly as "intelligent, perceptive, and somewhat defiant," often creating difficulties for Susan and Karl (Alan Fletcher). On 28 April 2016, it was revealed that Jodi Anasta would reprise the role of Elly, signing a contract spanning three years and returning on screen from 18 July 2016. Now working as a teacher like her aunt Susan, Anasta mentioned that the role fulfilled a childhood aspiration while allowing her to portray a character with a hint of mischief.

Stuart Parker

Stuart Parker, played by Blair McDonough, first appeared on 13 December 2001. McDonough gained public attention as the runner-up on Big Brother Australia, which led to an initial three-month contract that was later extended to six months. Stuart hails from Oakey and is introduced as the younger sibling of one of Drew Kirk's (Dan Paris) friends; he follows Drew to Erinsborough. McDonough related to Stuart as a straightforward individual who enjoys life. Media outlets described Stuart as a "kind-hearted country lad." In 2002, McDonough earned a nomination for the Logie Award for Most Popular New Male Talent.

Ben Kirk

Ben Kirk, originally played by Noah Sutherland, appeared for the first time on 14 December 2001. He is the child of Libby Kennedy (Kym Valentine) and Drew Kirk (Dan Paris). Ben’s birth posed serious risks to Libby’s health, though she recovered after intensive medical care. Valentine praised Sutherland’s natural talent, while Paris admitted he was initially apprehensive about working with an infant actor. The role was later taken over by Blake O'Leary. According to a Network Ten writer, Ben serves as his mother’s "most steadfast supporter and emotional anchor."

Others

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Role Description
16 January–15 February	Jeannie Truman	Libby Stone	Mother to Allana and Clementine Truman; she is possessive and initially forbids Allana from leaving home due to illness but later reconciles and aids her relationship by financing a trip to America.
16 January–15 March	Richie Hampson	Michael O'Malley	Salesman for Beauty Tree who tries to persuade Lyn Scully into investing; Teresa Bell trusts him at first but uncovers his self-interested intentions.
19 January–2 February	Alice Jamison	Pip Sallabank	Partner and co-owner of Darcy Tyler's medical practice; arrives in Erinsborough revealing problems in her relationship with Darcy, culminating in their separation.
20–21 February	Fergus MacLeod	Tommy Dysart	Drew Kirk’s great uncle from Scotland who attends Drew and Libby’s wedding, performing traditional ceremonies and singing during the reception.
21 February	Sally Kirk	Niobe Dean	Drew Kirk's sister who is present at his wedding.
	Stuart Kirk	Stephen Godfrey	Another of Drew Kirk’s siblings attending the wedding ceremony.
21 February–12 April	Reverend Loftus	Bill Johnston	Conducts the wedding ceremony for Libby Kennedy and Drew Kirk as well as officiating Madge Bishop’s funeral.
1–22 March	Glen Goldman	Gerard Cogley	Radio host who runs a quiz show featuring Lance Wilkinson; despite winning major prizes due to rigging, Lance chooses not to exploit the situation fully.
6 March–5 July 2002	Nathan Tyson	Luke Hemsworth	Football player for Eastside Dingoes involved in steroid use; exposed by teammate Paul McClain, he later works as a bailiff repossessing goods due to debts.
29 March, 6 April	Steve Crandall	Travis Clark	MOCO delivery driver facing redundancy; influenced by personal matters involving Stephanie Scully, he ultimately leaves for better opportunities.
30 March	Dave Patrick	Chris Gaffney	Long-serving MOCO driver dismissed despite sympathy over recent widowhood; Stephanie Scully reverses the decision but Steve resigns before changes take effect.
6 April	Brian Curtis	Ron Bingham	Food critic who gives positive feedback on Lou Carpenter’s pub menu inspired by Madge Bishop’s recipe, supporting its entry into a competition.
17 April–17 May	Veronica Anderson	Monika Karwan	Teresa Bell’s roommate who develops an unhealthy obsession with Drew Kirk, spreading false rumors until her father intervenes.
20–26 April	Elly Turnbull	Cherise Donovan	Friend of Michelle Scully and gifted in mathematics; develops a crush on new teacher Evan Hancock.
20 April–11 May	Aleks Rama	Dean Ali	Close friend of Leo Hancock; stays with the Hancock family while his parents are away in Albania.
23 April–13 September	Barry Burke	David Whiteley	Criminal associate of Kev Kelly assigned to intimidate prosecution witness Larry Woodhouse; harassment escalates leading to witness protection placement and fatal car accident.
25 April–6 March 2002	Genevieve Murdoch	Julie Campbell	'Evans Hancock's former spouse; visits their son Matt offering financial aid for culinary school while revealing personal challenges including cancer concerns and divorce.

External links

• Cast and characters on the Official Australian Neighbours site
• Cast and characters on the Official UK Neighbours site
• Cast and characters at the Internet Movie Database