Mitch Foster

Neighbours

Company type	Television series
Industry	Television, Entertainment
Founded	March 18, 1985 (1985-03-18)
Founder	Reg Watson
Parent	Network Ten (original broadcaster)

Neighbours is a long-running Australian soap opera created by Reg Watson, which premiered on 18 March 1985. This compilation focuses on characters introduced in 2001, all brought in under the guidance of executive producer Stanley Walsh during the show's seventeenth season, which started airing on 15 January 2001. Notable additions included Jess Fielding in February, followed by Matt Hancock in March, along with his father Evan, and Jack Scully joining in April. Maggie Hancock was introduced in May, with Larissa Calwell arriving in June. September saw the introduction of Tim Collins, while Sandy Allen appeared from October and Mitch Foster in November. The cast expanded further in December with the arrival of Liz Conway, Stuart Parker, and Elly Conway, alongside the birth of Ben Kirk.

Jess Fielding

Jessica "Jess" Fielding, played by Elisha Gazdowicz, made her first appearance on 14 February 2001 as a student attending Erinsborough High. Jess quickly became central to storylines involving accusations against teacher Susan Kennedy for assault and suspicions around a bomb threat. The character was characterized as a "vixen" and a "wild child," provoking strong reactions from viewers.

Gazdowicz acknowledged concerns regarding Jess’s unfavorable reception but expressed hope that audiences would come to understand her nuanced personality. Jess’s rebellious nature was evident through her poor academic results and clashes with Susan Kennedy, culminating in a contentious episode where Susan struck Jess in self-defense, leading to Susan’s suspension pending an inquiry. Jess’s boyfriend, Tad Reeves, urged her to disclose the truth, which she ultimately did, exonerating Susan.

Upon entering Year 12, Jess caught Tad’s eye, and they began dating while working together on school assignments. Tad was taken aback by Jess's wealthy background and family difficulties involving her sister Mary and a newborn sibling. As Jess’s behavior deteriorated and suspicion arose after a bomb scare at school, she was initially blamed before the real perpetrator was uncovered. After further disputes with Susan concerning grades and conduct, Jess falsely accused Susan of assault but later confessed the truth, resulting in dropped charges and Susan’s return to teaching. Jess briefly stayed with Tad following family disagreements; however, their relationship ended as Tad felt it was becoming too serious.

Matt Hancock

Matthew "Matt" Hancock, portrayed by Stephen Hunt, debuted on 26 March 2001 as the first member introduced from the five-person Hancock family. As the eldest sibling, Matt often took on a mature role within his household. James Joyce of The Newcastle Herald described Matt as intelligent yet academically challenged, with his parents proud of his appearance and wit despite concerns about his future prospects.

Evan Hancock

Evan Hancock, brought to life by Nicholas Opolski, first appeared on 13 April 2001. Designed to revitalize Neighbours amid several regular cast members’ temporary absences, Evan is the patriarch of the Hancock family and serves as a teacher at Erinsborough High. His backstory includes a divorce from Genevieve Murdoch, with whom he had two sons, Chris and Matt, followed by marriage to Maggie Hancock, with whom he had two additional children, Leo and Emily. The Hancocks were portrayed as a relatable and fun-loving Australian family unit. Evan’s progressive approach to education made him well-liked but occasionally led to disagreements with colleagues and students.

After moving his family to Erinsborough, Evan acquired Number 32 Ramsay Street, causing some friction with neighbors. The return of his ex-wife Genevieve sparked family tensions over their sons' futures. At work, Evan encountered conflicts over his teaching style and disciplinary matters concerning his son Leo. Financial strain emerged when Leo secretly sold essays to fund breakdancing lessons; Evan initially forbade this but later encouraged his son’s talent. Marital pressures increased as Maggie’s academic pursuits interfered with home life.

Evan won a local council seat against Joe Scully but became increasingly distant from his family. Secret meetings with Genevieve added complexity to his marriage. Following a severe car accident involving his sons and neighbor Harold Bishop, Evan faced legal troubles and financial difficulties that forced him to sell their home. Despite marital challenges, Evan and Maggie attempted reconciliation before leaving Erinsborough in 2002.

James Joyce anticipated that Evan would resonate well with younger locals due to his teaching role. Jackie Brygel of the Herald Sun commended Evan's courage in accepting the high school position. The BBC highlighted Evan's significant storyline involving a bullying dispute that led to tensions with Susan Kennedy.

Jack Scully

Jack Scully, brought to life by Paul Pantano, made his first appearance on 17 April 2001. Following the Scully family's introduction in 1999, Jack was initially mentioned by relatives before the role was assigned to Pantano. The character returned in 2002 with Jay Bunyan assuming the part after auditioning in New Zealand under the guidance of Jan Russ. According to the BBC, Jack was described as "a little feisty" and quickly attracted the attention of local teenagers upon his arrival in Erinsborough.

Maggie Hancock

Maggie Hancock, portrayed by Sally Cooper, entered the series on 9 May 2001. Her introduction aimed to refresh the cast during a period when six regular characters were temporarily absent. As the Hancock family matriarch, Maggie is married to Evan (Nicholas Opolski), and together they have two children, Leo (Anthony Hammer) and Emily (Isabella Oldham), along with stepchildren Chris and Matt (Stephen Hunt). While pursuing a law degree, Maggie juggles her academic goals alongside managing a contemporary blended household.

The Hancock family moves to Erinsborough when Evan accepts a teaching role at the local high school. Early plotlines explore their coping with the anniversary of their daughter Francesca’s passing and supporting Leo through emotional struggles. Maggie forms a friendship with her colleague Toadfish Rebecchi (Ryan Moloney), providing legal assistance that eventually leads to workplace tension due to mutual romantic feelings, which Maggie ultimately declines.

Financial difficulties and neighborhood disputes intensify for the Hancocks, particularly following Emily’s disappearance and Leo’s secret breakdancing lessons funded by tutoring classmates. Despite academic challenges, Maggie graduates and begins working at a law firm alongside Toadie. Marital strain develops as Evan’s controlling tendencies and ex-wife Genevieve’s influence create friction within their relationship.

After a car accident involving Matt and Leo, Maggie resolves to maintain family unity despite Toadie’s romantic pursuits. The family sells their home to pay legal expenses before relocating to Albury. Maggie’s most significant professional moment highlights her refusal of Toadie’s advances, emphasizing her commitment to family loyalty amid personal and career-related obstacles.

Larissa Calwell

Larissa Calwell, played by Leah De Niese, appeared for the first time on 11 June 2001. De Niese had previously featured in 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 impersonated Paul in email exchanges with Larissa; however, when this deception was uncovered, Larissa leveraged the situation by dating both men simultaneously to determine her preference. Both Paul and Tad vied to impress her during their dates.

During a trip to Paris, Paul developed a friendship with Larissa, who later contacted him via email—though Tad responded pretending to be Paul. Upon Larissa’s arrival in Australia, Tad coached Paul on her interests, especially regarding dance music. Their initial dates were enjoyable for Larissa as she appreciated both men’s company. After revealing the email ruse, they agreed Larissa would date both before making a choice. She selected Paul first, sharing a movie and pizza outing that concluded with a kiss. Tad followed with an impromptu date showcasing his more adventurous side.

Both suitors sought additional dates with Larissa and confided in Felicity Scully (Holly Valance), who advised Larissa to cease playing games; however, Larissa dismissed this as harmless fun. When her parents restricted her internet use, she transferred from correspondence schooling to Erinsborough High. She attended Paul's football match and later found Tad DJing at a nightclub, where Paul witnessed Larissa and Tad sharing a kiss. Despite initial conflict between Paul and Tad over this incident, they chose to preserve their friendship and disregard Larissa’s behavior.

Tim Collins

Tim Collins, played by Ben Anderson, made his first appearance on 27 September 2001 as a lawyer deeply connected to numerous residents of Ramsay Street. Characterized as "ruthless" and "unscrupulous," Tim frequently found himself at odds with Toadfish Rebecchi (Ryan Moloney). Anderson returned to the role in 2013, earning critical acclaim for portraying Tim as a commanding presence on the Erinsborough Council. He reappeared in the series finale in July 2022, delivering crucial insights into Paul Robinson's background.

Tim launched his legal career at Stewart, Whitehead and Moore, where ethical disputes with Toadie emerged, though he later invited Toadie to join his own firm, Tim Collins & Associates. Despite their differences, they collaborated successfully until Tim shifted his focus to the Sydney branch, leaving Toadie and Rosetta Cammeniti to oversee operations in Melbourne. His leadership was marked by competitiveness and high expectations, culminating in a billing rivalry that prompted Rosie and Toadie to establish an independent practice.

Among Tim’s notable legal cases were representing Kirsten Gannon in custody disputes, defending Paul Robinson against criminal allegations, and handling legal matters related to hospital conflicts. He also ventured into property development by attempting to purchase 26 Ramsay Street for townhouse projects but was ultimately outbid. His legal expertise extended to mediating conflicts involving prominent Erinsborough figures such as Ajay Kapoor, Elaine Lawson, and Mason Turner.

In the political arena, Tim moved into local government roles, serving on the council and as acting mayor. His tenure included contentious decisions like shutting down community amenities and opposing incumbent Mayor Sonya during elections—actions intertwined with his media interests. As proprietor and editor of the West Waratah Star newspaper, Tim used the platform strategically for influence, engaging in smear campaigns and political tactics.

Tim’s personal dynamics were complex; he reconciled with his daughter Courtney Grixti after initial estrangement. He also dealt with scandals involving covert video recordings at Lassiter’s hotel, partnering with Terese Willis under blackmail pressure. His legal scope covered intellectual property disputes when Lassiter’s faced cease-and-desist orders regarding uniform designs.

In subsequent storylines, Tim leveraged insider knowledge of private relationships to gain leverage in legal battles, notably disrupting Toadie’s client connections. Additionally, he supplied Shane Ramsay with damaging details about Paul Robinson’s past misconduct, solidifying his position as a significant power player within Erinsborough’s commercial and political spheres.

Sandy Allen

Sandy Allen, portrayed by Catherine Hill, first appeared on 5 October 2001. Her introduction coincides with her husband John (Adrian Mulraney) discovering he fathered Lolly Allen (Jiordan Anna Tolli) with Cheryl Stark (Caroline Gillmer). John and Sandy meet Lolly in Erinsborough before eventually obtaining full custody.

Sandy takes a job at a nearby nursery and frequently visits the local café, much to the irritation of Lou Carpenter (Tom Oliver), who had previously believed himself to be Lolly's father. After offering Lou an apology, Sandy and John secure custody of Lolly and relocate to the countryside. Later on, Sandy undergoes IVF treatments resulting in two children but develops bitterness toward Lolly, associating her presence with John's infidelity.

This bitterness escalates into both psychological and physical abuse directed at Lolly. When Lolly returns to Erinsborough after running away from home, Sandy agrees to care for her during Lou's absence. The situation reaches a critical point near a pool where Sandy falls and sustains injuries; Lolly administers CPR to save her. At the hospital, Lolly confides in Lou about the abuse she endured.

Following Sandy’s return home, tensions heighten as she reacts angrily to the allegations. Lou contacts John and child protective services, leading to Sandy's departure from the family home—resulting in her losing both her husband and access to her children.

Mitch Foster

Mitch Foster, played by Hugh Sexton, made his debut on 14 November 2001. Mitch is a criminal figure connected to Larry "Woody" Woodhouse. A BBC journalist characterized him as both "sinister" and "an opportunist." He becomes involved with Woody’s former partner Stephanie Scully, who defends him when accusations arise, but their relationship ends once she uncovers his deceit. Subsequently, Mitch commits a robbery at the courier company where Steph works and vanishes. Afterward, Steph reports him to the authorities but becomes a suspect herself, prompting her to seek out Mitch again, only to be manipulated by him.

Mitch comes to Steph’s aid when she encounters trouble with some men and later delivers equipment for Joe Scully at the local garage. He invites Steph on a date and admits to knowing Woody, though he remains secretive about his time in prison. Mitch earns the approval of Steph’s family but is soon unmasked by Woody—who returns from witness protection—as having served time for manslaughter. This revelation leads Steph to sever ties with both men.

Half a year later, Mitch reappears wounded and requests Steph’s assistance before disappearing once more. Following news of an armed robbery, Mitch confronts Steph at her workplace, MOCO, steals money from the till, and implicates her in aiding the crime. Steph and Stuart Parker locate Mitch gravely ill; Stuart records a confession from Mitch that clears Steph of wrongdoing. Before being taken into custody, Mitch expresses remorse.

A BBC commentator singled out Mitch’s most memorable act as "robbing MOCO and holding up Steph." Media coverage after these events noted that Steph’s repeated involvement with criminals had severe repercussions for her professional life and reputation.

Liz Conway

Liz Conway was first introduced on 5 December 2001, originally portrayed by Christine Keogh. She is Susan Kennedy’s elder sister (Jackie Woodburne). Liz arrives in Erinsborough asking Susan to look after her "difficult" teenage daughter while she travels abroad. On 29 June 2018, it was announced that Liz would return, now played by Debra Lawrance in a long guest role. Lawrance described Liz as "self-centered, quite flighty and very selfish," offering a stark contrast to Susan’s character.

Liz comes back to reconnect with her daughters Elly Conway (Jodi Anasta) and Bea Nilsson (Bonnie Anderson). Critics praised Lawrance’s portrayal for capturing the intricate mother-daughter relationships. The character made another appearance on 24 June 2019.

Following their mother’s passing, Liz and Susan experience a falling out. Liz married Ian Conway (Peter Maver) and had Elly with him. When offered employment in Sweden, she asks Susan to care for Elly during her absence. Later, Liz returns pregnant with a new partner named Lars. Elly suspects that Susan’s husband Karl Kennedy might be her biological father; however, Liz confirms Ian is.

After sixteen years away, Liz returns upon learning from Susan that Elly and Bea need support following trauma involving Finn Kelly (Rob Mills). She discovers Bea was homeless at age fifteen. Liz admits she wanted Bea gone because she reminded her of Lars, sparking conflict with her daughters who demand she leave. Although Susan encourages reconciliation, Liz’s actions further strain family bonds. After fabricating a story about being attacked by Finn, she confesses the truth and apologizes before departing with Susan to face unresolved issues.

Liz reappears during Christmas, revealing that a retreat helped her overcome alcoholism. She intends to assist the family amid Susan’s legal difficulties. Liz flirts with Bea’s boyfriend Ned Willis (Ben Hall) and Mark Brennan (Scott McGregor (model)). Upon finding a love note from Mark’s sister Chloe Brennan (April Rose Pengilly) addressed to Elly, Liz criticizes Chloe and advises caution.

Elly Conway

Elly Conway made her initial appearance on 13 December 2001, originally brought to life by Kendell Nunn. She is introduced as the "defiant niece" of Susan Kennedy (Jackie Woodburne). Characterized as intelligent and perceptive with a rebellious nature, Elly frequently challenges Susan and Karl (Alan Fletcher) as they attempt to mentor her. On 28 April 2016, it was revealed that Jodi Anasta would reprise the role, signing a three-year agreement and returning on-screen from 18 July 2016. Now following in her aunt’s footsteps as a schoolteacher, Anasta expressed that the part fulfilled a childhood ambition while allowing her to portray a character with a mischievous charm.

Stuart Parker

Stuart Parker, portrayed by Blair McDonough, was first seen on 13 December 2001. McDonough's casting came after finishing second in the inaugural season of Big Brother Australia, initially contracted for three months, which was extended to six months prior to his debut. Originating from Oakey, Queensland, Stuart is introduced as the younger brother of one of Drew Kirk’s (Dan Paris) friends and eventually follows Drew to Erinsborough. McDonough described Stuart as a straightforward and amiable country lad. The role garnered him a nomination for the Logie Award for Most Popular New Male Talent in 2002.

Ben Kirk

Ben Kirk, initially played by Noah Sutherland, appeared first on 14 December 2001. He is the son of Libby Kennedy (Kym Valentine) and Drew Kirk (Dan Paris). Ben’s birth posed serious health risks for Libby, requiring her to undergo intensive care; fortunately, she recovered fully. Valentine praised Sutherland for his natural performance. Subsequently, Blake O'Leary assumed the role. According to a Network Ten writer, Ben is depicted as his mother’s "strongest supporter and emotional anchor."

Additional Characters

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Context
16 January–15 February	Jeannie Truman	Libby Stone	Mother to Allana and Clementine Truman; initially overprotective due to Allana's illness but ultimately endorses Allana and Lance Wilkinson's plans to travel to America.
16 January–15 March	Richie Hampson	Michael O'Malley	Salesman for Beauty Tree who deceives Lyn Scully into investing; Teresa Bell uncovers his true intentions after encountering him at a singles event.
19 January–2 February	Alice Jamison	Pip Sallabank	Partner of Darcy Tyler and co-owner of their medical practice; arrives in Erinsborough warning Dee Bliss about Darcy but their relationship deteriorates leading to separation.
20–21 February	Fergus MacLeod	Tommy Dysart	Drew Kirk’s great uncle from Scotland; attends Drew and Libby’s wedding and participates in cultural ceremonies including poetry recitals and singing.
21 February	Sally Kirk	Niobe Dean	Sibling of Drew Kirk; present at his wedding.
	Stuart Kirk	Stephen Godfrey	Another sibling of Drew Kirk; attends the wedding ceremony.
21 February–12 April	Reverend Loftus	Bill Johnston	Conducts the marriage ceremony for Libby Kennedy and Drew Kirk as well as Madge Bishop’s funeral service.
1–22 March	Glen Goldman	Gerard Cogley	Radio host running a quiz show featuring Lance Wilkinson, who wins a large sum but suspects the contest is rigged.
6 March–5 July 2002	Nathan Tyson	Luke Hemsworth	Footballer for Eastside Dingoes who uses steroids; intimidates teammate Paul McClain; dismissed after refusing drug testing; later employed as a bailiff repossessing goods.
29 March, 6 April	Steve Crandall	Travis Clark	MOCO delivery driver laid off due to company downsizing; leaves for improved employment following personal circumstances.
30 March	Dave Patrick	Chris Gaffney	Long-serving MOCO driver facing redundancy; initially retained but ultimately replaced after Steve Crandall’s resignation.
6 April	Brian Curtis	Ron Bingham	Food critic reviewing Lou’s Place for Perfect Pub competition; impressed by dish dedicated to terminally ill Madge Bishop.
17 April–17 May	Veronica Anderson	Monika Karwan	Shares accommodation with Teresa Bell; develops an unhealthy obsession with Drew Kirk prompting family intervention.
20–26 April	Elly Turnbull	Cherise Donovan	Friend of Michelle Scully and gifted mathematician; develops an affection for new teacher Evan Hancock.
20 April–11 May	Aleks Rama	Dean Ali	Best friend of Leo Hancock; stays with the Hancock family during parents' absence abroad in Albania.
23 April–13 September	Barry Burke	David Whiteley	Criminal associate of Kev Kelly sent to intimidate witness Larry Woodhouse; escalates threats resulting in witness protection and fatal car accident involving Barry.
25 April–6 March 2002	Genevieve Murdoch	Julie Campbell	First wife of Evan Hancock; visits son Matt offering financial support for culinary studies; reveals cancer scare and pending divorce.

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Context

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