Murray Buchanan

Home and Away

Company type	Television series
Industry	Entertainment
Founded	January 17, 1988 (1988-01-17)
Founder	Seven Network
Headquarters	Australia
Area served	Australia

Home and Away is a long-running Australian soap opera that premiered on the Seven Network on 17 January 1988. This section highlights characters introduced during 2008, all under the direction of series producer Cameron Welsh. The show's 21st season commenced on 28 January 2008. In February, Bob Baines made his debut as the key character Martin Bartlett. March saw the arrivals of Trent Dalzell portraying Axel Hay, David Downer as Ross Buckton, and Celeste Dodwell playing Melody Jones. April introduced Tessa James in the role of Nicole Franklin. May featured new cast members Jordan Rodrigues and Oliver Davis as Jai Fernandez and Oliver Phillips, respectively. June welcomed Esther Anderson and Rebecca Breeds as Charlie and Ruby Buckton. In July, Luke Jacobz and Paul Pantano joined the series as Angelo Rosetta and Elliot Gillen. Finally, David Jones-Roberts started portraying Xavier Austin in November.

Martin Bartlett

Martin Bartlett, brought to life by actor Bob Baines, made his first appearance on 12 February 2008. He served as a veteran Science teacher at Summer Bay High before stepping into the role of deputy principal, succeeding Donald Fisher (Norman Coburn). Following the stabbing incident involving Sally Fletcher, Martin was elevated to principal by the school's board.

Early in his tenure, Martin employed Jazz Curtis (Rachel Gordon) as his secretary. However, after she attempted to blackmail him over witnessing his presence at an illegal fight featuring Ric Dalby (Mark Furze), Martin terminated her employment. He then appointed Kirsty Sutherland (Christie Hayes) as Jazz's replacement and developed a romantic interest in her despite her relationship with Miles Copeland (Josh Quong Tart). Martin also assumed responsibility when Kirsty's son Oliver (Oliver Davis) was injured while under babysitting care.

His personal history reveals he was raised by a single mother, mirroring Kirsty's situation with her son Oliver while his father Kane Phillips (Sam Atwell) remains incarcerated. Upon learning that Kirsty worked as an escort at the Sands resort—a service Martin himself had utilized—Miles confronted him, heightening tensions between them. Eventually, Martin disclosed that he had been secretly supporting Kirsty financially.

During the senior formal held at the Surf Club, a car driven by Kane crashed into the venue, causing chaos; Martin sustained fractured ribs but recovered alongside Kane. Later, he organized a commemorative school trek in memory of the late Dan Baker (Tim Campbell (actor)). The event turned perilous when Trey Palmer (Luke Bracey) planted a bomb beneath the bus carrying students hostage. Fortunately, Hugo Austin (Bernard Curry) successfully defused the device.

Following these intense incidents and increasing pressure, Martin decided to leave for a cruise and appointed Gina Austin (Sonia Todd) as his successor principal.

Axel Hay

Axel Hay, played by Trent Dalzell, made his debut on 19 March 2008.

Before Axel's departure from the series, he and Jai Fernandez (Jordan Rodrigues) were struck by a drunk Larry Jefferies (Paul Gleeson), who then fled the scene. Actor Todd Lasance, who portrays Aden Jefferies, explained in Inside Soap that Axel was rushed to hospital with serious injuries while Jai escaped mostly unscathed. Both characters suffered memory loss regarding the accident but recalled seeing a silver estate vehicle, prompting Aden to suspect his father’s involvement.

Axel was introduced as a fellow student alongside Aden. At a party hosted by Nicole Franklin (Tessa James), Axel made unwanted advances toward Belle Taylor (Jessica Tovey) and later attempted to assault Melody Jones (Celeste Dodwell). When Geoff Campbell (Lincoln Lewis) found out about these incidents, he threatened Axel, who was subsequently beaten and left stranded on the beach. Belle discovered him there; however, Axel’s reluctance to involve law enforcement cast suspicion on Geoff and Aden. Belle deduced Aden’s culpability based on his indifferent reaction. Axel’s reputation suffered considerably; he apologized to Melody and formed a friendship with Jai. Ultimately, Axel died following a vehicular accident caused by Aden’s father. Posthumously, he appeared as a vision haunting Melody’s nightmares.

Ross Buckton

Ross Michael Buckton, portrayed by David Downer, made his first appearance on 21 May 2008 as a detective investigating the death of Sam Holden (Jessica Chapnik). His inquiry involved questioning significant individuals such as Martha MacKenzie (Jodi Gordon) and Jazz Curtis (Rachel Gordon), suspecting homicide despite evidence indicating suicide.

Ross initially attempts to implicate Jack and Martha but withdraws the accusations after Morag Bellingham (Cornelia Frances) establishes that Sam's demise was self-inflicted. Ross and Morag revive a previous romantic connection, which becomes complicated due to Ross's dishonesty regarding his deceased wife Elsie and resistance from his daughter Charlie. In contrast, his other daughter Ruby supports their relationship. Eventually, Ross and Morag marry privately before departing for a honeymoon in Europe.

Following their return, Ross begins showing signs of memory loss and stress. After two episodes of disappearance, Rachel Armstrong (Amy Mathews) diagnoses him with Alzheimers. A dangerous incident involving almost setting a house on fire leads the family to organize care arrangements, with Morag accompanying Ross.

Ross admits to killing Grant Bledcoe (Clayton Watson), who had assaulted Charlie during their youth, resulting in murder charges. He passes away in 2011, with his funeral held in Summer Bay.

Melody Jones

Melody Jones, played by Celeste Dodwell, was cast in December 2007 shortly after completing her drama HSC. Dodwell initially auditioned for the role of Nicole Franklin, which was ultimately awarded to Tessa James. Her agent drew attention to Melody’s detailed "character breakdown," which intrigued Dodwell. She later departed the series to pursue drama studies in the United Kingdom.

Nicole Franklin

Nicole Franklin, enacted by Tessa James, first appeared on 18 April 2008. Executive producer Cameron Welsh commended James as a promising talent and anticipated a positive audience reaction. James relocated to Sydney for the role, describing her experience as valuable training akin to an apprenticeship. Celeste Dodwell had originally auditioned for this character. Nicole’s key story arcs included rekindling romance on a deserted island and being taken hostage, providing significant dramatic moments. Critics labeled her a "flighty minx" and a "fiery favourite." TV Week recognized James as one of the series’ most promising actresses, suggesting she was prepared for roles beyond Australian television.

Jai Fernandez

Jai Fernandez, portrayed by Jordan Rodrigues, made his debut on 19 May 2008. Transitioning from theatre to television, Rodrigues described the role as an entirely new challenge and welcomed viewer recognition. Jai’s backstory involves surviving the 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami that claimed his family, creating a connection with established character Miles Copeland (Josh Quong Tart), who experienced similar loss. Miles brings Jai to Summer Bay, though their relationship is tense due to past abandonment issues. Rodrigues noted Jai’s anger and difficulty adjusting to the coastal community, contrasting with his urban upbringing.

Rodrigues exited the show in 2009 to join ABC’s Dance Academy. His performance earned him a nomination for "Most Popular New Talent" at the 2009 Logie Awards.

Jai is first discovered in a city shelter by Miles. Initially distant and reserved, he eventually relocates to Summer Bay but struggles socially and academically. He befriends fellow outsider Axel Hay (Trent Dalzell), leading to risky behavior that culminates in Axel’s death following a scooter accident caused by a drunk driver. This tragedy fuels Jai’s reckless belief in his own invulnerability, demonstrated through dangerous stunts like leaping from Jump Rock and climbing school roofs, which leads to a romantic involvement with Annie Campbell (Charlotte Best). Despite opposition from their guardians Miles and Irene Roberts (Lynne McGranger), the couple remains together.

Their relationship encounters difficulties when Annie becomes trapped in a storm drain and is rescued by Charlie Buckton (Esther Anderson). Meanwhile, Jai faces bullying from Trey Palmer (Luke Bracey) who also targets Miles and Kirsty Phillips (Christie Hayes). After Trey falsely accuses Kirsty of sexual misconduct, Jai uses knowledge of Trey’s weight issues to coerce him into dropping the allegations.

Jai’s relationship with Annie deteriorates after he drunkenly admits at Ruby Buckton's (Rebecca Breeds) birthday party that he desires intimacy with her, prompting Annie to end their relationship. Subsequently, Jai is accidentally shot while exploring farmland with Xavier Austin (David Jones-Roberts) but hides the injury until collapsing during a school hike. He recovers but becomes jealous when Annie shows interest in Dexter Walker (Tom Green) and later catches them kissing.

Jai's spirits lift when foster friend Romeo Smith (Luke Mitchell) arrives at Summer Bay House. Seeking Romeo's help to reconcile with Annie, Jai discovers Romeo's own feelings for her after Romeo takes credit for Jai's love poems. To avoid tension, Jai accepts an exchange trip to Japan but later withdraws following Kirsty’s miscarriage of Miles’ child, choosing instead to support them while encouraging Annie to participate in his place. Ultimately, both Jai and Annie leave together for Japan after farewells.

Oliver Phillips

Oliver "Ollie" Phillips is the child of Kirsty (Christie Hayes) and Kane Phillips (Sam Atwell). His initial appearance occurs when Irene Roberts (Lynne McGranger) collects him following a phone call. After Ollie develops a fever, Irene contacts Rachel Armstrong (Amy Mathews), advising Ollie to avoid answering questions. Rachel arrives and suggests hospital admission.

During his hospital stay, Ollie remains uncommunicative despite the efforts of medical staff and law enforcement. Kane, who is on the run, secretly visits him. Following Kane's unsuccessful robbery attempt, Kirsty removes Ollie from the hospital to escape, but they are pursued by police. Kane abandons them at Irene’s residence before being apprehended.

Ollie and Kirsty reside with Irene, where Ollie stirs conflict by revealing Belle Taylor's (Jessica Tovey) relationship with Aden Jefferies (Todd Lasance) and damaging Belle’s property. Subsequently, Kirsty relocates them to the caravan park near her former Summer Bay home. Miles Copeland invites them to move into his house, creating a household unit with Miles and Jai.

Upon Kane’s release from custody, Ollie spots him and cautions him to remain silent but inadvertently exposes his presence. Kane desires to reunite with his family, leading them to leave together; however, they return after Kane and Kirsty encounter relationship difficulties. Ollie feels upset when Kane departs permanently but is relieved to be back in Summer Bay.

Kirsty later becomes pregnant and shares the news with Ollie, who embraces the prospect of a new sibling. Unfortunately, she suffers a miscarriage. Ollie meets his grandmother Shelley Sutherland (Paula Forrest) when she arrives to support Kirsty. Shelley then takes them to live with the family in the city.

Charlie Buckton

Charlie Buckton made her first appearance on 6 June 2008, portrayed by Esther Anderson, a former model cast to enhance Home and Away’s "sex appeal." Anderson, a longtime admirer of the show, expressed enthusiasm upon landing the role. In November 2011, she departed the series to pursue acting opportunities in Hollywood.

Anderson received several award nominations for her role as Charlie, including "Sexiest Female" at the 2008 Inside Soap Awards and "Best Daytime Star" in 2010. She was also nominated for "Most Popular Personality on Australian Television" and "Most Popular Actress" at the 2010 Logie Awards. The episode depicting Charlie’s death earned a nomination from the Australian Writers' Guild.

Critics characterized Charlie as both a "sexy sergeant" and the soap’s "cutest crime fighter," emphasizing her distinctive charm within the series.

Ruby Buckton

Ruby Buckton, portrayed by Rebecca Breeds, debuted on 20 June 2008. Created by executive producer Cameron Welsh, Ruby is portrayed as carefree yet concealing deep emotions behind a strong exterior. Mourning her mother’s passing, Ruby internalizes her grief, presenting herself as independent and reserved. Breeds described Ruby as resilient, family-oriented, free-spirited, and self-assured.

In June 2012, Breeds filmed her final scenes before leaving Home and Away. Due to contractual restrictions, she could not disclose details about her exit but confirmed Ruby remained integral to ongoing storylines. Breeds earned a Logie Award nomination for "Most Popular New Female Talent" at the 51st Logie Awards (2009) and was later nominated for "Most Popular Actress" in 2010. Additionally, she received a nomination for "Best Daytime Star" at the 2012 Inside Soap Awards.

Holy Soap highlighted Ruby’s memorable moment involving her father’s illness when she cleverly outwitted Matthew with a prank using Skype and skinny-dipping.

Angelo Rosetta

Angelo Rosetta, played by Luke Jacobz, made his first appearance on 8 July 2008. Jacobz was cast in June 2008 following the cancellation of McLeod's Daughters, where he had a recurring role. Prior to this opportunity, he had intended to take up labour work in Sydney. His initial contract spanned six months. In February 2011, it was confirmed that Jacobz had departed from Home and Away, although he continued appearing on-screen for several months after completing filming.

According to the official website, Angelo hails from a tightly bonded family with three brothers and is often perceived as a brash individual unlikely to achieve much. Jacobz received nominations for 'Most Popular Actor' at the 2010 Logie Awards and for "Best Daytime Star" at the Inside Soap Awards in the same year.

Elliot Gillen

Elliot Gillen, enacted by Paul Pantano, was featured in Home and Away between 8 July and 26 August 2008. Pantano was highlighted in Digital Spy's gay spotlight segment. Elliot’s storyline centers on a vengeful scheme that threatens Roman Harris (Conrad Coleby), Nicole Franklin (Tessa James), and Geoff Campbell (Lincoln Lewis) following his brother's demise.

Elliot arrives in Summer Bay with the intent to confront Roman, whom he holds responsible for the death of his brother Mark during their service with the SAS in Afghanistan. Despite an official investigation, Elliot remains skeptical of Roman’s explanation regarding an ambush that left Mark missing presumed dead. To coerce Roman, Elliot begins dating Roman’s daughter Nicole, eventually escalating to abducting her and forcing Roman into perilous trials.

His plan includes isolating Nicole on a boat and attacking Geoff with a speargun when he intervenes. Elliot then compels Roman to consume an unknown liquid before setting deadly traps in the bush, such as an arrow attack and a landmine explosion. Ultimately, Roman gains the upper hand and apprehends Elliot at Yabbie Creek police station.

While in custody, Roman reveals that Mark had threatened their squad, compelling him to shoot Mark to prevent further harm. Subsequently, Mark was captured and killed by enemy forces. Confronted with this revelation, Elliot discloses Nicole’s whereabouts and faces charges including kidnapping and attempted murder.

Xavier Austin

Xavier Austin, portrayed by David Jones-Roberts, first appeared on 20 November 2008 and departed on 3 July 2012 when he left Summer Bay for Goulburn. Jones-Roberts landed the role after four auditions and learned of his casting while surfing. A significant plotline involved Xavier witnessing a devastating car crash caused by Brendan.

Others

Dates	Character	Actor	Description
28 January–11 February	Aaron Copeland	Timothy Walter	Aaron is the father of Sally Fletcher and Miles Copeland (Home and Away), appearing in flashbacks that reveal his troubled marriage characterized by alcoholism and domestic violence. After fleeing with Miles, he discovers Diana's death and attempts to regain custody of Sally but ultimately allows her to remain with the Fletchers. Aaron passed away in 2000 due to alcoholism.
11 February	Diana Wilson	Uncredited	Diana, mother to Sally and Miles, endured a turbulent marriage with Aaron. Following his disappearance, she remarried but died in a boating accident.
11 February	Mrs Keating	Uncredited	Diana Wilson's mother and grandmother to Sally and Miles; shown in flashbacks suffering from Alzheimer's disease while residing in a care facility.
18 February–23 August 2010	Anasthesist	Philip Dodd	Hospital anesthetist attending key characters after violent events.
28 February–23 May	Gavin Johnson	Daniel Feuerriegel	Editor of Coastal News who frequently clashes with staff over article edits affecting character reputations.
4 March–13 June	Cara Phillips	Holly Robinson	Schoolmate who spies on a date and challenges another character's response to an assault; later issues an apology.
18 March	Steve Bradford	Nicholas Holland	Presents Leah Patterson-Baker with a $100,000 cheque as gratitude for saving his son's life.
20 March–16 April	Joe Stephens	Terence Hepburn	Bartender paid to attack Sam Holden; subsequently provides information about her final days.
25 March–12 May	Logan Roth	Radek Jonak	Associate of Johnny Cooper involved in underground fights leading to police intervention.
10 April–27 January 2009	Matthew Lyons	Ross Pirelli	Year 9 student engaged in bullying, online deception, and drug-related incidents resulting in suspension.
14 April	Britt Grey	Meagan Drury	Estranged sister of Sam Holden who assumes custody of her nephew during a police investigation.
6–13 May	Danielle Hay	Katrina Risteska	Sister of Axel Hay; involved in school conflicts and influences curriculum discussions.
7 May–26 February 2009	Christine Jones	Elizabeth Alexander (actress)	Mother of Melody Jones; creates tension over school matters and personal relationships before departing for New Zealand.
19 May	Peter Randall	Richard Gyoerffy	Operator of a teen refuge; offers insight into Jai Fernandez's withdrawn behavior.
30 May	Jamie Cooper	Shardyn Fahey-Leigh	Son of Julie Cooper; overcomes fear of water through coaching support.
12 June–5 November 2012	Georgina Watson	Jaclyn Albergoni	Police officer known for frequent clashes with colleagues; later promoted to Sergeant following significant events.
14 June–27 August	Jimmy Crawford	Adam Booth	Psychiatric patient with repeated hospitalizations; forms attachments influencing staff relationships.
20–27 June	Pat Jenkins	Lachlan Buchanan	Ruby Buckton's boyfriend; relationship ends due to doubts about long-term prospects.
11 July	Mrs. Hay	Amelia Longhurst	Axel Hay’s mother; devastated by her son's fatal accident.
15–24 July	Daisy Alexander	Jessica Smith	University roommate who encourages Matilda Hunter to move past a previous relationship.
15–24 July	Nathan Cunningham	Andrew Lees (actor)	Resident advisor who causes friction between Matilda Hunter and Ric Dalby.
1 September–6 October	Edward Jones	Errol Henderson	Father of Melody Jones; involved in her mental health challenges and familial conflicts.
2 September 2008 – 3 February 2009	Bridget Simmons	Joy Smithers	Con artist whose actions lead to criminal charges; impacts local community and business operations.
3–4 September	Earl Pincus	Alan Cinis	Homeless man causing disturbances; interacts with community members.
15 September–10 November	Murray Buchanan	Ben Tari	Council worker embroiled in environmental scandal related to land development; disappears under suspicious circumstances.
26 September 2008 – 27 January 2009	Tim Coleman	Keiran Darcy-Smith	Developer involved in criminal activities including murder and intimidation affecting local construction projects.
22 October–5 November	Natalie Franklin	Adrienne Pickering	Former girlfriend of Roman Harris; strained family relations influence local dynamics before departure.
23 October 2008 – 3 February 2009	Brian Lawler	Ric Herbert	Con artist associated with Bridget Simmons; kidnaps child leading to arrest and legal consequences.
18–24 November	Eric "Nobby" Nobbes	Mark Casamento	Engaged in theft and undercover operations related to environmental crime; murdered under suspicious circumstances.

External links

• Cast and characters on the Official Australian Home and Away website
• Cast and characters on the Official UK Home and Away website
• Full cast and characters at the Internet Movie Database