Nicholas Atkins

Neighbours

Company type	Television series
Industry	Television soap opera
Founded	March 18, 1985 (1985-03-18)
Founder	Reg Watson
Headquarters	Australia
Area served	Australia

Neighbours is a long-running Australian soap opera created by Reg Watson, which first aired on 18 March 1985. This section details characters introduced during 1998, all under the guidance of executive producer Stanley Walsh. The show's 14th season premiered on 19 January 1998. In February, Sally Upton made her first appearance, followed by Nicholas Atkins and Drew Kirk in March. May saw the arrival of Joel Samuels and Veronica Olenski, while August introduced Karen Oldman and Mike Healey. The year concluded with the debuts of Tad Reeves and Geri Hallett in November.

Sally Upton

Sally Upton, played by Sally Davis, first appeared on-screen on 23 February 1998. Prior to this role, Davis had a guest appearance portraying Alison Nova. Sally became romantically involved with Joel Samuels (Daniel MacPherson), initially experiencing friction but growing closer after sharing the pain of losing her mother. Characterized as "opinionated" and "pushy," she worked as an assistant at UniFM, the radio station of Erinsborough University, alongside Toadfish Rebecchi (Ryan Moloney). Toadie introduced her to his housemate Joel, which led to a relationship complicated by jealousy over Joel's connection with Libby Kennedy (Kym Valentine) and conflicts involving Sarah Beaumont (Nicola Charles).

Sally found it difficult to cope with the anniversary of her mother's death, which put strain on her relationship with Joel, culminating in accusations of unfaithfulness and their eventual split. Subsequently, she made an advance toward Drew Kirk (Dan Paris) but was turned down due to his loyalty to Joel. After Joel was hospitalized, interactions between them became strained; Sally ultimately chose to cease contact to avoid hindering his recovery.

The official BBC Neighbours website highlighted Sally’s memorable moment as "bursting in on Drew while he was changing and attempting to kiss him."

Nicholas Atkins

Nicholas "Nick" Atkins, portrayed by Jason Crewes, made his debut on 12 March 1998. At the time, Crewes was also appearing in the soap Breakers. Nick was the third member of the Atkins family introduced and immediately generated tension by confronting his sister Caitlin Atkins about her romantic involvement. Early storylines featured Nick impersonating Toadfish Rebecchi (Ryan Moloney) and facing allegations of assault, which were eventually dismissed—leaving him disillusioned and uncertain about continuing his teaching position at Erinsborough High.

Nick’s departure was announced in May 1998; both he and Caitlin left Erinsborough to return to Adelaide. Their farewell included a notable scene where Caitlin painted a goodbye message on the street. Their exit episodes aired on 24 June 1998. Author Tony Johnston described Nick as "handsome," while Peter Grant from the Liverpool Echo labeled him a "big bad brother." Stephen Murphy of Inside Soap commented that Nick and Caitlin made a strong impression in Erinsborough.

Arriving with the intention of caring for Caitlin, Nick quickly clashed with their brother Ben Atkins over guardianship responsibilities. He briefly impersonated Toadie to impress Karen Oldman before settling into his teaching role at Erinsborough High after Ben’s departure. Nick’s friendship with colleague Jacquie Boyd caused tension with Caitlin, and he faced legal challenges when student Mickey Dalton’s mother accused him of assault following an injury sustained during a fight. Although cleared and reinstated, Nick questioned whether teaching was the right path for him. When their mother returned from the Middle East, Nick chose to take Caitlin back to Adelaide despite her protests, marking their departure from Erinsborough.

Drew Kirk

Drew Kirk, brought to life by Dan Paris, made his first appearance on 27 March 1998. Neighbours marked Paris's debut audition, and he instantly landed the part. His contract lasted until March 2002. Originating from the rural town of Oakey, Drew moved to Erinsborough and took over the position at Carpenter Mechanics previously held by Ben Atkins (Brett Cousins). James Joyce from the Newcastle Herald characterized Drew as a "fittingly spirited competitor" to Ben, while Denise Everton of the Illawarra Mercury described him as "pleasant, innocent and attractive." His notable long hair contributed to a "bohemian vibe," which producers insisted Paris maintain without cutting.

Joel Samuels

Joel Samuels, portrayed by Daniel MacPherson, first appeared on 13 May 1998. After auditioning for casting director Jan Russ, MacPherson was recommended for a tailor-made role created specifically for him. At seventeen, he moved from Sydney to Melbourne to join the production. Annette Dasey of Inside Soap portrayed Joel as "handsome, grounded, approachable and an accomplished triathlete," dubbing him a "heart-throb," although MacPherson acknowledged that Joel’s romantic setbacks were due to his innocence. This role earned MacPherson a nomination for Most Popular New Male Talent at the 1999 Logie Awards.

Veronica Olenski

Veronica Olenski, played by Caroline Lloyd, appeared intermittently between 1998 and 2009 as a physician and gynaecologist at Erinsborough Hospital. A significant plotline involved her husband Greg Michaels (Nick Farnell) engaging in an affair with Veronica’s patient Stephanie Scully (Carla Bonner), which intensified both their personal and professional relationships.

In her medical capacity, Dr. Olenski treated prominent characters such as competitive swimmer Caitlin Atkins (Emily Milburn), triathlete Joel Samuels, and accident victims including Libby Kennedy (Kym Valentine) and Brendan Bell. She was instrumental in delivering multiple babies, including Libby’s son, Oscar Scully (Ingo Dammer-Smith), and Charlie Hoyland (Aaron Aulsebrook-Walker), while managing challenging cases like premature labor and cardiac emergencies.

Throughout her tenure, she was involved in critical medical storylines: incorrectly diagnosing Susan Kennedy with menopause instead of multiple sclerosis, treating stage 2 cervical dysplasia in Pepper Steiger (Nicky Whelan), and overseeing IVF treatments amid hospital administrative opposition. Dr. Olenski also engaged in hospital politics, opposing the CEO’s resistance to fertility procedures.

On a personal level, Veronica confronted Stephanie Scully regarding Greg’s infidelity, leading to confrontations at charity events and physical disputes. Despite their antagonism, professional duties required collaboration—such as caring for injured children—highlighting Veronica’s multifaceted role within the series’ storyline.

Karen Oldman

Karen Oldman, brought to life by Pia Miranda, made her first appearance on 13 August 1998. This part marked Miranda’s inaugural role on television, occurring three years after completing drama school. She regarded her time on Neighbours as an essential learning experience, emphasizing the intense pressure and extensive script memorization involved. Karen became the initial major romantic partner of Toadfish Rebecchi (Ryan Moloney), sparking considerable tension when their affair was revealed.

As a freshman at Eden Hills University, Karen initially confuses Nick Atkins (Jason Crewes) with Toadie because of his UniFM radio show. Since Toadie is too reserved to meet her directly, Nick impersonates him and briefly dates Karen until the deception is uncovered. Although she is upset at first, Karen eventually chooses to pursue a relationship with Toadie.

Karen later becomes romantically involved with Sarah Beaumont’s (Nicola Charles) boyfriend Alex Fenton (Guy Hooper), which leads to the dissolution of both their previous relationships. After returning a few weeks later, she reconciles with Toadie. Encouraged by him, she attempts to pilot a flying machine co-developed by Toadie and Lou Carpenter (Tom Oliver) in hopes of winning money for a trip to Bali. Following some setbacks, Karen declines to continue, later testing an improved model but failing to claim the prize.

Ultimately, Karen relocates to New Zealand with her family. Although she and Toadie try to maintain a long-distance relationship, she ends it over the phone several months later, leaving him deeply hurt.

Mike Healey

Mike Healey, played by Andrew Blackman, entered the series on 17 August 1998 as a romantic interest for Libby Kennedy (Kym Valentine). Introduced as her university lecturer, Mike’s relationship with Libby faced opposition from her family due to their age difference and his professional role. Complications arose from Mike’s continued involvement with his estranged wife, with whom he shared a child. This situation created significant conflict, notably when Mike impregnated his ex-wife while dating Libby—a storyline emphasized by the BBC's Neighbours website. An Inside Soap columnist noted Mike as one of several characters who caused Libby emotional turmoil.

While teaching at Eden Hills University, Mike and Libby engaged in a secret romance because of potential professional repercussions and family objections. When Libby lied about horse-riding and was reported missing, she disclosed their relationship. Her family then arranged a dinner to meet Mike, during which her father Karl (Alan Fletcher) voiced concerns, particularly after learning about Mike’s young daughter, Sasha (Chelsea Driessen). Despite assurances that he no longer had feelings for his ex-wife Victoria (Tamar Kelly), Libby became uneasy upon discovering Mike still socialized with Victoria. To demonstrate his commitment, Mike rented Number 32, bringing them closer together.

Mike’s mother Bianca (Joy Mitchell) later informed Libby that she could never replace Victoria in the family’s eyes. Though Mike initially denied this to ease tensions, Bianca remained disapproving. Libby formed a bond with Sasha but noticed changes in Mike’s behavior. When Drew Kirk (Dan Paris) caught Mike cheating with Victoria and confronted him, he chose not to tell Libby to avoid hurting her. Eventually, Libby demanded that Mike divorce Victoria if they were to continue their relationship; both agreed initially. However, after Sasha revealed that Victoria was pregnant again, Libby realized Mike had been unfaithful and ended things. Mike sought reconciliation but ultimately moved out of Number 32 following Libby’s refusal to resume their relationship.

Tad Reeves

Wayne "Tad" Reeves, brought to life by Jonathon Dutton, made his first appearance on 16 November 1998. The production team introduced Tadpole, the younger cousin of Toadfish Rebecchi (Ryan Moloney), to bring a fresh "mischievous" element as Toadie evolved. Dutton, who had previously appeared in a guest role on Neighbours, was sixteen when he landed the role and managed his studies alongside filming with on-set tutoring. Denise Everton from the Illawarra Mercury characterized Tad as "vivacious." Dutton highlighted that one of his most demanding plots involved Tad uncovering the truth about being adopted.

Geri Hallett

Geri Hallett, portrayed by Isabella Dunwill, first entered the series on 25 November 1998. Initially signed for a fortnight, Dunwill’s portrayal earned her repeated returns. She described Geri as a "schemer" and manipulative individual, prepared to do whatever it takes to achieve her goals. Geri’s presence stirred friction between Drew Kirk (Dan Paris) and Libby Kennedy (Kym Valentine), fueled by jealousy over Drew's affections.

Employed at the Erinsborough News alongside Libby, Geri dated Libby’s superior and quickly secured a byline—a milestone Libby had spent two years reaching. Dunwill relished playing Geri’s antagonistic persona, which struck a chord with audiences.

At Eden Hills University, Geri and Libby clashed as fellow journalism students. Geri briefly dated Drew but ended it when she realized he still cared for Libby. She later co-hosted UniFM with Toadfish Rebecchi, who attempted to have her removed after discovering she accepted bribes to promote local businesses on the volunteer station. Libby exposed this misconduct in an article, leading to Geri’s dismissal.

Further conflict arose when Geri spread rumors about Drew and Libby’s friend Stephanie Scully (Carla Bonner). In response, Libby and Steph set a trap that revealed Geri’s gossiping nature. She escalated tensions by publishing Libby’s rejection of Drew’s marriage proposal but was eventually unmasked for her bribery scheme. After Libby and Drew’s wedding, Geri reappeared on the Gold Coast during their honeymoon, photographing them for the newspaper—marking her final storyline in 2001.

Others

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Role Description
19 January–20 February	Dr. Shepherd	Drew Tingwell	Dr. Shepherd performs surgery on Ben Atkins following a severe car accident to relieve a depressed skull fracture, keeps Ben's family informed of his progress, and later treats Madge Bishop for an aneurysm.
20 January–17 March	Geoff Burke	Andrew McKaige	Geoff, Ruth Wilkinson's ex-boyfriend and Ben Atkins' father, visits the hospital to support Ben while he is comatose; after initial rejection, Ben forms a bond with Geoff who offers him employment at his Sydney garage, prompting Ben's departure from Ramsay Street.
9 February 1988–24 June 1999	Shannon Jones	Diana Glenn	Single mother Shannon befriends Toadfish Rebecchi and dates Darren Stark, causing friction with Libby Kennedy; after her home is destroyed by fire, community members assist her; she briefly dates Drew Kirk before returning to her restored residence.
9 February 1998–7 June 1999	Brian Jones	Joshua Wojniusz
5 February	Alison Nova	Sally Davis	Alison is Perry Pinchen's girlfriend who mocks Amy Greenwood's attempt to provoke Lance Wilkinson's jealousy through ballroom dancing.
16 February–7 July	Kim Howard	Paul Dawber	Kim is a teacher at Wangaratta High School where Susan Kennedy is temporarily employed; they develop a friendship, with Kim offering support during Susan's marital difficulties and suggesting a short retreat in the countryside.
18 February–17 March	Josh Hughes	Sullivan Stapleton	Josh trains with Erinsborough's swimming team and dates Caitlin Atkins; he feigns injury to avoid training which causes conflict with Caitlin's brother Nick before they briefly run away together and return home.
26–27 February	Kenny Hyland	Jonathon Dutton	Scout member Kenny injures himself during a hike and is promptly rescued by Harold Bishop.
23 March 1998–18 November 2003	Tony Simpson	Stan Tsitas	Tony oversees Eden Hills University's radio station UniFM.
30 March–15 June	Mickey Dalton	Trent Fowler	Classmate of Paul McClain and Hannah Martin who falsely accuses Paul of shoplifting, leading to a fight and suspension of teacher Nicholas Atkins until the truth emerges.
23–28 April	Declan Hewitt	Chris Milne	Guest lecturer at the university and former acquaintance of Susan Kennedy; Libby uncovers his womanizing tendencies after developing an infatuation.
27 April–12 June	Jacquie Boyd	Amy Lapin	Teacher at Erinsborough High School and colleague of Nicholas Atkins; supports Nick during allegations of assault related to Mickey Dalton.
5 May–29 October	Lily Madigan	Alethea McGrath	Elderly resident who befriends Anne Wilkinson and Libby Kennedy while opposing corporate attempts to buy her home; she eventually passes away leaving her house to Anne.
20 May–6 October	Mark Sindon	Marc Stafford	Student at Erinsborough High who dates Hannah Martin before their breakup prior to her move to France.
22 May 1998–13 July 2001	Ryan Moller	Pieter Siertsema	Police officer investigating threats against Libby Kennedy along with various assaults and robberies; receives promotion to Sergeant during his service.
12–15 June	Jean Dalton	Joanne Canning	Mother of Mickey Dalton who files an assault complaint against teacher Nicholas Atkins but retracts it once the facts are clarified.
17 June–26 November	Maddie Harford	Karly Drever	Year twelve student participating in social events including birthday parties and camping trips alongside Billy Kennedy, Amy Greenwood, Lance Wilkinson, and Anne Wilkinson.
17 June 1998–16 November 2000	Craig "Pinhead" Pinders	Nathan Godkin	Student repeatedly held back academically who was nominated for school captain but lost to Anne Wilkinson and Amy Greenwood; involved in various school incidents including a car accident; later trains as a primary school educator.
18 June–5 February 1999	Janine Sumner	Caroline Wilson	Real estate agent advising Karl Kennedy on property sales amid favorable market conditions; subsequently inspects another property for sale.
30 June–1 July	Fred Parkes	Colin Duckworth	Resident of a homeless shelter interviewed by Anne Wilkinson for a sociology project; shares history of gambling addiction and personal losses before dying unexpectedly at Anne's home.
1 July–18 November	Patrick Greenwood	Matthew Barnes	Younger brother of Amy Greenwood collaborating on a flying machine project with Paul McClain; experiences academic stress before returning home with their mother Josie Greenwood.
16 July–28 September	Alex Fenton	Guy Hooper	Psychiatrist at Erinsborough Hospital who starts dating Sarah Beaumont but ends the relationship upon revealing he is involved with another woman.
20 July 1998–18 February 1999	Leo McClain	Ross Thompson	Estranged father of Paul McClain seeking reconciliation after overcoming alcoholism; departs town to work on a fishing vessel while maintaining contact with Paul.
27 July–3 August	Denny Cook	Kate Ditchburn	Transfer student from Eden Hills Grammar known for negativity and vandalism at Erinsborough High; falsely accuses Hannah Martin of graffiti until cleared.
28 July–27 October	Josie Greenwood	Sally Keil	Mother of Amy, Jeff, and Patrick Greenwood; demands Philip Martin resign from the school committee over insurance issues following vandalism incidents.
29 July 1998–24 May 1999	Shelley Hanson	Jane Allsop	Fiancée of Ray Hanson visiting Erinsborough; heavily pregnant during Oakey Rodeo where she goes into labor; later visited in hospital by Drew Kirk and Libby Kennedy.
	Ray Hanson	Ren De Haas
5–12 August	Hilary Grant	Olivia Hamnett	Member of local women's basketball team who clashes with Madge Bishop upon joining the squad.
7 September 1998–1 April 1999	Sasha Healey	Chelsea Driessen	Daughter of Mike Healey initially struggling with his relationship with Libby Kennedy but eventually bonds; her mother's pregnancy revelation leads to Mike and Libby's breakup.
10–15 September	Graham Pinders	Jim Daly	Father of Craig "Pinhead" Pinders and physiotherapy patient suspected by Philip Martin of feigning back pain.
11 September–6 October	Richard Downing	John Arnold	Psychiatric patient stalking Sarah Beaumont; appreciative when she engages him in conversation; charges dropped due to mental health considerations following arrest.
30 September 1998–26 July 2006	Joanna Douglas	Matilda White	Police officer investigating various crimes including break-ins, assaults, robberies, and missing persons cases; provides support to colleagues Stuart Parker and Toadfish Rebecchi during investigations.
1 October 1998–25 March 1999	Portia Grant	Sue Ingleton	Basketball coach competing with Madge Bishop for team leadership; considers purchasing property and opens the Grease Monkeys café.
14 October 1998–9 October 2000	Tuong Pham	Trent Huen	Law student competing against Toadfish Rebecchi in mock trials; actively participates in university radio and student elections; acquires local business Ozechef.
14 October 1998–22 January 1999	Deidre Kaufmann	Lidia Faranda	Patient admitted under Karl Kennedy for cardiac arrest; saved by Sarah Beaumont whose medical credentials are questioned afterward.
14 October 1998r–17 July 2000	Pippa Layton	Natalie Shostak	Receptionist at Karl Kennedy's medical practice.
26 October 1998–7 December 2000	Pat Horrocks	Mirren Lee	Veteran women's basketball player and teammate of Madge Bishop on The Grey Growlers team.
3–5 November	Bianca Healey	Joy Mitchell	Mike Healey's mother who disapproves of his partner Libby Kennedy, favoring Mike's estranged wife Victoria instead.
25 November 1998–30 March 1999	Victoria Healey   |   Tamar Kelly   Estranged wife of Mike Healey whose pregnancy revelation results in ending Mike’s relationship with Libby Kennedy; departs after apologizing for previous conflicts.   |

External links

• Official AU Neighbours site: Characters and cast
• Official UK Neighbours site: Characters and cast
• Full cast and characters on the Internet Movie Database