Penn Graham

Home and Away

Company type	Television series
Industry	Television soap opera
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 following section details characters introduced during 2010, all under the direction of series producer Cameron Welsh. The show's 23rd season commenced on 25 January 2010. Just two days later, Mitzi Ruhlman made her debut as Rabbit. In February, Mink Carpenter and Elijah Johnson were added to the cast, followed by Justin Jefferies in March. Mink's mother, Jill, appeared in May. From June onwards, Christian Clark and Rhiannon Fish joined the series portraying Penn Graham and April Scott, respectively. April’s sister, Bianca, was introduced in July, with Paolo Rosetta arriving in August. September saw the introduction of Mitzy Fraser, Vittorio Seca, and Daria Hennessy.

Rabbit

Amber "Rabbit" Copeland, played by Mitzi Ruhlman, made her first appearance on 27 January 2010. This role marked Ruhlman’s television debut. The character was developed to bring "a bit of fun" back into the narrative surrounding Miles Copeland (Josh Quong Tart). Tart explained that the intention was to recapture the essence of Miles’ character while weaving in psychological elements through Rabbit’s involvement. Additionally, Rabbit’s spirited yet innocent persona was designed to appeal to a younger demographic.

Rabbit first appears to a hungover Miles following a night at the beach, announcing her intention to stay for some time. She shares prophetic visions involving fire and danger, which Miles initially dismisses but soon come to pass. Rabbit warns Miles that sleeping could be fatal; after dozing off at school, he narrowly escapes death when a ceiling fan falls. A series of graffiti incidents around Summer Bay are linked to Rabbit’s alternate identity, Amber.

Marilyn Chambers (Emily Symons) begins experiencing dreams featuring Rabbit, who reveals images of Marilyn’s deceased son Byron and cautions Marilyn about impending death. Marilyn later uncovers that Miles is responsible for the graffiti; he confesses that Rabbit is the spirit of his daughter who died in the Boxing Day Tsunami along with her mother Louise. Miles has been haunted by visions of Rabbit for months and undergoes psychiatric evaluation, resulting in prescribed medication. Rabbit vanishes when Miles takes his medication but reappears when he discontinues it.

As Miles attempts to hide his visions, he faces suspension from school following an outburst. Rabbit forewarns him of danger threatening Elijah Johnson (Jay Laga'aia), Leah Patterson-Baker (Ada Nicodemou), and a group of schoolchildren during an excursion due to a damaged gas main. Acting on this warning, Miles saves them by forcing open a locked door.

The storyline culminates with Miles seeing an apparition of Louise at the beach; Rabbit intervenes to prevent him from joining his mother and then disappears into the ocean.

A reporter from the Daily Record commended Rabbit for injecting mystery into Home and Away, describing the series as "terrific" since her arrival. The episode depicting Miles’ farewell to Rabbit earned the Australian Writers' Guild Award for "Best Episode in a Television Serial" in 2010, credited to writer Sam Meikle.

Mink Carpenter

Mink Smith (previously known as Carpenter), portrayed by Matylda Buczko, made her first appearance on 1 February 2010. Buczko, who shared an agent with Luke Mitchell, relocated to Sydney to pursue her acting career. While Mitchell quickly landed the role of Romeo Smith, Buczko initially auditioned unsuccessfully for a goth character before being cast as Mink, a professional surfer and Romeo's sister. To authentically embody a pro surfer, she enhanced her fitness regimen and took surfing lessons. She made a brief return in November 2011.

Mink is depicted as a talented surfer recently released from juvenile detention for an unspecified offense. Buczko characterized her as both spirited and vulnerable, having been separated from Romeo for several years and seeking him upon arrival. The media described Mink as a "mysterious" and "stroppy surf chick," combining attitude, street savvy, and a concealed gentle nature. She reappears a year later asking Romeo for money.

Upon arriving in Summer Bay to locate Romeo, it is revealed that Mink accepted responsibility for killing their abusive stepfather to shield their mother, Jill. Xavier Austin offers her accommodation with his family. Mink steals money from Xavier’s brother Hugo but returns it after Romeo confronts her. She shares a kiss with Xavier and confides in his former girlfriend Ruby Buckton. Although upset when Xavier discloses her history to others, she ultimately forgives him before departing.

Mink returns the following year borrowing $2,000 from Romeo, causing friction with his wife Indigo Walker. She enters a surfing competition but performs poorly and nearly drowns. Fellow competitors disclose that Mink has been competing while intoxicated and struggling with Ménière’s disease, which ends her competitive surfing career. After Indigo invites her to stay, Mink leaves quietly, leaving a note for Romeo.

Elijah Johnson

Elijah Johnson, played by Jay Laga'aia, first appeared on 11 February 2010 as a local reverend introduced as a potential romantic interest for established character Leah Patterson-Baker (Ada Nicodemou). Laga'aia’s casting was announced in November 2009. Although he departed the show in 2010, he returned briefly after Nicodemou advocated for his comeback. Laga'aia described Elijah as an unconventional clergyman who is often mistaken for a rugby player due to his casual attire. In February 2012, it was reported that Laga'aia had completed filming the previous year. Despite his role, Elijah received only nine percent of votes in an Inside Soap poll ranking favorite television clergymen.

Justin Jefferies

Justin Jefferies, portrayed by Matthew Walker, debuted on 19 March 2010 as the brother of established character Aden Jefferies (Todd Lasance). Walker filmed his initial scenes alongside Marilyn Chambers (Emily Symons), which he regarded as a valuable opportunity to work with a respected actress.

Producers considered offering Walker a contract to develop Justin into a recurring character after being impressed by his performance.

Justin arrives after being found injured and disoriented; he recovers but has limited recollection beyond a car accident. Reconnecting with Aden, he reveals he is serving in the army and encourages Aden to enlist—an idea Aden rejects due to their grandfather Stan’s abusive history. It later emerges that Justin was responsible for the fatal accident that killed their father, Larry (Paul Gleeson). After initially attempting to conceal the death, Justin admits the truth, which leads both brothers to face conspiracy charges. They are ultimately acquitted following defense by Morag Bellingham (Cornelia Frances), and the case is dismissed. Afterwards, Aden and Justin leave for the city without informing anyone.

Jill Carpenter

Jill Carpenter, brought to life by Josephine Mitchell, made her first appearance on 14 May 2010. Mitchell, who had previously appeared on the show in 1990 as Jane Holland, was confirmed for this role on 8 March 2010. Jill is portrayed as a "high functioning alcoholic," consuming alcohol throughout the day while attempting to sustain a semblance of normality. To authentically represent the effects of alcoholism on Jill’s conduct, Mitchell undertook thorough research into the condition.

Characterized as "flirtatious" and "fun-loving," Jill arrives in Summer Bay carrying money from a life insurance settlement following the death of her abusive husband, which she frequently spends on alcohol. Her main goal is to reconnect with her son, Romeo Smith (Luke Mitchell). Although Romeo cares deeply for her, he is often embarrassed by her behavior and yearns for stability, effectively taking on a parental role in their relationship.

The narrative focuses on the complicated bond between Jill and Romeo amid her struggle with alcoholism. After experiencing romantic rejection from John Palmer (Shane Withington), Jill relapses into drinking. Romeo blames himself for not encouraging her relationship with John, which leads to tension and contributes to Jill’s depression. Seeking guidance, Romeo turns to Irene Roberts (Lynne McGranger), who has personal experience with addiction. As Jill’s drinking persists, Romeo ultimately distances himself, urging her to confront the consequences independently.

Upon arriving in Summer Bay, Jill attempts to reach out to Romeo but faces rejection after he finds an unopened letter from her. He becomes upset over her use of his stepfather’s life insurance money and grows more distressed when locals bring home a drunken Jill. She offers Romeo $50,000 as a gesture of reconciliation, but he declines. Jill relies on John and Irene for support, which causes tension with Gina Austin and strains Romeo’s relationship with Gina’s son, Xavier Austin (David Jones-Roberts). Jill commits to attending an AA Meeting, which pleases Romeo; however, she departs the bay the following morning.

Penn Graham

Penn Tiberius Graham, enacted by Christian Clark, first appeared on 14 June 2010. His casting was announced on 7 June 2010, introducing Penn as a "mysterious stranger" who quickly garnered attention in Summer Bay. Originally scheduled to travel to Los Angeles, Clark accepted the role after reviewing the scripts, describing Penn as "the epitome of cool" with a compelling personality.

Penn’s ties to Summer Bay stem from his father. He was depicted as possessing a "sexual fire" combined with enigmatic confidence, making him both alluring and unpredictable. Clark explained that Penn’s distinctive coolness came from his uninhibited nature, drawing inspiration from iconic figures such as James Dean and Steve McQueen.

Before Penn’s arrival, it was revealed that he would enter into a relationship with Nicole Franklin (Tessa James). Clark emphasized their immediate chemistry and Nicole’s vulnerability as central elements of their interaction. In October 2010, Penn became involved in a mystery when he disappeared under suspicious circumstances following disputes with locals; blood found in his hotel room raised concerns about foul play.

His storyline involved dating Nicole while secretly seeing Hayley Doven (Bonnie Sveen), which generated conflict. Penn caused trouble by framing Colleen Smart for theft and creating discord by implying that Sid Walker still harbored feelings for Nicole. After being evicted from the Caravan Park, Penn escalated tensions by hiding a syringe that injured Nicole, triggering an HIV scare. Despite apologizing, Nicole ended their relationship.

Following an assault that led to hospitalization, suspicion initially fell on Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher), but Penn later revealed others were responsible. It was disclosed that Penn was Tulip O'Hare's son and had a complicated past involving Alf’s affair with Tulip and her subsequent suicide—events that fueled Penn’s vendetta against Alf. After Penn disappeared and blood was discovered in his hotel room, his body washed ashore weeks later.

Alf was briefly detained due to threats made against Penn but was released after Will Smith (Zac Drayson) confessed to stabbing Penn in self-defense; Daria Hennessy (Samantha Tolj) assisted in disposing of the body. Nicole later gave birth to Penn's son, George.

Penn’s storyline left a lasting impression; Holy Soap noted his memorable connection with Nicole, while media described him as a "mysterious, nasty newcomer." His murder investigation was notably extended and featured among Channel 5's "Top 20 Aussie Soap Moments of 2011."

April Scott

April Scott, brought to life by Rhiannon Fish, made her first appearance on 15 June 2010. Fish was cast in May 2010 and began filming soon thereafter. April is depicted as "worldly, intelligent, and quick-witted," embodying a lively and passionate nature. She maintains a multifaceted yet supportive bond with her elder sister, Bianca (Lisa Gormley).

Bianca Scott

Bianca Scott, portrayed by Lisa Gormley, debuted on 9 July 2010. Gormley landed the role shortly after completing her studies at the National Institute of Dramatic Art. Bianca was introduced as April’s sister, characterized by confidence and feistiness that conceals a gentler side. She arrives in Summer Bay to heal from a recent heartbreak and subsequently embarks on a relationship with Liam Murphy (Axle Whitehead). Gormley’s performance led to a long-list nomination for Most Popular New Female Talent at the 2011 Logie Awards.

Paulie Rosetta

Paolo "Paulie" Rosetta, enacted by Ryan Johnson, first appeared on 24 August 2010. His arrival was announced shortly before he appeared on-screen. Paulie is the younger sibling of Angelo Rosetta (Luke Jacobz), catching Angelo off guard when he unexpectedly shows up in Summer Bay. Their strained relationship originates from Paulie having caused a fire at their parents’ restaurant, an incident for which Angelo took responsibility and was subsequently excluded from the family business. Although Paulie inherited the restaurant, he has faced considerable challenges managing it.

Johnson described Paulie as a "starry-eyed dreamer" whose rash decisions frequently land him in trouble, often requiring Angelo's intervention. Angelo remains suspicious of Paulie's intentions, particularly when Paulie attempts to flirt with his girlfriend, Charlie Buckton (Esther Anderson). Paulie's appearance brings to light deeper problems, including owing $30,000 to loan sharks.

Upon arriving, Paulie is mistaken for a food critic by Irene Roberts and Colleen Smart. He confides in Angelo about his financial troubles. Despite his own monetary difficulties, Angelo agrees to assist him, while Charlie offers an illegal loan that angers Angelo. Loan sharks threaten to set fire to Angelo’s restaurant if debts remain unpaid. The brothers gamble at the races—winning the initial bet but losing the next. Paulie’s decision to use the family business as collateral prompts Angelo to confront their parents, who agree to clear Paulie's debts. Following ongoing disputes, the siblings reconcile, with Angelo driving Paulie back to the city.

Mitzy Fraser

Mitzy Fraser, played by Helen Dallimore, made her debut on 3 September 2010. Mitzy is a psychic who forms a friendship with Marilyn Chambers (Emily Symons) during Marilyn’s cancer battle, offering spiritual support after foreseeing Marilyn’s death. Her "bleak predictions" cause friction with Marilyn’s partner, Sid Walker (Robert Mammone). Dallimore described Mitzy as Marilyn’s closest friend from London and a solitary figure due to skepticism surrounding her psychic claims.

Mitzy later suffers a fatal stroke following a confrontation regarding her dubious forecasts. On her deathbed, she tells Marilyn that she fabricated the predicted date of death but gives Sid conflicting information. Yvette Chegwidden of TV Week labeled Mitzy as "kooky."

Upon arriving at Summer Bay House, Mitzy reveals she knows when Marilyn will die, though Sid dismisses this claim. She offers cryptic counsel to Romeo Smith (Luke Mitchell) and attempts to deter Dexter Walker (Charles Cottier) from pursuing Marilyn, even kissing him to establish boundaries. Mitzy’s prophecy deeply unsettles Marilyn, leading Sid to ask her to stop interfering in Marilyn’s life.

After becoming ill, Mitzy confides she has lung cancer and subsequently collapses. Sid diagnoses an inoperable brain tumor giving her only weeks to live and accuses her of deceiving Marilyn before withdrawing as her physician. Mitzy admits some predictions were fabricated but insists others are accurate. Marilyn overhears this confession and confronts Mitzy, culminating in Mitzy suffering a stroke and eventually dying while providing contradictory statements about her predictions.

Vittorio Seca

Prince Vittorio Seca, brought to life by Richard Brancatisano, made his first appearance on 17 September 2010. Brancatisano had previously appeared in Home and Away during 2002 and 2007. Vittorio is an Italian royal and the former fiancé of Bianca Scott (Lisa Gormley), who left Australia following his infidelity while in Italy. His arrival in Summer Bay is driven by a desire to seek Bianca’s forgiveness and rekindle their relationship, leading to a romantic rivalry involving Bianca and Liam Murphy (Axle Whitehead). A reporter from the Sunday Mercury described Vittorio as a "charming gentleman" who was always at Bianca's service.

Although initially rejected, Bianca ultimately agrees to marry Vittorio. He cautions Liam to keep his distance, convinced that Bianca still harbors feelings for Liam. However, on the wedding day, Bianca abandons Vittorio at the altar after realizing her true love is Liam. Vittorio attempts to coerce her into staying, but Romeo Smith (Luke Mitchell) intervenes before he departs from Summer Bay.

Daria Hennessy

Daria Hennessy, portrayed by Samantha Tolj, was introduced on 30 September 2010 under the pseudonym Shandi Ayres. As the plot unfolds, it becomes clear that her actual name is Daria. Tolj characterized her as "straightforward," "kind-hearted," and a carefree hippie who embraces life one day at a time. Daria arrives in Summer Bay searching for her father and quickly catches the attention of local men, including Angelo Rosetta (Luke Jacobz).

She embarks on a short-lived romance with Miles Copeland (Josh Quong Tart), described as an eccentric match due to their mutual beach-inspired, philosophical mindsets. Later, it is uncovered that Daria is a con artist masquerading under her friend Shandi's identity. She deceives John Palmer (Shane Withington) into believing she is his estranged daughter and dates Will Smith (Zac Drayson), which causes friction with his daughter Lily.

After departing Summer Bay, Daria is located and apprehended for fraud by Charlie Buckton (Esther Anderson) and Angelo. During interrogation concerning the murder of Penn Graham (Christian Clark), it emerges that Penn assaulted Daria; Will stabbed Penn in defense, and together they disposed of the body at sea.

Others

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Role Description
27 January	Priest	Gary Woods	Officiates at the funeral service for Hugo Austin (Bernard Curry).
1 February	Drunks	Dean Jeffrey	Intoxicated racists assault Hazem Kassir (Ben Kermode) and companions before setting fire to the pier diner.
		Joshua Griffin
3 February	Patrick Grady	Gary Woods	Covers the aftermath of the Australia Day riots; advised to include an interview with Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher) for enhanced reporting.
	Kristina Cantar	Mel Grob
18 February	Nira Kassir	Lenita Vangellis	Mother of Hazem Kassir; invites Leah Patterson-Baker (Ada Nicodemou) and son VJ (Felix Dean) to stay; expresses gratitude to John Palmer (Shane Withington) for aiding Hazem.
8 March–15 April	Britt Hobart	Diana Glenn	Fashion tutor who plagiarizes Nicole Franklin’s (Tessa James) swimwear designs; faces threats of defamation and resigns after students protest.
25 March–13 April	Michael Patton	Jack Campbell	Counsellor for Charlie Buckton (Esther Anderson); misunderstood by boyfriend Angelo Rosetta (Luke Jacobz); prescribes medication to Miles Copeland (Josh Quong Tart) for hallucinations.
21 April–22 June 2011	Bishop Pitt	Danny Adcock	Superior officer to Elijah Johnson (Jay Laga'aia); initially disapproves of Elijah’s relationship with Leah Patterson-Baker, later retracts opposition.
5 May	Louise Copeland	Uncredited	Deceased spouse of Miles Copeland, lost in the 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami; appears in a vision sequence.
27 May–4 June	Killer	Mirko Grillini	Criminal seeking vengeance against Hugo Austin; kidnaps family members; subdued, arrested, then killed by Detective Gordon Eaves.
4–9 June	Gordon Eaves	Lewis Fitz-Gerald	Senior detective investigating Killer; kills him during confrontation; subsequently assaults Hugo Austin and others before being detained.
4–29 June	Lijuan Johnson	Mémé Thorne	Adoptive mother of Elijah Johnson; employs traditional practices to evaluate Leah Patterson-Baker’s suitability, ultimately granting approval.
5–29 June	Song Johnson	Jon-Claire Lee	Adoptive father of Elijah Johnson.
30 June	Gordon Stewart	Ray Meagher	Deceased father of the Stewart siblings; appears in flashbacks revealing an extramarital affair resulting in another child.
	Debra Stewart	Madison Hopkins	Alf Stewart’s younger sister, shown through flashbacks.
	Clown	Troy Carlson	Performer at Alf Stewart's fifth birthday party featuring a ventriloquist dummy that frightens young Alf.

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Role Description

|- ! scope="row" | 8–9 July || Hayley Doven || Bonnie Sveen || Guest at caravan park persuaded by Penn Graham to drop theft charges; dies during childbirth with Sid Walker attending. |- ! scope="row" | 9 July || David Stone || Hamish Briggs || Husband of Hayley Doven; informed by Sid Walker about her death during labor. |- ! scope="row" | 2 September || Councillor Leary || Victor Kline || Approves John Palmer’s water bottle initiative, reallocating funds from Highway to Summer Bay project. |}

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Role Description

|- ! scope="row" | 10–16 September || Tulip O'Hare || Kimberly Hews || Penn Graham’s mother; engaged in an affair with Alf Stewart following his wife’s death; committed suicide after Alf ended their relationship; Penn found her body. |- ! scope="row" | 14–15 September || Emmanuelle || Fifi Box || Host of Fashions in the Field contest; impressed by Charlie Buckton’s conduct, names her winner. |- ! scope="row" | 1–14 October || Adrian Hall || Phoebe Tonkin || Employee at pet store who briefly dates Dexter Walker; leaves mid-date seeking guidance from sister Indigo Walker; later agrees to remain friends. |- ! scope="row" | 18 October–4 November || Alexander Pitt || Marcus Jacometti || Ruby Buckton’s driving instructor who flirts despite having a girlfriend; derogatorily calls Ruby "easy"; forced to apologize following Charlie Buckton's intervention. |- ! scope="row" | 19 October–26 November || Detective Graves ||Eryn-Jean Norvill || Investigates Penn Graham’s disappearance alongside Robert Robertson; briefly dates Dexter Walker to gather information on the murder case. |- ! scope="row" | 1–9 November || Nina Bailey || Clare Bowen || Liam Murphy’s new partner who realizes Liam’s lingering feelings for Bianca Scott and leaves dinner early. |- ! scope="row" | 19–26 November || Joanna Scott || Tara Morice || Mother of Bianca and April Scott; arrives for Bianca’s wedding but blames April after Bianca abandons fiancé Vittorio Seca, taking April back to Europe. |}

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 listed on the Internet Movie Database