Pete Baxter (Neighbours)
| Company type | Television series |
|---|---|
| Industry | Television, Entertainment |
| Founded | March 18, 1985 |
| Founder | Reg Watson (executive producer) |
Area served | Australia |
| Website | www |
Neighbours is a long-running Australian soap opera that debuted on 18 March 1985. This compilation highlights characters introduced during 1987, all of whom were brought in under the guidance of executive producer Reg Watson. The show's third season premiered on 5 January 1987.[1] Notable additions include Harold Bishop, who first appeared in January. February saw the arrival of Bouncer and Henry Mitchell, the latter being the son of established character Madge Mitchell. In March, Fiona Corke made her debut as Gail Lewis, accompanied by Ernie Bourne portraying her adoptive father, Rob. April introduced the businessman Mr. Udagawa. The cast expanded in June with Anne Scott-Pendlebury joining as Hilary Robinson. July featured the introduction of doctor Beverly Marshall, played by Lisa Armytage, alongside characters Gino Rossini and Melanie Pearson, as well as the birth of Jamie Clarke, child of Des and Daphne Clarke. In August, Briony Behets joined the series as Amanda Harris, followed by Russell Crowe's debut as Kenny Larkin in September. October welcomed new characters Sally Wells and Greg Cooper. November introduced athlete Pete Baxter, along with Des and Sally’s father, Malcolm Clarke, and mechanic Tony Romeo.
Harold Bishop
Harold Bishop, played by Ian Smith, first appeared on-screen on 30 January 1987. He departed from the show in September 1991 but returned in October 1996, maintaining a significant presence for over twelve years thereafter. Smith announced his exit in August 2008; following a storyline involving cancer, Harold’s final episode aired on 27 February 2009. The actor later reprised this role in May 2011. Harold’s personality is described as "indecisive, considerate, stuffy and reserved."[2] Smith received several award nominations for his portrayal, including "Funniest Performance" at the Inside Soap Awards in both 2007 and 2008, "Best Actor" in 2008, and additional nods for "Funniest Performance" and "Best Storyline" (for Harold’s cancer arc) in 2009. That same year, he was also considered for the "Most Popular Personality" and "Most Popular Actor" Logie Awards.[3]
Bouncer
Bouncer made his first appearance on 4 February 1987 and remained a part of Neighbours until 12 February 1993, spanning six years on the show. The golden Labrador puppy was specially trained by Luke Hura from a canine talent agency for the series. Remarkably, Bouncer's earnings ranged between $100,000 and $200,000, exceeding the salaries of many human cast members. Among all the characters, his fan cards proved to be the most sought after.
One of the more unusual story arcs involved Bouncer imagining himself marrying Rosie, a neighboring sheepdog owned by Clarrie McLachlan. This storyline received mixed feedback; Anne Charleston (who played Madge Bishop) criticized it as turning the show into something suitable for "three-year-olds."
Thirteen weeks following his final episode, Bouncer passed away from cancer at seven years old. His death triggered a greater volume of fan tributes worldwide than any human actor on the series. Lorna Cooper, editor at MSN TV, singled out Bouncer’s dream sequence as one of Neighbours’ most eccentric moments, later ranking it as the second "strangest" plotline in the show's history.
Henry Ramsay
Henry Ramsay (also known as Mitchell), portrayed by Craig McLachlan, debuted on 19 February 1987 and exited on 23 November 1989. McLachlan earned three Logie Awards for this role, including honors for 'Most Popular Actor' and 'Most Popular Personality'. After Peter O'Brien left his role as Shane Ramsay, producers aimed to introduce a new male lead to attract female viewers. At just 21 years old and with limited acting background, McLachlan won the role of Henry Mitchell following auditions. Originally signed on for six weeks, his character quickly became central to the storyline.
Henry was characterized as street-smart, charismatic, and a ladies' man who carried a criminal record that caused others to be wary of him. His tough exterior was complemented by a playful and humorous nature, earning him the nickname "Punk who turned Hunk." McLachlan described Henry as lively and eccentric.
In the United Kingdom, Henry's departure in 1991 drew an audience of 16.6 million viewers.
Gail Robinson
Gail Lewis (previously Robinson), played by Fiona Corke, first appeared on 11 March 1987 and left on 27 June 2007, with guest appearances in 2005, 2006, and 2007. Corke regarded her time on the show as "an incredible experience," praising its scale and intensity. In 1988, she was one of ten cast members flown to London to perform before Elizabeth II at the Royal Variety Performance. Corke departed Neighbours in 1989 to explore other career opportunities but returned in 2005 to celebrate the show's 20th anniversary. In 2009, Stefan Dennis publicly called for her return.
The BBC identified Gail's most memorable storyline as "Running off with the triplets." Television critic Ruth Deller named Gail as Paul's "most memorable" wife. The Sydney Morning Herald described Gail and Paul's relationship as a compelling and star-crossed romance marked by numerous difficulties.
Rob Lewis
Robert "Rob" Lewis, portrayed by Ernie Bourne, first appeared on 17 March 1987. Known as "a decent ordinary man" and a "mechanical expert," Rob was recognized for his talent in car restoration along with his enjoyment of beer and betting. His standout moment involved arriving intoxicated and causing embarrassment to Gail.
Rob opened his own garage in Erinsborough and lived at Number 22 Ramsay Street with his adopted daughter, Gail. After Gail married Paul Robinson, Rob moved out but stayed within the community. He formed a business partnership with Harold Bishop at the garage; however, their clashing personalities led to tensions, especially after Rob pursued Madge Ramsay. Rob missed Scott Robinson and Charlene Mitchell's wedding due to drinking but later gave Charlene an apprenticeship opportunity at his garage. When accused by Harold of theft, Rob confessed to taking money to pay off gambling debts, prompting Harold to sell his share of the business to Jim Robinson.
Rob faced difficulties when Gail searched for her birth parents. Out of jealousy, he confronted her biological father Ian Chadwick, straining their relationship until Rob apologized and accepted Ian’s involvement in Gail’s life.
Rob eventually fell in love with Gloria Gardner, despite objections from both Gail and Gloria’s son Dean. Their engagement symbolized the blending of their families. However, after Paul discovered Rob had been using stolen car parts to reduce expenses, an intense argument ensued that led to Rob crashing his vehicle during heavy rain. Hospitalized in a coma, Rob briefly regained consciousness to urge Gloria and Gail to support each other before succumbing to cardiac arrest.
Mr Udagawa
Toshiro Udagawa, widely recognized as Mr. Udagawa and portrayed by Lawrence Mah, made his debut on 23 April 1987. He appeared sporadically over a five-year period before returning in 2017.
In 2005, Mr. Udagawa was voted the top character in a BBC poll titled "Top 20 Most Obscure Neighbours Characters." He was described as "an iconic Japanese businessman" who regularly visited Paul Robinson at Lassiter's. His character was distinguished by a reserved yet dignified demeanor, with a subtle but impactful role in the business narrative.
As a client of the Daniels Corporation, Mr. Udagawa engaged in business dealings with Paul Robinson, impressed by the family enterprise led by Rosemary Daniels. Paul used his engagement to Gail Lewis as leverage during negotiations, receiving ceremonial gifts from Mr. Udagawa. Although initially skeptical upon discovering the truth behind Paul's engagement, Gail convinced Mr. Udagawa to finalize the contract with the corporation. When he returned in 1989 partnering with Pacific Bank, Des Clarke endeavored to impress him by learning Japanese but inadvertently caused confusion that Paul later clarified. At a dinner involving Mr. Udagawa and his wife, a mistaken assumption regarding Des's relationship status sparked jealousy in Joe Mangel.
In 1992, Mr. Udagawa briefly met Paul's father, Jim Robinson, but ended the meeting prematurely due to family interruptions. Subsequently, he entrusted Paul with overseeing hotel operations in Hawaii, an offer Paul accepted.
After a 25-year absence, Mr. Udagawa returned to Erinsborough and reconnected with Paul at the motel complex formerly known as the Erins Burrow Motel. When manager Terese Willis falsely informed him of a cancer diagnosis threatening his investment, Paul persuaded Mr. Udagawa to continue his support. Later, he managed the sale of his Lassiter's shares back to Paul, reaffirming his sustained influence in local business affairs.
Hilary Robinson
Hilary Robinson, played by Anne Scott-Pendlebury, first appeared on 25 June 1987. She made guest appearances in 1988 before becoming a regular cast member in 1989 and leaving on 28 February 1990. Scott-Pendlebury reprised Hilary for the show's 20th anniversary in 2005. Her storylines often involved Tax evasion, animal rights, and interfering in neighbours' lives. The entertainment website Lowculture referred to her as "one of the street's most dedicated busybodies" who nevertheless had good intentions. For the 20th anniversary, the BBC ranked Hilary fourth among favourite lesser-known characters, describing her as "constantly irritable and sharp-tongued" yet "extremely humorous." Although she did not live in Erinsborough permanently, Hilary played a crucial role in bringing Jim and Beverly together. In Neighbours: The Official Annual 1991, John McCready and Nicola Furlong observed that Hilary disrupted Sharon Davies's tranquility and noted Scott-Pendlebury’s significant contribution to the series. Inside Soap labeled Hilary Ramsay Street's "uptight resident."
Beverly Marshall
Beverly Marshall debuted on 6 July 1987, originally portrayed by Lisa Armytage. From 16 March 1989 until her exit on 5 September 1990, Shaunna O'Grady took over the role. O'Grady returned for the show's 20th anniversary special in 2005. Beverly was regarded as a "firm favourite among viewers," according to John Kercher’s 1989 publication Neighbours: facts, features, interviews with your favourite TV stars, which also described her relationship with Jim as "compelling." Ruth Deller called Beverly Ramsay Street’s "superdoc," while Lowculture praised her as the "resident exceptional and authoritative Neighbours physician" who created tension between Clive Gibbons and Karl Kennedy. The BBC highlighted Beverly’s most striking moment as delivering a slap to one of her patients.
Gino Rossini
Gino Rossini, brought to life by Joey Perrone, made his first appearance on 22 July 1987 and departed on 31 July of the same year. Perrone was contracted for a brief two-week guest stint; this role marked his acting debut after a career as a professional singer. Gino, an Italian national, arrives in Erinsborough to assist at Daphne Clarke's (Elaine Smith) café, filling in for his ailing chef father. Characterized as carefree and charismatic, Gino tries to charm Mike Young's (Guy Pearce) partner Jane Harris (Annie Jones). Daphne employs him based on his father's recommendations, yet Gino confesses he lacks cooking skills. Once his father recovers, the job offer is extended to him. Gino briefly becomes involved with Melanie Pearson (Lucinda Cowden) before his exit.
Jamie Clarke
James Kingsley "Jamie" Clarke was introduced on 30 July 1987, coinciding with his birth. Initially portrayed by Sarah Jane Dey, Ryder Susman temporarily took over the role in 1989 before Dey returned. Due to issues related to hair length, Dey left the series, and the part was subsequently played by brothers Nicholas and James Mason until 1990. The character made a comeback in 2003, now played by Angus McLaren. Jamie’s prominent story arcs include surviving a car accident that left his mother, Daphne, comatose and returning in 2004 to secure his inheritance.
Melanie Pearson
Melanie Pearson (also known as Mangel), enacted by Lucinda Cowden, first appeared on 30 July 1987 and exited on 24 October 1991. Cowden initially featured in seven episodes in 1987, followed by six more appearances in 1988 before departing to star in The Power, The Passion. After that series ended, she reached out to the Neighbours production team to rejoin the cast. In 2005, Cowden reprised her role as Melanie for the show's twentieth anniversary.
A BBC commentator highlighted Melanie’s defining moment as "proposing marriage to Joe." Ian Morrison, author of Neighbours: The Official Annual 1992, observed that Melanie’s earnest intentions frequently led to unforeseen complications. Katy Moon from Inside Soap lauded Joe and Melanie’s wedding as a modest yet endearing occasion that evoked nostalgia for classic soap operas. A reporter from the Coventry Telegraph labeled Melanie a "soap favourite," describing her as a relatable "girl next door with a loud laugh," whose humorous escapades attracted considerable viewership. Genevieve Hassan of BBC News also recognized Melanie’s distinctive laughter among the series’ most memorable highlights.
Amanda Harris
Amanda Harris, played by Briony Behets, first appeared on 13 August 1987, serving to deepen the backstory of her daughter, Jane Harris. Amanda arrives in Erinsborough after having abandoned Jane to start afresh in Hong Kong. Portrayed as a "glamorous yet aging socialite," Amanda vies for attention with Jane and reveals a manipulative side.
On 31 March 2025, it was announced that Behets would return to the role after nearly four decades. Amanda makes her comeback residing at Eirini Rising retirement community and reconnects with both her daughter and grandchildren, with episodes airing from 23 April 2025.
Amanda’s return is prompted by her mother Nell Mangel’s heart attack; she offers to manage Nell’s home and seeks to rebuild ties with Jane. Observing Jane’s updated appearance, Amanda pressures her to adopt an older style, undermining Jane’s self-esteem while craving attention herself. She clashes with neighbour Madge Ramsay, escalating tensions when Amanda exposes Jane’s dating intentions to Madge’s son Henry. Amanda alienates Jane’s social circle and even slaps Mike Young when confronted about jealousy issues. It is later uncovered that Amanda came back to evade insurance fraud allegations. Nell and Jane request her departure, leading Amanda to return to Hong Kong.
The following year, Amanda refuses Jane’s invitation to Nell’s wedding, drawing criticism from her brother Joe Mangel for her self-centered behavior.
Years later, Amanda relocates to Eirene Rising retirement complex where she is welcomed by staff including Karl Kennedy and Susan Kennedy. Susan learns of Amanda’s connection as Jane’s mother but agrees to keep it confidential at Amanda’s request.
Kenny Larkin
Kenny Larkin, brought to life by Russell Crowe, made his first appearance on 21 September 1987 as a former prison companion of Henry Ramsay (Craig McLachlan). This marked Crowe's initial recurring television role, spanning four episodes. Although hesitant at first, Crowe agreed after reading a pivotal fight scene featuring key cast members. He remarked that his earnings from these episodes exceeded what he typically made in an entire theatre season. Despite rumors in the British press about a possible return in 2005 for the show's 20th anniversary, these claims were later dismissed.
Looking back, Crowe expressed that his brief stint made it unfair to maintain an ongoing association with the series. Media outlets labeled Kenny as a "small-time crook," a "dodgy ex-con," and a "bruiser." Observers noted Crowe’s absence from show memorabilia, underlining his limited involvement with this early character.
Within the plot, Kenny wagers $50 against Henry in a darts game at the Waterhole, using his sister B.B. (Tamasin Ramsay) to cheat and win $100. Subsequently, Kenny memorizes the serial number on a $50 bill to falsely accuse Henry and his mother Madge (Anne Charleston) of short-changing him, which strains relations with Henry’s employer Paul Robinson (Stefan Dennis). After Henry threatens to expose Kenny unless he confesses, Kenny retaliates by revealing Henry’s criminal history to their clients. A confrontation breaks out at Lassiter's, witnessed by Paul, who then bans Kenny from the premises indefinitely.
Sally Wells
Sally Wells, portrayed by Rowena Mohr, first appeared on 15 October 1987 as Des Clarke’s sister and a romantic interest for Henry Ramsay. Mohr was cast during the show's peak audience period and described Sally as an attractive woman who often got her way. The character was eventually removed as producers felt she did not align with new narrative directions. Mohr departed to pursue work in the UK and declined offers to return. Sally’s main storyline centered around discovering she had an unknown brother, Des.
Greg Cooper
Greg Cooper, enacted by Alan Fletcher, debuted on 19 October 1987. Fletcher joined while simultaneously engaged in theatre work, filming over three weeks in a temporary role designed to fill a gap between actors. Greg was introduced as Charlene Robinson’s supervisor at the local garage and had ties to Des Clarke through his deceased brother Colin. Greg disclosed that he accidentally caused Colin’s death during a boxing match following a personal dispute. Although legally exonerated, Greg felt responsible and decided to leave Erinsborough after quitting his job. Fletcher chose not to extend his contract to focus on theatre but returned seven years later as Karl Kennedy, a role he found more fulfilling over time. Greg’s character functioned as a short-term narrative link that indirectly paved the way for Karl Kennedy’s introduction.
Pete Baxter
Pete Baxter, played by Tony Briggs, entered the series on 13 November 1987. Introduced as a schoolmate of Mike Young (Guy Pearce), Pete reconnects with friends Scott Robinson (Jason Donovan) and Charlene Mitchell (Kylie Minogue). Described as a "happy-go-lucky practical joker," Pete is an athlete—reflecting Briggs’ own background—and is portrayed as intelligent and diligent. Briggs became the first Aboriginal actor featured on Neighbours.
Pete starts working at Pacific Bank alongside Des Clarke (Paul Keane), who recognizes Pete’s potential to compete in the 1988 Seoul Olympics. When Pete struggles financially while attending the Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra, local residents organize a fundraiser to support him. Des arranges time off for Pete so he can train at the Institute while Scott Robinson reports on his progress and Mike serves as his photographer. Pete sustains a running injury which he initially conceals but receives medical attention after chaperone Rachel Frazer (Pamela Hawksford) intervenes.
Several weeks later, Pete leaves the Institute prematurely due to his injury. After confiding in Mike and Rachel, Des helps him regain employment at the bank. Scott encourages Pete to aim for either the Commonwealth Games or the next Olympics, but Pete resists and even snaps at Todd Landers (Kristian Schmid) when asked to assist with sports training at Erinsborough High. Eventually, Pete acknowledges his attitude and commits both to supporting the school’s sports program and continuing his athletic training.
Malcolm Clarke
Malcolm Clarke, played by Noel Trevarthen, made his first appearance on 23 November 1987 and departed on 25 November 1988. Depicted as an unreliable parent and solitary figure, Malcolm finds it challenging to fit into family life.[4] He was formerly married to Eileen Clarke (Myra De Groot), with whom he had a son, Des (Paul Keane). Additionally, Malcolm fathered a daughter, Sally Wells (Rowena Mohr), whom he unknowingly abandoned due to her mother Kate keeping the child’s existence secret.[4][5] Sally’s quest to find Malcolm prompts his arrival in Erinsborough, leading to a complicated family reunion.[4]
Trevarthen described Malcolm as "a carpenter" and "a very ordinary bloke who wants to be alone," someone hesitant to engage with his son and grandson until Sally intervenes.[4] Eventually, Malcolm reconciles with Eileen and they plan to remarry. Nevertheless, Eileen’s domineering behavior causes Malcolm to retreat, culminating in him jilting her and abandoning the family once more.[5]
Malcolm’s narrative centers on his estrangement from Des and Eileen, his brief attempts at reconciliation, and subsequent departures. After jilting Eileen, he feels remorse and gifts her a European vacation won through a quiz show. He returns months later accompanied by a new partner, Leanne Sterling (May Lloyd), whose flirtations with Des trigger further tensions. When Leanne’s deception is uncovered, she leaves, and Malcolm sets off on an Australian tour after Des wins him a caravan on a game show.
Tony Romeo
Antonio "Tony" Romeo, portrayed by Nick Carrafa, first appeared on 25 November 1987. Carrafa had previously played Tim Duncan, Danny Ramsay's biological father, in 1985. Tony represented Carrafa’s initial ongoing television role and was the show’s first regular male character of ethnic background.
Tony arrives as the new garage manager, replacing Greg Cooper. Known as a "sex mad mechanic," Tony is a confident womanizer who competes with Henry Ramsay for Sally Wells’ attention. Despite early clashes, Tony and Henry eventually develop a friendship.
To avoid an arranged marriage planned by his mother Elinora, Tony concocts a fake relationship with Jane Harris, enlisting her help in staging photographs. The ruse becomes complicated when Elinora visits, but the situation resolves after a fortune teller advises against Tony’s intended marriage.
Tony invites Sally to live with him; however, their cohabitation falters due to his messiness and unwillingness to contribute to household chores. They negotiate renovations with their landlord that lead to increased rent, which they cover by organizing a group painting project. Tony pursues Jane romantically, though she remains uncertain about her feelings for Mike Young.
After facing rejection, Tony falls into depression and decides to leave Erinsborough. Before departing, he learns that his father has suffered a severe stroke and chooses to accompany him to Perth.
Others
| Date(s) | Character | Actor | Circumstances |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12–15 January | Ralph Drew | William Upjohn | An individual impersonating Reverend Errol Price, claiming acquaintance with Terry Inglis, abducts Helen Daniels. Paul Robinson and Charlene Mitchell pursue and capture him. Ralph, once Terry's boyfriend with mental health struggles, holds Paul responsible for her demise and is taken into custody. |
| 3–10 February | Gerard Singer | Bryan Marshall | Rosemary Daniels’ fiancé who engages in an affair with her mother Helen. To avoid further deceit, he ends their engagement, but Rosemary uncovers the liaison through Gerard’s letters to Helen. |
| 23 February 1987 – 23 August 1988 | Derek Morris | Noel Hodda | A journalist probing Paul Robinson’s history for Disclosure magazine. After Rosemary Daniels acquires the publication to influence coverage, Derek is hired as a troubleshooter at Lassiter's, where he clashes with employees and guests. He suspends Paul and dismisses others, demanding dates as a condition for reinstatement. Revealed as a spy for a competing firm, he departs, allowing Paul to resume his role. |
| 25–26 February | Parnell | Gerard Maguire | A bank thief targeting Des Clarke’s institution. His partner Brody takes Daphne hostage but is subdued by residents. Parnell’s driver Wheels is stopped by Henry Ramsay, resulting in Parnell’s arrest after a confrontation. |
| 25–27 February | Brody | Richard Moss | |
| Wheels | Scott Lucey | ||
| 17 March–1 April | Dean Bartholomew | Burt Cooper | The head chef at Lassiter's who supports Nell Mangel during staff disputes. He organizes a strike and threatens to reveal hotel problems but ultimately endorses Lassiter's during an inspection, aiding its approval. |
| 20 March–5 May | Ivan | Nick Antipos | Appears demanding repayment from Henry Ramsay following a tied bet. Ivan threatens Henry but is calmed by Madge Bishop’s IOU. Later confronts Harold Bishop; Jeremy Lord intervenes to defuse the situation. |
| 30 March–1 April | Bernard Elliott | Ric Hutton | A hotel inspector attending Lassiter's during a travel agents' event. Seeking a favorable review from Paul Robinson, he encounters striking chef Dean Bartholomew through a cover story and ultimately awards the hotel high marks. |
| 6 April–17 October | Allen Lawrence | Neil Fitzpatrick | Daphne Clarke’s estranged father invited to dinner by Des Clarke. Their relationship is initially tense due to past neglect and disappointment over Daphne’s unborn child’s gender. They reconcile upon learning Allen is terminally ill; he revises his will in Daphne’s favor before passing away. |
| 13–15 April | Christine Wilton | Kerry McGuire | An art critic visiting Erinsborough to examine Helen Daniels’ paintings while lodging at Lassiter's. Henry Ramsay assists her, causing misunderstandings with her husband Dennis Wilton. Christine critiques Helen’s artwork; Dennis purchases a portrait before they return to the United States. |
| Dennis Wilton | Randall Berger |
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References
- Howden, Martin. Russell Crowe: The Biography. John Blake Publishing Ltd, 2010. ISBN 978-1782192572.
- Wallis, Neil; Hogan, Dave. The Neighbours Factfile. Angus & Robertson, 1989. ISBN 978-0-207-16382-1.
External links
- Official Neighbours website – Characters and cast
- Cast and characters on the Internet Movie Database
- ↑ "A critical guide to today's programs". The Age. 5 January 1987. Retrieved 12 December 2021 – via Newspapers.com.Template:Free access
- ↑ Monroe, Josephine (1996). Neighbours: the first 10 years. Penguin Group. p. 32. ISBN 0-7181-4212-8.
- ↑ Rowe, Darren (3 May 2009). Digital Spy http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/soaps/s14/neighbours/news/a154765/ian-smith-misses-out-on-gold-logie.html. Retrieved 28 December 2010.
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