Ray Moran

Home and Away

Company type	Television soap opera
Industry	Television
Founded	January 17, 1988 (1988-01-17)
Headquarters	Australia
Area served	Australia

Home and Away is an Australian television soap opera that premiered on the Seven Network on 17 January 1988. This compilation highlights characters introduced during 2006, all under the guidance of series producer Julie McGuaran. The show's nineteenth season was broadcast from 16 January to 1 December 2006. Significant new additions included Amy Mathews as Rachel Armstrong in January, Jessica Tovey taking on the role of Belle Taylor in February, Sam North portraying Dom Moran in April, and Rodger Corser alongside Trent Baines joining as Doctor Hugh Sullivan and Macca MacKenzie, respectively. July featured the arrival of Bobby Morley as Drew Curtis and Chris Sadrinna playing Rachel's sibling Brad Armstrong. In October, Jessica Chapnik made her debut as Sam Tolhurst, accompanied by her son Rory Tolhurst, as well as the Cooper siblings Rocco and Johnny, portrayed by Ian Meadows and Callan Mulvey.

Rachel Armstrong

Rachel Armstrong, brought to life by actress Amy Mathews, first appeared on-screen on 16 January 2006. Mathews departed from the series in 2010 to explore other career opportunities, with her character's husband Tony Holden also being written out. Rachel is characterized by her keen intuition, intellectual sharpness, strong independence, and determination. Mathews described Rachel as sociable and lively, grounded by firm principles yet possessing a romantic nature. In 2007, Mathews earned the Logie Award for "New Female Talent" for this portrayal and was also nominated for "Best Actress" and "Best Couple" at the 2007 Inside Soap Awards. A central storyline for Rachel involved her being held hostage by a cult intent on forcing her to give birth.

Belle Taylor

Susan "Belle" Taylor, played by Jessica Tovey, made her debut on 3 February 2006. Her major story arcs included uncovering the identity of her birth mother, struggling with drug addiction, developing a relationship with Aden Jefferies, and confronting a cancer diagnosis. Tovey exited the series in 2009, which resulted in Belle’s character being written out; her final episode aired on 11 August 2009. Joining Home and Away at just eighteen years old, Belle was Tovey’s first television role.

RTÉ described Belle as a "cheeky, extroverted young girl" molded by a "disciplined and controlling" upbringing that left her yearning for the parental affection she never received. Her parents were dismayed by her rejection of their conservative values.

For her work as Belle, Tovey received multiple award nominations including "Most Popular New Female Talent" at the 2007 Logie Awards and "Most Popular Actress" in 2010. She was also shortlisted for "Sexiest Female" at the 2007 Inside Soap Awards and nominated for both "Best Actress" and "Best Storyline" in 2009 for the drug addiction plotline. The wedding of Belle and Aden in 2010 earned a nomination in the Bride and Doom category at the All About Soap magazine awards. Additionally, Belle’s funeral episode was recognized with an Australian Writer's Guild Award nomination in 2010.

The couple Belle and Aden gained acclaim as one of "Soaps' sexiest couples" by Virgin Media and were voted "Home and Away's Hottest Couple" by fans in a poll conducted by Holy Soap.

Dom Moran

Dominic "Dom" Moran, played by Sam North, was featured on the show from 20 April 2006 until 14 February 2008.

Dom is employed by his uncle Ray (Damien Garvey) at Moran Motors. He is known for playing hazardous pranks on Ric Dalby (Mark Furze), causing injuries on two occasions—once involving battery acid and another time with a defective jack. Dom also targets Ric's girlfriend Belle Taylor (Jessica Tovey) with harassment, which leads to multiple altercations. Ultimately, Ray dismisses Dom, considering him too risky to keep around.

When Dom returns the following year, he supplies Drew Curtis (Bobby Morley) with illicit car components for "The Beast" and participates in drag races alongside local criminal Denni Maitland (Joshua Helman). A race involving Denni tragically results in the death of Lisa Duffy, Lucas Holden's former partner. To avoid capture, Dom steals and sets fire to Drew's vehicle but agrees to assist Drew in clearing his name if Belle kisses him. Although hesitant, Belle complies and later witnesses Dom’s confession, leading to his arrest for theft.

After serving time, Dom kidnaps Belle. Ray warns Drew, who rescues her; during their escape, they injure Dom, who subsequently vanishes. He briefly reappears later, leaving a ring for Belle before collapsing at the diner. Belle rushes him to the hospital; a confrontation with Drew escalates into emergency surgery. To aid his recovery, Belle tells Dom she loves him but later admits to Drew that it was a deception. Dom starts rehabilitation with physiotherapist Sam Holden (Jessica Chapnik), unknowingly encouraged by her in his pursuit of Belle.

Dom takes up work at the diner and mocks Drew for repeating Year 12. Irene Roberts (Lynne McGranger) and Roman Harris (Conrad Coleby) arrange an interview for Dom with Irene’s daughter Finlay (Tina Thomsen) in an effort to separate him from Belle. However, Dom sabotages the chance and departs for the city, promising to return.

Clayton Smales of The Townsville Bulletin criticized North’s portrayal as a "woeful turn," describing Dom as a "flannel-shirted, sparsely bearded Lothario."

Hugh Sullivan

Hugh Sullivan, portrayed by Rodger Corser, appeared between 5 April 2006 and 12 June 2007. In October 2020, Corser was spotted alongside Home and Away cast members in Coogee, prompting speculation about a potential comeback since Hugh's character was never killed off, leaving open the possibility for future appearances.

Hugh arrives in Summer Bay as both a friend and former romantic interest of Rachel Armstrong (Amy Mathews). During Leah Patterson-Baker’s (Ada Nicodemou) separation period, he asks her out but leaves following her refusal. Returning months later, Hugh develops feelings for Rachel, who is now married to Kim Hyde (Chris Hemsworth). He supports Rachel during her marital struggles and organizes a picnic involving Kim. Rachel attempts to set Hugh up with Nurse Julie Cooper (Lisa Hayson-Phillips), but their date proves awkward. After a medical conference where Rachel reveals confusion about her emotions, Hugh moves out and shares accommodation with Martha MacKenzie (Jodi Gordon).

While out one evening with Kim and friends, Hugh meets Ingrid Lynch (Leigh Shorten) but admits he is emotionally unavailable. Rachel confronts him about his unease; he confesses his feelings, which she attributes to their previous living arrangement. Following Rachel’s breakup with Kim after an argument, she stays with Hugh, culminating in a kiss.

Hugh receives a job posting in Johannesburg and gives Rachel an ultimatum: choose to be with him or he will leave. After her hesitation, he departs for South Africa. Several months later, he emails Rachel—now engaged to Tony Holden—but she declines to meet him.

Inside Soap readers favored Hugh over Kim as Rachel’s partner, awarding Hugh 57% of the vote.

Macca MacKenzie

Michael "Macca" MacKenzie, brought to life by Trent Baines, made his first appearance on 7 April 2006 and departed on 23 February 2007.

Macca's narrative primarily revolves around his tumultuous relationship with Cassie Turner (Sharni Vinson), marked by repeated incidents of domestic violence. Baines emphasized the importance of this storyline in raising awareness about abuse, encouraging those affected to seek assistance beyond their immediate environment.

Upon arriving in Summer Bay, Macca is introduced as the brother of Martha MacKenzie. He quickly forms a friendship with Cassie and supports her boxing training efforts. Although Martha expresses concerns regarding his previous conduct with women, Macca takes on a courier position and commits to maintaining a long-distance relationship with Cassie. Returning earlier than expected, he rents an apartment above the Beachside Diner but struggles with the demanding hours of his job, which leads him to start using drugs. When Ric Dalby uncovers this habit, Macca admits that drug use is common among his colleagues but continues nonetheless. Cassie confronts him about his substance abuse and endures escalating violence, culminating in injuries fueled by his jealousy.

Following a confrontation initiated by Sally Fletcher, Macca turns himself in to the police and seeks help. Although barred from attending Martha's wedding, he plays a crucial role in rescuing an injured Jack during an explosion but becomes trapped beneath debris himself. After discharging himself from the hospital, he participates in a search for missing friends, managing to save Ric despite sustaining injuries before ultimately leaving Summer Bay.

Several months later, having completed counseling, Macca rekindles his affair with Cassie despite her reconciliation with Ric. After a violent altercation with Ric and subsequent eviction from the caravan park, Macca briefly stays with Amanda Vale but declines her romantic advances. Presented with an office job opportunity in the city, he plans to move there with Cassie. However, Cassie returns to Summer Bay amid ongoing local conflicts involving Sally and Ric. When she refuses to leave, Macca assaults her once more and subsequently surrenders to authorities.

Drew Curtis

Drew Curtis, portrayed by Bobby Morley, first appeared on 7 July 2006 and exited on 21 March 2008. Prior to joining the series, Morley featured in Angels with Dirty Faces and was cast after being noticed by talent scouts. Although older than the character he played, Morley was selected for the role of Drew and relocated from Melbourne to Sydney for filming commitments. He admitted feeling initially anxious adapting to the rapid pace of production. Morley departed Home and Away at the close of 2007 and later described his experience as being treated like a "meat puppet" due to frequent scenes requiring him to be shirtless.

The official Home and Away website characterized Drew as a "brooding" individual carrying significant emotional baggage. Morley's performance earned him a nomination for "Most Popular New Male Talent" at the 2007 Logie Awards. Critics referred to Drew as a "teenage tearaway" and a "bad-boy heart-throb," highlighting his appeal among younger viewers.

Brad Armstrong

Bradley "Brad" Armstrong, played by Chris Sadrinna, appeared from 11 July 2006 until 13 November 2007. Introduced as a source of support for Sally Fletcher (Kate Ritchie) following the death of her husband Flynn Saunders, Brad's storyline encompassed both personal loss and professional difficulties. The tragic passing of his mother, Elaine, compelled Brad to assist his sister Rachel (Amy Mathews) and oversee Elaine's funeral arrangements.

As principal of Summer Bay High, Brad faced numerous challenges including managing conflicts among students and staff. His wife Emily Vincent (Libby Richmond) succumbed to leukaemia shortly after their intimate beach wedding, deepening Brad’s bond with Sally through shared grief. His leadership was tested when Naomi Preston (Tiffany Preece) falsely accused him of misconduct, resulting in his temporary suspension.

After Sally accepted Brad's marriage proposal but later called off their engagement, he endured personal disappointments while maintaining strong connections within the Summer Bay community. Brad survived a dangerous storm at sea alongside other key characters and uncovered family complexities when he and Rachel discovered their father Robert had another daughter, Tamsyn, born from an extramarital affair. Taking responsibility for Tamsyn’s care impacted Brad’s career trajectory.

Ultimately, Brad chose to move to Tasmania, inviting Heather McCabe and Tamsyn to accompany him—marking his departure from Summer Bay.

Sadrinna received nominations for Best Newcomer and Best Couple (alongside Ritchie) at the 2007 Inside Soap Awards. The episode depicting their wedding won an Australian Writers Guild award in 2008, while the “lost at sea” installment earned a nomination for Best Single Episode at the 2008 Digital Spy Soap Awards.

Rocco Cooper

Rocco Cooper, played by Ian Meadows, appeared on screen from 11 October 2006 until 6 February 2007. He enrolls at Summer Bay High with encouragement from Sally Fletcher (Kate Ritchie), who persuades principal Brad Armstrong (Chris Sadrinna) to overlook concerns about Rocco's gang affiliations. Through his commitment, Rocco gains their confidence, and Sally offers him accommodation.

Rocco's elder sibling, Johnny (Callan Mulvey), exerts pressure on him to stay involved in gang-related activities, threatening lethal consequences if he tries to leave. After providing Johnny with an alibi for vandalism, the brothers continue committing offenses until Rocco betrays Johnny by notifying the police about a staged Credit Union robbery. Following Johnny's arrest, he visits Rocco in prison and commands him to kill Sally or face death himself. Under coercion, Rocco stabs Sally but spares her life.

In response, Johnny escalates his threats toward Rocco. When Sally recalls the assault, her foster son Ric Dalby (Mark Furze) confronts Rocco, who then reaches out to Johnny for protection. Ric later finds Rocco severely beaten; after several days in a coma, Rocco dies. His burial is unmarked and attended only by Sally, Brad, and a guarded Johnny. Ric is initially imprisoned for the murder but is released once Johnny's culpability is revealed.

This narrative arc received a nomination for "Best Storyline" at the 2007 Inside Soap Awards.

Sam Holden

Sam Holden, portrayed by Jessica Chapnik, made her first appearance on 17 October 2006. Chapnik was cast unexpectedly and departed in 2008 to seek career opportunities in the United States. She described Sam as a "misunderstood" figure burdened by self-hatred and tragedy, whose downfall was unavoidable. The complexity of Sam's character presented Chapnik with challenges in rationalizing her decisions.

According to Eleven Magazine, Sam caused considerable upheaval in Summer Bay, while Scott Ellis of the Sun-Herald referred to her as a "murderous psycho."

Johnny Cooper

Johnny Cooper, enacted by Callan Mulvey, debuted on 19 October and exited on 25 March 2008. Mulvey earned nominations for "Best Bad Boy" at the Inside Soap Awards in consecutive years, 2007 and 2008, for this portrayal.

Rory Tolhurst

Rory Holden (originally Deeks, formerly Tolhurst) was featured from 20 October 2006 through 14 April 2008, initially portrayed by Ed Willis and subsequently by Jack Rickard.

Introduced via his mother Sam Holden's relationship with Jack Holden, Rory quickly developed a close bond with Jack, who assumed a fatherly role following Sam’s abduction and eventual exit from Summer Bay. Upon her return, Rory was kidnapped by his estranged father Shane Deeks, who was killed during a police pursuit. Rory was found unharmed and grew closer to Jack thereafter.

Academically gifted, Rory advanced directly into Year 7 but encountered bullying until Aden Jefferies intervened in exchange for Rory manipulating ballot papers in a school election. After being discovered, Rory received detention. He also faced difficulties on a school excursion when he and Annie Campbell became lost but were eventually found.

Rory enthusiastically celebrated Jack and Sam’s engagement but became emotionally withdrawn after Sam was attacked by Johnny Cooper and later died. Holding Jack responsible for her death, Rory distanced himself from him.

For his performance as Rory, Ed Willis received a Digital Spy Award nomination in 2008.

Others

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Circumstances
24 January–28 February	Rebecca Tate	Janneke Arent	Previously affiliated with The Believers cult under Mumma Rose's leadership. Robbie Hunter locates her after his wife Tasha becomes involved with the cult. Rebecca exposes Mumma Rose's intention to designate her as "The Chosen One" through impregnation by Mumma Rose’s son, Jonah Abraham. After being abducted and confined, she pretends to comply in order to free Tasha and Jonah, then notifies authorities before vanishing.
15 February–22 March	Brian Helpman	John Noble	Senior physician at Northern Districts Hospital who subjects Rachel Armstrong to harassment, escalating from inappropriate contact to blackmail concerning her relationship with Kim Hyde. Rachel files a complaint with CEO Geoff Olivetti.
22 February–2 March	Judge Gilroy	Elizabeth Gentle	Oversees Alf Stewart’s fraud case, delivering a sentence of nine months imprisonment following a guilty verdict.
2 March–13 April 2012	James Gibson	Richard Sydenham	Prosecutor representing the police during Alf Stewart's trial and provides legal advice to Angelo Rosetta regarding settlements. Also participates in trials related to Casey Braxton’s arson and Sasha Bezmel’s murder.
2 March–5 July 2009	Geoff Olivetti	Barry Quin	Chief Executive Officer at Northern Districts Hospital responsible for managing investigations into harassment accusations against Brian Helpman and malpractice complaints involving Rachel Armstrong. Suspends Rachel pending investigation and oversees staff disciplinary matters.
21–26 April	Robert Armstrong	John Gregg	Estranged father of Rachel and Brad Armstrong who returns as Regional Director of Emergency Services. He endorses Rachel for Junior Registrar and is involved in a past car accident that caused their mother’s amnesia. Attempts to pressure Rachel into providing testimony to avoid litigation but is refused and subsequently estranged.
21 April–5 November 2007	Ray Moran	Damien Garvey	Proprietor of Moran Motors garage who employs Ric Dalby and later Drew Curtis. Handles workplace conflicts including those stemming from nephew Dom Moran’s misconduct and coerces Ric into illegal fights as part of a scheme.
25 April–20 June	Elaine Armstrong	Julie Hudspeth	Mother of Rachel and Brad Armstrong suffering from severe amnesia following a car crash caused by Robert Armstrong. Later dies due to injuries sustained in a gas explosion at a wedding.
5 May–1 June	Doris McKinnon	Julie Herbert	Elderly woman cared for by her granddaughter Charlie McKinnon and Rachel Armstrong. Takes expired medication resulting in cardiac arrest and death; her passing significantly affects Charlie’s mental health.
5 May–6 June	Charlie McKinnon	Matt Levett	Grandson of Doris McKinnon who develops an intense attachment to Rachel Armstrong and Kim Hyde. Exhibits obsessive tendencies culminating in the abduction of Rachel; later committed to psychiatric care.
11 May–28 November	Lee Morton	Natasha Lee	Teenage mother impregnated by science teacher Steve Braeburn. Gives birth to son Joe, initially leaves him with Rachel Armstrong before reclaiming custody. Leaves Summer Bay following relationship difficulties.
23 May–20 June	Tracey Thompson	Sarah Enright	Police detective assisting with a stalking case; later unveiled as an accomplice of antagonist Eve Jacobsen. Dies in a gas explosion during a wedding event.
5 June–23 March 2007	Kitty Landsdowne	Geraldine Turner	Mother of Amanda Vale who claims she has cancer while concealing family secrets about Amanda’s daughter Belle Taylor. Engages in financial extortion before departing Summer Bay.
6 June–11 September	Evan Rice	Matthew Starling	Police constable at Yabbie Creek implicated in framing Drew Curtis under duress; charged with arson and bribery offenses.
15 June	David Taylor	Mark Pegler	Adoptive father of Belle Taylor demanding payment from Kitty Landsdowne to keep adoption confidential; confronted and rejected by Belle.
23 June–17 July	Colin Page	Shane Withington	Helicopter pilot responsible for transporting key individuals to the burns unit; experiences a crash caused by adverse weather conditions, temporarily stranding the group.
13–19 July	Steve Braeburn	Sam Lyndon	Science teacher who impregnates student Lee Morton; attempts coercion for abortion and is arrested after his kidnapping attempt is thwarted.
3 August–1 May 2008	Betty Allsop	May Turner	Acquaintance of Colleen Smart involved in local social activities such as aerobics classes and bowls tournaments, including a minor cheating incident.
3 August–5 September	Tara O'Neill	Cashelle Dunn	"Gym patron at the surf club who falsely accuses Kim Hyde of sexual assault in an attempt to gain attention from her police officer father; later confesses the allegation was fabricated."

External links

• Cast and characters on the Official Australian Home and Away site
• Cast and characters on the Official UK Home and Away platform
• Cast and characters at the Internet Movie Database