Rex Avent

Home and Away is a long-running Australian soap opera that premiered on the Seven Network on 17 January 1988. This compilation focuses on characters who were introduced in 2009, all under the guidance of executive producer Cameron Welsh. The show's 22nd season was broadcast from 19 January until 27 November 2009. Initial new characters included Gina and Hugo Austin in January; February saw the arrival of Robert Cruze, Trey Palmer, Freya Duric, and Joey Collins. In March, Liam Murphy and John Palmer were introduced, followed by Lachie Cladwell and David Gardiner in April. The character May Stone made her debut in June. July featured the birth of Harry Holden alongside the arrival of the Walker family members—Sid, Dexter, and Indigo. Detective Robert Robertson appeared in August, with Romeo Smith being added in September.

Gina Austin

Gina Austin, played by Sonia Todd, made her first appearance on 27 January 2009 and exited the series on 18 April 2013. The official series website depicts Gina as a devoted mother who has encountered difficulties with her children yet remains steadfast and nurturing. She is portrayed as a warm, down-to-earth individual who places her family’s needs above her own ambitions. Todd emphasizes Gina’s role as a mother to three sons as central to her character development.

Hugo Austin

Hugo Austin, brought to life by Bernard Curry, first appeared on 27 January 2009. He departed on 26 January 2010 but returned briefly on 6 May 2010 before leaving again on 9 June 2010. Curry, who had previously acted on competing soap Neighbours, described his time on Home & Away as the most rewarding role he has undertaken, noting both the character’s appeal and complexity. Hugo is depicted as an active, outdoors-loving individual with a fit appearance and sun-kissed skin.

Robert Cruze

Robert "Robbo" Cruze, portrayed by Aidan Gillett, made his debut on 1 February 2009. Robbo was employed aboard a boat alongside Aden Jefferies and Joey Collins, frequently targeting Joey with hostility due to her sexual orientation. His antagonism escalated into sexual assault, which Joey initially concealed out of fear but ultimately reported. Despite Robbo’s denial and involvement of his former partner Tanya Gannon in the investigation, his aggression culminated in an attempted attack on Joey that was prevented by Charlie, leading to Robbo’s arrest. He was charged and did not return to the storyline.

Trey Palmer

Trey Palmer, enacted by Luke Bracey, first appeared on 9 February 2009. While his looks suggest an "angelic" demeanor, Trey quickly became known for his "mischievous conduct," sparking significant viewer attention. His presence incited conflict, particularly with characters such as Geoff Campbell (Lincoln Lewis) and Nicole Franklin. A major plotline involved Trey recording a sex tape with Nicole that was subsequently leaked—paralleling a real-life incident involving Lincoln Lewis. Joe Brett from Holy Soap described Trey as a "volatile wolverine."

Arriving in Summer Bay as a student, Trey engaged in bullying behavior toward locals including Jai Fernandez (Jordan Rodrigues) using racist insults and disrupted school activities. He frequently clashed with Geoff Campbell and had confrontations with his stepfather, John Palmer. Trey also harbored animosity toward Miles Copeland but showed romantic interest in Kirsty, who rejected him and reconciled with Miles. After attempting to assault Kirsty, Trey filed charges against Miles that led to Miles's suspension; however, these charges were eventually withdrawn.

Trey's conduct showed brief improvement when he grew closer to Nicole Franklin; their relationship progressed to dating and eventually becoming intimate. They recorded a sex tape together, which Trey leaked out of spite, causing Nicole public humiliation. His hostility intensified when he hijacked a school bus during an excursion, revealing he had planted an explosive beneath it. Although most students escaped unharmed, Hugo Austin sustained serious injuries from the blast. Trey was apprehended for attempted murder.

Freya Duric

Freya Duric, played by Sophie Hensser, made her first appearance on 10 February 2009.

In 2009, the show featured two lesbian narratives, one of which involved Nicole Franklin (Tessa James) and included a scene where Freya kisses Nicole, leading to viewer complaints. James explained their connection: "Freya embodies the persona Nicole had when she first came to the bay, which is why they get along so well." The kiss from Freya serves to demonstrate her attraction to Nicole, prompting Nicole to recognize that she has become dull.

Freya arrives with the intention of reigniting a romance with Xavier Austin. Although he initially resists due to his relationship with Ruby Buckton, Freya successfully seduces him. Gina cautions Xavier against Freya, yet they persist in their relationship as Freya causes disruptions around town. She becomes involved in drug distribution in Summer Bay, persuading Xavier to sell at Summer Bay High. After a confrontation with Nicole, Freya kisses her openly, irritating Geoff who accuses her of plotting. Manipulating Xavier further, Freya later kisses his brother Hugo without realizing Xavier is watching. Hugo ends things with her; seeing no future, Freya departs swiftly.

Joey Collins

Joey Collins, portrayed by Kate Bell, first appeared on 12 February 2009.

To enhance viewership, producers developed Joey’s storyline focusing on her evolving relationship with Charlie Buckton (Esther Anderson). Over five weeks, the narrative explored their growing friendship and romance, including intimate moments. Executive producer Welsh remarked that Joey was well-received and hinted at a possible return.

Joey works aboard a boat alongside Aden Jefferies and Robbo Cruze. Robbo harasses her and eventually sexually assaults her, threatening to keep it secret. She confides in Aden and Belle Taylor, who encourage her to report the incident. Despite Robbo’s denial and lack of support from her brother Brett, Charlie assists in pursuing charges after Robbo’s ex Tanya files a complaint but is struck by a car before she can testify. Robbo tries to drown Joey but Charlie intervenes and subsequently kisses Joey.

Their covert relationship encounters homophobic opposition within the community. Charlie grapples with her sexuality and professional duties while Joey endures ongoing difficulties. Ultimately, Joey leaves tearfully for another job opportunity.

Liam Murphy

Liam Murphy, enacted by Axle Whitehead, debuted on 5 March 2009. Whitehead, a musician and presenter, earned the role through auditioning; Liam was originally intended for fifteen episodes. Whitehead described Liam as a "bad boy rocker" and incorporated his personal experiences into portraying the character’s drug use.

Brendan Austin

Brendan Austin, portrayed by Kain O'Keeffe, arrived on 25 March 2009. Introduced following the Austin family’s arrival, Brendan has a developmental disability that causes tension between his brothers Xavier and Hugo. He comes to Summer Bay with his mother and is revealed to have autism. Xavier had been Brendan’s main caregiver, creating friction with Hugo. Initially shy around others, Brendan begins socializing after encouragement from Ruby Buckton, Xavier’s girlfriend.

While under Martha MacKenzie’s supervision, Brendan runs away several times, including an incident where he throws a brick at Roman Harris's car causing an accident that blinds Roman. Recognizing Brendan’s limited culpability, Roman chooses not to press charges. Brendan’s fear of blue cars stems from witnessing a previous accident involving Hugo.

Later, Brendan introduces his girlfriend Ruby Leeds, who has Down syndrome—distinct from Ruby Buckton. After rescuing Xavier from drowning despite his own challenges, Brendan earns Gina’s approval to move into supported accommodation and attend a special education facility. He briefly returns believing Hugo has died; however, Hugo survives. Following Gina’s death in 2013, Brendan is noted as too distressed to attend her funeral.

John Palmer

John Palmer, brought to life by Shane Withington, made his first appearance on 27 March 2009 as the stepfather of Trey Palmer. Withington, who had previously gained recognition for his role in A Country Practice, joined the cast of Home and Away in a recurring capacity. The character was characterized as a "strict father" figure and was involved with the local surf lifesaving club.

Claudia Hammond

Claudia Hammond, portrayed by Alexandra Park, entered the storyline on 10 April 2009. She became romantically involved with Geoff Campbell and later revealed she was expecting a child. A pivotal plot point involved Claudia and Geoff being trapped in a caravan fire after an intimate encounter, which underscored Geoff’s internal struggle with his religious beliefs.

Series producer Cameron Welsh highlighted the intricacies of Claudia’s pregnancy narrative, particularly her initial dishonesty regarding the identity of the father. When Lachie sustains injuries inflicted by Geoff, Claudia experiences feelings of guilt. Actor Lincoln Lewis remarked that Claudia’s influence contributed to Geoff’s personal growth.

Claudia joined Geoff in working on the farm, where their relationship blossomed into dating and intimacy. Following the fire incident, Lachie held Geoff responsible. Claudia disclosed her pregnancy but initially denied that Lachie was the father, since their relationship had ended prior to her departure. Lachie sought to reconcile but was turned down.

As tensions mounted between Geoff and Lachie, Geoff’s aggressive football tackle left Lachie apparently paralyzed. Overcome with remorse, Claudia admitted that Lachie was indeed the father, leading to Geoff expelling her from his life. After Lachie reacted violently, Claudia refused to reunite with him and denied him access to their child. She then relocated to live with her cousin in Dubbo.

Lachie Cladwell

Lachie Cladwell, enacted by Jackson Heywood, first appeared on 4 May 2009 as the former boyfriend of Claudia Hammond (Alexandra Park). Their intermittent relationship ended when Claudia developed feelings for Geoff Campbell (Lincoln Lewis). Lachie returned in an attempt to win Claudia back but eventually agreed to leave her be. Upon Claudia’s pregnancy announcement, she initially claimed Lachie was not the father. After a violent confrontation between Geoff and Lachie resulted in Lachie’s hospitalization and possible paralysis, Claudia revealed that Lachie was the biological father. Despite Lachie's aspirations for family unity, Claudia rejected him and departed Summer Bay.

The Daily Record observed that Geoff’s bottled-up frustration was unjustly targeted at Lachie throughout this storyline.

David Gardiner

David "Gardy" Gardiner, played by Jeremy Sims, featured from 13 May until 10 June 2009. His portrayal received acclaim from the Sydney Morning Herald for effectively conveying menace, while the Daily Record labeled him a "villain" despite his charismatic demeanor.

Gardy infiltrates the household of his blind military comrade Roman Harris (Conrad Coleby), causing distress for Roman’s daughter Nicole Franklin (Tessa James) and her friend Ruby Buckton (Rebecca Breeds). Following a violent altercation involving local residents, Gardy resorts to extreme measures in an attempt to restore Roman’s eyesight. Once Roman regains vision, Gardy coerces him into robbing a liquor store, an act that triggers a heart attack in an elderly woman. Gardy then threatens to implicate Roman in the crime and escalates matters by taking hostages at the Palmer family home.

It emerges that Gardy is blackmailing Roman over a wartime shooting incident. Gardy forces Roman into participating in a warehouse robbery in Mangrove River under duress. During this heist, a confrontation breaks out resulting in gunfire; Roman is injured but manages to overpower Gardy with help from Hugo Austin (Bernard Curry). Though wounded, Gardy escapes and vanishes from Summer Bay, bringing his criminal storyline to a close.

May Stone

May Stone, played by Alin Sumarwata, made her first appearance on 12 June 2009 as a new educator at Summer Bay High. She quickly enters into a romantic relationship with Angelo Rosetta, who is secretly involved with Charlie Buckton. Esther Anderson, the actress behind Charlie, mentioned that although Charlie partly aimed to stir conflict, Angelo remained drawn to her and they ended up sleeping together. The Daily Record remarked that Angelo might have shown more consideration toward May, who was visibly upset following their breakup.

May adapts to life in Summer Bay and starts dating Angelo. When Angelo realizes his feelings for Charlie persist, he sleeps with her and attempts to keep this hidden. Once May becomes serious about Angelo, their relationship ends when she discovers the truth. Feeling deeply hurt, May resigns from her teaching position and promptly leaves the area.

Harry Holden

Harry Jack Holden, the son of Rachel Armstrong and Tony Holden, was introduced on 30 July 2009, portrayed by various child actors. After his birth, Rachel struggles with Harry’s incessant crying and feelings of isolation. At one point, she contemplates smothering him but ultimately seeks assistance. When Jane Avent falsely accuses Rachel of neglect and abducts Harry, a police search is launched. Harry is eventually found safe and returned to his parents.

In August 2010, Harry moves to Boston alongside Rachel and Tony, making a brief stop at his half-brother Jack’s gravesite before departing.

Sid Walker

Sid Walker, portrayed by Robert Mammone, first appeared on 30 July 2009 under a five-week guest contract. Owing to favorable viewer reactions, Sid, along with Indigo and Dexter, was reintroduced as a permanent character in June 2010.

Dexter Walker

Dexter Walker, originally portrayed by Tom Green beginning 30 July 2009, was recast with Charles Cottier in 2010 when the character returned. Cottier noted changes in Dexter’s personality and chose not to watch Green’s earlier portrayal. A significant storyline involved Dexter’s romance with Marilyn Chambers (Emily Symons), which Cottier found simultaneously awkward and thrilling due to their considerable age gap.

Indigo Walker

Indigo Walker, played by Samara Weaving, also debuted on 30 July 2009 as part of the newly introduced Walker family—Sid, Jody (Victoria Haralabidou), Dexter, and Indigo. The family exited the show in September 2009 but made a comeback in June 2010. Weaving expressed relief that this return allowed her to better balance her acting career with academic commitments.

Robert Robertson

Robert Robertson, brought to life by Socratis Otto, first appeared on 2 August 2009. Created by James Walker for a murder plotline, Robertson was intended to inject humor into darker story elements by combining wit with energy. Walker described him as a "chameleon" adept at deception to involve numerous characters in investigations. Otto drew inspiration from his comedic skills and eccentric detective dramas, calling Robert "one of the most fantastic roles" he has undertaken. The Daily Record described Robertson as "ruthless," highlighting concerns voiced by characters like Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher).

Robertson is a detective assigned to investigate the murder of Grant Bledcoe, Ruby Buckton’s (Rebecca Breeds) biological father. Initially suspecting Ruby’s mother Charlie, he later discovers that her father Ross (David Downer) confessed. An eccentric yet capable officer, Robertson briefly dates Leah Patterson-Baker (Ada Nicodemou), but she declines further involvement.

He returns to examine the disappearance of Penn Graham (Christian Clark), collaborating with Detective Graves (Eryn Jean Norvill) and focusing suspicion on Alf as the main suspect. Despite multiple arrests, Robertson fails to gather conclusive evidence. He renews his pursuit of Leah romantically; however, she refuses due to lingering feelings for her ex-partner, Elijah Johnson (Jay Laga'aia). Robertson coerces Will Smith (Zac Drayson) into implicating Alf, leading to Alf’s arrest. Nevertheless, Morag Bellingham (Cornelia Frances) exposes Will as dishonest, forcing Robertson to release Alf and charge Will instead. Feeling conflicted, Robertson confides in Leah about losing his sense of self; she reassures him that errors are part of being human. Offered a promotion requiring relocation to the city, he invites Leah and her son to join him, but Leah declines.

Romeo Smith

Romeo Smith, played by Luke Mitchell, made his first appearance on 10 September 2009. Mitchell obtained this role shortly after moving to Sydney without employment. Romeo is depicted as charming, witty, confident, and courteous. His immediate family on screen includes his sister Mink Carpenter (Matylda Buczko) and mother Jill Carpenter (Josephine Mitchell). After his relationship with Annie Campbell, Romeo’s notable romantic involvement is with Indigo Walker (Samara Weaving).

Additional Characters

23–28 April Ash Murphy Dusty Piper Son of Liam and Chelsea Murphy. 1–2 June Jenena PalmerAnna Lise Phillips Mother to Trey Palmer and spouse of John Palmer. 13 June–13 July Clint MailerMatt Zeremes Rugby coach who pressures Aden Jefferies into undermining Geoff Campbell’s career. 14 July–18 August Jane AventFelicity Price Mother mourning a stillbirth; directs blame toward Rachel Armstrong, resulting in harassment and kidnapping events. 14 July–18 August Rex AventSandy Winton Jane Avent’s husband; initially defends her but recognizes her need for assistance. 14 July–26 January 2010 Wayan Rahardjo Dorje Swallow Hospital patient who does not speak English, connected to a human trafficking investigation. 20–21 July Paul Thomas Norrie Briefly appears as an extra. 23 July–18 August Squirt Ben Davy-Thorburn Friend and coworker of Aden Jefferies; attends Aden’s stag party. 29 July-27 November Marine Officer Bryant Michael Sutherland Water police officer working with Angelo Rosetta on a human smuggling case. 30 July–17 August 2011 Jody WalkerVictoria Haralabidou Spouse of Sid Walker; attempts reconciliation but departs following infidelity; returns for family visit. 20 August MichelleMichelle Pettigrove Aunt to Charlie Buckton; confirms Ruby Buckton’s maternity through information provided. 24 August–8 July 2010 Therese Rose Ashton Nurse involved in workplace disputes following a relationship with Sid Walker. 28 August–11 September Andy McLeod Paul Winchester Parent group member offering parenting advice to Rachel Armstrong; friendship causes strain in Rachel’s marriage. 28 August–11 September Sophia McLeod Madeline Andrews Daughter of Andy McLeod diagnosed with hearing impairment by Rachel Armstrong. 1–16 September Grant BledcoeClayton Watson Biological father of Ruby Leeds accused by Charlie Buckton of rape; later found murdered, with Ross Buckton confessing the crime. 8 September Tracey Bledcoe Mary Anne Byrne Wife of Grant Bledcoe, shocked by accusations against him. 15 September–1 March 2012 Patrick Avery Clayton Williams Police constable involved in multiple cases, including bailing Sid Walker on assault charges. 18–22 September Ruby Leeds Tracie Sammmut Brendan’s girlfriend who supports his independence by moving him into sheltered accommodation. 18 September Pheobe Alisha Burton Brief acquaintance of Jai Fernandez. 30 September Jim Mark Richardson Hotel manager appearing briefly. 1 October–27 January 2010 Bambang Rahardjo Joft Prastowo Son of Wayan Rahardjo, assists Martha MacKenzie on the farm and serves as bait in Angelo Rosetta’s trafficking investigation. 3 October–26 January 2010 Suzy Sudiro Tasneem Roc Ex-wife of Hugo Austin involved in human smuggling ring; kidnaps Martha MacKenzie for ransom before being subdued by Charlie Buckton. 6–17 November Riley Radcliffe Tani Edgecombe School bully targeting VJ Patterson, leading to police intervention after assaults involving his father Ian Radcliffe. 6–17 November Ian Radcliffe Ben Simpson Father covering up son’s bullying behavior, assaults Riley causing injury, later uncovered by police investigation. 9–24 November Poppie Merrin Elouise Blair Learns guitar from Liam Murphy, causing relationship difficulties due to rumors and Liam’s drug possession arrest. 17–24 November Reg Merrin Dane Carson Manager at The Sands who hires Aden Jefferies but terminates him after misunderstandings at formal dance involving daughter Catie Merrin. 18–24 November Catie MerrinTess Haubrich Daughter of Reg Merrin who arranges a date with Aden Jefferies and causes complications leading to Aden’s dismissal at the formal event. 19–23 November Orson CardilloMark Lee Longtime gardener for Donna De Bono implicated in planting a gun that leads to Donna’s imprisonment; suffers heart attack during police inquiry. 20 November Bonita Cardillo Suzi Dougherty Wife of Orson Cardillo advocating his innocence amid accusations related to Donna De Bono’s case. 25 November–18 February 2010 Hazem KassirBen Kermode Dates Leah Patterson-Baker until he is assaulted in a racially motivated attack causing paralysis; ends relationship and relocates to the city. 26 November Prison Guard Joe Tarena On duty during Derrick Quaid’s attempted escape from custody.

Appearance Date(s)	Character Name	Portrayed By	Character Overview
30 January	Bank manager	Christopher Saunders	Detects unauthorized attempt by Bridget Simmons to access Leah Patterson-Baker’s bank account.
30 January–6 October	Don Gibson	Steve Anderson	Works on boats engaged in illegal abalone harvesting; tries to implicate Aden; supplies information about Hugo.
2–6 February	Steve Hogan	Damien Freeglass	Police officer conducting inquiries in Summer Bay.
3 February	Lawyer	Blair Cutting	Legal counsel representing Angelo Rosetta.
4 February–25 January 2010	Lou De Bono	David Roberts	Dates Irene Roberts; dies at sea; Irene initially suspected but later exonerated.
9–10 February	Archie Maddock	Tim Phillipps	Homeless individual who protects Melody Jones and informs Miles Copeland of her whereabouts.
10 February	Thug	Zen Ledden	Attacks Melody Jones and Archie Maddock.
19 February	Mryll Ramsay	Kim Hillas	Resident who initially refuses interview to safeguard an elder care facility; persuaded by Melody Jones.
19–25 February	Audrey Long	Wendy Playfair	Melody Jones’ grandmother who passes away from a stroke.
3–19 March	George	Benjamin O'Donnell	Participant in a speed dating event; has a brief interaction with Leah Patterson-Baker.
9 March–29 July	Brett Collins	Toby Levins	Older brother of Joey Collins; confronts issues related to her sexuality and family conflicts.
16 March–26 January 2010	Derrick Quaid	John Atkinson	Villain involved in human smuggling; assaults Geoff Campbell and Nicole Franklin; apprehended alongside Hugo Austin and Suzy Sudiro.
19 March–13 November	Jerry Thibault	Nicholas Cassim	Employer of Belle Taylor at a newspaper; affair influences workplace relations.
19 March	Tanya Gannon	Hayley McCarthy	Ex-partner of Robert Cruze who lodges a complaint; suffers a hit-and-run shortly after arrival.
20 March	Paula Gill	Paula Arundell	Belle Taylor’s coworker; involved in an affair with Jerry Thibault and bullies Belle over addiction struggles.
23 March–23 November	Donna De Bono	Suzie MacKenzie	Estranged spouse of Lou De Bono; attempts to implicate Irene Roberts in Lou’s death.
23 April	Chelsea Murphy	Georgia Gorman	Wife of Liam Murphy; endures media attention due to Liam’s drug problems; divorces and moves to Paris with son Ash.

External links

• Present cast and characters on the Official Home and Away platform
• Present cast and characters at Holy Soap