Rhonda O'Mara

Home and Away

Company type	Television series
Industry	Television drama
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. This compilation highlights characters introduced during 2011, all under the guidance of series producer Cameron Welsh. The show's twenty-fourth season began broadcasting on 24 January 2011. In February, the Braxton siblings—Darryl, Heath, and Casey—made their initial appearances. April saw the arrival of Miranda Jacobs and Kieran Monroe, followed by Marty Jones in June, and Tegan Callahan in July. Actor Fletcher Humphrys joined the cast as gang member Jake Pirovic. August introduced several new faces including Harvey Ryan, Hammer, Stu Henderson, and Sasha Bezmel. September featured Shane Emmett as Mark Gilmour, with lawyer Hayley O'Connor appearing in October.

Darryl Braxton

Darryl "Brax" Braxton, brought to life by Steve Peacocke, made his debut on 16 February 2011. His casting was revealed on 9 January 2011. Peacocke described the audition experience as highly enjoyable. Brax is the eldest among three brothers collectively known as The River Boys, a surf gang notorious for their rebellious image. Despite his tough exterior and a "chip on his shoulder," he is also recognized as a surfing icon who commands significant respect, which he skillfully uses to his advantage. Peacocke explained that Brax is motivated to overcome his difficult past and establish a stable family environment. He works hard to shield his younger siblings, Heath (Dan Ewing) and Casey (Lincoln Younes), from trouble. Shortly after arriving in town, Darryl began a romantic relationship with Charlie Buckton (Esther Anderson). For his portrayal of Brax, Peacocke received the Logie Award for Most Popular New Male Talent in 2012.

Heath Braxton

Heath Braxton, portrayed by Daniel Ewing, first appeared on screen on 16 February 2011, exited on 29 July 2014, and returned briefly on 23 September 2014. The second eldest of the Braxton brothers, Heath was initially depicted as a figure feared by both law enforcement and local residents of Mangrove River due to his volatile temper. He was the first River Boy character to be announced, with Ewing’s casting disclosed on 24 September 2010. This marked Ewing's second role in Home and Away, having previously played Reuben Humphries in 2007. To prepare for this part, Ewing enhanced his physical fitness, acknowledging that producers likely favored actors with a strong athletic build for surfer roles. He also noted relief that surfing skills were not tested during his audition.

Casey Braxton

Casey Braxton, enacted by Lincoln Younes, made his first appearance on 17 February 2011 and departed on 16 September 2014. As the youngest of the Braxton brothers, Casey was characterized as someone striving to distance himself from the River Boys’ infamous reputation and had previously been expelled from another high school. Younes had originally planned to travel to London but changed course after securing the role and moved to Sydney instead. Casey has been described as a contemporary Rebel Without a Cause, grappling with finding his identity while living in the shadows of his older brothers. He later becomes romantically involved with Ruby Buckton (Rebecca Breeds) following her brief relationship with Romeo Smith (Luke Mitchell).

Miranda Jacobs

Miranda Jacobs, played by Ashley Cheadle, made her first appearance on 6 April 2011. She comes to Summer Bay to take part in the Surf Carnival and soon starts a romantic relationship with Xavier Austin.

Cheadle, who is a professional surfer, joined Home and Away to portray a love interest for one of the main characters. Her character Miranda breaks away from the usual surfer image seen in Summer Bay. During the Surf Carnival, Miranda competes against Ruby Buckton (played by Rebecca Breeds), with both actresses performing their own surfing stunts. Miranda’s storyline also involves influencing Xavier Austin’s development as a person.

Miranda and Xavier have a brief relationship that begins after he delivers pizza to her house and attends a party there. She initially assumes he is a university student but later finds out he is still attending school. Although Xavier deceives her, Miranda gives him another chance but ends things when his dishonesty continues.

In the Surf Carnival, Miranda wins the race by knocking Ruby Buckton into the water amid intense competition. Xavier stands up for Miranda when she is accused of cheating. The length of Miranda’s presence on the show was not specified.

Kieran Monroe

Kieran Monroe, portrayed by Andrew Hazzard, first appeared on 6 April 2011 in a recurring capacity on Home and Away. Introduced as a romantic interest for Indigo Walker, Kieran’s relentless pursuit gave him an unsettling reputation.

Hazzard described Kieran as driven by achievement, determined to succeed at university and build a future focused on farming and family life. Despite his direct approach, Kieran felt mistreated by others. His immediate attraction to Indigo motivates his actions, including attempts to impress her family and confront her ex-boyfriend, Romeo Smith, whom he sees as a rival.

Although Kieran displays a "dangerous streak," Hazzard stressed that he is not truly malicious. Even when Kieran forcefully tries to take Indigo from a public setting, his intentions are portrayed as protective rather than harmful. The actor described Kieran as "lovesick," with emotions leading him to act irrationally.

Kieran’s plotline revolves around persistent efforts to connect with Indigo—sending messages, asking her out, and assisting her despite her reluctance and Romeo’s warnings. This culminates in a tense scene where he attempts to coerce Indigo into his car before Romeo intervenes.

Media outlets characterized Kieran as "freaky," labeling him a stalker and an "intense suitor," emphasizing his disturbing behavior around Indigo.

Marty Jones

Marty Jones, played by Matty Lui, first appeared on 27 June 2011. Lui landed the role following an audition held in Hawaii. A five-time Hawaiian surf champion, Lui’s real-life surfing experience was woven into Marty’s character background. During filming, Lui also taught co-star Samara Weaving how to surf.

The characters Roo Stewart, Romeo Smith, and Indi Walker travel to Hawaii for a tourism event where Marty is introduced as Roo and Romeo’s business associate. Indi manages to win Marty over but turns down his job offer. Marty supports Indi and Romeo’s marriage while they are in Hawaii and assists Roo in recognizing her true feelings for Sid Walker, encouraging her to pursue that relationship.

Tegan Callahan

Tegan Mary Callahan, portrayed by Saskia Burmeister, made her debut on 4 July 2011 as the former partner of Darryl Braxton (Steve Peacocke), intent on rekindling their relationship. Announced in April 2011, Burmeister described Tegan as a "mischievous," cunning figure, differing significantly from her previous roles. For this part, she lightened her hair to blonde, and her on-screen sister, Martika Sullivan, was introduced concurrently.

Tegan arrives in Summer Bay under the directive of Darryl's mother to scrutinize his lifestyle. Despite their past, Darryl remains suspicious of her motives, particularly after uncovering her plan to interfere with his relationship with Charlie Buckton. Tegan intensifies conflicts by confronting Charlie about their secret affair, issuing threats, and later disclosing her involvement with Jake Pirovic, who is entangled in local disputes.

With Heath Braxton's help, Tegan becomes involved in drug smuggling and briefly rekindles a romance with Darryl, which Charlie eventually uncovers. She claims Darryl fathered her daughter Darcy but later confesses that Heath is actually the biological parent. Following a series of confrontations and a car crash amid a storm, Tegan is hospitalized. Before succumbing to her injuries, she admits to tipping off Hammer about Darryl and Charlie's relationship.

Harvey Ryan

Harvey Ryan, brought to life by Marcus Graham, first appeared on 10 August 2011. Originally intended as a short-term guest role, Graham extended his tenure through 2012 after expressing enthusiasm for continuing. Harvey is depicted as an adept sailor and boating expert who operates a fishing charter business in Summer Bay. Known for his affable demeanor and "down-to-earth boatie charm," he quickly becomes embroiled in local commercial rivalries, notably clashing with Romeo Smith over clientele and mooring disputes.

Graham wrapped up filming mid-2013, with his departure described as cordial; he remained open to possible future appearances. Harvey’s narrative involves business conflicts, local council politics, and intricate personal relationships. After accusing Romeo of vandalism and client poaching, Harvey escalates matters by reporting Romeo and Alf Stewart for illegal mooring use, eventually securing the mooring spot himself. During an important investor trip, a storm causes Harvey’s boat to sink; he subsequently partners with Alf to merge their resources.

Harvey embarks on a romantic relationship with Roo Stewart, though their partnership faces obstacles stemming from business tensions and past involvements. He successfully campaigns for a council seat and blocks a proposed resort development but later confronts accusations of election fraud that lead to his resignation, community service, and fines. Financial difficulties compel him to sell his home; he moves in with Roo and his daughter Lottie—introduced through ex-wife Melissa Gregg. A custody dispute arises when Mel seeks specialized treatment for Lottie in the city following the death of their son Ben.

Harvey proposes marriage to Roo; they wed and jointly manage the caravan park. Together they become guardians to teenage runaways Maddy Osborne and Spencer Harrington. After disappearing mysteriously during a fishing trip with close friend Winston Markman, Harvey returns emotionally affected. Feeling alienated from Summer Bay and Roo, they divorce amicably, allowing Harvey to depart while maintaining a supportive relationship with Spencer.

Jake Pirovic

Jake Pirovic, played by Fletcher Humphrys, made his debut on 22 July 2011 and exited on 23 January 2012, returning briefly in 2014. His co-star Tai Hara (Andy Barrett) characterized Jake as a dubious character who provides Andy with a sense of belonging, although he ultimately leads him toward destructive choices.

Jake commands a surf gang that rivals the River Boys and is romantically involved with Tegan Callahan (Saskia Burmeister). During a drug bust, he is apprehended alongside Heath Braxton (Dan Ewing) but is subsequently released. Jake demands the return of drugs from Heath’s brother Darryl (Steve Peacocke) and retaliates by abducting their younger sibling Casey (Lincoln Younes) and Ruby Buckton (Rebecca Breeds). Brax returns the drugs to secure their freedom; however, after noticing some are missing, Jake stabs him. Following this, Jake is detained and imprisoned. His brother Hammer (Benedict Samuel) takes over leadership of the gang but is fatally shot by Charlie Buckton after a botched kidnapping attempt. Upon release, Jake avenges Hammer’s death by killing Charlie and engages in violent clashes with Brax before being re-incarcerated.

Two years later, Jake reemerges as the head of a drug trafficking group to whom Andy Barrett owes money. He orchestrates assaults on Casey and Denny Miller (Home and Away) (Jessica Grace Smith) and kidnaps Josh along with Evie MacGuire (Philippa Northeast) to coerce Andy. Holding Brax responsible for Hammer’s demise, Jake manipulates Andy into aiding his vendetta against Brax. When Andy refuses to cooperate further, Jake abducts Josh once more. A rescue attempt results in Casey being shot by Jake, leading to Casey’s death.

Unremorseful, Jake’s actions provoke Brax to seek vengeance. During a high-speed chase, Brax collides with Jake’s vehicle, causing severe injuries. Jake is hospitalized in a coma; it is later disclosed that he was transferred from prison to a low-security psychiatric institution after being found not criminally responsible for shooting Charlie.

Brax attempts to terminate Jake’s life support but is arrested in the process. Subsequently, Andy clandestinely disconnects Jake’s life support, causing his death.

Hammer

Harman "Hammer" Pirovic, portrayed by Benedict Samuel, made his first appearance on 22 August 2011. Announced on 30 July 2011, Hammer is affiliated with a gang opposing the River Boys and acts as the enforcer for his brother Jake's faction. Despite his slim frame, Hammer embodies the role of a formidable tough guy described as "a big, hard guy with plenty of attitude," loyally backing his brother’s leadership.

When Jake is incarcerated, Hammer takes command of the gang and intensifies hostilities against the Braxton brothers. Upon discovering that Heath Braxton turned informant leading to Jake’s early release, Hammer threatens and physically assaults Heath. The gangs retaliate through vandalism and arson, escalating into violent encounters that prompt police intervention. Hammer’s group also attacks Stu Henderson, forcibly removing one of his tattoos.

Hammer extends his criminal intimidation tactics to law enforcement figures such as Charlie Buckton (Esther Anderson). Following the death of Tegan Callahan—Jake’s girlfriend—Hammer warns Brax of dire consequences and targets Charlie as a means to inflict pain on Brax. Although suspected in a shooting involving Charlie, Hammer denies any involvement.

At Tegan’s funeral, Hammer demands that Brax relinquish control over his territory and further escalates tensions by kidnapping Charlie. The conflict culminates when Charlie fatally shoots Hammer during their confrontation.

Stu Henderson

Stuart "Stu" Henderson, brought to life by Brenton Thwaites, made his first appearance on 23 August 2011. Soon after moving from Cairns to Sydney, Thwaites landed this five-month recurring role on Home and Away, describing the experience as highly educational and praising the encouragement from his fellow cast members. Stu's character played a pivotal role in a major plotline throughout the year.

Stu becomes part of the River Boys, a group known for stirring unrest in the Bay. His arrival intensifies existing tensions, particularly sparking a violent feud with Hammer’s faction. This rivalry escalates when Stu's "Blood & Sand" tattoo is forcibly removed, igniting further hostility that culminates in a gang fight.

The storyline follows Stu’s tumultuous relationship with Sasha Bezmel, marked by domestic abuse and complicated family issues. After several confrontations, Stu ends up hospitalized due to an attack by Sasha’s father, Alan Henderson (portrayed by Peter Phelps). The plot reaches a climax when Alf Stewart discovers Stu’s lifeless body near the caravan park, prompting a police inquiry.

The investigation uncovers that Sasha killed Stu in self-defense during an argument that resulted in his accidental death. It also comes to light that Dennis Harling moved Stu’s body to the caravan park. Eventually, Sasha is cleared of all charges.

Stu’s storyline explores themes such as youth gang involvement, domestic violence, and judicial repercussions, aligning with the show’s strategy to captivate audiences through intense drama and multi-dimensional characters.

Sasha Bezmel

Sasha Bezmel, played by Demi Harman, first appeared on 31 August 2011. Although Isabelle Cornish initially auditioned for the role, Harman was ultimately cast and relocated from Brisbane to Sydney to join the series. Sasha is introduced as the fifteen-year-old illegitimate daughter of Sid Walker (Robert Mammone). Following her mother’s fatal car accident, she moves to Summer Bay to live with her father and half-siblings. Harman described Sasha as "sassy, angry, stubborn and rebellious." The official show profile depicted her as uncontrollable, mischievous, and fiercely independent—traits typical of a teenager at risk of undermining her own future. For this portrayal, Harman earned a nomination for "Most Popular New Female Talent" at the 2012 Logie Awards.

Mark Gilmour

Mark Gilmour, portrayed by Shane Emmett, appeared in a recurring guest capacity from 22 September to 13 October 2011. Emmett, brother of the late Home and Away actress Belinda Emmett, acknowledged the emotional challenge of joining a series closely connected to his sister’s legacy. Mark is introduced as the affluent boyfriend of Gypsy Nash (Kimberley Cooper), but he faces resistance from her daughter Lily Smith (Charlie Rose Maclennan), who struggles to accept a new parental figure. During his stay in Summer Bay, Mark proposes sending Lily to boarding school—a suggestion Gypsy opposes. Their relationship deteriorates further after Lily reveals Gypsy’s one-night stand with Liam Murphy (Axle Whitehead), leading Mark to confront Liam and Gypsy ultimately ending their romance.

Hayley O'Connor

Hayley O'Connor, played by Alyssa McClelland, made her debut on 10 October 2011. Prior to this role, McClelland had appeared in Home and Away portraying Brooke MacPherson.

Hayley serves as the legal representative for Casey Braxton (Lincoln Younes) and stands by his brother, Darryl "Brax" (Steve Peacocke), throughout his incarceration. Peacocke characterized Hayley as "shrewd," identifying her as someone who capitalizes on Brax’s vulnerable state. Brax’s partner, Charlie Buckton (Esther Anderson), grows suspicious and jealous over a perceived connection between Hayley and Brax. Peacocke remarked on the "mystery" surrounding Hayley’s true motives within Summer Bay. The official Home and Away website noted the demanding conditions McClelland faced during filming, including scenes shot in a bikini amid cold, windy weather at Palm Beach. McClelland reprised her role as Hayley on 30 April 2012.

Within the narrative, Hayley defends Casey against arson allegations, though he is ultimately found guilty and sent to Juvenile Detention. She then misleads Charlie into believing she is romantically involved with Brax, creating tension between them. After spending a night with Brax, Hayley later provides an alibi for him during a robbery inquiry but eventually admits to fabricating her statement before departing Summer Bay. She returns when Heath Braxton (Dan Ewing) hires her to prevent Bianca Scott (Lisa Gormley) from leaving town with his child. When Brax confronts Hayley about Charlie’s death, she admits to setting him up and facilitating Jake Pirovic (Fletcher Humphrys)’s release due to struggles with drug addiction. Although Brax blames her for Charlie’s demise, he ultimately allows her to leave.

Others

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Context
24 January – 5 October	Judge/Magistrate Hanson	Rhett Walton	Presides over Alf Stewart's trial; sentences Casey Braxton to juvenile detention.
24 January	Clerk	Anthony Milne	Court clerk appearing during Alf Stewart's hearing.
27 January – 21 November	Summer Horgan-Jones	Jaimee Taylor-Nielsen	New student at Summer Bay High; involved in social interactions and a cycling accident; flirts with Casey Braxton.
27 January – 25 January 2012	Jase McKenzie	Nick Bartlett	Bully targeting VJ Patterson and others; engaged in local disputes and harassment.
31 January, 5 October–19 November 2013, 19 May 2014, 17 March 2015 – 5 May 2016	Constable Nader/Neal Stevenson	Michele-Antonio Mattiuzzi	Police officer managing various cases including noise complaints, robbery probes, and custody matters.
31 January–1 February, 18 August–7 October 2014	Shandi Ayres	Elizabeth Blackmore (2011), Tess Haubrich (2014)	Daughter of John Palmer; involved in identity theft storyline; returns for John's wedding.
1 February	Park Worker	Peter Cridland	Accepts bribe from Angelo Rosetta to enable contact with Daria.
1 February	Lifesaver	Christian Miranda	Beach lifeguard collaborating with John Palmer.
2 February	René Lisle	Akos Armont	April Scott's French friend appearing via webcam.
9 February	Stephanie	Jacinta Acevski	University guide providing reassurance to pregnant students.
9 February	Simone Bollen	Angela Bauer	University lecturer advising Nicole Franklin on academic workload during pregnancy.
9 February	Evan	Ryan Oliver Gelbart	University student who briefly dates Nicole Franklin but ends relationship upon learning of her pregnancy.
18–21 February	Rick	Curtis Oakes	Member of River Boys involved in prank kidnapping of Dexter Walker.
18 February–20 June	Pee Wee	Ty Hungerford	Rick’s accomplice in kidnapping Dexter; participates in party disturbances and failed drug deal aboard Romeo Smith's boat.
21 February–31 May	Brodie Upton	Guy Edmonds	River Boys member linked to harassment, cannabis cultivation, and hostage situations; seeks Darryl Braxton's assistance to avoid legal consequences.
23 February–31 May	Emily Logan	Madison Kerry	Summer Bay student known for teasing peers; briefly dates Romeo Smith; contracts chlamydia from him.
23 February–26 March 2012	Rob Mitchell	Matty Burn	River Boy causing disturbances at Surf Club; involved in vandalizing election posters and monitoring Romeo Smith's business activities.
25 February – 15 March	Leo	Haydn Robertson	River Boy associated with core gang activities.
24 February – 4 April	Grace Johnson	Clare Chihambakwe	Arrives with son Thabo and husband Elijah Johnson under sham marriage for immigration purposes; faces personal loss and legal challenges.
24 February – 21 March	Thabo Manthenga	Joshua Mbakwe	Grace Johnson's son who undergoes critical surgery; befriends VJ Patterson before succumbing to complications post-operation.
2 March 2011 – 15 December 2016	Cheryl Braxton	Suzi Dougherty	Mother of Darryl, Heath, and Casey Braxton; involved in family matters including Heath's marital issues.
10 March	Bill Lawson	Ian McPhee	Contacted by Charlie Buckton for information regarding Darryl Braxton.
10 March	Cameron Sangster	Jo Turner	Lawyer representing Darryl Braxton negotiating charge dismissals through Charlie Buckton.
14 March – 2 June	Keith Irwin	Alan Lovell	Leader of victims of crime group attended by Colleen Smart; relationship ends after drug discovery at his residence.
14 March	Teena	Paige Gardiner	Shares hostage experience during victims of crime group meeting.
14 March	Mick	Michael Howlett	Participant in victims of crime support sessions.
18–29 March	Angus McCathie	Tim Pocock	University student dating Nicole Franklin; amicably ends relationship after learning she plans adoption for their baby.
5 April	Janelle Riley	Dina Gillespie	Runs Bayside Mission where Elijah Johnson works.
22–26 April	Billy McVeigh	Dallas Bigelow	Seeks shelter at Bayside Mission; involved in assaults and job requests leading to police involvement and eventual reconciliation with Elijah Johnson.
27 April – 2 June	Vanessa Unley	Sarah Chadwick	Gina Austin's longtime friend visiting Summer Bay; participates in local events including music festival and camping trip.
27 April – 21 June	George	Multiple actors (Charlie Clancy-Agius et al.)	Son of Nicole Franklin and Penn Graham; central figure in adoption storyline involving Marilyn Chambers and Nicole's custody decisions.
9–10 May	Gary O'Connor	Grant Dodwell	Rival surf club president clashing with John Palmer; suffers heart attack after losing competition.
24 May	Carla Rosetta	Cris Parker	Angelo Rosetta’s mother visiting hospital patients Roo Stewart and Nicole Franklin.
3 June – 19 July	Laura Carmody	Roxane Wilson	Roo Stewart’s friend who co-organizes fundraising events, dates Elijah Johnson, then leaves town after embezzling funds.
9 June	Douglas Graham	Shane Porteous	Penn Graham’s grandfather visiting Summer Bay to meet great-grandson George.
16–22 June	Kate Hanlon	Mikayla Southgate	Student who pretends to be Dexter Walker’s girlfriend to assist with schoolwork and social situations involving April Scott.
15 July – 9 August	Dean O'Mara	Rick Donald	Arrives for B&S Ball; later arrested for rape and attempted vehicular assault involving Bianca Scott; conflicts arise with John Palmer.
15 July – 2 September	Kelly O'Mara	Martika Sullivan	Dean O'Mara’s sister who dates Xavier Austin; refuses to leave Summer Bay amid family disputes before departing after Dean’s arrest.
21 July – 27 October, 25 November 2015 – 27 April 2016	David Joyce	Don Halbert	Police inspector overseeing River Boys investigations; removes Charlie Buckton from case due to conflict of interest; later promoted to superintendent managing suspensions.
22–26 July	Mick (River Boy)	Ben Barber	Discusses gang raids with Heath Braxton; intimidates community members including Bianca Scott and Liam Murphy.
25–29 July 2014, 1 December 2016 – 2 February 2017	Darcy Callahan, Alea O'Shea	Daughter of Tegan Callahan; initially believes Darryl Braxton is her father but discovers Heath Braxton is biological parent. Involved in custody battles, school bullying episodes, and family dynamics concerning Heath and Bianca Scott. Returns later supporting parental reconciliation efforts.

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