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Richard Bellingham (Home and Away)

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Martha Stewart

Martha Stewart made her initial appearance from 25 January to 13 February 1989, portrayed by Alison Mulvaney. The character was introduced through flashbacks as the first wife of Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher). On 27 March 2018, Martha was reintroduced with Belinda Giblin taking over the role; Giblin had previously appeared in the series in 1991. It is reported that Meagher recommended Giblin for the part, describing her as "the perfect choice." Martha holds the distinction of having the longest interval between appearances on Home and Away.

Brought back during the program’s 30th anniversary celebrations, it was revealed that Martha had survived a sailing accident in 1985, contrary to earlier assumptions that she had drowned. Alf informs their daughter Roo Stewart that Martha’s disappearance stemmed from her unhappiness rather than death. Martha eventually returns to Summer Bay, reconnecting with both Alf and Roo. She discloses that she has borderline personality disorder (BPD), which contributed to her anxiety and decision to leave years before.

Martha was married to Alf Stewart and is the mother of their daughter, Ruth "Roo" Stewart. Initially depicted through flashbacks and diary excerpts, her narrative expanded significantly decades later when her survival became a key element in family reunions. After receiving treatment for BPD, Martha endeavors to repair relationships but continues to face challenges related to anxiety and emotional connection.

Following a phone call that leads to subsequent meetings and shared moments, Alf and Martha rekindle their relationship. This includes Alf commissioning a portrait from her. Despite some early difficulties, they agree to explore their renewed romance. Martha’s struggles with mental health occasionally create tension, but support from local health professionals aids her in managing these issues.

She owns a home and art studio in Merimbula, which acts as a refuge during difficult times but also causes some friction with Alf, who wishes she would sell the property. Eventually, the couple remarries and divides their time between Merimbula and Summer Bay.

Martha’s storyline further evolves with the introduction of her son, Kieran Baldivis, a secret she kept out of fear of losing her family. Upon Kieran’s arrival in Summer Bay, Martha opens up to Roo and Alf about their complex relationship.

Currently, Martha primarily resides in Merimbula but frequently visits Alf in Summer Bay.

Vicki Baxter

Vicki Baxter, played by Nana Coburn, first appeared on 22 February 1989. Coburn’s father, Norman Coburn, also acted in the series as headmaster Donald Fisher. David Brown of TV Week characterized Vicki as "Summer Bay's resident trouble-maker." Although Coburn initially disliked portraying an antagonist, she grew to appreciate the role. She appeared on a semi-regular basis until filming her final scenes in June 1990. Coburn valued the role for providing steady employment and valuable experience and particularly enjoyed filming a fight scene with Dannii Minogue shortly before leaving.

Within Steven Matheson’s class at Summer Bay High, Vicki acted as a bully toward classmates such as Viv Newton and often clashed with Emma Jackson. After an unsuccessful attempt to pursue teacher Grant Mitchell, she falsely accused him of sexual misconduct, resulting in his suspension. Emma compelled Vicki to admit the truth, leading to Grant’s reinstatement. Subsequently, Vicki framed Emma for stealing exam papers, which caused Emma’s expulsion. Steven and Paul Jensen teamed up with Vicki’s cousin Anna to uncover Vicki’s manipulations, ultimately resulting in Vicki’s own expulsion.

Rebecca Fisher

Rebecca Fisher, portrayed by Jane Hall, made her initial appearance on 3 April 1989 as the daughter of the school headmaster Donald Fisher. While visiting Summer Bay, she became romantically linked with Steven Matheson. The producers recognized the strong rapport between Hall and Adam Willits, leading to considerations for Rebecca's occasional reappearances. In 1994, the character was recast with Danielle Carter for a seven-week period, followed by Belinda Emmett taking over the role in 1996. Emmett's performance garnered her nominations for the Logie Awards in categories such as Most Popular New Talent (1997), Most Popular Actress (1998, 1999), and the prestigious Gold Logie for Most Popular Personality on Australian Television.

Marilyn Chambers

Marilyn Chambers, brought to life by Emily Symons, first appeared on 18 May 1989. Symons departed from the series in 1992 but returned for a tenure spanning from 1995 to 1999. Although Dannii Minogue initially auditioned for Marilyn, she was instead cast as Emma Jackson, allowing Symons to assume the role of Marilyn. According to Holy Soap, Marilyn is characterized as a "bubbly" and somewhat "dizzy blonde beautician."

Duncan Stewart

Duncan Stewart entered the series on 14 June 1989. Brendan McKensy's portrayal earned him a nomination for Best Young Actor at the 1999 Inside Soap Awards.

Adam Cameron

Adam Cameron, enacted by Mat Stevenson, debuted on 28 June 1989. Stevenson, who had previously appeared as a guest on rival soap Neighbours, relocated from Melbourne to Sydney to film the series. He exited the show in 1994. Stevenson described Adam as somewhat of a "layabout" who favors relaxation over responsibility but is capable of kindness. An Inside Soap columnist referred to Adam as a "one-time joker" and "happy-go-lucky." Stevenson returned for a guest appearance in 1999, enjoying the experience and even contemplating a full-time return.

Viv Newton

Viv Newton, portrayed by Mouche Phillips, first appeared on 5 July 1989 and departed on 25 May 1990. Phillips began filming shortly after Justine Clarke left the show and was noted for her energetic presence during production, often keeping herself occupied and occasionally proving difficult to locate on set.

Emma Jackson

Emma Jackson, played by Dannii Minogue, featured from 22 September 1989 until 22 August 1990. Although Minogue originally auditioned for the role of Marilyn Chambers, she was cast as Emma instead. After one year, she left to pursue a career in music. Despite rumors in 2007 about a possible return for the show's 20th anniversary in 2008, Minogue did not reprise her role. She received a nomination for "Most Popular Actress on Australian Television" at the 1989 Logie Awards. Her portrayal contributed to her being recognized by Holy Soap as one of Home and Away's "Sexiest girls ever."

Others

30 October–2 November||| Mick, played by Bruce Samazan | Drug addict staying temporarily with Andrew Foley and Stacey Macklin; causes tension when accused of stealing engagement ring before leaving following destructive outburst. | 31 October||| Chas, played by Richard Huggett | Pool player hustled by Mick leading others to warn against gambling with Mick. | 17 November||| Rosemary White , played by Zoe Bertram | Sister of Rory Heywood revealing his true identity after his death. | 21 November 1989–22 January 1990||| Zac Burgess, played by Mark Conroy | Shark hunter demanding high fees; exposes illegal dumping linked to shark attraction causing marital strain between Pippa and Tom Fletcher before being exposed and leaving town. | 12 December||| Drew Howard, played by Ignatius Jones | Television producer attempting exploitation of Marilyn Chambers on national TV but ends up humiliated himself. |
Date(s) Character Actor Circumstances
25 January Les Palmer Graham Lancaster Les is Celia Stewart’s deceased fiancé, appearing in flashbacks set in 1970. Their engagement celebration ends tragically when Les dies serving in the Vietnam War.
26 January–16 March Nicholas Walsh Robert Taylor Nicholas arrives engaged to Stacey Macklin and attempts to purchase the caravan park from the Fletchers. He frames Roo Stewart with poison pen letters and assaults Stacey but is ultimately stopped by Tom Fletcher.
1 February–5 September Kim Patterson Jacqui Townsend Kim, Alison Patterson’s younger sister, attends Summer Bay Primary School. She uncovers Morag Bellingham’s manuscript and engages in disputes with Sally Fletcher concerning local folklore.
13 February–20 March Richard Bellingham John Bonney Husband of Morag Bellingham for two decades who separates from her following revelations that she is Bobby Simpson’s mother.
20 February–21 November James Donahue Richard Morgan A journalist investigating Morag Bellingham’s secret; he manipulates locals and convinces Lance Smart to fabricate a shark sighting.
22 February–5 April Leanne Dunn Kylie Foster Leanne dates Martin Dibble but struggles with illiteracy. After conflicts involving Martin and her ex-boyfriend Meat Axe, she leaves Summer Bay, leaving Martin heartbroken.
1 March–12 November Enid Jan Oxenbould A friend of Celia Stewart who participates in a town meeting regarding a killer shark near the beach.
8 March Nola Dibble Denise Roberts Mother of Martin Dibble, introduced during a family dinner intended to dissuade Martin’s relationship with Leanne Dunn.
8 March Scott Dibble Uncredited Brother of Martin Dibble; appears at a family meal alongside their parents.
Errol Dibble Uncredited
21 March–24 May Nigel Taggart Gary Down Former assistant to Morag Bellingham who mediates local disputes and gently declines Celia Stewart’s romantic advances before resigning.
28 March Ross Maybury John Banas Talk-show host interviewing Donald Fisher and Bobby Simpson about Donald's son Alan's novel; during questioning, it is revealed that Morag is Bobby's mother.
4–5 April Meat Axe Joseph Dicker Leanne Dunn's ex-boyfriend who fights Martin Dibble; after defeating Martin, Leanne leaves with him.
18 April–17 August 1989,
8 September–23 October 1995		 Brian "Dodge" Forbes Kelly Dingwall Dodge arrives scheming for free food and steals money; he ultimately firebombs a store causing Philip Matheson's death. Later fostered by the Fletchers, he manipulates Steven Matheson into framing Simon Yates for arson. Eventually arrested for murder and imprisoned; paroled in 1995, he commits further crimes including murder and framing Steven before disappearing following a confrontation.
20 April–16 May Simon Yates Christopher Saunders Ex-convict employed at Bayside Diner who dates Roo Stewart; he suffers harassment from Steven Matheson and is framed for arson but escapes after posting bail.
2–9 May Andrew Foley Senior Alan Tobin Estranged father of Andrew Foley seeking reconciliation prior to his death; leaves Andrew an inheritance along with an apology letter.
10 May 1989 – 22 February 1990 Howard West Richard Rowe Representative from Department of Childcare Services responsible for placing Brian "Dodge" Forbes with the Fletchers and overseeing Tammy Newton’s custody due to abuse allegations.
11 May Peter Braithwaite Ron Blanchard Insurance assessor investigating Celia Stewart’s claim following her store fire; suspicious of her high compensation request.
18–29 May Kyoko Sakamoto Yuka Mitani Interpreter assisting Japanese clients visiting the Macklin family on business matters.
2–8 June Peter Bedford Bevan Wilson Investor involved in Macklin development who initially refuses to sign but is persuaded by Martin Dibble after attending dinner with the Fletchers.
2 June Claire Bedford Linda Anning Wife of investor Peter Bedford attending dinner with the Fletcher family.
8 June–18 July Flynn Mark McCann Labourer working for Macklin corporation involved in strike negotiations resolved by Roo Stewart; also helps rescue Marilyn Chambers during stunt incident.
13 June Jay Everett Andrew Doyle Motivational speaker temporarily managing Macklin development office; energizes some staff but fails to motivate Roo Stewart during crisis period.
6 July–13 September Nina Olivera Raquel Suarstzman Friend of Stacey Macklin who forms music group Image featuring Lance Smart, Martin Dibble, and Marilyn Chambers. After internal disputes, she secures promotion in Los Angeles and invites Stacey to join later.
11 July Beulah Robyn Gurney Homeless woman who assists Viv Newton during her period living rough.
19 July Sgt. Col Baker Simon Westaway Police officer interrogating Brian "Dodge" Forbes about stolen car accident; Steven Matheson takes responsibility instead.
21 July–1 August John Newton John Gregg Reverend father of Viv Newton who abuses his daughters; Viv and Tammy flee to Summer Bay resulting in custody battles and intervention by Child Services leading John to relinquish custody.
27 July 1989 – 25 May 1990 Tammy Newton Katy Edwards Younger sister of Viv Newton involved in custody disputes due to abuse allegations; eventually reunites with mother Angela Newton outside Summer Bay for fresh start.
9 August 1989 – 16 April 1990 Rex Wilson Barry Donnelly Uncle of Matt Wilson working on local council; facilitates Matt’s appointment as beach inspector but later resigns due to health concerns.
9 August Freddie Hudson Mark Arbib Student visiting Andrew Foley at youth advice centre located at Bayside diner.
18–31 August Ross Keating James Gleeson Estranged uncle of Sally Keating seeking custody but withdraws when Sally chooses to remain with Fletchers.
23–31 August Louise Keating Felicity Soper Wife of Ross Keating and aunt to Sally; unable to have children herself but welcomes Sally while respecting her decision to stay with Fletchers.
29 August 1989,
23 March 1990		 Len Baxter Uncredited / Damian Cudmore Father of Vicki Baxter demanding dismissal of teacher Grant Mitchell following false molestation allegations.
29 August–10 November Danny Farnsworth Justin Connor Son of Gordon Farnsworth seeking revenge against Morag Bellingham for his father's imprisonment and suicide; infiltrates her home under false pretenses, holds her hostage, then flees after intervention by Bobby Simpson and Donald Fisher.
30 August 1989 – 8 July 1996 Chris Hale John Meillon Jr. Police constable involved in various cases including arrests of Andrew Foley and Shane Parrish; later admits guilt over hit-and-run causing Shane's death resulting in suspension.
11 September Doctor Ellis Marilyn Allen Hospital physician arranging Tom Fletcher’s transfer following heart attack episode.
11 September Doctor Williamson David Whitford Diagnoses Tom Fletcher with intracerebral hematoma condition.
18–21 September Ian McTavish Noel Trevarthen Scottish explorer searching for "Summer Bay Bunyip"; departs after discovering it was hoax involving Martin Dibble disguised in costume.
20 September Samantha Walker Fiona Shannon Youth worker informing Ailsa Stewart about niece Emma Jackson’s desire to live with her due to family estrangement.
11–12 October Millicent Staples Julie Haseler Wealthy client booking Adam Cameron for charter cruise; abandons him stranded on remote island along with associates.
11 October Henry Whiting Patrick Ward Owner of hot dog stand approached by Lance Smart and Martin Dibble interested in purchase; ultimately sells business to Celia Stewart instead.
25 October Sylvia Wilson Marie Armstrong Wife of Rex Wilson appearing during council disputes regarding closure of Matt Wilson's hot dog stand.
26 October–15 November Rory Heywood Gregor Jordan Visitor searching under false identity for Fletcher family; helps Adam Cameron reconcile with Carly Morris before being killed by shark prompting efforts by Adam to capture shark.


External links

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