Riley Hawkins

Home and Away

Company type	Television series
Industry	Television, Entertainment
Founded	January 17, 1988 (1988-01-17)
Headquarters	Australia
Website	7plus.com.au/home-and-away

Home and Away is an Australian soap opera that premiered on the Seven Network on 17 January 1988. The following section details characters introduced throughout 2017, listed according to their initial appearance. All new additions were brought in under the guidance of executive producer Lucy Addario. The show's 30th season commenced broadcasting on 30 January 2017. The character Riley Hawkins made his debut in the episode following the season premiere. In May, Scarlett Snow was introduced, succeeded in June by the arrival of the Astoni family—parents Ben and Maggie, along with their daughters Coco and Ziggy. July saw the entrance of Robbo and Jennifer Dutton, followed by Beth Ellis in August. Later in October, Ryder Jackson appeared; Willow Harris arrived in November; and finally, Jasmine Delaney was introduced in December.

Riley Hawkins

Riley Hawkins, played by Ryan O'Kane, made his first appearance on 31 January 2017. Notably, O'Kane's housemate, Rob Mills, also auditioned for this role, but ultimately O'Kane was cast. Riley is introduced as a surgeon and former romantic partner of Tori Morgan (Penny McNamee) who performs surgery on Justin Morgan (James Stewart).

During his initial day at Northern Districts Hospital, Riley operates on Justin Morgan, who is admitted with an infection. He confides in Nate Cooper (Kyle Pryor) about his past relationship with Tori and expresses a desire to reconcile, apologizing for previous infidelity. Tori, wary due to their history, declines his proposal to relocate to the city together. After Riley manipulates medical records to implicate Nate in negligence leading to his dismissal, Tori uncovers the deceit and terminates their relationship. Subsequently, Riley resigns from the hospital and departs from town.

Scarlett Snow

Scarlett Snow, portrayed by Tania Nolan, was introduced on 8 May 2017. At the time Nolan was based in Los Angeles but traveled to Sydney for a screen test, securing a six-month contract. She described Scarlett as somewhat enigmatic with a sorrowful background, which influenced her decision to accept the role and move to Sydney.

In the narrative, Scarlett encounters Brody Morgan (Jackson Heywood), who is evading law enforcement. Initially detaining him, she later supports Brody through his struggle with drug addiction by facilitating contact with his family and providing shelter. Scarlett disapproves of Justin Morgan (James Stewart)’s methods regarding Brody’s rehabilitation. After Brody relapses and commits theft, Scarlett loses her residence but receives assistance from Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher), who offers her a caravan and employment at his bait shop.

Scarlett faces intimidation from a private investigator hired by her estranged spouse, Caleb Snow, but manages to resolve the situation financially with support from Brody’s family. She develops a bond with Justin’s daughter Ava Gilbert (Grace Thomas) and reveals that her son Max passed away a year earlier—a tragedy contributing to her marital breakdown.

Her relationship with Justin progresses amid various challenges, including an incident where Scarlett nearly drowns, triggering memories of Max’s death. They attempt to pursue a romantic relationship but encounter difficulties when Caleb resurfaces, bringing unresolved matters back into focus. Following an explosion at a bush cabin that injures Scarlett and escalates tensions, Justin ends their relationship due to Caleb’s influence. Ultimately, Scarlett chooses to leave the Bay alongside Caleb, concluding her story arc.

Ziggy Astoni

Ziggy Astoni, brought to life by Sophie Dillman, made her initial appearance on 20 June 2017. As the eldest child of Ben and Maggie Astoni, she is part of the first traditional nuclear family introduced to the show in 17 years. Ziggy is depicted as a rebellious teenager with a spirited personality and was developed as a potential romantic interest for Brody Morgan.

Ben Astoni

Ben Astoni, portrayed by Rohan Nichol, also debuted on 20 June 2017. Nichol relocated from Melbourne to Manly to be closer to the Palm Beach filming site. Ben, together with his wife Maggie and daughters Coco and Ziggy, represents the new Astoni family—marking the first nuclear family addition since 2000. Nichol describes Ben as devoted, caring, and relatable, embodying traits that resonate strongly with viewers.

Maggie Astoni

Maggie Astoni, played by Kestie Morassi, first appeared on 21 June 2017. Her casting was revealed in early 2017, with character specifics announced on 4 June. Morassi commented on the rapid pace of soap filming compared to her experience in film. Maggie relocates to Summer Bay with her husband Ben Astoni (Rohan Nichol) and their daughters Coco (Anna Cocquerel) and Ziggy Astoni (Sophie Dillman). The Astoni family represents the first nuclear family introduced since the Sutherlands in 2000.

Coco Astoni

Coco Astoni, enacted by Anna Cocquerel, made her debut on 21 June 2017. She is the youngest daughter within the Ben and Maggie Astoni family. The arrival of the Astonis marked the return of a traditional nuclear family after a 17-year gap. Coco was positioned as a possible love interest for VJ Patterson.

In December 2018, Cocquerel reduced her time on set to focus on completing Year 12 studies, balancing acting commitments with education.

Coco’s storylines include suspension due to cyberbullying, relocating with her family to Summer Bay, and facing difficulties at school such as bullying and an eating disorder. Her battle with bulimia results in hospitalization and causes tension in her relationships. She builds friendships with Raffy Morrison and Ryder Jackson while navigating teenage romance and personal challenges.

Supporting Maggie through a cancer diagnosis, Coco experiences several breakups with Ryder. She acts as maid of honour at Ziggy’s wedding and ultimately chooses to attend boarding school in Cairns—a decision supported by Ben and Ziggy but initially opposed by Maggie.

Several months later, Coco returns briefly for Raffy’s birthday celebration, confronting Brody Morgan over issues affecting Ziggy’s relationship before heading back to boarding school.

Robbo

Robbo (also known as John Doe), played by Jake Ryan, first appeared on 25 July 2017. Prior to his debut, Ryan lost 13 kilograms to fill the "heart-throb gap" left by Darryl Braxton (Stephen Peacocke). Robbo’s character evolved from an amnesiac into an undercover AFP agent who became a handyman, gym owner, and central figure in multiple major plots. He was written out during season 33’s opening episodes on 27 January 2020. Ryan explained his departure was due to feeling his character’s journey had concluded satisfactorily.

Robbo initially surfaces as an amnesiac discovered by Alf Stewart and others, unable to recall his identity. Given the nickname "Robbo," he works to reconstruct his past while integrating into Summer Bay’s community through maintenance jobs and forming connections, notably with Kat Chapman. His tattoos prompt an investigation into his background, revealing ties to a woman named Rose and a mysterious history.

His backstory unfolds revealing he is actually Beckett Reid—an undercover AFP officer whose true name is Ryan Shaw. His memory loss is linked to trauma sustained while protecting Kat and investigating his family’s murder. After killing former partner Dennis Novak in self-defense, Robbo becomes a suspect but eventually clears his name with Kat’s assistance.

Following his trial, Robbo is abruptly taken by the AFP where he learns his true identity and mission: tracking those responsible for his family’s death while maintaining a fabricated criminal record. Offered reinstatement, he opts instead to remain in Summer Bay, purchasing the local gym and developing a relationship with Jasmine Delaney.

Robbo consents to father a child via IVF with Tori Morgan; after Tori suffers a miscarriage, he proposes marriage to Jasmine. However, upon discovering Jasmine concealed Tori’s renewed pregnancy from him, he ends their engagement and departs town. He later returns for Tori’s ultrasound appointment, reconciles with Jasmine, and they marry. Their wedding is interrupted when AFP agents escort them to a safe house due to ongoing threats.

Robbo undergoes hypnotherapy to recover memories connected to Dylan Carter’s case. Despite successful surgery following a car accident, he suffers a hemorrhage leading to his death; he later appears to Jasmine in a dream sequence.

Jennifer Dutton

Jennifer Dutton, brought to life by Brittany Santariga, made her first appearance on 27 July 2017. Santariga's involvement was announced in June 2017 during the production phase at Palm Beach, New South Wales. Introduced as a high school student with antagonistic traits, Jennifer initially targeted Coco Astoni through bullying. She later evolved into a romantic interest for Hunter King, drawing considerable viewer engagement.

Jennifer's plotline primarily revolves around her harassment of Coco Astoni, which includes taunting, deliberate sabotage, and cyberbullying. Coco’s ally Raffy Morrison steps in to defend her, resulting in various confrontations and disciplinary actions such as suspensions. Jennifer manipulates Coco by exploiting her eating disorder to coerce her into setting up a date with VJ Patterson, adding complexity to their friendship dynamics. Her interactions also involve other characters through social gatherings and disputes, including encouraging Raffy to overindulge in alcohol and sustaining a wrist injury during a school obstacle challenge.

In terms of romance, Jennifer flirts with Mason Morgan before entering a relationship with Hunter King. Their relationship faces obstacles such as parental disapproval and social tensions. After moving in with Hunter, Jennifer is evicted by Alf Stewart due to their public displays of affection. Following their breakup, Jennifer experiences homelessness before eventually returning to live with her father, Nick Dutton.

Jennifer’s storyline explores themes of manipulation, teenage relationships, and social interactions within the Summer Bay setting, enriching the show’s depiction of youth challenges and interpersonal conflicts.

Beth Ellis

Elizabeth "Beth" Ellis, portrayed by Anneliese Apps, made her debut on 31 August 2017. Apps was cast soon after graduating from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. She characterized Beth as "cheeky," "multi-dimensional," and "quirky," emphasizing the character’s mission to inspire those around her. Beth was introduced as a romantic partner for Mason Morgan.

Initially posing as a nurse while both patients in the hospital, Beth forms a bond with Mason. She discloses that she suffers from cardiomyopathy and is awaiting a heart transplant, which explains her decision to adopt a false identity to avoid sympathy. Their relationship deepens through shared adventures such as completing items on Beth’s bucket list and intimate experiences like getting matching tattoos and skinny dipping.

Beth’s father, Alan Ellis, expresses strong opposition to her involvement with Mason and warns him to keep his distance. Despite this, Beth remains committed to their relationship. As her health worsens, she requires a stent placement that advances her position on the transplant waiting list. After a period of improvement and a romantic lunch where Mason presents her with a promise ring, Beth tragically succumbs to a fatal arrhythmia. Following her funeral, Mason envisions Beth encouraging him to continue forward.

Ryder Jackson

Ryder Jackson, portrayed by Lukas Radovich, first appeared on screen on 25 October 2017. Radovich secured the role shortly after graduating from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts, marking his acting debut. Ryder is introduced as the son of Quinn Jackson (Lara Cox) and grandson of Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher). His initial storyline involves breaking into the Surf Club and attempting theft targeting Hunter King and VJ Patterson before revealing his familial connections. His reluctance to disclose Quinn’s contact information leads his aunt Roo Stewart (Georgie Parker) to suspect that he has run away from home.

Willow Harris

Willow Harris (also known as Ranger), brought to life by Sarah Roberts, made her debut on 14 November 2017. Prior to securing this role, Roberts auditioned for the characters Kat Chapman and Scarlett Snow. She traveled from Melbourne to Sydney for a chemistry test alongside James Stewart, who portrays Justin Morgan. Willow is depicted as a "strong, female" presence—independent, fiercely loyal, and a catalyst for both mischief and conflict within Summer Bay. Roberts described her as "definitely a bad girl," whose questionable choices stem from a deep loyalty to those she cares about. Soon after her arrival, Willow becomes romantically linked to Justin Morgan.

Jasmine Delaney

Jasmine Delaney, played by Sam Frost, first appeared on 18 December 2017. Frost's casting was revealed on 17 July 2017. She auditioned for the role while participating in Hell's Kitchen Australia and secured the part following a second audition. Frost acknowledged this as her inaugural acting opportunity and expressed enthusiasm about joining a series she had watched growing up. Despite this, some industry professionals criticized her casting as primarily a publicity move. Jasmine’s introduction to the show involved a dramatic car accident that resulted in the death of Kat Chapman, portrayed by Pia Miller. Frost characterized Jasmine as "guarded" and carrying "anxious energy," concealing secrets tied to a "dark past."

Others

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Details
31 January–23 November	Luc Patterson	Eva Lockyer, Piper Dickson, Annabel May Sealey, Tayari Gee, Archie Freeland, Sterling McKenna Foster, Anastasia Lee Hayes, Sierra Sila, Lucas Bowman	Luc is the daughter of Billie Ashford and Mick Jennings, conceived following Mick's assault on Billie. Billie allows her partner VJ Patterson to believe he is Luc's father until their wedding day. Luc is born soon after Billie escapes a bushfire. VJ and Billie choose the name Luc in honor of Billie's deceased brother. Mick abducts Luc but later returns her through his mother Irene Roberts. After Billie succumbs to terminal cancer with Luc in her arms, VJ and Leah entrust Irene with Luc's care. Ash briefly gains custody but faces challenges due to Luc's medical conditions such as bowel torsion and septicaemia. Mick reappears but acknowledges his inability to parent Luc; ensuing custody disputes lead VJ to relocate Luc abroad to Cyprus.
1 February–	Constable Corelli	Nick Cain	Constable Corelli supports Kat Chapman during an arson investigation and later discovers CCTV footage showing Dylan Carter holding Robbo at gunpoint.
2 February	Lactation Consultant	Gail Knight	Provides breastfeeding support to Billie Ashford following the birth of her daughter.
23 February–1 May	Ambulance Officer	Rob Baird	Delivers emergency medical assistance to characters including John Palmer and Zac MacGuire after various health incidents.
27 February–8 May	Patrick Stanwood	Luke McKenzie	Patrick, believed to be the deceased brother of Billie and Ash, returns suffering from PTSD. After initial friction, he reconnects with family and consents to receive treatment.
7 March–15 August	Lena Ascot	Felicity McKay	A university student involved in drug trafficking; briefly employed at Salt restaurant; engages in a short relationship with Brody Morgan; implicated in Brody’s drug addiction storyline.
7 March	Byron	Benjamin Winckle	Encourages Olivia Fraser Richards to participate in social gatherings; experiences conflict with Hunter King over Olivia.
9 March	Local Woman	Meagan Caratti	Community members confront John Palmer regarding fires he ignited; tensions rise with his wife Marilyn.
	Local Man	James Caitlin
13 March–18 April	Jess Kearney	Jess Bush	Olivia Fraser Richards’ study partner; involved in social events surrounding Olivia’s birthday.
21 March	Cal Whitman	Craig Scott	Resident displaced by a bushfire caused by John Palmer; appreciates John’s apology and assistance offer.
22 March, 6 December	Terry Diamond	Rob Flanagan	Restaurant critic who initially disputes with Brody Morgan but later commends his culinary skills.
29 March–3 April	Donna Fields	Melissa Bonne	Musician acquaintance of Phoebe Nicholson; challenges Phoebe’s life decisions; invites her on a tour in the United States.
29 March–29 August	Lachlan Piers	Warwick Allsopp	Attorney representing John Palmer; provides legal counsel; subsequently informs Ben Astoni about a delay in pier planning approval due to heritage status concerns.
29 March–20 April	James Mayvers	Tim Ross	Roo Stewart’s boyfriend from Hawaii; involved in pregnancy-related storyline; requests termination which Roo declines; later suffers miscarriage.
3 April–30 August	William Zannis	Caleb Alloway	Drug dealer supplying Brody Morgan; pressures Brody into drug distribution; involved in violent incidents; ultimately arrested after offenses including kidnapping Ziggy Astoni.

External links

• Cast and characters on the Official AU Home and Away site
• Cast and characters at the Internet Movie Database
• Ben Astoni featured on the Official AU Home and Away website
• Coco Astoni profile on the Official AU Home and Away site
• Ziggy Astoni available at the Official AU Home and Away website