Roger Lansdowne
| Company type | Television series |
|---|---|
| Industry | Entertainment, Television |
| Founded | January 17, 1988 |
| Headquarters | Australia |
Area served | Australia |
Home and Away is a long-running Australian soap opera that first aired on the Seven Network on 17 January 1988. Below is a compilation of characters introduced during 1999, all of whom were brought in under the guidance of then-executive producer John Holmes. The show's twelfth season premiered on 11 January 1999. The initial character introduced that year was Nick Smith, portrayed by Matt Juarez in March. Following him, Nick's father, Ken, played by Anthony Phelan, made his debut in April. In May, Aleetza Wood joined the cast as Peta Janossi. July saw Cameron Welsh take on the role of Mitch McColl. August introduced both Bianca Zeboat and lifeguard Shauna Bradley, portrayed by Kylie Watson. The character of science teacher Harry Reynolds, enacted by Justin Melvey, appeared in September. October brought new additions with Anna Hruby and Stephen James King cast as acting principal Judith Ackroyd and her son, Edward Dunglass, respectively.
Nick Smith
Nick Smith made his first appearance on 18 March 1999, initially portrayed by Matt Guarez in a guest capacity before returning as a regular from 2000 onward, this time played by Chris Egan. His tenure lasted until 9 September 2003. Additionally, Aaron Puckeridge depicted Nick in flashback scenes during 2003. For his portrayal, Egan received a nomination for "Best New Male Talent" at the Logie Awards in 2001.
Peta Janossi
Peta Janossi, enacted by Aleetza Wood, first appeared on 27 May 1999 and exited the series on 14 July 2000. Wood was cast while still attending university. Series Producer Russell Webb chose her for her naturally "fresh-faced" look. Her performance earned her a nomination for "Most Popular New Female Talent" in the year 2000.
Mitch McColl
Mitch McColl, brought to life by Cameron Welsh, debuted on-screen on 15 July 1999. Welsh initially auditioned for a guest role before being cast.[1] In 2000, following a diagnosis of a herniated disc, Welsh took a six-week hiatus during which Mitchell McMahon temporarily assumed the role of Mitch. Welsh described seeing another actor portray his character as "weird," but acknowledged the necessity due to an ongoing significant storyline.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name He returned to filming with scenes resuming from 3 April 2000.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name In 2005, Welsh reprised his role briefly for the show's milestone 4000th episode, appearing at Alf Stewart's (Ray Meagher) birthday celebration.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name Subsequently, Welsh transitioned into production work on Home and Away, crediting his acting background as valuable experience.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name He was also nominated for "Best New Male Talent" at the 2000 Logie Award.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name
James Joyce from The Newcastle Herald remarked that Mitch made an immediate impression upon arrival and highlighted the "long-awaited" first kiss between Mitch and Hayley as a key moment that resonated with viewers.[2] A columnist from the Daily Record included Mitch's departure among notable television highlights for that week.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name
Bianca Zeboat
Bianca Zeboat, portrayed by Lara Cox, first appeared on-screen on 11 August 1999. Cox was cast shortly after concluding her role on Heartbreak High and expressed surprise at simultaneously appearing in two series. She characterized Bianca as a "manipulator" with a "nasty" streak, which marked a stark contrast to her previous character Anita Scheppers. Bianca is depicted as both a model and actress aspiring to secure the lead role in a film adaptation of Alan Fisher's novel On the Crest of a Wave. Upon arriving in Summer Bay to prepare for filming, she befriends Jesse McGregor (Ben Unwin) with the ulterior motive of gathering inside information. Jesse, who is searching for both companionship and a maternal figure, becomes infatuated with Bianca but remains unaware of her true intentions. After being dismissed by the film’s director Roger Landowne (Tony Bonner), Bianca ends her relationship with Jesse and departs from Summer Bay.
Shauna Bradley
Shauna Bradley, portrayed by Kylie Watson, made her debut on 16 August 1999 and exited the series in July 2002. Watson secured this role soon after relocating back to Canberra, despite initial hesitation about auditioning. This marked her first professional acting engagement, supported by acting lessons arranged through her agent. For her performance, Watson received a nomination for Most Popular New Female Talent at the 2000 Logie Awards. Shauna was characterized as sassy and feisty, with critic Andrew Mercado describing her as a "sexy lifesaver." Her romantic involvements, particularly with Harry and Gavin, were recognized for their intensity and unpredictability. In 2012, an episode highlighting Shauna confronting her adoption was shortlisted by Channel 5 for audience voting in their "From Day One" selection.
Harry Reynolds
Harry Reynolds, enacted by Justin Melvey, first appeared on 13 September 1999 and departed on 26 January 2001. Prior to joining Home and Away, Melvey concentrated on modelling and refining his acting abilities. After obtaining the role, he moved from Los Angeles to Sydney, marking a pivotal step in his career. Melvey won the "Most Popular New Male Talent" Logie Award in 2000 for his portrayal of Harry.
Judith Ackroyd
Judith Ackroyd, brought to life by Anna Hruby, featured on the show from 21 October 1999 until 21 November 2000. Hruby had previously been known for roles such as Paddy Lawson in Prisoner Cell Block H. Judith takes over as principal at Summer Bay High during Donald Fisher's leave of absence. Her storyline includes managing staff relations and student issues, notably clashing with Gypsy Nash over the school captain position.
Her narrative also involves her son, Edward Dunglass, who faces the possibility of inheriting Huntington's disease from his deceased father, Edward Dunglass Sr. Judith stands by Edward’s unconventional conduct and navigates complex personal relationships, including a romantic connection with Joel Nash. After Edward’s diagnosis is confirmed, she assists in arranging travel plans abroad for him and Peta Janossi.
Judith’s relationship with Joel declines amid familial conflicts and his reunion with ex-wife Natalie Nash. Subsequently, Judith accepts a career opportunity in Switzerland, endorsing Donald Fisher’s return as principal and appointing Sally Fletcher as her replacement before leaving.
Edward Dunglass
Edward Dunglass, played by Stephen James King, appeared between 28 October 1999 and 14 July 2000. King balanced his high school education while acting on the series; this role marked his television debut following extensive theatre experience. He praised the seasoned cast for their support and described Edward as a character often judged due to his gothic style, which contrasted sharply with Summer Bay’s usual residents.
Edward is introduced on the beach where Will Smith mocks his goth appearance; Edward responds with sarcasm. He earns respect by defending Duncan Stewart from bullies and impresses locals during go-kart trials. His mother, newly appointed principal Judith Ackroyd, is soon revealed.
Donald Fisher recognizes Edward’s surname, recalling his late father Edward Sr, who succumbed to Huntington's disease—a condition Edward fears he may have inherited. Edward quickly forms friendships with Peta Janossi and Mitch McColl, assisting Peta in honoring her late grandmother, which arouses suspicion from Colleen Smart.
Edward’s frank opinions about illness strain relationships, particularly with Alf and Ailsa Stewart. His thrill-seeking escalates as symptoms such as muscle spasms begin to appear. After a brief separation, Edward and Peta reconcile, take self-defense classes together, and hold a private marriage ceremony. They decide to live together with Judith’s consent despite objections from Joel Nash.
Upon reaching eighteen, Edward tests positive for Huntington's but initially minimizes its impact until experiencing an emotional crisis. Judith presents him with a video message from Edward Sr., which provides comfort. Edward removes his gothic makeup, requests access to his trust fund to travel with Peta, and they leave for Rome to stay with Judith’s sister. A year later, Will reports that Edward’s condition has deteriorated.
Others
| Date(s) | Character | Actor | Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 January–3 March | Dr. Noble | Mariette Rups-Donnelly | Served as psychiatrist for Gypsy Nash and later provided counseling to Joey Rainbow during his schizophrenia episodes. |
| 14–25 January | Mr Gilkey | Ben Ager | Aggressive driver involved in road rage incident with Ailsa Stewart after a collision, demanding compensation; apology declined. |
| 14 January–21 May | Troy | Lucas Sinkovic Luke Jacobz |
Teammate of Tom Nash on the Year 12 cricket team. |
| 18–19 January | Rhonda | Samantha Braniff | Utilized by David D'Angelo as bait to facilitate the kidnapping of Joel Nash. |
| 21 January–10 February | Brian Matthews | Scott Swalwell | Companion of Sam Marshall and Hayley Smith, participates in graffiti vandalism; fatally injured from a fall. |
| 3–12 February | Geraldine Peterson | Anna Lee | Member of a women's collective who falsely claims success in charity fundraising, causing tension with Rebecca Nash. |
| 5 February | Mo Matthews | Pat Sands | Father to Brian Matthews; discovers Brian and Sam tagging property. |
| 8–18 February | Kaia Stokes | Blazey Best | Offers support to Joey Rainbow during his schizophrenia but departs when overwhelmed by his hallucinations. |
| 19 February–6 October | Bob Playford | Tony Morgan | Real estate agent commissioned by Diana Fraser to develop the caravan park; local residents purchase it to block development plans. |
| 4–23 March | Brooke Taylor | Bridie Carter | Pursues Travis Nash due to resemblance to her deceased fiancé; uncovers family secrets before departing. |
| 4–5 March | Mara Taylor | Ann Burbrook | Brooke's sister, expresses interest in Joel Nash; encounters the Nash brothers during a boating accident. |
| 10–17 March | Denise Hennessy | Lauren Clair | Former prison cellmate who deceives Jesse McGregor; absconds when police suspect her fugitive status. |
| 11 March | Eleanor Mace | Deborah Piper | Candidates interviewed by Donald Fisher for Byron Fisher’s nanny role. |
| Patsy Little | Jillian O'Dowd | ||
| Skye | Karren Lewis | ||
| 16 March–11 May | Ellen Porter | Anne Grigg | Caregiver for Donald Fisher's infant son; has a history involving manslaughter but earns trust before departing. |
| 17–22 March | Jim Woods | Nick Hogan | Local police officer investigating Denise Hennessy and assisting Will Smith with Nick Smith's substance abuse problems. |
| 19–23 March | Johnno | Josef Ber | Drug dealer pursuing Nick Smith over owed money; assaults Nick but leaves after considering debt resolved. |
| 24 March | Ted Williams | Kim Knuckey | "Foster parent of Nick Smith, arrives with spouse to retrieve him." |
| 24 March 1999–26 April 2000 | "Wendy Williams'" | "Monette Lee Lisa Cameron" |
"Foster mother of Nick Smith, returns him to his father when behavioral issues arise." |
| 26 March–20 April | "Miranda Porter'" | "Lauren Hewett" | "Daughter of Ellen Porter; HIV-positive student who dates Joey Rainbow but leaves due to fear of discrimination." |
| 29 March–7 April | "Claire Andrews'" | "Kate Beahan" | "Half-sister to Travis and Joel Nash; involved in theft and departs after charges are dropped." |
| 21 April–14 June | "Jack" | "Eamon Davern" | "Friend of Duncan Stewart; assists in creating a homemade bomb that injures Alf Stewart." |
| 4–5 May | "Organist" | "Gregg Arthur" | "Performs music at James Fraser and Chloe Richards' wedding ceremony." |
| 7 May–19 August | "Wendy Collins'" | "Jayne Leslie" | "Mother who, alongside husband Steve, falsely accuses childminder Justine Welles of abuse leading to trial and imprisonment before confessing." |
| 11 May–19 August | "Steve Collins'" | "Don Halbert" | "Father supporting false allegations against Justine Welles regarding child’s death; later admits guilt." |
| 11–19 May | "Ruby Collins ''" | "Kiara Bleskas Tara McKellar Brittany Jones Sian Tierney" |
"Child whose death results in the wrongful conviction of Justine Welles." |
| 24–25 May | "Guy North'" | "Drayton Morley" | "Companion of Marilyn Fisher during her post-natal depression; reveals unreturned affection but remains supportive." |
| 3 June 1999, 8 November 2004 |
"Father O'Hearn'" | "Alan Russell" | "Catholic priest officiating confessions and funeral ceremonies." |
| 7 June–2 July | "Hope Benedict'" | "Brooke Harmon" | "Member of church group who rejects Duncan Stewart's romantic advances." |
| 9–23 June | "John Russell'" | "John Moore Marbuck Khan (flashback)" |
"Indigenous studies educator addressing racism; searches for estranged mother with community assistance." |
| 16 June–20 July | "David Janossi'" | "Philip Edwards" | "Brother to Peta Janossi living on grandmother’s pension; leaves after job offer and exposure of deceit." |
| 28 June–9 September | 'Roger Lansdowne' | 'Tony Bonner' | 'Film producer seeking rights to Alan Fisher's autobiography, employs manipulation but project fails.' |
| 28 June | 'Reverend Lee' | 'Stewart Reade' | 'Conducts Lachlan Fraser’s funeral service.' |
| 28 June–19 July | 'Annie Matthews' | 'Carole Skinner' | 'Homeless woman impersonating Peta Janossi’s grandmother; reunites with estranged daughter Frances Kennedy.' |
| 12 July–20 August | 'Angus Halliday' | 'Gabriel Andrews' | 'University peer of Sally Fletcher, incites jealousy from Vinnie Patterson.' |
| 19 July | 'Frances Kennedy' | 'Alice Livingstone' | 'Estranged daughter of Annie Matthews who aids in family reconciliation.' |
| 28 July–26 August | 'Sharon Welles' | 'Shayne Francis' | 'Estranged mother testifying against daughter Justine Welles during trial for Ruby Collins’ death.' |
| 28 July–9 August | 'Leon Watson' | 'David Webb' | 'Attorney representing Justine Welles at her trial.' |
| 30 July–31 August | 'Jeff Berger' | 'Jonathon Speer' | 'Reporter exploiting Sharon Welles’ confession to secure a story on Justine Welles.' |
| 6–9 August | 'Kelly McCane' | 'Laurie Foell' | 'Prosecutor during Justine Welles’ trial.' |
| 10–18 August | 'Gemma' | 'Alyssa McClelland' | 'Cellmate sharing a cell with Justine Welles.' |
| 23 August | 'Mrs. Brown' | 'Jan Merriman' | 'Wife of local farmer hosting teenagers employed as fruit pickers.' |
| 24 August 1999–26 February 2000 | 'Jack Brown' | 'Paul Chubb' | 'Farmer employing local youth; faces challenges including environmental concerns and family reconciliation.' |
| 31 August–30 September | 'Anthony Doyle' | 'Kim Knuckey' | 'Dates Irene Roberts; relationship ends following foster son’s joyride incident.' |
| 10–22 September | 'Jillian Williams' | 'Alexandra Davies' | 'Shauna Bradley’s stalker using the alias Amber; frames Adam Cameron before apprehension.' |
| 14 September | 'Darryl' | 'Jeremiah Tickell' | 'Shauna Bradley’s former boyfriend causing difficulties for Adam Cameron.' |
| 23 September 1999–16 June 2003 | 'Ralph Patterson' | 'Alan Cinis' | 'Vinnie Patterson’s father, con artist whose actions affect Vinnie’s career and personal life.' |
| 27 September–8 October | 'Gazza Boyd' | 'Sebastian Huber' | 'Friend of Duncan Stewart involved in recovering stolen money connected to fugitive David D’Angelo.' |
| 11–13 October | 'Lauren Healy' | 'Merridy Eastman' | 'Accomplice to David D’Angelo in kidnapping Duncan Stewart.' |
| 14 October 1999–24 March 2000 | 'Claire Rogers' | 'Talia Marmount Jaime Mears' |
'Student engaged in false affair allegations and conflicts influencing school environment.' |
| 15 October 1999–21 February 2000 | 'Danielle McCarthy' | 'Claire Paradine' | 'Nursing Unit manager interested romantically in James Fraser; brief relationship ensues.' |
| 20 October 1999–5 April 2000 | Juliette Bellatti | Nicole Nabout | |
| 2 November 1999–31 January 2000 | Mick Dwyer | John Brumpton | |
| 3 November 1999–27 March 2000 | Rosemary Myers | Anita Bochnik | |
| 4–9 November | Christian | John Atkinson | |
| 24 November 1999 – 2 February 2000 | Alison | Jenny Apostolou |
External links
- Cast and characters on the Official Australian Home and Away site
- Cast and characters on the Official UK Home and Away site
- Cast and characters at the Internet Movie Database