Rosemary Myers
| Company type | Television series |
|---|---|
| Industry | Television soap opera |
| Founded | January 17, 1988 |
| Headquarters | Australia |
| Website | 7plus |
Home and Away is a long-running Australian soap opera that premiered on the Seven Network on 17 January 1988. This compilation highlights characters who were introduced during 1999, all under the guidance of then-executive producer John Holmes. The show's twelfth season commenced broadcasting on 11 January 1999. Notable additions included Nick Smith (Matt Juarez) in March, followed by his father Ken (Anthony Phelan) in April. In May, Peta Janossi (Aleetza Wood) made her debut, with Mitch McColl (Cameron Welsh) arriving in July. August saw the introduction of both Bianca Zeboat and lifeguard Shauna Bradley (Kylie Watson). Science teacher Harry Reynolds (Justin Melvey) joined in September, while October brought in acting principal Judith Ackroyd (Anna Hruby) along with her son Edward Dunglass (Stephen James King).
Nick Smith
Nick Smith first appeared on 18 March 1999, initially portrayed by Matt Guarez in a guest capacity. From 2000 onwards, the character became a regular, recast with Chris Egan, who continued until Nick’s departure on 9 September 2003. Aaron Puckeridge also portrayed Nick in flashback scenes during 2003. For his work in this role, Egan received a nomination for "Best New Male Talent" at the 2001 Logie Awards.
Peta Janossi
Peta Janossi, played by Aleetza Wood, was introduced on 27 May 1999 and remained until 14 July 2000. Wood was cast while still attending university, with Series Producer Russell Webb choosing her for her "fresh-faced" appearance. Her portrayal earned her a nomination for "Most Popular New Female Talent" at the 2000 awards.
Mitch McColl
Mitch McColl, brought to life by Cameron Welsh, first appeared on 15 July 1999. Welsh originally auditioned for a guest role before securing Mitch’s part. In 2000, after being diagnosed with a herniated disc, Welsh took a six-week hiatus; during this period, Mitchell McMahon temporarily assumed the role of Mitch. Welsh resumed his portrayal on 3 April 2000. In 2005, he returned briefly to film a cameo for the show’s milestone 4000th episode, reappearing to celebrate Alf Stewart's birthday. Subsequently, Welsh transitioned into producing Home and Away, citing that his acting background provided valuable insights for his production duties.
Welsh’s performance as Mitch earned him a nomination for "Best New Male Talent" at the 2000 Logie Awards. Critics praised Mitch’s strong entrance, particularly highlighting his dynamic with Hayley and their eagerly anticipated first kiss, which captivated audiences. Mitch’s departure was also recognized as a significant television moment.
Bianca Zeboat
Bianca Zeboat, portrayed by Lara Cox, made her first appearance on 11 August 1999. Cox landed this extended guest role shortly after completing work on Heartbreak High, managing to appear concurrently in both series. She described Bianca as a "manipulator" and "nasty," contrasting sharply with her previous role as Anita Scheppers; however, she acknowledged Bianca’s assertiveness as one of her strengths. An Inside Soap journalist observed that Bianca’s arrival at the Summer Bay Diner foreshadowed impending trouble.
Bianca is depicted as a model and actress aspiring to secure the lead part in the film adaptation of Alan Fisher's novel On the Crest of a Wave. To prepare for the role, she befriends Jesse McGregor (Ben Unwin), who becomes infatuated with her, viewing Bianca as both a romantic interest and maternal figure. After being dismissed by director Roger Landowne (Tony Bonner), Bianca ends her relationship with Jesse and leaves Summer Bay.
Shauna Bradley
Shauna Bradley, portrayed by Kylie Watson, made her debut on 16 August 1999 and departed in July 2002. Watson secured this role soon after relocating back to Canberra, despite initial hesitation about auditioning. This marked her first professional acting opportunity, supported by acting lessons coordinated through her agent. She earned a nomination for Most Popular New Female Talent at the 2000 Logie Awards.
Shauna was characterized as "sassy" by Karman Kregloe of AfterEllen and described as "feisty" by The People. Author Andrew Mercado referred to her as a "sexy lifesaver." Inside Soap emphasized Shauna’s turbulent romance with Harry, likening it to having "more ups and downs than a kangaroo on a trampoline," and noted that she "played with fire" through her involvement with Gavin. In 2012, Channel 5 included an episode featuring Shauna confronting Margaret about adoption in their viewer-voted "From Day One" selection.
Harry Reynolds
Harry Reynolds, enacted by Justin Melvey, first appeared on 13 September 1999 and exited on 26 January 2001. Prior to joining the cast, Melvey concentrated on modelling and refining his acting abilities. After auditioning in Sydney, he secured the role, which led him to relocate from Los Angeles to Australia. In 2000, Melvey was awarded the "Most Popular New Male Talent" Logie Award for his portrayal of Harry.
Judith Ackroyd
Judith Ackroyd, played by Anna Hruby, was present on the show from 21 October 1999 until 21 November 2000. Hruby had previously appeared in Prisoner Cell Block H. Judith takes over as principal at Summer Bay High during Donald Fisher's leave of absence. Initially met with skepticism regarding her appointment, she eventually gains respect by assisting Donald with his novel and managing school affairs.
Her son, Edward Dunglass, arrives bearing the risk of Huntington's disease inherited from his deceased father, Edward Dunglass Sr. Judith endures Edward’s rebellious streak and handles complex relationships, including a brief romantic involvement with Joel Nash after his separation. She also navigates conflicts involving students such as Gypsy Nash.
When Edward marries Peta Janossi and intends to cohabit, Judith compromises by permitting Peta to move in. Following Edward’s confirmed diagnosis, Judith supports him with a video message from his father and organizes their travel overseas.
Judith’s relationship with Joel deteriorates amid discussions about having children and his injury. Joel reconciles with his ex-wife Natalie and moves to Queensland. Subsequently, Judith accepts a position in Switzerland, recommends Donald resume as principal, hires Sally Fletcher, and then departs.
Edward Dunglass
Edward Dunglass, portrayed by Stephen James King, debuted on 28 October 1999 and left on 14 July 2000. King balanced school commitments alongside acting, marking Edward as his first television role following theatre experience. He described the cast as welcoming and noted that Edward’s distinct goth style made him stand out among Summer Bay’s usual surfer crowd, offering a "refreshing change."
Edward first appears on the beach where Will Smith mocks his goth appearance; Edward responds with sarcasm. After rescuing Duncan Stewart from bullies, he is invited to local teens’ go-kart trials where he impresses with the fastest lap. It is revealed that the new school principal, Judith Ackroyd, is his mother.
Donald Fisher recognizes Edward’s father, Edward Sr., who died from Huntington's disease—a hereditary condition Edward fears he carries. Quickly befriending Peta Janossi and Mitch McColl, Edward helps Peta organize a memorial service that prompts local resident Colleen Smart to suspect occult involvement.
Edward’s friendship with Duncan causes friction with Alf and Ailsa Stewart. His blunt attitude toward illness angers Donald until Edward’s own diagnosis is disclosed. Confronted with a potentially shortened lifespan, Edward seeks adrenaline rushes—diving off Jump Rock—and strains relationships. He reconciles with Peta after a breakup; they begin self-defence classes together. As Huntington's symptoms emerge, Edward pursues a deeper bond with Peta; they privately "marry" and move in together despite objections from Joel Nash.
Upon turning 18, Edward tests positive for Huntington's but initially downplays the result until experiencing an emotional breakdown. Judith shares a video message from his late father that aids his acceptance of the diagnosis. Edward removes his gothic makeup and requests access to his trust fund to travel abroad with Peta. Judith arranges accommodation with her sister in Rome. Before leaving, Edward becomes irritable but finds reassurance in Peta’s commitment. They depart after farewells; Will visits the following year confirming Edward’s condition has deteriorated further.
Others
| Date(s) | Character | Actor | Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 January–3 March | Dr. Noble | Mariette Rups-Donnelly | Serves as psychiatrist for Gypsy Nash (Kimberley Cooper) following her abduction; subsequently provides therapy to Joey Rainbow (Alex O'Han) during his schizophrenia episodes. |
| 14–25 January | Mr Gilkey | Ben Ager | A driver exhibiting road rage who confronts Ailsa Stewart (Judy Nunn) after a collision, demanding compensation; Ailsa refuses to accept his apology. |
| 14 January–21 May | Troy | Lucas Sinkovic Luke Jacobz |
A cricket teammate of Tom Nash (Graeme Squires) during Year 12. |
| 18–19 January | Rhonda | Samantha Braniff | Utilized by David D'Angelo (Toni Poli) as a lure in the kidnapping of Joel Nash (David Woodley). |
| 21 January–10 February | Brian Matthews | Scott Swalwell | Companion of Sam Marshall and Hayley Smith, involved in graffiti vandalism; tragically dies after falling from a building. |
| 3–12 February | Geraldine Peterson | Anna Lee | Member of The Wednesday Club who claims credit for fundraising efforts, leading to tension with Rebecca Nash (Belinda Emmett). |
| 5 February | Mo Matthews | Pat Sands | Father to Brian Matthews; catches Brian and Sam in the act of tagging a tower. |
| 8–18 February | Kaia Stokes | Blazey Best | Provides support to Joey Rainbow during his schizophrenic episodes but departs as his hallucinations worsen. |
| 19 February–6 October | Bob Playford | Tony Morgan | Real estate agent employed by Diana Fraser for caravan park development; local residents collaborate to purchase the property, preventing the project. |
| 4–23 March | Brooke Taylor | Bridie Carter | Develops an interest in Travis Nash due to his resemblance to her deceased fiancé; discloses family secrets before her departure. |
| 4–5 March | Mara Taylor | Ann Burbrook | Brooke's sister who shows romantic interest in Joel Nash, unaware that he is married. |
| 10–17 March | Denise Hennessy | Lauren Clair | Former prison cellmate of Kylie Burton; adopts an alias and entangles Jesse McGregor before fleeing as an escapee. |
| 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 |
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(Note: The remaining entries appear to be formatting errors or incomplete data and have been omitted.) External links
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