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Ross Buckton

From Alfawiki
Home and Away
Company typeTelevision series
IndustryTelevision soap opera
FoundedJanuary 17, 1988; 38 years ago (1988-01-17)
FounderSeven Network
Headquarters
Australia
Area served
Australia
Website7plus.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 throughout 2008, all under the direction of series producer Cameron Welsh. The show's twenty-first season began broadcasting on 28 January 2008. Notable new characters include the principal Martin Bartlett (played by Bob Baines) in February; Axel Hay (Trent Dalzell), Ross Buckton (David Downer), and Melody Jones (Celeste Dodwell) in March; Nicole Franklin (Tessa James) in April; Jai Fernandez and Oliver Phillips portrayed by Jordan Rodrigues and Oliver Davis respectively in May; Charlie Buckton and Ruby Buckton, brought to life by Esther Anderson and Rebecca Breeds, in June; Angelo Rosetta (Luke Jacobz) alongside Elliot Gillen (Paul Pantano) in July; and finally Xavier Austin (David Jones-Roberts) arriving in November.

Martin Bartlett

Martin Bartlett, enacted by Bob Baines, made his first appearance on 12 February 2008. Serving as principal of Summer Bay High during 2008–09, Martin's narrative arcs explore both his professional hurdles and personal dilemmas, especially his romantic interest in school secretary Kirsty Sutherland (Christie Hayes). After Kirsty rebuffs his advances and enters a relationship with Miles Copeland, Martin terminates her employment. Unbeknownst to him, Kirsty takes up work as an escort, with Martin unknowingly becoming one of her clients—this discovery fuels tension between them.

Initially appointed as deputy principal succeeding Donald Fisher, Martin ascends to principal following the stabbing of Sally Fletcher. Early administrative choices include coercing Jazz Curtis (Rachel Gordon) into the secretary role through blackmail before eventually replacing her with Kirsty. He offers support to Kirsty when her son Oliver sustains injuries while under others’ supervision, sharing his background of being raised by a single mother, which mirrors Kirsty’s situation given Oliver’s father Kane Phillips (Sam Atwell) is incarcerated.

The conflict intensifies when Miles confronts Martin about Kirsty’s escort activities at the Sands resort, where Martin is revealed as a client. Furthermore, Martin discloses that he has been secretly assisting Kirsty financially. During a senior formal held at the Surf Club, an accident occurs when Kane's car crashes through a wall; Martin suffers injuries but ultimately recovers.

He later arranges a commemorative school trek marking Dan Baker’s (Tim Campbell) anniversary, which turns perilous after students Jai Fernandez and Annie Campbell go missing, coupled with Trey Palmer planting a bomb beneath the bus. Fortunately, Hugo Austin (Bernard Curry) manages to defuse the explosive device. Following these incidents, Martin leaves for a cruise, appointing Gina Austin (Sonia Todd) as his replacement.

Axel Hay

Axel Hay, played by Trent Dalzell, was first introduced on 19 March 2008.

Prior to Axel's departure from the show, he and Jai Fernandez (Jordan Rodrigues) are struck by a drunk Larry Jefferies (Paul Gleeson), who then flees without rendering aid. Actor Todd Lasance, who portrays Aden Jefferies, explained that while Jai escapes mostly unscathed, Axel suffers serious injuries requiring hospitalization. Both boys have limited recollection of the crash but recall seeing a silver station wagon, prompting Aden to suspect his father’s involvement.

As a Summer Bay High student, Axel initially appears alongside classmate Aden. At a party hosted by Nicole Franklin (Tessa James), Axel behaves inappropriately by making unwanted advances toward Belle Taylor (Jessica Tovey) and subsequently attempts to assault Melody Jones (Celeste Dodwell). After Geoff Campbell (Lincoln Lewis) confronts him physically, Axel is found injured on the beach. Although reluctant to involve law enforcement, suspicion initially targets Geoff and Aden until Belle identifies Aden as responsible due to his harsh demeanor. Axel’s standing suffers among peers; however, he apologizes to Melody and forms a friendship with Jai. Tragically, Axel and Jai later perish in a car accident caused by Aden’s father. Axel subsequently appears as a hallucination haunting Melody during her nightmares.

Ross Buckton

Ross Michael Buckton, portrayed by David Downer, made his first appearance on 21 May 2008. Serving as a police officer in Yabbie Creek, Ross leads the inquiry into the murder of Sam Holden (Jessica Chapnik). During the investigation, he interviews Martha MacKenzie (Jodi Gordon), who is the ex-wife of Sam's widower Jack Holden, as he suspects that Sam’s suicide note might have been fabricated. Ross also questions Jazz Curtis (Rachel Gordon), but ultimately must drop the charges after Morag Bellingham (Cornelia Frances) provides evidence confirming Sam’s death was a suicide.

Despite challenges such as Ross withholding details about his deceased wife Elsie and facing opposition from his daughter Charlie—who initially cautions Morag against pursuing the relationship—Ross and Morag reignite their past romance. His other daughter, Ruby, is supportive, which leads to Ross proposing to Morag. They marry in a private ceremony and later honeymoon across Europe.

After their return, Ross begins to show signs of memory lapses and mounting stress. Following two disappearances and reopening a previously resolved case, he receives an Alzheimer's diagnosis from Rachel Armstrong (Amy Mathews). After a hazardous event at home, Ross consents to move into care with Morag by his side.

When Grant Bledcoe’s (Clayton Watson) body is discovered, suspicion falls on Charlie, who is suspended from duty. Ross admits to having killed Grant years earlier as retribution for Grant raping Charlie during their teenage years. Facing murder charges, Ross awaits trial but passes away in 2011; his funeral is held in Summer Bay.

Melody Jones

Melody Jones, enacted by Celeste Dodwell, was cast in December 2007 shortly after completing her drama HSC. Initially auditioning for the role of Nicole Franklin, Dodwell was instead offered the part of Melody, a character that captured her interest. She later departed the show to pursue drama studies in the United Kingdom.

Nicole Franklin

Nicole Franklin, played by Tessa James, first appeared on 18 April 2008. James secured the role in January 2008, with Executive Producer Cameron Welsh commending her as an exciting new talent poised to connect well with viewers. Relocating to Sydney for filming, James described the experience as valuable professional development. The role had originally been sought by Celeste Dodwell during auditions. Nicole’s key story arcs involved rekindling romance on a deserted island and enduring captivity, emphasizing her dramatic appeal. Media outlets characterized her as a "flighty minx" and a "fiery favourite." TV Week highlighted James as one of the series' most promising performers, suggesting she had potential for Hollywood success.

Jai Fernandez

Jai Fernandez, portrayed by Jordan Rodrigues, was introduced on 19 May 2008. Transitioning from theatre to television, Rodrigues described the role as an entirely new challenge and appreciated the recognition from audiences. Jai’s backstory includes losing his entire family during the 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami. He forms a bond with established character Miles Copeland (Josh Quong Tart), who also suffered family losses in the disaster. Miles brings Jai to Summer Bay despite tension stemming from Miles having left Jai behind in Phuket previously. Rodrigues explained that Jai harbors anger towards the world and finds it difficult to fit into Summer Bay’s surf culture.

Rodrigues exited the series in 2009 to join ABC's Dance Academy. His performance earned him a nomination for "Most Popular New Talent" at the 2009 Logie Awards.

Jai initially appears at a city refuge when Miles locates him. Although initially distant, Jai agrees to relocate to Summer Bay with Miles. He faces challenges adapting both socially and academically but forms a friendship with fellow outsider Axel Hay (Trent Dalzell). Their escapades include a scooter ride that results in Axel’s death after being struck by a drunk driver. This traumatic event drives Jai toward reckless acts such as leaping from Jump Rock to prove his invulnerability—an act that alarms Annie Campbell (Charlotte Best). Their shared experiences lead to a romantic relationship despite initial objections from their guardians, Miles and Irene Roberts (Lynne McGranger).

Further difficulties arise when Annie becomes trapped in a storm drain but is rescued by Charlie Buckton (Esther Anderson). Meanwhile, bullying escalates due to Trey Palmer (Luke Bracey); Jai retaliates by threatening to reveal Trey’s past weight issues after Trey falsely accuses Kirsty Phillips (Christie Hayes) of wrongdoing.

Their relationship deteriorates after Jai drunkenly admits at Ruby Buckton's birthday party that he desires to sleep with Annie, causing her to end their relationship. Later, Jai is accidentally shot with an old shotgun found on Martha MacKenzie's (Jodi Gordon) farm but hides his injury until collapsing during a school hike. Upon recovery, Jai becomes jealous of Dexter Walker (Tom Green)’s interest in Annie after witnessing them kiss.

Jai’s spirits lift when foster care friend Romeo Smith (Luke Mitchell) arrives at Summer Bay House. A plan involving Romeo intended to help Jai win Annie back fails when Romeo develops feelings for Annie himself. To escape complications, Jai accepts an exchange student opportunity in Japan but withdraws after Kirsty miscarries Miles’ child. Offering support, he suggests Annie take his place; ultimately both Jai and Annie depart for Japan following farewells with friends.

Oliver Phillips

Oliver "Ollie" Phillips is the child of Kirsty and Kane Phillips. His initial appearance occurs when Irene Roberts collects him after he develops a fever, necessitating hospitalization. Despite interventions from both medical staff and law enforcement, Ollie remains uncommunicative. Kane, who is on the run, secretly visits Ollie. Following Kane's unsuccessful robbery attempt and subsequent arrest, Kirsty removes Ollie from the hospital in an effort to escape, but they are eventually returned to Irene's guardianship.

Ollie's actions create friction by revealing Belle Taylor's romantic involvement and harming her professional reputation, which leads Kirsty to relocate them to a caravan park near her previous residence. Subsequently, they establish a family unit with Miles Copeland and Jai. Upon Kane's release from custody, Ollie recognizes him, allowing for a brief reunion before Kane departs permanently.

Kirsty experiences a pregnancy but suffers a miscarriage; during this time, Ollie meets his grandmother Shelley Sutherland, who arrives to support Kirsty. Shelley then takes them back to reside with the family in the city.

Charlie Buckton

Charlie Buckton was introduced on 6 June 2008, played by former model Esther Anderson, who was cast to enhance Home and Away with additional "sex appeal." Anderson, an avid viewer of the series prior to joining, expressed excitement about her role. She exited the show in late 2011 to pursue opportunities in Hollywood.

Anderson received several nominations for her portrayal of Charlie, including "Sexiest Female" at the 2008 Inside Soap Awards and "Best Daytime Star" in 2010. Additionally, she was nominated for "Most Popular Personality on Australian Television" and "Most Popular Actress" at the 2010 Logie Awards. The episode depicting Charlie’s death earned a nomination from the Australian Writers' Guild. Critics characterized Charlie as both a "sexy sergeant" and the soap’s "cutest crime fighter."

Ruby Buckton

Ruby Buckton, played by Rebecca Breeds, made her debut on 20 June 2008. Created by executive producer Cameron Welsh, Ruby is portrayed as a carefree yet emotionally reserved character. Mourning her mother’s passing, she conceals her grief by projecting strength and independence while maintaining a solitary demeanor. Breeds emphasized Ruby’s toughness and dedication to family, describing her as "free-spirited" and "cheeky."

In June 2012, Breeds filmed her final scenes and departed from Home and Away, although she noted that Ruby’s narrative continued beyond her exit. She received a Logie Award nomination for "Most Popular New Female Talent" at the 51st Logie Awards in 2009 and was later nominated for "Most Popular Actress" in 2010. At the 2012 Inside Soap Awards, she earned a nomination for "Best Daytime Star."

One significant storyline involved Ruby dealing with her father’s illness; during this plot, she was deceived via Skype but retaliated by persuading the prankster to skinny-dip and then stealing his clothes.

Angelo Rosetta

Angelo Rosetta, played by Luke Jacobz, made his first appearance on 8 July 2008. Jacobz was cast in June 2008 following the conclusion of McLeod's Daughters, where he had a recurring role. Initially intending to pursue work as a laborer in Sydney, he accepted this role with an initial contract of six months. In February 2011, it was confirmed that Jacobz had departed from Home and Away, with his final scenes broadcast shortly thereafter.

According to the official series website, Angelo hails from a tightly bonded family with three brothers and was originally portrayed as a brash character perceived as unlikely to thrive. Jacobz earned nominations for 'Most Popular Actor' at the 2010 Logie Awards and for "Best Daytime Star" at the Inside Soap Awards in the same year, indicating the character’s strong resonance with audiences.

Elliot Gillen

Elliot Gillen, enacted by Paul Pantano, appeared between 8 July and 26 August 2008. Pantano was highlighted in Digital Spy's feature on gay characters. Elliot’s narrative involved threatening Roman Harris (Conrad Coleby), Nicole Franklin (Tessa James), and Geoff Campbell (Lincoln Lewis) as part of his quest for vengeance over his brother’s demise.

Elliot arrives in Summer Bay seeking Roman, whom he holds responsible for his brother Mark’s death during their service with the SAS in Afghanistan. Despite an official investigation determining Mark died in an ambush, Elliot refuses to accept this and manipulates Roman by initiating a relationship with his daughter Nicole. Following the breakup, Elliot kidnaps Nicole, coercing Roman to consume a ransom flask under threat of harm to her.

When Geoff spots Nicole and Elliot together, Elliot wounds Geoff with a speargun during a sea confrontation. Roman complies with Elliot’s demands but is subsequently subjected to dangerous traps in the wilderness, including being shot with an arrow and surviving a mine explosion. Eventually, Roman overcomes Elliot, leading to his arrest.

While in custody, Roman reveals that Mark threatened their unit and that he shot him to prevent harm; Mark was then captured and killed by enemy forces. Upon learning the truth, Elliot discloses Nicole’s location before facing charges of kidnapping and attempted murder.

Xavier Austin

Xavier Austin, portrayed by David Jones-Roberts, first appeared on 20 November 2008 and departed on 3 July 2012 when he relocated permanently to Goulburn. Jones-Roberts auditioned four times before securing the part, describing the eventual casting as particularly rewarding due to the persistence involved. One of his significant storylines included witnessing Brendan cause a serious car crash using a catapult.

Additional Characters

Date(s) Character Actor Description
28 January–11 February Aaron Copeland Timothy Walter Sally Fletcher and Miles Copeland's deceased father, appearing through flashbacks. Aaron struggled with alcoholism and domestic violence, which contributed to family separation. After learning of his wife's passing, he sought custody of Sally but ultimately left her with the Fletchers. He died in 2000 due to alcohol-related issues.
11 February Diana Wilson Uncredited Deceased mother of Sally and Miles Copeland, shown in flashbacks. Her troubled marriage ended tragically with her death in a boating accident.
11 February Mrs Keating Uncredited Diana Wilson’s mother and grandmother to Sally and Miles Copeland; depicted residing in a care facility suffering from Alzheimer's disease.
18 February–23 August 2010 Anasthesist Philip Dodd Medical professional at Northern Districts Hospital attending to key characters following severe injuries.
28 February–23 May Gavin Johnson Daniel Feuerriegel Editor of Coastal News and employer of Belle Taylor; involved in editorial conflicts impacting staff members.
4 March–13 June Cara Phillips Holly Robinson School peer engaged in social interactions and disputes among students.
18 March Steve Bradford Nicholas Holland Donor who contributes $100,000 to Leah Patterson-Baker as gratitude for saving his son’s life.
20 March–16 April Joe Stephens Terence Hepburn Bartender involved in illegal activities connected to Sam Holden's storyline.
25 March–12 May Logan Roth Radek Jonak Associate of Johnny Cooper; participates in underground fighting that draws police attention.
10 April–27 January 2009 Matthew Lyons Ross Pirelli Year nine student engaged in bullying and school conflicts; suspended after involvement in misconduct including drug use.
14 April Britt Grey Meagan Drury Estranged sister of Sam Holden who takes custody of her nephew amid investigations.
6–13 May Danielle Hay Katrina Risteska Axel Hay's sister; involved in school disputes and social conflicts.
7 May–26 February 2009 Christine Jones Elizabeth Alexander (actress) Mother of Melody Jones; creates disruptions at school and challenges relationships before moving to New Zealand.
19 May Peter Randall Richard Gyoerffy Operator of a teen refuge providing support for troubled youth including Jai Fernandez.
30 May Jamie Cooper Shardyn Fahey-Leigh Son of Julie Cooper; engages in community sports while overcoming personal fears.
12 June–5 November 2012 Georgina Watson Jaclyn Albergoni Police officer at Yabbie Creek promoted to Sergeant following significant events.
14 June–27 August Jimmy Crawford Adam Booth Psychiatric patient with recurrent hospital stays impacting staff and community relations.
20–27 June Pat Jenkins Lachlan Buchanan Ruby Buckton’s boyfriend with a troubled past; their relationship ends due to conflicting priorities.
11 July Mrs. Hay Amelia Longhurst 'Mother of Axel Hay; appears following her son’s fatal accident.
Additional Characters (July–November)
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External links

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