Ruby Collins

Home and Away

Company type	Television series
Industry	Television soap opera
Founded	January 17, 1988 (1988-01-17)
Headquarters	Australia
Area served	Australia

Home and Away is a long-running Australian soap opera that premiered on the Seven Network on 17 January 1988. The following compilation details characters who were introduced in 1999, listed chronologically by their debut, all under the guidance of then-executive producer John Holmes. The series’ twelfth season commenced on 11 January 1999. The initial character introduced that year was Nick Smith, portrayed by Matt Juarez in March. His father, Ken, enacted by Anthony Phelan, followed in April. Aleetza Wood joined the cast as Peta Janossi in May. In July, Cameron Welsh took on the role of Mitch McColl. August saw the arrival of Bianca Zeboat alongside lifeguard Shauna Bradley, played by Kylie Watson. Science educator Harry Reynolds, portrayed by Justin Melvey, was introduced in September. Finally, October brought new additions Anna Hruby and Stephen James King 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 cast member in 2000 with Chris Egan assuming the role. Egan continued until Nick’s departure on 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 2001 Logie Awards.

Peta Janossi

Peta Janossi, played by Aleetza Wood, was introduced on 27 May 1999 and exited the series on 14 July 2000. Wood secured this role while still attending university. Series Producer Russell Webb selected her due to her "fresh-faced" appearance. For her performance as Peta, Wood earned a nomination for "Most Popular New Female Talent" in 2000.

Mitch McColl

Mitch McColl, portrayed by Cameron Welsh, first appeared on screen on 15 July 1999. Welsh originally auditioned for a guest part. In 2000, he was diagnosed with a herniated disc and consequently took a six-week hiatus; during this period, Mitchell McMahon temporarily assumed the character's role. Welsh described this experience as "weird" but acknowledged it was necessary due to an important ongoing storyline. Filming resumed with Welsh’s scenes returning from 3 April 2000. In celebration of the show’s 4000th episode in 2005, Welsh made a cameo appearance reprising Mitch for Alf Stewart's (Ray Meagher) birthday. Subsequently, Welsh transitioned into a production role for Home and Away, citing his acting background as beneficial to his producer duties. He garnered a nomination for "Best New Male Talent" at the Logie Awards in 2000.

Critics praised Mitch’s impactful introduction and significant story arcs. James Joyce from The Newcastle Herald highlighted Mitch and Hayley’s initial kiss as a highly anticipated moment that captivated audiences with its "lustful eyes" and teasing chemistry. A columnist from the Daily Record recognized Mitch's departure among notable television highlights that week.

Bianca Zeboat

Bianca Zeboat, enacted by Lara Cox, debuted on 11 August 1999. Cox secured this extended guest role soon after completing work on Heartbreak High, appearing concurrently in both productions. She characterized Bianca as a "manipulator" and "nasty," which contrasted sharply with her prior role as Anita Scheppers, but she acknowledged Bianca’s assertiveness as an asset. An Inside Soap journalist observed Bianca’s immediate disruptive influence upon her arrival at the Summer Bay Diner.

Bianca is depicted as a model and actress pursuing the lead role in the film adaptation of Alan Fisher’s 1989 novel On the Crest of a Wave. She cultivates a friendship with Jesse McGregor (Ben Unwin) to extract insider knowledge; Jesse becomes enamored with her, viewing Bianca as both a partner and maternal figure. However, after the film’s director Roger Landowne (Tony Bonner) dismisses Bianca from the project, she ends her relationship with Jesse and departs 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 the role soon after relocating back to Canberra, despite initial uncertainty about her prospects. This was her inaugural acting position, prompting her to undertake training to enhance her craft. For this portrayal, Watson earned a nomination for Most Popular New Female Talent at the 2000 Logies.

Shauna was characterized as "sassy" by Karman Kregloe from AfterEllen and described as "feisty" by The People. Author Andrew Mercado referred to her as a "sexy lifesaver". Inside Soap emphasized the intense volatility of Shauna’s relationship with Harry and highlighted the dangers she faced when involved with Gavin. In 2012, Channel 5 shortlisted an episode featuring Shauna confronting Margaret over adoption issues for audience voting in their "From Day One" segment.

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 while developing his acting abilities. Upon landing the role, he moved from Los Angeles to Sydney, marking a pivotal career transition. Melvey received 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 from 21 October 1999 until 21 November 2000. Hruby was previously recognized for playing Paddy Lawson in Prisoner Cell Block H. Judith took over as principal of Summer Bay High during Donald Fisher’s leave of absence. Her tenure included managing challenges such as skepticism about her appointment and confrontations with students like Gypsy Nash regarding school governance.

Her son, Edward Dunglass, arrives bearing the risk of inheriting Huntington's disease from his late father, Edward Dunglass Sr. Despite Edward’s rebellious streak, Judith remains supportive while balancing complex family relationships, including Edward’s unconventional marriage to Peta Janossi. She also forms a close bond with Donald Fisher, assisting him in writing his novel.

Judith embarks on a romantic relationship with Joel Nash; however, it ends when Joel reconciles with his former wife Natalie and moves back to Queensland. Subsequently, Judith accepts a position in Switzerland, recommends Donald Fisher resume his principal role, and hires Sally Fletcher before her departure.

Edward Dunglass

Edward Dunglass, played by Stephen James King, appeared between 28 October 1999 and 14 July 2000. King managed acting alongside his high school education, marking his first television role after theatre experience. He commended the seasoned cast for their supportiveness, describing his integration as smooth and welcoming. Edward’s distinctive goth style set him apart from typical Summer Bay residents, initially resulting in judgment but adding a fresh dynamic to the series.

Edward is introduced when he rescues Duncan Stewart from bullies, leading to an invitation to local go-kart trials where he achieves the fastest lap time. The arrival of principal Judith Ackroyd, who is revealed as his mother, adds complexity to his story. Donald Fisher identifies Edward’s father, Edward Sr., who succumbed to Huntington's disease—a hereditary condition Edward fears he may have inherited.

Edward quickly forms friendships with Peta Janossi and Mitch McColl, supporting Peta during a memorial for her grandmother. His camaraderie with Duncan causes friction with Alf and Ailsa Stewart, particularly after Edward’s blunt remarks about Byron Fisher’s death and his own illness. Pursuing excitement amid uncertainty about his future, Edward engages in risky behavior that concerns those around him. Following a breakup and subsequent reconciliation with Peta, they begin self-defence classes and deepen their bond, culminating in a private marriage ceremony and cohabitation despite Joel Nash’s objections.

As symptoms of Huntington's manifest, Edward tests positive shortly after turning eighteen. Initially minimizing the diagnosis, he later experiences emotional breakdowns but finds comfort in a video message from his deceased father. Shedding his gothic makeup, Edward requests access to his trust fund to travel with Peta; Judith consents and arranges their stay in Rome. Before leaving, Edward expresses anxiety about their future together while Peta remains steadfastly supportive. The following year Will Smith visits them and confirms that Edward’s condition is deteriorating.

Others

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Role Description
11 January–3 March	Dr. Noble	Mariette Rups-Donnelly	Serves as psychiatrist to Gypsy Nash (Kimberley Cooper) following her abduction and later provides guidance to Joey Rainbow (Alex O'Han) during his struggle with schizophrenia.
14–25 January	Mr Gilkey	Ben Ager	Road rage driver who confronts Ailsa Stewart (Judy Nunn) after a collision, demanding compensation; his apology is declined.
14 January–21 May	Troy	Lucas Sinkovic Luke Jacobz	A Year 12 student and teammate of Tom Nash (Graeme Squires) on the cricket team.
18–19 January	Rhonda	Samantha Braniff	Utilized by David D'Angelo (Toni Poli) as bait in the kidnapping of Joel Nash (David Woodley).
21 January–10 February	Brian Matthews	Scott Swalwell	Friend to Sam Marshall and Hayley Smith, involved in graffiti vandalism; dies after a fall.
3–12 February	Geraldine Peterson	Anna Lee	Member of The Wednesday Club; causes tension with Rebecca Nash (Belinda Emmett) over credit for charity fundraising.
5 February	Mo Matthews	Pat Sands	Brian Matthews' father; catches Brian and Sam in the act of tagging a tower.
8–18 February	Kaia Stokes	Blazey Best	Supports Joey Rainbow through his schizophrenic episodes but departs when his hallucinations worsen.
19 February–6 October	Bob Playford	Tony Morgan	Real estate agent employed by Diana Fraser to redevelop the caravan park; locals prevent the plan by purchasing the property themselves.
4–23 March	Brooke Taylor	Bridie Carter	Pursues Travis Nash (Nic Testoni) due to his resemblance to her deceased fiancé; reveals family secrets before leaving.
4–5 March	Mara Taylor	Ann Burbrook	Brooke's sister; shows romantic interest in Joel Nash, unaware he is married.
10–17 March	Denise Hennessy	Lauren Clair	Former cellmate of Kylie Burton; adopts an alias and becomes involved with Jesse McGregor before fleeing town.
11 March	Eleanor Mace	Deborah Piper	Candidates interviewed by Donald Fisher for Byron Fisher’s nanny position.
	Patsy Little	Jillian O'Dowd
	Skye	Karren Lewis
16 March–11 May	Ellen Porter	Anne Grigg	Nanny employed for Donald Fisher's newborn son; has a history involving manslaughter but gains trust before departing.
17–22 March	Jim Woods	Nick Hogan	Local police officer investigating Denise Hennessy and drug-related matters concerning Nick Smith.
19–23 March	Johnno	Josef Ber	Drug dealer pursuing Nick Smith over unpaid debts; assaults him but later considers the debt settled.
24 March	'Foster father of Nick Smith, arrives to collect him from the beach house.

24 March 1999–26 April 2000 || Wendy Williams || Monette Lee / Lisa Cameron || Foster mother of Nick Smith; returns him to live with his biological father due to behavioral concerns. 26 March–20 April || Miranda Porter || Lauren Hewett || Daughter of Ellen Porter; an HIV-positive student who dates Joey Rainbow but leaves due to fear of stigma. 29 March–7 April || Claire Andrews || Kate Beahan || Half-sister to Travis and Joel Nash; causes trouble before departing Summer Bay. 21 April–14 June || Jack || Eamon Davern || Friend of Duncan Stewart; involved in a homemade bomb incident that injures Alf Stewart. 4–5 May || Organist || Gregg Arthur || Performs at James Fraser and Chloe Richards’ wedding ceremony. 7 May–19 August || Wendy Collins || Jayne Leslie || Mother who, along with husband Steve, wrongly accuses childminder Justine Welles in their daughter's death until confessing. 11 May–19 August || Steve Collins || Don Halbert || Husband involved in the wrongful conviction of Justine Welles for their daughter's death. 11–19 May || Ruby Collins || Kiara Bleskas et al. || Daughter of Steve and Wendy Collins; dies under suspicious circumstances triggering a trial.

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Role Description

24–25 May || Guy North || Drayton Morley || Supportive friend to Marilyn Fisher during her post-natal depression period. 3 June 1999, 8 November 2004 || Father O'Hearn || Alan Russell || Catholic priest involved in Marilyn Fisher's confession and officiating Owen Dalby's funeral. 7 June–2 July || Hope Benedict || Brooke Harmon || Church group member pursued romantically by Duncan Stewart who leaves after rejection. 9–23 June || John Russell || John Moore et al. || Aboriginal educator with a family separation past; departs seeking his mother. 16 June–20 July || David Janossi || Philip Edwards || Brother of Peta Janossi living off undeclared pension income, leaves after job offer and exposure of deception. 28 June–9 September || Roger Lansdowne || Tony Bonner || Film producer attempting to secure rights for Alan Fisher’s autobiography; manipulates locals before leaving.

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Role Description

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; reconciles with estranged daughter Frances Kennedy. 12 July–20 August|| Angus Halliday|| Gabriel Andrews|| University peer of Sally Fletcher, inciting jealousy from Vinnie Patterson. 19 July|| Frances Kennedy|| Alice Livingstone|| Estranged daughter of Annie Matthews facilitating her mother's return home.

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Role Description

28 July–26 August|| Sharon Welles|| Shayne Francis|| Mother of Justine Welles; former addict assisting journalist Jeff Berger in obtaining a confession leading to Justine's conviction. 28 July–9 August|| Leon Watson|| David Webb|| Defense attorney representing Justine Welles during her murder trial. 30 July–31 August|| Jeff Berger|| Jonathon Speer|| Journalist offering payment for a confession from Sharon Welles concerning Justine Welles' case. 6–9 August|| Kelly McCane|| Laurie Foell|| Prosecutor in Justine Welles' trial regarding Ruby Collins' death. 10–18 August|| Gemma|| Alyssa McClelland|| Cellmate sharing imprisonment with Justine Welles.

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Role Description

23 August|| Mrs. Brown || Jan Merriman|| Spouse of local farmer Jack Brown, hosting teenagers employed for fruit picking on the farm. 24 August 1999–26 February 2000|| Jack Brown || Paul Chubb|| Farmer employing local teens, managing farm challenges and family reconciliation following son's death linked to farm chemicals. 31 August–30 September|| Anthony Doyle || Kim Knuckey|| Dates Irene Roberts but ends relationship following foster son's involvement in a car joyride incident.

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Role Description

10–22 September|| Jillian Williams || Alexandra Davies|| Former flatmate stalking Shauna Bradley, framing Adam Cameron before being apprehended. 14 September|| Darryl || Jeremiah Tickell|| Shauna Bradley’s ex-boyfriend who accuses Adam Cameron of stalking and vandalizes his vehicle. 23 September 1999–16 June 2003|| Ralph Patterson || Alan Cinis|| Father of Vinnie Patterson involved in financial fraud, deceives Vinnie before arrest and attempts at reconciliation.

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Role Description

27 September–8 October|| Gazza Boyd || Sebastian Huber|| Friend of Duncan Stewart who discovers stolen money linked to fugitive David D'Angelo; hostage situation resolved by police intervention. 11–13 October|| Lauren Healy || Merridy Eastman|| Accomplice aiding David D'Angelo in kidnapping Duncan Stewart, thwarted by Joel Nash and law enforcement.

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Role Description

14 October 1999–24 March 2000|| Claire Rogers || Talia Marmount / Jaime Mears|| Student harboring feelings for Harry Reynolds causing social tensions before leaving town. 15 October 1999–21 February 2000|| Danielle McCarthy || Claire Paradine|| Nursing Unit manager briefly involved romantically with James Fraser without further developments.

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Role Description

20 October 1999–5 April 2000|| Juliette Bellatti || Nicole Nabout|| Nurse infatuated with James Fraser, anonymously sends birthday balloon, later departs Summer Bay with him. 2 November 1999–31 January 2000|| Mick Dwyer || John Brumpton|| Former criminal associate pressuring Jesse McGregor into repairing stolen vehicles, arrested following crash involving Joel Nash. 3 November 1999–27 March 2000|| Rosemary Myers || Anita Bochnik|| Student campaigning for school captain and protesting harassment alongside Peta Janossi at school.

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Role Description

4–9 November|| Christian || John Atkinson|| Hitman hired by US scientific corporation targeting Harry Reynolds; subdued and arrested after hostage event involving Shauna Bradley. 24 November 1999 –2 February 2000||| Alison ||| Jenny Apostolou||| Harry Reynolds’ ex-fiancée arriving from America; Harry chooses Shauna Bradley over relocating to the US with Alison who leaves alone.

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Role Description

External links

• Cast and characters on the Official Australian Home and Away website
• Cast and characters on the Official UK Home and Away website
• Cast and characters at the Internet Movie Database