Ruby Leeds

Home and Away

Company type	Television series
Industry	Television soap opera
Founded	January 17, 1988 (1988-01-17)
Headquarters	Australia
Website	7plus.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 section details the characters introduced during 2009, listed according to the order of their first appearance. All new additions were brought in under the guidance of executive producer Cameron Welsh. The show's 22nd season was broadcast from 19 January until 27 November 2009. Early in the year, January saw the introduction of Gina and Hugo Austin. February brought in Robert Cruze, Trey Palmer, Freya Duric, and Joey Collins. In March, Liam Murphy and John Palmer made their debuts. April featured Lachie Cladwell and David Gardiner, while June introduced May Stone. July was marked by the birth of Harry Holden and the arrival of the Walker family members: Sid, Dexter, and Indigo. Detective Robert Robertson joined the cast in August, followed by the appearance of Romeo Smith in September.

Gina Austin

Gina Austin, played by Sonia Todd, made her first appearance on 27 January 2009 and remained on the show until 18 April 2013. According to the official show website, Gina is depicted as a devoted mother who has faced challenges with both her eldest and youngest sons but consistently strives to manage her life without succumbing to self-pity. Industry commentary describes her as a realistic and warm-hearted woman who places her family’s needs above her own. Actress Todd values that Gina’s character is a mother to three boys, emphasizing a strong family focus central to her storyline.

Hugo Austin

Hugo Austin, portrayed by Bernard Curry, first appeared on-screen on 27 January 2009. He exited on 26 January 2010, returned briefly on 6 May 2010, and departed again on 9 June 2010. Curry, who had previously acted in rival soap Neighbours, regarded his experience on Home & Away as both rewarding and challenging. Hugo’s character is described as an outdoors enthusiast with a fit build and sun-kissed complexion.

Robert Cruze

Robert "Robbo" Cruze, enacted by Aidan Gillett, made his debut on 1 February 2009. Robbo worked alongside Aden Jefferies and Joey Collins on a boat but frequently antagonized Joey due to her sexual orientation. His harassment escalated into sexual assault, which Joey initially kept secret but eventually reported to authorities. Robbo denied all accusations following the complaint. His former girlfriend Tanya Gannon arrived to support Joey but was subsequently struck by a vehicle. In retaliation for the complaint, Robbo physically assaulted Joey and attempted to drown her; however, Charlie intervened, arrested Robbo, who was then charged and did not return to the series.

Trey Palmer

Trey Palmer, played by Luke Bracey, first appeared on 9 February 2009. Characterized as having "the face of an angel" paired with "devilish behaviour," Trey quickly became a divisive presence on-screen. His introduction sparked significant viewer attention, particularly through conflicts with characters such as Geoff Campbell (Lincoln Lewis) and Nicole Franklin. A prominent storyline involved Trey recording a sex tape with Nicole that was subsequently leaked—an incident reflecting a real-life controversy involving Lincoln Lewis.

Introduced as a troubled schoolboy, Trey bullied local youths including Jai Fernandez (Jordan Rodrigues) and disrupted school activities. He engaged in ongoing feuds with Geoff Campbell and clashed with his stepfather, John Palmer. Despite initial antagonism, Trey displayed moments of vulnerability, developing feelings for Kirsty; however, this ended unsuccessfully and led to further disputes and legal accusations against Miles Copeland—charges which were later dropped.

As Trey sought redemption, he grew closer to Nicole, culminating in a relationship complicated by the leaked sex tape incident which Trey himself released in retaliation. His increasing volatility reached a climax when he orchestrated a school bus hostage crisis involving a planted bomb. The explosion caused serious injuries to Hugo Austin and resulted in Trey's arrest for attempted murder.

Freya Duric

Freya Duric, brought to life by Sophie Hensser, made her first appearance on 10 February 2009.

In 2009, the series explored two lesbian narratives, one of which involved Nicole Franklin (Tessa James) and Freya, whose kiss generated viewer complaints. James observed that Freya reflected a wilder aspect of Nicole's personality, explaining their dynamic. The kiss was intended as a challenge to Nicole, who initially reacted with anger and discomfort but ultimately appreciated the attention. This moment led Nicole to recognize her own dullness.

Freya arrives with the intention of reigniting her previous romance with Xavier Austin. Although Xavier initially resists due to his relationship with Ruby Buckton, Freya persistently entices him. Gina cautions Xavier about Freya, yet they continue their involvement as Freya causes disruption in the community. She becomes involved in drug dealing in Summer Bay, persuading Xavier to distribute drugs at Summer Bay High. After a confrontation with Nicole, Freya publicly kisses her to demonstrate that she is not dull, irritating Geoff who suspects manipulation. Freya enjoys exerting influence over Xavier but soon loses interest and later kisses his brother Hugo—unaware that Xavier witnesses this. When Hugo ends their relationship, Freya promptly leaves the area.

Joey Collins

Joey Collins, portrayed by Kate Bell, first appeared on 12 February 2009.

The character of Joey was introduced by producers to develop a lesbian storyline involving Charlie Buckton (Esther Jackie Anderson) aimed at increasing viewership. Over a five-week arc, their friendship evolved into a romantic relationship featuring intimate moments. Executive producer Cameron Welsh remarked that Joey was well-received and left open the possibility of her return.

Joey works aboard a boat alongside Aden Jefferies and Robbo Cruze, who harasses her and eventually assaults her—a crime she reports despite Robbo’s denial and skepticism from her brother Brett, who disapproves of her sexual orientation and expels her from home. Charlie supports Joey throughout; after Robbo attempts to drown Joey, Charlie rescues her and Robbo is arrested.

Joey and Charlie embark on a secret relationship but encounter homophobic reactions and gossip. Charlie struggles with accepting her sexuality and managing work-related stress, culminating in Joey’s emotional departure for another employment opportunity.

Liam Murphy

Liam Murphy, played by Axle Whitehead, debuted on 5 March 2009. Whitehead, known as both a musician and presenter, secured the role following a successful audition. Originally intended for a brief fifteen-episode stint, Liam is portrayed as a rebellious "bad boy rocker." Whitehead drew upon his own life experiences to authentically depict Liam’s battles with substance abuse.

Brendan Austin

Brendan Austin, enacted by Kain O'Keeffe, first appeared on 25 March 2009. O'Keeffe was cast after collaborating with other cast members on a film project. Brendan was introduced following the arrival of the Austin family. He has an intellectual disability—specifically autism—which creates tensions between his brothers Xavier and Hugo.

Brendan relocates to Summer Bay with his mother and initially struggles to connect with others. Xavier had been his main caretaker previously, leading to conflicts with Hugo. Ruby Buckton, Xavier’s girlfriend, helps Brendan become more socially engaged. Under Martha MacKenzie’s supervision, Brendan runs away multiple times; during one incident he throws a brick through Roman Harris's window causing a car accident that leaves Roman temporarily comatose and blind. Upon learning about Brendan’s condition, Roman decides not to pursue legal action.

Brendan’s aversion to blue cars stems from witnessing an accident in which Hugo was injured and his girlfriend died. He later introduces Ruby Leeds, his girlfriend who has Down syndrome, prompting his mother Gina to consider placing him in sheltered accommodation. Brendan surprises his family by rescuing Xavier from drowning, which leads Gina to support Brendan’s move toward independent living with Ruby. Brendan mistakenly attends what he believes is Hugo's funeral but discovers Hugo is still alive. After Gina's passing in 2013, Brendan did not attend her funeral due to emotional distress.

John Palmer

John Palmer, played by Shane Withington, made his first appearance on 27 March 2009 as the stepfather of Trey Palmer. Withington, previously known for his role in A Country Practice, joined Home and Away in a recurring guest capacity. The character was characterized as a "strict father" figure and a member of the surf lifesaving club.

Claudia Hammond

Claudia Hammond, portrayed by Alexandra Park, debuted on 10 April 2009. She embarks on a romantic relationship with Geoff Campbell and later reveals she is expecting a child. Their storyline involves a caravan fire following their first intimate encounter, which Geoff interprets as divine retribution due to his religious beliefs. Series producer Cameron Welsh emphasized the story’s intricacy surrounding Claudia’s pregnancy and the scope for ongoing plotlines, particularly focusing on her deception regarding the baby's paternity.

Claudia arrives to assist on Geoff’s farm, leading to their relationship. After the caravan fire, Lachie, her former partner, accuses Geoff. Claudia confirms her pregnancy but insists Lachie is not the father, explaining their relationship had ended before she left him. Lachie tries to win her back but faces rejection.

As conflicts between Geoff and Lachie intensify, a football tackle leaves Lachie apparently paralyzed. Overcome with guilt, Claudia confesses that Lachie is actually the father. Geoff reacts with anger and asks her to leave. Following Lachie’s violent episode, Claudia denies him access to their child and eventually moves away to live with her cousin in Dubbo, distancing herself from both men.

Lachie Cladwell

Lachie Cladwell, enacted by Jackson Heywood, first appeared on 4 May 2009. He is Claudia Hammond’s (Alexandra Park) intermittent boyfriend. After several breakups, Lachie returns determined to reconcile but ultimately accepts Claudia’s decision to move on. When Claudia announces her pregnancy, she initially claims Lachie is not the father, which creates tension with Geoff Campbell (Lincoln Lewis). After Lachie suffers injuries during a rugby match altercation and is hospitalized, Claudia admits he is the biological father. Lachie hopes to build a family with Claudia; however, she rejects him and departs Summer Bay.

The Daily Record observed that Geoff’s hostility toward Lachie stemmed from mounting frustration rather than inherent spite.

David Gardiner

David "Gardy" Gardiner, portrayed by Jeremy Sims, appeared for the first time on 13 May 2009. The Sydney Morning Herald commended Sims' authentic performance, particularly noting Gardy’s disturbing manipulation of Roman Harris (Conrad Coleby). The Daily Record described Gardy as a charismatic yet menacing villain.

Gardy infiltrates the home of his blind military comrade Roman, unsettling Roman’s daughter Nicole Franklin (Tessa James) and her friend Ruby Buckton (Rebecca Breeds). He becomes entangled in violent incidents and undertakes dangerous attempts to “cure” Roman’s blindness. Once Roman regains his sight, Gardy coerces him into robbing a liquor store, sparking moral dilemmas and blackmail connected to a prior military event.

Escalating his criminal behavior, Gardy robs the Palmer residence and takes hostages, using threats to force Roman's compliance. During a warehouse robbery in Mangrove River, Gardy plans to eliminate witnesses but is confronted by Roman, leading to a shootout. Although shot and subdued by Roman and Hugo Austin (Bernard Curry), Gardy escapes physical harm and flees into a creek, vanishing from the storyline.

May Stone

May Stone, brought to life by Alin Sumarwata, made her first appearance on 12 June 2009 as a new educator at Summer Bay High. She soon enters into a relationship with Angelo Rosetta, unaware that he is secretly involved with Charlie Buckton. Although Angelo promises fidelity, he continues his secret liaison with Charlie, which leads to their breakup once May uncovers the truth. Upset by the betrayal, May decides to resign from her teaching position and promptly leaves Summer Bay.

Harry Holden

Harry Jack Holden, portrayed by various child actors, was introduced on 30 July 2009. He is the son of Rachel Armstrong and Tony Holden. After his birth, Rachel experiences difficulty bonding with Harry and struggles to manage his persistent crying, even having thoughts of harming him before seeking assistance. When Jane Avent wrongly accuses Rachel of neglect and abducts Harry, a police search ensues, culminating in Harry’s safe return to his parents. In August 2010, Harry moves with Rachel and Tony to Boston, stopping briefly at his half-brother Jack’s gravesite before leaving.

Sid Walker

Sid Walker, portrayed by Robert Mammone, debuted on 30 July 2009 under a five-week guest contract. Due to positive audience feedback, Sid returned permanently in June 2010 alongside Indigo and Dexter.

Dexter Walker

Dexter Walker, originally played by Tom Green from 30 July 2009, was recast with Charles Cottier in 2010 when the character was reintroduced. Cottier observed a transformation in Dexter’s persona and opted not to view Green’s earlier portrayal. A significant plotline featured Dexter’s romantic involvement with Marilyn Chambers (Emily Symons), which Cottier described as both distinctive and demanding because of their considerable age gap.

Indigo Walker

Indigo Walker, enacted by Samara Weaving, first appeared on 30 July 2009. The Walker family—Sid, Jody (Victoria Haralabidou), Dexter, and Indigo—was introduced as a new family unit on Home and Away. They exited the series in September 2009 but returned in June 2010. Weaving noted that resuming the role was easier as it no longer conflicted with her academic commitments.

Robert Robertson

Robert Robertson, played by Socratis Otto, made his debut on 2 August 2009. Created by James Walker for a murder-related storyline, this character was intended to add humor without diminishing the dramatic tension. Walker described Robertson as a multifaceted detective whose eccentricities and wit allowed the series to approach dark themes with vitality rather than gloominess. Otto drew inspiration from his own comedic talents and from quirky detective characters he admired, calling Robertson one of his most fulfilling roles.

Robertson investigates the murder of Grant Bledcoe, who is Ruby Buckton’s (Rebecca Breeds) biological father. Initially suspecting Ruby’s mother Charlie (Charlie Buckton), he arrests her but later discovers that Charlie’s father, Ross (David Downer), is the true culprit. Despite his odd behavior and fondness for exaggeration, Robertson proves to be an effective investigator. He develops romantic feelings for Leah Patterson-Baker (Ada Nicodemou), though she declines his advances.

Returning later to examine the disappearance of Penn Graham (Christian Clark), Robertson teams up with Detective Graves (Eryn Jean Norvill) and focuses suspicion on Alf as the primary suspect. He collects evidence and pressures Alf for a confession but fails to obtain conclusive proof. Robertson renews his romantic pursuit of Leah; however, she remains emotionally connected to her former partner, Elijah Johnson (Jay Laga'aia). He manipulates Will Smith (Zac Drayson) into implicating Alf, resulting in Alf’s arrest. Nevertheless, Morag Bellingham (Cornelia Frances) challenges the evidence by revealing Will’s dishonesty. Consequently, Alf is released while Will faces charges.

Feeling diminished by these professional setbacks, Robertson confides in Leah about losing his sense of self. She offers reassurance that errors are part of being human. After receiving a promotion offer, he invites Leah and her son to move with him to the city, but Leah declines the proposal.

Romeo Smith

Romeo Smith, played by Luke Mitchell, first appeared on 10 September 2009. Mitchell obtained the role after moving to Sydney while unemployed. Romeo is depicted as charming, witty, humorous, and courteous. His fictional family includes his sister Mink Carpenter (Matylda Buczko) and mother Jill Carpenter (Josephine Mitchell). A central plotline for Romeo revolves around his romantic involvement with Indigo Walker (Samara Weaving).

Additional Characters

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External links

• Current lineup and characters on the Official Home and Away site
• Present cast and characters via Holy Soap

Appearance Dates	Character	Actor	Character Overview
30 January	Bank manager	Christopher Saunders	Detects unauthorized attempt by Bridget Simmons to access Leah Patterson-Baker's accounts.
30 January–6 October	Don Gibson	Steve Anderson	Collaborates with Aden on a vessel; involved in illicit abalone trading; arrested and tries to incriminate Aden; discloses details about Hugo.
2–6 February	Steve Hogan	Damien Freeglass	Police officer undertaking a brief investigation in Summer Bay.
3 February	Lawyer	Blair Cutting	Legal counsel representing Angelo Rosetta.
4 February–25 January 2010	Lou De Bono	David Roberts	Dates Irene Roberts; later perishes at sea; Irene initially charged but later cleared.
9–10 February	Archie Maddock	Tim Phillipps	Homeless individual who protects Melody Jones and aids Miles Copeland.
10 February	Thug	Zen Ledden	Attacks Melody Jones and Archie Maddock.
19 February	Mryll Ramsay	Kim Hillas	Resident hesitant to discuss elderly care facility; convinced by Melody.
19–25 February	Audrey Long	Wendy Playfair	Melody Jones' grandmother; passes away from stroke after reunion.
3–19 March	George	Benjamin O'Donnell	Participant in speed dating; brief interaction with Leah Patterson-Baker.
9 March–29 July	Brett Collins	Toby Levins	Joey Collins’ older brother; initially rejects her sexual orientation but later reconciles after family issues.
16 March–26 January 2010	Derrick Quaid	John Atkinson	Survivor of shipwreck involved in human smuggling with Hugo Austin and Suzy Sudiro; arrested following violent incidents.
19 March–13 November	Jerry Thibault	Nicholas Cassim	Employer of Belle Taylor at newspaper; involved in affair with Paula Gill; promises Belle leadership but withdraws offer.
19 March	Tanya Gannon	Hayley McCarthy	Robert Cruze’s former partner who files complaint against him; suffers injuries in hit-and-run shortly after arrival.
20 March	Paula Gill	Paula Arundell	Colleague of Belle Taylor who bullies after gaining promotion through affair with Jerry Thibault.
23 March–23 November	Donna De Bono	Suzie MacKenzie	Estranged spouse of Lou De Bono; attempts to implicate Irene Roberts in Lou’s death.
23 April	Chelsea Murphy	Georgia Gorman	Liam Murphy’s wife struggling with media attention due to Liam’s drug problems; divorces and moves to Paris with son Ash.
23–28 April	Ash Murphy	Dusty Piper	Young son of Liam and Chelsea Murphy.
1–2 June	Jenena Palmer	Anna Lise Phillips	Trey Palmer's mother and John Palmer's wife.
13 June–13 July	Clint Mailer	Matt Zeremes	Rugby coach pressuring Aden Jefferies to undermine Geoff Campbell’s career under threat of removal from team.
14 July–18 August	Jane Avent	Felicity Price	Hospital patient mourning stillbirth; blames Dr. Rachel Armstrong and kidnaps her son, prompting police involvement.
14 July–18 August	Rex Avent	Sandy Winton	Jane Avent’s husband who initially supports her but later recognizes her need for help post kidnapping incident.
14 July–26 January 2010	Wayan Rahardjo	Dorje Swallow	Hospital patient who does not speak English, connected to Hugo Austin’s smuggling operation; used by Angelo Rosetta during investigations.
28 August–11 September	"Andy McLeod"	"Paul Winchester"	"Acquaintance from Rachel Armstrong’s parent group whose friendship causes marital strain due to perceived closeness."	"Sophia McLeod"	"Madeline Andrews"	"Andy’s daughter diagnosed with hearing impairment by Rachel Armstrong."
	1–16 September	"Grant Bledcoe"	"Clayton Watson"	"Biological father of Ruby Leeds accused of rape by Charlie Buckton; later found deceased, creating family conflict."
8 September	"Tracey Bledcoe"	"Mary Anne Byrne"	"Wife of Grant Bledcoe distressed over allegations against her husband."
15 September–1 March 2012	"Patrick Avery"	"Clayton Williams"	"Police constable involved in multiple investigations; notably bails Sid Walker on assault charges."
18–22 September	"Ruby Leeds"	"Tracie Sammmut"	"Brendan’s girlfriend advocating for his independence through sheltered living arrangements."
30 September	"Jim"	"Mark Richardson"	"Brief appearance as hotel manager."
1 October–27 January 2010	"Bambang Rahardjo"	"Joft Prastowo"	"Son of Wayan Rahardjo assisting on Martha MacKenzie’s farm; utilized as bait in smuggling probe."
3 October–26 January 2010	"Suzy Sudiro"	"Tasneem Roc"	"Ex-wife of Hugo Austin involved in human smuggling; kidnaps Martha MacKenzie demanding ransom before capture."
6–17 November	"Riley Radcliffe"	"Tani Edgecombe"	"School bully targeting VJ Patterson, causing family disputes and police action."
"Ian Radcliffe"	"Ben Simpson"	"Father of Riley Radcliffe responsible for assault injuries and attempted cover-up."
9–24 November	"Poppie Merrin"	"Elouise Blair"	"Manipulative teenager whose false accusations lead to Liam Murphy’s drug possession arrest."
17–24 November	"Reg Merrin"	"Dane Carson"	"Manager at The Sands who employs Aden Jefferies and terminates him following formal night misunderstandings."
18–24 November	'Catie Merrin'	'Tess Haubrich'	'Reg Merrin’s daughter who creates tension between Aden Jefferies and Nicole Franklin, resulting in Aden’s dismissal.'
19–23 November	'Orson Cardillo'	'Mark Lee'	'Longtime gardener for Donna DeBono implicated in gun-planting incident leading to Donna’s imprisonment.'
20 November	'Bonita Cardillo'	'Suzi Dougherty'	'Wife of Orson Cardillo defending his innocence.'
25 November–18 February 2010	'Hazem Kassir'	'Ben Kermode'	'Leah Patterson-Baker's partner assaulted in racially motivated attack resulting in paralysis; relationship ends and he relocates.'
26 November	'Prison Guard'	'Joe Tarena'	'Guard present during Derrick Quaid’s escape from custody.'