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Saffron Jankievicz

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Phil Andrews
OccupationFictional character
Years active2009
Known forCharacter on Neighbours
Notable workNeighbours

Phil Andrews

Phil Andrews, brought to life by Robert Mammone, made his first appearance on 9 February 2009. Created under the guidance of executive producer Susan Bower, Phil is depicted as a secretive, middle-aged farmer who has withdrawn from society following a personal family tragedy.

Phil comes across Zeke Kinski washed up after a rafting mishap and persuades him that he is his father. In a fugue state, Zeke accepts this claim. Reporters Elle Robinson and Lucas Fitzgerald investigate and uncover links between Zeke and Phil’s farm. Phil denies any association with Zeke and abruptly departs, leading Elle and Lucas to break into his home, where they discover a boy’s bedroom along with Zeke’s T-shirt—Elle later returns the shirt only to find the room cleared out.

Authorities reveal that Phil lost his wife and son Trent in a car crash. When questioned, Phil maintains ignorance about Zeke but subsequently makes a phone call to his supposedly deceased son Trent. Zeke finds newspaper articles about the fatalities and becomes bewildered; Phil explains that the reports confused him with a deceased friend.

Susan Kennedy and Karl Kennedy find Zeke alive in a locked storage area, where Zeke insists he is named Trent. Phil is taken into custody. After grappling with his identity, Zeke realizes Phil misled him but ultimately expresses gratitude for saving his life.

Cassandra Freedman

Cassandra Freedman, portrayed by Tottie Goldsmith, is the mother of Donna, Tegan, and Simon Freedman. She appeared first on 10 February 2009. Cassandra is depicted as a cunning and self-centered femme fatale who frequently instigates conflict.

Adam Clarke

Adam Clarke, enacted by Clint Bizzell, debuted on 20 March 2009. Bizzell joined the cast in late 2008 for a five-week guest stint. Adam is an AFL star playing for the Portside Falcons, initially presenting himself as a positive influence but soon leading rookie Ringo Brown down a troublesome path.

Adam forms a friendship with Ringo and manipulates him into engaging in reckless activities, including attending an exclusive party featuring an initiation ceremony. He persuades Ringo to leave school to concentrate on football and encourages him to break the club’s rookie sprint record. Adam organizes a disruptive party at Lassiter's Hotel that results in complaints and his removal by Declan Napier.

Following a car accident caused by Adam, he convinces Ringo to accept responsibility, which leads to adverse media attention. When details emerge through Zeke Kinski's radio program, both Adam and Ringo receive warnings from their coach, Nathan Black, who subsequently dismisses Ringo from the team.

Melissa Evans

Melissa Evans, played by Kaela Hilton, was introduced on 2 April 2009 as the manager of the local radio station PirateNet. Upon Zeke Kinski (Matthew Werkmeister)’s return to Erinsborough, he becomes involved with PirateNet through Melissa’s guidance. She mentors him in managing the station, launching his radio persona "Lost Boy."

Melissa oversees talent and programming decisions, including offering Karl Kennedy (Alan Fletcher) a guest hosting role that becomes permanent before she eventually terminates his position due to him playing his own music. She replaces Karl with Sunny Lee (Hany Lee), who joins as Zeke’s co-host under the name "Found Girl."

After Zeke’s arrest causes negative publicity affecting PirateNet’s sponsorship, Melissa suspends then fires him. When the station’s owners opt to sell the premises, Zeke persuades Paul Robinson (Stefan Dennis) to acquire PirateNet and convert it into a commercial station, much to Melissa’s disapproval.

Sunny Lee

Sunny Lee, portrayed by Hany Lee, made her debut on 8 April 2009. Developed by executive producer Susan Bower to enhance cultural representation, Sunny is a South Korean exchange student who becomes part of Karl and Susan Kennedy’s household. Hany Lee earned the role after winning a contest organized by Dolly Magazine, which granted her a three-month contract on the series.

Kate Ramsay

Kate Ramsay, played by Ashleigh Brewer, first appeared on 15 May 2009 as the eldest of the Ramsay siblings, alongside Harry (Will Moore) and Sophie Ramsay (Kaiya Jones). Early in 2009, the producers of Neighbours announced the arrival of a new generation within the Ramsay family. Brewer, an actress from Brisbane, was cast following a successful audition. Network Ten characterizes Kate as "a natural leader," underscoring her role in uniting her family and placing others’ needs before her own.

Harry Ramsay

Harry Ramsay, enacted by Will Moore, was introduced on 18 May 2009. Moore emphasized the importance of portraying a character linked to the iconic Ramsay Street heritage, noting Harry’s connection to original characters Anne Robinson and Max Ramsay. Harry is depicted as a solitary figure, often feeling like an outsider and unlucky in matters of romance.

Sophie Ramsay

Sophie Ramsay, brought to life by Kaiya Jones, entered the show on 18 May 2009 as the youngest member of the Ramsay family. Jones, previously known for her role in The Saddle Club, was cast to complete the new generation of Ramsays and began filming in February 2009.

India Napier

India Napier, played by twins Alia and Gabriella De Vercelli, is the daughter of Declan Napier and Bridget Parker, with her birth shown on-screen on 23 June 2009.

In 2008, the show featured a controversial storyline involving 17-year-old Bridget Parker (Eloise Mignon) becoming pregnant by her boyfriend Declan Napier (James Sorensen). Despite criticism from conservative groups accusing Neighbours of promoting teenage pregnancy, the narrative progressed with Bridget choosing to keep the baby, supported by Declan.

The De Vercelli twins were cast at just four months old. Their mother acknowledged Sorensen’s supportive presence during filming. After Sorensen left in January 2010, Erin Mullally assumed the role of Declan, with the twins adjusting smoothly to this change. It was announced in October 2010 that India would leave alongside Mullally and Jane Hall; she departed on 15 March 2011.

Bridget’s pregnancy follows soon after she loses her virginity to Declan. Considering abortion when Declan temporarily leaves town, they reunite, marry two weeks before India’s birth, and plan to attend a music festival together. Bridget delivers India in a tent with medical assistance; India experiences breathing problems but recovers after hospital care. Before dying in a car accident, Bridget shares her dreams with India. Initially rejecting his daughter due to her resemblance to Bridget, Declan eventually assumes responsibility for India after guardianship passes through various family members.

On India’s first birthday, she suffers choking but recovers following hospital treatment funded by Paul Robinson. She later participates in a school radio program and meets extended family before moving to Portugal.

The Daily Record described India as "a screamer" with notable vocal potential, highlighting Bridget and Declan’s challenges managing her restless nature within the unique environment of Erinsborough.

Amanda Fowler

Amanda Fowler, played by Bella Heathcote, made her debut on 7 July 2009. Heathcote was cast in this recurring role earlier that year and returned at age 21, despite initial doubts about portraying a high school student. She found the part enjoyable and embraced Amanda’s identity as the show's quintessential "school bully." The character was characterized as a relentless tormentor, especially towards Kate Ramsay (Ashleigh Brewer) during the Deb ball storyline.

Shortly after Kate enrolls at Erinsborough High, Amanda begins targeting her with bullying. She also ridicules Bridget Parker (Eloise Mignon) for breastfeeding while at school. As the leader of the Year 12 charity committee, Amanda is furious when Kate is elected to head the Debutante ball committee. She attempts to coerce Kate into stepping down, which only intensifies their ongoing conflict. Amanda further provokes Kate by inviting her brother, Harry Ramsay (Will Moore), to the ball, causing frustration for Kate and tension between the siblings when Harry ultimately rejects Amanda in favor of Kyle Canning (Chris Milligan).

Amanda’s antagonism escalates when Kate initiates a campaign to power the Deb ball through cycling. Amanda’s friend secretly films Kate being turned down by the Ministry of Dance and uploads it online, humiliating Kate. Despite this, the viral exposure actually helps promote Kate’s cycling project, much to Amanda’s annoyance.

In another scheme, Amanda persuades Harry to smuggle alcohol into the ball to impress her friend Sarah Aquino (Madeline Vizzard). When the alcohol is discovered, Harry faces suspension.

When Kate plans to attend the dance with Lou Carpenter (Tom Oliver), Amanda arranges for Jason Coleman to be a special guest in an attempt to undermine her. During the event, Amanda deliberately spills dip on Kate’s dress, causing distress. After receiving comfort from Declan Napier (James Sorensen), Kate returns to dance with Jason Coleman, effectively thwarting Amanda’s plans.

Josh Burns

Josh Burns, portrayed by Australian comedian Scott Brennan, appeared first on 27 July 2009 as Editor in Chief of The West Waratah Star. Brennan was cast for a limited three-week guest stint.

Following Elle Robinson’s (Pippa Black) departure from the Erinsborough News, Josh recruits her for his competing publication. When Elle covers the police report on Bridget Parker's fatal accident, she withholds certain facts to protect her boyfriend, Lucas Fitzgerald (Scott Major). Upon uncovering Elle's concealment, Josh demotes her and plans an exposé implicating Lucas and his garage business. Elle later writes a personal story about Lucas without Josh’s consent, resulting in her termination.

Elle then moves on to Waratah Heights housing development and investigates suspicious land dealings. Josh also delves into this matter and follows Elle into a manhole where he falls and suffers fatal injuries. Despite Elle overcoming her claustrophobia to seek help, Josh dies due to internal trauma.

Jumilla Chandra

Jumilla Chandra, portrayed by Alysia Aberyratne, is a university student who worked part-time at Harold's Store while pursuing her studies. She first appeared on 11 August 2009. Aberyratne, herself a law student at Melbourne University, described her role on Neighbours as "the best job ever!" Jumilla’s final episode aired on 7 April 2010.

Within the series, Jumilla assists Lyn Scully (Janet Andrewartha) at the store and forms a friendship with Kate Ramsay (Ashleigh Brewer). She often engages with local residents while managing orders. Her concluding scene involves a discussion with Andrew Robinson (Jordan Smith) regarding a cupcake order for Lassiter's Hotel. Later, Kate mentions that Jumilla is leaving to work at an orphanage in Sarawak, prompting Donna Freedman (Margot Robbie) to question who will prepare her coffee next.

Sonya Mitchell

Sonya Mitchell, portrayed by Eve Morey, made her debut on 14 August 2009. Introduced as a guide dog trainer responsible for monitoring the development of Toadfish Rebecchi and Callum Jones's puppy, Rocky, Sonya is depicted by Network Ten as an animal enthusiast with a "troubled history and emotional wounds."

James Linden

James Linden, enacted by Tim Ross, is a fraudulent character who tricks Donna Freedman into believing he is her brother and subsequently steals money from Elle Robinson. His first appearance was on 28 August 2009.

James approaches Sophie Ramsay (Kaiya Jones) at Harold's Store, which arouses suspicion from her brother, Harry (Will Moore). He asks Lucas Fitzgerald (Scott Major) for directions to Ramsay Street, claiming acquaintance with one of its residents. When Harry and Ringo Brown (Sam Clark) spot him near the Ramsay household, James states he is house hunting before departing. Later, he returns to check the mailbox names and is confronted by Ringo at Lassiter's. James explains he is searching for Donna Freedman (Margot Robbie), whom he asserts is his sister, and claims to be a music promoter familiar with Donna’s video blog where she sought her biological father. While Donna’s friends accept him, Ringo remains doubtful.

After Ringo fails to verify James’s music company online, he challenges James, who then provides a band manager as proof of his identity. James flirts with Donna's guardian, Elle Robinson (Pippa Black), defending her against an ex-boyfriend. He agrees to undergo a DNA test; when the results are inconclusive, James proposes a more expensive test. Donna deceitfully transfers funds from Elle’s account to cover the cost. Both Elle and James are shocked by this; James denies coercing Donna and repays Elle. Subsequently, James presents DNA evidence confirming their sibling relationship. However, alone later, he downloads Elle’s bank details from her laptop onto a USB drive and drains her account. At Charlie's bar, a band booked by James fails to show up; Declan Napier (James Sorensen) discovers that James’s hotel room has been vacated.

Robin Hester

Robin Hester, played by Benjamin Jay, first appeared on 17 September 2009 as a "disturbing" teenager exhibiting an unhealthy fixation on several adolescent characters.

Jay described Robin as "an oddball," differing from his typical roles. Media outlets have labeled Robin as "a stalker" and "a manipulator," with only Zeke Kinski (Matthew Werkmeister) recognizing his true intentions.

Robin initially calls into Zeke Kinski and Sunny Lee's (Hany Lee) radio program during a discussion about relationships. He later visits the Kennedy household under the guise of interviewing Karl Kennedy (Alan Fletcher). Susan Kennedy (Jackie Woodburne) introduces him to Harry Ramsay (Will Moore), who quickly grows tired of Robin and directs him toward other teens. Zeke becomes irritated as Robin repeatedly appears and flirts with Sunny. Zeke warns Sunny about Robin’s infatuation; she dismisses it as mere friendliness. One evening, Robin sneaks into Sunny's bedroom to take photographs and hides when she arrives with Zeke. Overhearing their conversation about Zeke’s anxiety disorder, Robin uses this information during dinner with Sunny and Susan, leading Sunny to believe it explains Zeke's hostile behavior.

Zeke later assaults Robin at the General Store for flirting with Sunny in Susan's presence, which raises further concerns about his anxiety condition.

At PirateNet, Robin locks Zeke inside a storeroom in an attempt to spend more time with Sunny. Harry becomes concerned over Zeke's disappearance and begins searching for him. When Sunny and Robin return to the radio station, Robin pretends to locate the storeroom key and releases Zeke. Although Zeke reveals he was locked in, Sunny initially doubts him. After another confrontation where Zeke attacks Robin scares Sunny, Zeke admits that Robin failed to call as promised the previous night. Realizing Zeke’s warnings were accurate, Sunny and Zeke decide to confront Robin at Charlie's bar. Upon hearing their breakup story, Robin confesses to locking Zeke in and tries to kiss Sunny but is stopped by Zeke.

Robin later returns and vandalizes Zeke’s radio studio; Zeke locks him inside and contacts the police. Before being taken away, Robin reveals feelings of loneliness caused by neglect from his adoptive parents.

Saffron Jankievicz

Saffron Jankievicz, portrayed by Shanyn Asmar, made her debut on 22 September 2009 as a fashion designer who offers Donna Freedman an internship opportunity. Asmar characterized Saffron as a determined and hardworking individual from a working-class background, though not particularly easygoing, often sustaining herself on coffee and snacks. The character drew inspiration partly from people Asmar encountered during her modeling career and schooling. A writer from the Daily Record described Saffron as "a woman so vile she makes Janine Butcher look like a pussycat."

When Donna notices a magazine feature about Saffron’s upcoming fashion show, she becomes intent on meeting her despite the event being exclusive to VIPs. With assistance from Ringo Brown, Donna gains access and impresses Saffron with her Skelt design. Upon realizing that Saffron used her concept without acknowledgment, Donna visits her studio and is offered an unpaid internship. Enthusiastic, Donna dedicates herself to the role, even skipping school, which frustrates Paul.

After the fashion show receives negative reviews, Saffron blames her team for the failure. Donna confronts her and resigns, prompting Saffron to slap her and demean her potential. Supported by friends, Donna decides to press charges, resulting in mediation instead of court proceedings. With no witnesses, it becomes Saffron’s word against Donna’s until Ringo convinces Saffron’s assistant to testify about the abusive conduct. Confronted with this testimony, Saffron apologizes to Donna.

Subsequently, when invited as a guest speaker at Donna’s university class, Saffron manages to turn the audience against Donna. Donna challenges her again, sharing how difficult the mediation process was before Saffron leaves amid applause.

Mia Zannis

Mia Zannis, played by Alicia Bonaddio, is an animal rights activist introduced in 2009. Executive producer Susan Bower described Mia as "18 years old, intelligent, and passionate about significant causes such as climate change and animal rights," while also having an active social life. Mia begins dating Zeke Kinski (Matthew Werkmeister).

Mia encounters Zeke during Schoolies week and later recruits him for an animal rights raid at the Elliot Park testing facility. The operation fails when an alarm sounds; Mia escapes capture while Zeke is arrested for trespassing.

During community service, Mia admits she was apprehended during a previous raid as well. She reveals that her activism has caused strain within her family and insists they cannot pursue their relationship due to disapproval from Zeke’s social circle. Despite this, Zeke invites Mia to the Kennedy household; however, Karl Kennedy (Alan Fletcher) opposes Mia's presence, creating tension. Zeke later facilitates reconciliation by involving both parties on his radio show.

Zeke introduces Mia to his friends at Charlie's bar, though some express disapproval because of her controversial activism. At a peaceful protest at another testing site, both Mia and Zeke are arrested again. It is then revealed that Mia collaborated with Detective Alec Skinner (Kevin Summers) to frame Zeke as the group's leader. She transfers incriminating data onto Zeke’s laptop and orchestrates his arrest by luring him to a property under false pretenses.

At the police station, Zeke discloses he was aware of Mia’s scheme all along after being informed by Donna Freedman (Margot Robbie). He agrees to testify against Mia, exposing her as the mastermind behind the plot.

Others

Date(s) Character Actor Circumstances
29 January–29 June Brooke Mitchell Klaire Gazzo Nurse at Erinsborough Hospital providing care to patients such as Charlie Hoyland, Harold Bishop, and Libby Kennedy.
17–24 February Rick Lawson Liam Pederson Police sergeant who aids Susan Kennedy in finding the missing Zeke Kinski and assists in the police interrogation of Phil Andrews.
25–26 February Joanna Hale Laura Lattuada Biological mother of Riley and Bridget Parker; engaged in a complicated family reunion and financial discussions with Bridget.
12–18 March Lisa Hayes Anna Jennings-Edquist Legal secretary interacting with Steve Parker and Lucas Fitzgerald; involved in a subplot concerning romantic relationships.
23–30 March Rhys Sutton Aaron Jakubenko AFL athlete playing for the Portside Falcons; encourages newcomer Ringo Brown to participate socially.
30 March–1 April Ashley Black Sophie Weiss Daughter of AFL coach Nathan Black; attempts to influence Ringo Brown's relationship with her father while pursuing him romantically.
13–14 May Dean Naughton Peter Bensley Miranda Parker's former university lecturer; their renewed interaction leads to a brief romantic involvement impacting Miranda’s personal affairs.
18 May–26 October Jill Ramsay Perri Cummings Mother to Kate, Harry, and Sophie Ramsay; her death caused by a hit-and-run significantly affects the Ramsay family storyline.
23 June Trisha Day Katherine Tonkin Paramedic who assists with India Napier’s birth at a music festival.
26 June 2009–20 July 2010 Rocky Hughie Labrador puppy trained by Toadfish and Callum Rebecchi as a guide dog for visually impaired individuals; successfully completes training and is placed accordingly.
3 July–11 August Johnno Brewer Damien Aylward Professional gambler entangled in a dispute with Lucas Fitzgerald that results in legal repercussions influenced by Paul Robinson.
4 August 2009–11 January 2011 Christian Doran Adrian Woolcock Paramedic who mentors Ringo Brown; participates in various emergency situations including fires and medical interventions.
15 August 2009–29 January 2011 Dale McGregor John Kim Student at Erinsborough High known for teasing classmates; involved in storylines addressing social media and acceptance issues.
30 September 2009–21 January 2011 Lindsey Stace Vanessa Crouch Personal assistant to fashion designer Saffron Jankievicz; eventually establishes her own enterprise after departing Saffron due to workplace conflicts involving Donna Freedman.
12 October 2009 – 8 March 2010 Sarah Aquino Madeleine Vizard Erinsborough High student connected with Amanda Fowler; participates in events such as the Deb ball and university visual merchandising classes alongside Donna Freedman.
29 October Julianne Burns Rhona Rees Wife of Josh Burns; receives news of her husband's death from Elle Robinson at a housing development site.
4 December 2009, 2–3 December 2010 ''Edmund Gwenn'' ' Chris Gaffney ' Marriage celebrant officiating weddings for Rebecca Napier and Paul Robinson, also serves as judge for the Ramsay Street Christmas lights competition and performs vow renewal ceremonies.


External links

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