Sheree Anderson

Home and Away

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

Home and Away is a long-running Australian soap opera that first aired on the Seven Network on 17 January 1988. The third season commenced broadcasting on 8 January 1990. Below is a compilation of characters who were introduced during 1990, all under the guidance of executive producer Des Monaghan. In January, Rebekah Elmaloglou made her debut portraying Sophie Simpson. February saw the arrival of Craig McLachlan and Julian McMahon, who joined the cast as schoolteacher Grant Mitchell and soldier Ben Lucini, respectively. The recurring role of Murray "Mullet" Jensen, played by Jaiman Paget Bayly, was introduced in March. April brought in Beach House owner Ernie Jacobs (David Weatherley) alongside Bridget Jackson (Paula Duncan). In May, Craig Black returned portraying student Paul Jensen, accompanied by police officer Jane Holland (Josephine Mitchell). July introduced siblings Blake and Karen Dean, portrayed by Les Hill and Belinda Jarrett. September featured Kate Raison as Jennifer Atkinson, a romantic interest for Steven Matheson (Adam Willits). October's additions included divorced father Michael Ross (Dennis Coard) and his son Haydn Ross (Andrew Hill). Lastly, November saw the arrival of Rachael Beck as Grant’s sister, Kim Mitchell.

Sophie Simpson

Sophie Simpson, brought to life by Rebekah Elmaloglou, first appeared on 23 January 1990 and remained a regular until 1993. Elmaloglou took a hiatus due to exhaustion and ultimately departed to explore other projects after the demanding workload impacted her health. She reprised her role in guest spots during 2002, 2003, and 2005.

Grant Mitchell

Grant Mitchell, portrayed by Craig McLachlan, made his first appearance on 9 February 1990. Although McLachlan exited the series within the same year, he filmed additional scenes that aired in 1991. Grant’s final episode was broadcast on 20 September 1991. McLachlan described Grant as "quite trendy for a teacher," noting his appeal to students through his rebellious nature balanced with a sincere dedication to education. For this portrayal, McLachlan earned the "Most Popular Actor" accolade at the 1991 Logie Awards.

Ben Lucini

Benito "Ben" Lucini, enacted by Julian McMahon, debuted on 27 February 1990 and stayed until 1 May 1991. After auditioning four times, McMahon secured the role of Ben, an Italian character hailing from a large family. Initially portrayed as fond of partying, Ben's character evolved into a more mature individual who left the army after developing affection for the town and established character Carly Morris (Sharyn Hodgson). Hodgson characterized Ben as representing "traditional values" and "stability," traits that contributed to his successful marriage with Carly. Despite joining in 1990, McMahon chose to leave Home and Away within the same year. Peter Holmes from The Sydney Morning Herald critiqued McMahon’s acting as "wooden," comparing it to a "splendid impression of a Thunderbird."

Mullet

Murray "Mullet" Jensen, played by Jaiman Paget Bayly, appeared between 26 March and 18 July 1990. Described as an "energetic and boisterous eleven-year-old," Mullet is a typical country boy with an adventurous and mischievous streak. His nickname stems from his enthusiasm for fishing. Living below the poverty line with his family, Mullet’s mother, Lorraine Jensen, struggles to afford luxuries for him and his brother, Paul Jensen. Lacking pocket money, Mullet sells his fishing catches to Ailsa Stewart.

Mullet attempts to befriend classmate Sally Fletcher, who initially keeps her distance but eventually warms to him. He unintentionally causes trouble by bringing home Alf Stewart's pet crab but tries to make amends by offering help with fishing. To conceal his family's financial difficulties from Sally, Mullet fabricates a story about his mother being hospitalized; Sally comforts him and invites him to attend a wedding. Tensions arise when Mullet takes Tammy Newton fishing, provoking jealousy; however, he later teams up with Sally for a performance at the Surf Club’s talent night where their humorous mistakes entertain the crowd.

He assists Adam Cameron with a magic act that fails when Mullet breaks character. After receiving dance lessons from Marilyn Chambers, he briefly adopts a pop star persona disliked by Sally before abandoning it quickly. Mullet attends a wedding reception where he dances with Sally. Though he does not reappear thereafter, Mullet is mentioned years later in connection with Sally’s past relationships.

Ernie Jacobs

Ernie Jacobs, played by David Weatherley, appeared on the show from 16 April 1990 until 9 January 1991.

Ernie leases his beach property to Matt Wilson (Greg Benson), Adam Cameron (Mat Stevenson), and Marilyn Chambers (Emily Symons). The trio plots to entrap Ernie by having Marilyn seduce him while Matt and Adam secretly photograph the encounter. When the photograph fails to develop properly, Adam presents Ernie with a faulty image. After accidentally scorching the kitchen floor while making toffee, Adam replaces the damaged linoleum with turf infested by fleas, causing a pest problem. Confronting Adam about the issue, Ernie faces a flea bomb detonation; he discards it outside, breaking a window in the process, and threatens to evict Adam. Ernie runs for a council seat and gains an advantage when Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher) withdraws due to legal complications. Bobby Simpson (Nicolle Dickson) opposes him in the election to prevent his victory. Later, Marilyn uncovers a compromising letter and, together with Bobby, uses it to blackmail Ernie. Ultimately, Ernie sells the house to Marilyn.

Bridget Jackson

Bridget Jackson, portrayed by Paula Duncan, made her first appearance on 20 April 1990. Although initially contracted for five weeks, producers considered extending Duncan’s role indefinitely. However, Duncan had several job offers alongside personal commitments, including family obligations linked to her husband John Orcsik. Bridget is the mother of Emma Jackson (Dannii Minogue). Duncan described Bridget as "utterly dreadful," "unrefined and unschooled," and "a complete monster," expressing enthusiasm for portraying such a challenging character. She also formed a strong professional bond with Minogue.

Bridget arrives after Emma defends herself against an abusive stepfather and stays with her aunt Ailsa Stewart (Judy Nunn), who was previously unaware of Emma’s existence. The sisters are estranged because Ailsa killed their abusive father. Bridget follows Emma to Summer Bay, insisting Emma return home; however, Ailsa refuses, having just settled Emma in the Bay. Bridget reveals she left Barry after he admitted abusing Emma. Despite ongoing conflicts between Bridget and Ailsa, Bridget wins Emma over through gifts and outings, convincing her to come home—although Emma later reports that Bridget reconciled with Barry, indicating no improvement in his behavior.

Paul Jensen

Paul Jensen, enacted by Craig Black, debuted on 8 May 1990. Black had earlier made a brief appearance as Travis. Paul is a seventeen-year-old student who works as a shop assistant; he is the son of Michael and Lorraine Jensen and the elder brother of Mullet Jensen. He is depicted as friendly and articulate, academically gifted beyond average peers, and shares a close friendship with Steven Matheson.

Paul’s father Michael was an unsuccessful country musician whose failure contributed to his parents’ separation. Nevertheless, Paul demonstrates notable musical talent that his mother Lorraine initially suppresses by forbidding musical instruments at home. Self-taught, Paul secretly practices piano during breaks at school and at the surf club.

His teacher Grant Mitchell recognizes Paul’s abilities and encourages him to apply for a music scholarship to afford an instrument. Paul declines this offer and instead takes employment at Alf Stewart’s shop to save for a second-hand piano. Lorraine’s disapproval causes friction between mother and son. Grant organizes a talent show intended to highlight Paul’s skills; however, Paul initially refuses to participate.

Paul develops mutual feelings with Emma Jackson despite her relationship with Adam Cameron. After Emma hears a piano piece Paul composed for her, she kisses him but clarifies that she remains committed to Adam. Eventually, Lorraine supports Paul’s musical aspirations and allows him to perform at the concert.

Conflict arises when Adam insults Paul’s father and challenges him to a fight over Emma. Alf arranges a fair boxing match with training assistance from Alf and Steven. The fight escalates until Emma and friends intervene by dousing both fighters with water to stop it. Initially embarrassed, Paul considers ending his relationship with Emma but ultimately reconciles.

When exam papers are planted in Emma’s locker by Vicki Baxter leading to Emma’s expulsion, Paul doubts her innocence and they break up. Alongside Steven, Paul exposes Vicki’s deceit by pretending to be involved with her romantically. After support from Ailsa Stewart and Bobby Simpson, Emma forgives Paul.

Subsequently, Emma accepts employment on the Gold Coast and moves away, telling Paul that her feelings have changed but expressing a wish to maintain their friendship.

Jane Holland

Jane Holland, brought to life by Josephine Mitchell, made her first appearance on 22 June 1990. Mitchell started filming in April 1990 under a two-month contract. Jane is introduced as a young police constable and serves as a romantic interest for Grant Mitchell (Craig McLachlan). Having previously acted in A Country Practice, Mitchell welcomed the chance to portray a more assertive character, appreciating producer Andrew Howie for offering her this fresh role. While Jane interacts with numerous residents, her primary focus remains on Grant.

Upon arriving in Summer Bay for work, Jane soon begins dating Grant. She later arrests Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher) for driving under the influence, resulting in his license suspension. After surviving a deadly shootout in Yabbie Creek that claims a fellow officer's life, Jane is left emotionally shaken. She promptly detains two men intimidating Marilyn Chambers (Emily Symons) at the local diner, which leads Grant to encourage her to take some time off. Contemplating resignation, Jane ultimately leaves Summer Bay following the end of their relationship and returns to the city police force.

Blake Dean

Blake Dean, portrayed by Les Hill, first appeared on 26 July 1990. Before joining Home and Away, Hill had minor roles in G.P.. His casting alongside Belinda Jarrett, who played his sister Karen Dean, was announced shortly before their debut episodes aired. Hill found adapting to the rapid production schedule demanding.

The Home and Away Annual described Blake as "the sort of boy any parent would be proud to call their son," highlighting his lively spirit, charm, and sharp wit—qualities that often help him steer clear of trouble. He frequently acts as a protector for his sister Karen in difficult situations. Hill later revealed his decision to leave the series through TV Week, though he has returned for special episodes, including the show's fourteenth anniversary and milestone 4,000th episode.

Karen Dean

Karen Dean, enacted by Belinda Jarrett, also debuted on 26 July 1990. A devoted fan of Home and Away, Jarrett had no prior television acting experience before joining the cast. She and Les Hill were cast as siblings Karen and Blake Dean, arriving in Summer Bay after their mother Margot's death from cancer. Initially residing with a distant uncle, they eventually move in with Ailsa and Alf Stewart, honoring their mother's wish. The introduction of Karen and Blake came with promising storylines designed to captivate viewers.

Portrayed as a 15-year-old girl who is both "attractive" yet somewhat reserved, Karen grapples with insecurities about her body image and experiments with her look. Although popular at school, she experiences early romantic feelings but remains cautious about relationships with boys her age. Despite positive initial responses, Seven decided not to renew Jarrett's contract in 1991 due to the character's limited prominence. Karen departed the series in August 1991 but made a brief return in 1993 after being released from prison.

Following disputes with their uncle Alec Dean, Karen and Blake seek out Ailsa Stewart’s care. Their arrival sparks various plotlines involving school dynamics and relationships. Karen develops an affection for Steven Matheson but faces rejection because of their age gap. She later falls for Haydn Ross; however, his interest lies with her friend Sophie Simpson, creating tension.

Karen becomes active in environmental protests when she campaigns to save an old tree on Alf Stewart’s property. Her storyline darkens when she begins dating Maurice "Revhead" Gibson, a known criminal who draws her into theft and robbery activities. During an attempted escape by car, an accident occurs resulting in David Croft’s death; Karen admits responsibility and is sentenced to two years’ imprisonment.

After being paroled in 1993, Karen returns to Summer Bay and reconnects with her half-sister Roxanne Miller. Her persistent rebelliousness leads to conflicts with the Stewarts and Blake’s girlfriend Finlay Roberts. Following an incident where she steals money from Ailsa, Karen flees to the city, prompting Blake to relocate there in order to support her.

Jennifer Atkinson

Jennifer Atkinson, brought to life by Kate Raison, made her first appearance on 12 September 1990. The announcement of Raison's casting appeared in TV Week on 4 August 1990. Initially, Jennifer was introduced for a limited eight-week stint under the name Jennifer Stewart, engaging in a contentious relationship with the adolescent Steven Matheson (Adam Willits). Their intense liaison became a focal point due to its dramatic influence on the plot.

Jennifer is related to Alf Stewart as his cousin and arrives in Summer Bay while hiding the truth about her husband, Daniel Atkinson, who struggles with alcoholism and abusive behavior. Steven, drawn to Jennifer, deceives others about his age and schooling status to pursue the relationship. Conflict and jealousy surface when Steven observes Jennifer with Alan Stone (Philip Hinton). After their affair is uncovered, Daniel assaults Steven, resulting in injury. Jennifer terminates the relationship and departs from Summer Bay, advising Steven to focus on his education. She later sends him a Christmas card but ultimately cancels a planned visit.

Michael Ross

Michael Ross, portrayed by Dennis Coard, first appeared on screen on 22 October 1990 alongside his son, Haydn Ross (Andrew Hill). Michael quickly became a central figure as the owner of the boat shed and a foster carer, notably forming an important romantic connection with Pippa Fletcher (Debra Lawrance). Their relationship initially faced opposition from family members and complications arising from Michael’s former wife Cynthia (Belinda Giblin), yet they eventually married and blended their families successfully.

Michael’s entrepreneurial activities included managing the boat shed with Alf Stewart as a silent partner and overseeing other ventures such as a caravan park and the surf club kiosk. Financial difficulties arose when Haydn accumulated gambling debts, pushing Michael into financial strain and nearly forcing him to sell the boat shed. Despite these obstacles, Michael remained committed to his role as both foster parent and family patriarch.

The couple endured profound sorrow when their infant son Dale succumbed to SIDS, challenging their marriage but ultimately bringing them closer together. Haydn’s return with hidden agendas added further stress to Michael’s finances and personal relationships. After experiencing family tensions, Michael and Pippa sought marriage counseling and reconciled.

Michael also played an active role in community crises, including participating in search operations following a seaplane accident that temporarily placed Maya Krakajcek under their care. His narrative concluded heroically during a devastating flood when he rescued Sam Marshall but was tragically swept away and drowned. Coard valued the conclusive closure of his character’s journey after five and a half years on the series.

Haydn Ross

Haydn Ross, enacted by Andrew Hill, first appeared on 31 October 1990 and departed on 17 September 1991, with returns in 1994 and 1996. Hill was cast for the role due to an agent’s mistake. In 1991, he opted to leave the show. Haydn is the son of Cynthia (Belinda Giblin) and Michael Ross (Dennis Coard), attending private school funded by his father’s business success. According to the Home and Away Annual, Haydn is characterized as "athletic and determined like his father," combined with "an appreciation for culture and a comfortable lifestyle" inherited from his mother, reflecting ambition entwined with privilege.

Kim Mitchell

Kim Mitchell, portrayed by Rachael Beck, made her debut on 8 November 1990 as the sibling of the established character Grant Mitchell (Craig McLachlan). Although producers proposed a year-long contract to secure Kim as a regular, Beck declined to avoid being typecast.

Kim arrives in Summer Bay concealing a drug dependency despite being only sixteen years old. Beck observed that Kim carefully maintains a flawless appearance, utilizing makeup and fashionable attire to disguise her addiction. Kim justifies her actions by believing "everyone else is doing it," adhering to the philosophy "Why not enjoy life to the fullest while you are young?"

Upon visiting Grant, Kim steals money from his flatmate Matt Wilson (Greg Benson) and subsequently requests drugs from Matt and Steven Matheson (Adam Willits). When she disappears overnight, Grant becomes worried. After Matt confronts her about stealing Carly Lucini's (Sharyn Hodgson) purse to support her habit, Kim escalates her theft by forging Grant’s signature on a cheque to pay dealer Eddie (Peter Williams). Steven eventually informs Grant, who finds speed pills in Kim’s bag and intervenes.

Grant organizes rehabilitation for Kim, giving up his teaching position at Summer Bay High to assist her. He contacts their parents without disclosing the drug problem but warns that he will inform them if she relapses. Kim expresses appreciation for Grant’s dedication, and upon his return months later, he reports her progress toward recovery.

Others

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Circumstances
8 January	Robbo	Ned Manning	Veterinarian brought by shark hunter Zac Burgess (Mark Conroy) to confirm a shark’s involvement in a fatal incident. Initially suspected by Adam Cameron (Mat Stevenson) and Andrew Foley (Peter Bensley), but the shark is ultimately exonerated.
29 January	Henry Thompson	Tim Allen	Potential purchasers of the Blaxland mansion; Henry and Doris deterred by an exorcism conducted by Emma Jackson (Dannii Minogue) and Celia Stewart (Fiona Spence) who believe the house is haunted.
	Doris Thompson	Jane Archer
2–16 February	Greta	Jodie Gilles	Friend of Marilyn Chambers (Emily Symons); initially met with resistance from Martin Dibble (Craig Thomson) due to her looks but they eventually form a bond before she leaves.
9 February–1 March	Detective Hunt	Kim Knuckey	Investigator who arrests Donald Fisher (Norman Coburn) concerning an old murder case; probes blackmail activities by Al Simpson (Terence Donovan). Following hostage incidents, Simpson is apprehended after confessing.
27 February–8 March	Dave Porter	John Adam	Military friend of Ben Lucini (Julian McMahon) whose reckless conduct and gambling disrupt Ben’s relationship with Carly Morris (Sharyn Hodgson).
12 March	Travis	Craig Black	Year 12 student attending Grant Mitchell's class.
30 March–3 April	Reverend Christopher Goodhope	Ron Becks	African reverend hosted by Celia Stewart (Fiona Spence) during fundraising efforts; mistakenly detained as a burglar but later freed, inspiring Celia to pursue missionary work.
6 April 1990, 21 May 2007 – 26 January 2012	Delivery Man	Steve Cox	Delivery personnel appearing intermittently, supplying goods and interacting with main characters such as Tony Holden and Leah Patterson-Baker.
16 April–11 September	Des Thompson	Brian Harrison	Bank manager facilitating loans for Carly Morris and later assisting Carly and Ben Lucini in acquiring the local boatshed.
17–26 April	Melody	Suzi Dougherty	Tenant at Beach House whose irregular rent payments and boyfriend’s parole status create tension; eventually driven away by flatmates exploiting his ophidiophobia.
18 April	Peter Butcher	Matthew Booker	Year 10 student who mocks fellow pupil Sophie Simpson over literacy difficulties.
25–26 April	Bruce	Bill Charlton	Melody’s paroled boyfriend whose intimidating demeanor unsettles flatmates until they use his fear of snakes to encourage him to leave.
3 May–17 July	Minister	John Mann	Local clergyman officiating key community ceremonies including funerals and weddings.
8 May–19 June	Lorraine Jensen	Elizabeth Chance	Mother working at a bookmakers to support her children; initially opposes her son’s musical aspirations but later changes her stance.
15 May–27 July	Doctor Walker	Earle Cross	Community doctor attending illnesses among principal characters, including confirming pregnancy for Bobby Simpson.
21–24 May	Helen Wakefield	Shayne Foote	Social worker investigating abuse allegations, facilitating family reunions and arranging foster care placements.
21–23 May	Megan Tierney	Pamela Hawkesford	Affluent schoolmate of Carly Morris, whose extravagant spending causes marital discord during social gatherings with locals.
23 May	Julian Tierney	Cranston Brecht	Megan’s wealthy spouse frustrated by her expenditures, leading to public disputes at events.
23–25 May	Angela Newton	Annie Byron	Estranged mother reconnecting with daughters after prolonged separation due to family conflicts; relocates with them to Queensland seeking new opportunities.
29 May–5 September	Chris Reynolds	Jay Hackett	Client of dating agency involved in complex relationships with Bobby Simpson, contributing to marital breakdown and custody disputes resolved through community support.
29 May–19 October	Geoff Lime	William Usic	Competing suitor for Bobby Simpson; provides support during pregnancy but faces opposition from family leading to broken engagement.
12–15 June	Gus	Harry Lawrence	Homeless mentor assisting troubled youth reintegrate into school through unconventional approaches.
27 June–23 July	Sheree Anderson	Beth Champion	Acquaintance involved in academic sabotage targeting peers.
11–18 July	Francesca Lucini	Kim Leon	Sister of Ben Lucini creating tension through romantic involvements affecting family dynamics.
	Gina Lucini	Arianthe Galani	Ben Lucini's mother influencing family interactions during wedding preparations.
	Antonio Lucini	Alistair Duncan	Ben Lucini's father providing familial support amid wedding events.
12–18 July	Angelo	Raj Sidhu	Cousin and best man at Ben's wedding; instigates local disturbances including pranks affecting event timing.
30 July	Alec Dean	Norm Galton	Guardian uncle assuming custody of teenagers following sister's death; consents to their relocation for improved care.
9 August	Anna	Rebecca George	Relative involved in uncovering academic dishonesty within local school.
29 August–5 September	Wendy Reynolds	Liz Newman	Estranged wife managing separation and custody challenges amid community awareness of personal matters.
	Suzie Reynolds	Sophia Davidson	Daughter engaged in custody disputes resolved within community frameworks.
6 September	Vince McGrath	Felix Nobis	Delivery worker whose interactions influence social dynamics among residents.
10 September – 12 October	Fred Owens	Keith Holloway	Boatshed proprietor negotiating sales with multiple local buyers, impacting business dealings within the community.
14 September – 17 October	Hazel Lime	Kaye Stevenson	Protective mother influencing relationship choices involving her son and community members.
19 September–2 November	Alan Stone	Philip Hinton	Deputy Principal whose aggressive behavior prompts policy revisions in school discipline following confrontations with students.
9–16 October	Daniel Atkinson	Ken Radley	Violent spouse involved in assaults affecting school community, resulting in legal consequences after intervention by locals.
14 November	Eddie	Peter Williams	Drug dealer whose activities are curtailed through warnings issued by concerned community members.
19 November 1990 – 8 March 1991	Patricia Coleman	Pam Western	Former nun turned educator offering emotional support to students coping with loss; forms professional alliances that lead to relocation for career advancement.

References

• Desmond, Kesta. Home and Away Annual. Grandreams Ltd, 1990. ISBN 0-86227-787-6.
• Desmond, Kesta; Nicholls, David. Home and Away Annual Authorised Edition. Grandreams Ltd, 1992. ISBN 0-86227-863-5.
• Hopwood, Clive. Home and Away Special. World International Publishing LTD, 1990. ISBN 0-7235-6899-5.

External links

• Official AU Home and Away website: Characters and cast
• Official UK Home and Away website: Characters and cast
• Full cast and characters at the Internet Movie Database