Simmo (Home and Away)

Home and Away

Company type	Television series
Industry	Television, Entertainment
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. Below is an enumeration of characters who made their debut in 2016, listed according to the chronology of their first appearances. Each character was introduced under the guidance of executive producer Lucy Addario. The show’s 29th season started broadcasting on 1 February 2016. The season opened with the arrival of Dylan Carter. In March, Isla Schultz and Lindsay Ford were introduced, followed by Mick Jennings and Tori Morgan in May. The Morgan brothers—Brody, Justin, and Mason Morgan—made their entrance in June. Later, in July, Tabitha Ford appeared, succeeded by the Morrison sisters—Hope Morrison and Raffy Morrison—in September. November saw the introduction of Jeannie Woods, while December brought in Justin’s daughter, Ava Gilbert.

Dylan Carter

Dylan Carter, played by Jeremy Lindsay Taylor, first appeared on-screen on 1 February 2016. His casting was publicly revealed on 5 August 2015. Taylor characterized Dylan as a multi-layered detective with connections to Summer Bay. He returned to the role in 2017 and again for a guest appearance in September 2019.

Dylan spearheads the inquiry into Charlotte King’s (Erika Heynatz) murder alongside his former fiancée Katarina Chapman (Pia Miller) and colleague Mike Emerson (Cameron Stewart). Despite their complicated past, Dylan and Kat collaborate to interrogate suspects such as Martin Ashford (George Mason), Zac MacGuire (Charlie Clausen), and Hunter King (Scott Lee). Dylan’s forceful methods create friction, especially when he detains Ash but later releases him after Kat uncovers an alibi.

The probe uncovers that Charlotte possessed a second mobile phone and had contacted Kyle Braxton (Nic Westaway) shortly before her death. Surveillance footage implicates Zac following Charlotte, prompting Dylan to charge him with murder. Zac’s attorney Morag Bellingham (Cornelia Frances) contests Dylan’s approach, revealing that Dylan coerced a judge to refuse Zac bail. This misconduct results in Dylan’s suspension from duty.

Dylan’s personal issues come to light when he confronts Kat, who rebuffs his advances. His conduct deteriorates further, culminating in him taking Ash, Billie Ashford (Tessa de Josselin), and Kat hostage before being apprehended.

Subsequent storylines connect Dylan to amnesiac Robbo through forensic evidence found on an abandoned vessel. Robbo recalls a violent altercation with Dylan, who was thought dead but is later exposed as alive and affiliated with the Ouroboros gang. After a confrontation with Robbo and arrest by the Australian Federal Police, Dylan meets his demise while incarcerated.

Isla Schultz

Isla Schultz, played by singer Samantha Jade, made her first appearance on 3 March 2016. Jade's involvement was confirmed on 5 September 2015, with filming commencing soon after. She wrapped up her role in November 2016. Jade characterized Isla as "somewhat mischievous − a little rebellious" with a troubled history but ultimately possessing good intentions.

Isla arrives in Summer Bay carrying "ill intentions" and becomes entangled with Kyle Braxton (Nic Westaway). Employed by Dave Rogers, she is tasked with recovering a debt Kyle owes from a poker game. When threats intensify, Isla and Kyle are abducted but manage to break free. Kyle offers Isla refuge, and their relationship evolves into a romance.

Her ex-partner, Harry Kingswood (Wayne Bradley), visits with their daughters. After disputes over custody emerge, Kyle persuades Isla to return the children to Harry. When Harry plans to relocate interstate, Isla attempts to steal from the Reefton Lakes golf club but is intercepted by Kyle, who accepts responsibility for the theft to safeguard her future.

Kyle receives a thirteen-year prison sentence. Before his departure, Isla promises to make their relationship meaningful and acknowledges him as the finest man she has known.

Lindsay Ford

Lindsay Ford, portrayed by Georgia Flood, debuted on 17 March 2016. Flood’s casting was announced in October 2015, with the character unveiled in March 2016. Despite initial hesitation, Flood embraced the role, finding Lindsay "very intriguing," and enjoyed her guest appearance.

Lindsay tries to reach out to Hunter King (Scott Lee), who avoids her calls. She visits the caravan park and introduces herself to Hunter’s girlfriend Olivia (Raechelle Banno), revealing she had supported Hunter after his departure from Summer Bay. Lindsay expresses her intention to stay but insists she does not want to disrupt Hunter and Olivia’s relationship. Later, she confesses to Olivia that she and Hunter shared a kiss, creating friction. Lindsay hints at a deeper connection with Hunter, leading Olivia to end their relationship. She organizes a beach party and manipulates circumstances to capture photos of Olivia with Drew Panton (Govinda Roser-Finch), contributing further to the breakup. Lindsay provokes Olivia at the diner and later attempts to reconcile with Hunter, who rebuffs her advances. She steals Alf Stewart's (Ray Meagher) ute; Hunter is injured trying to intervene, and Lindsay escapes. Olivia warns her to leave town or face police charges related to the incident.

Mick Jennings

Mick Jennings, portrayed by Kristian Schmid, first appeared on 5 May 2016 as the long-lost son of established character Irene Roberts (Lynne McGranger). Irene had disclosed being raped at age 14 and giving up a child for adoption. Mick was later revealed as Billie Ashford’s (Tessa de Josselin) assailant, a storyline described as "dark," casting him as a "disturbed antagonist."

Mick arrives at the Beach House under the guise of being Chris Harrington's uncle, arousing Irene’s suspicion. He kidnaps Irene, claiming he is her son; after a police pursuit aided by Olivia Fraser Richards (Raechelle Banno), Irene escapes and Mick is apprehended. DNA testing confirms their relation. Billie identifies Mick as her attacker through a tattoo. Released early from psychiatric care, Mick returns but is tasered and arrested for violating an AVO when confronting Irene.

Mick abducts Billie’s newborn daughter Luc Patterson from the hospital but later apologizes to Irene and hands Luc back before surrendering to authorities. He seeks visitation rights during custody disputes over Luc. After attempts to deny parole fail, Mick is released and moves into a halfway house arranged by Irene but encounters hostility upon returning to Summer Bay. Maggie Astoni (Kestie Morassi) expels him after learning of his past from Olivia; Irene distances herself from him.

Alf Stewart arranges mining employment for Mick in Western Australia, which he initially declines. Following escalating conflicts involving Billie’s family and custody battles over Luc, Mick eventually accepts the mining job with Irene’s encouragement as she plans to relocate with him. Several months later, after Mick suffers an accident at the mine, Irene travels to support him.

Tori Morgan

Tori Morgan, portrayed by Penny McNamee, made her debut on 5 May 2016. The casting announcement came on 22 November 2015. McNamee referred to the role as her "dream job" and began filming in early November, expressing appreciation for the support from co-star Georgie Parker. Tori is a physician seeking a new beginning in Summer Bay, carrying "hidden secrets". She arrives to evaluate the safety of the environment for her brothers, becoming the initial member of the four Morgan siblings introduced.

Brody Morgan

Brody Morgan, played by Jackson Heywood, first appeared on 7 June 2016. Heywood, who had a previous guest role on the series in 2009, was cast alongside James Stewart and Orpheus Pledger as Brody’s brothers. Filming commenced in early December 2015. Heywood acknowledged comparisons to the Braxton brothers but highlighted that their storyline and family dynamics are unique. Brody is characterized as a chef with "significant aspirations".

Justin Morgan

Justin Morgan, enacted by James Stewart, also debuted on 7 June 2016. His casting was revealed on 5 December 2015 together with Jackson Heywood and Orpheus Pledger, who portray his siblings. Production began during the week of 7 December. This role marked Stewart's first continuous engagement following a hiatus to care for his daughter. Stewart stressed that establishing the new family unit took precedence over comparisons with earlier characters, stating, "Building this family is likely more important to us than replacing the Brax boys." In August 2017, Stewart was longlisted for Best Daytime Star at the Inside Soap Awards, although he did not progress to the viewer-voted shortlist.

Mason Morgan

Mason Morgan, brought to life by Orpheus Pledger, also premiered on 7 June 2016. His casting was announced simultaneously with his on-screen brothers, with filming starting in early December. Pledger relocated from Melbourne to Sydney for this opportunity. He described Mason as optimistic and principled, someone who stands firm in his beliefs. Mason is a medical student who balances academic commitments with gym training, embodying ambition and determination.

Tabitha Ford

Tabitha Ford, played by Eliza Scanlen, appeared between 21 July and 27 September 2016 as a recurring student character. Known for her antagonistic presence at Summer Bay High, Tabitha’s narrative involved manipulating classmates and unsettling social relations, particularly targeting Olivia Fraser Richards. Her storyline included blackmail and identity fraud, ultimately culminating in her departure to boarding school. Tabitha’s character introduced dramatic conflict and explored themes of rivalry and psychological complexity among the younger characters.

Hope Morrison

Hope Morrison, portrayed by Jessica Falkholt, made her first appearance on 19 September 2016.

Hope initially tries to attack Justin Morgan after overhearing him near her home but is intercepted by Martin Ashford and Kat Chapman. She discovers that her uncle, Atticus Decker, is hospitalized following a deliberate car crash. When Spike Lowe attempts to abduct Hope and her sister Raffy, Ashford rescues Raffy while Hope is taken captive. Spike impersonates Hope’s husband to gain access to Decker’s hospital room and tries to murder him but is apprehended.

Hope and Raffy move into the farmhouse with Kat and Phoebe Nicholson. Hope stirs conflict by using Phoebe's possessions without permission and later accuses John Palmer of damaging her phone, unsuccessfully demanding compensation. Justin offers Hope part-time work at the garage, where she steals customers’ credit card information. After attempting to flee Summer Bay, she is arrested for embezzlement.

Following her release, Hope learns that Raffy is Decker’s daughter and her half-sister. After stealing Mason's car to pick up Raffy, their vehicle breaks down; Hope falls and sustains a liver injury. Nate Cooper treats her before she undergoes surgery at the hospital. During recovery, Hope warns Raffy against trusting the Morgans; however, Raffy soon uncovers their familial connection and realizes Hope is not truly her sister. They plan to leave Summer Bay together.

Hope steals money from Salt but is caught and remanded in custody. Struggling with isolation in solitary confinement, she returns to the police station where Nate prescribes diazepam for her anxiety. Hope accidentally overdoses on sleeping medication and requires hospitalization. Before returning to prison, she apologizes to Phoebe, asks her to look after Raffy, encourages Raffy to trust the Morgans, and tells Justin to care for her sister. One year later, Hope sends Raffy a handmade birthday card.

Raffy Morrison

Raffy Morrison, brought to life by Olivia Deeble, first appeared on 19 September 2016. Deeble moved to Sydney to film the role under a contract lasting three years but opted not to extend it, with her final scenes broadcast on 12 September 2019.

Raffy's narrative revolves around her intricate family connections, particularly upon learning she is the half-sister of the Morgan siblings after her father, Atticus Decker, discloses his affair with their mother. This discovery triggers pivotal story arcs and significantly influences her interactions within both her family and the Summer Bay community.

She initially resides with her sister Hope Morrison before relocating to the Farmhouse alongside central figures such as Katarina Chapman and Billie Ashford. While attending Summer Bay High, Raffy encounters bullying and navigates complex friendships. Her relationships include notable characters like Eloise Page and Coco Astoni, with whom she shares a friendship marked by ups and downs shaped by social pressures.

Among Raffy's personal challenges is coping with Brody Morgan's substance addiction, prompting her to move in with John Palmer and Marilyn Chambers. Her school experience features episodes of harassment and a perilous confrontation with a former student, underscoring themes of vulnerability and perseverance.

Her romantic involvement with Ty Anderson delves into issues of identity and acceptance, culminating in their breakup when Ty reveals he is gay. Raffy's emotional path continues as she supports friends through medical emergencies and confronts hidden family truths.

A major health-related storyline involves Raffy being diagnosed with epilepsy following a serious injury. This condition affects both her relationships and daily routine, with family members providing support as she undergoes treatment.

Raffy's story arc concludes as she accepts participation in a medical trial in Victoria, signifying her exit from Summer Bay. This departure highlights themes of personal growth and new beginnings within the broader framework of the series’ character evolution.

Throughout her time on the show, Raffy Morrison's character plays a significant role in driving audience engagement by exploring complex familial relationships, raising awareness about health issues, and addressing social challenges faced by young people.

Jeannie Woods

Jeannie Woods, portrayed by Anna Bamford, made her debut on 1 November 2016 and remained on-screen for approximately six weeks. Introduced as a prospective romantic interest for Brody Morgan (Jackson Heywood), Jeannie arrives in Summer Bay after being invited by Evelyn MacGuire to participate in a charity volleyball event. Bamford described the dynamic between Jeannie and Brody as "unconventional" and mentioned developing a strong rapport with Heywood during filming.

Jeannie's first encounter with Brody occurs when she assists him in gathering barbecue supplies he dropped. She registers for the volleyball match, teaming up with Matt Page (Alec Snow). Brody then offers Evelyn $1000 to join Jeannie for the final game. Following some confusion involving a bracelet, Jeannie disappears but later returns for a job interview where she crosses paths with Brody again. Discovering that he owns the restaurant where she applies, Jeannie experiences a rocky start but ultimately gets hired. Flirting ensues during training sessions, though Brody’s attempt at a kiss is declined.

Jeannie apologizes and chooses to resign, confessing that while she has feelings for Brody, she fears it might jeopardize her employment. Brody subsequently reinstates her position, they share a kiss, and plan a dinner date. Jeannie reveals that her parents have expelled her from home; shortly thereafter, her father, Randall (Paul Ceaser), arrives searching for her. She explains that her parents are doomsday preppers. Jeannie and Brody agree to keep their relationship private, but Randall discovers them kissing at work. After some tension and apologies, they try to move forward but eventually end their relationship due to disagreements over Randall’s beliefs. Jeannie departs from the restaurant to accept a job opportunity in Yabbie Creek.

Ava Gilbert

Ava Gilbert made her debut on 8 December 2016 as the daughter of Justin Morgan (James Stewart). Initially portrayed by Grace Thomas and subsequently by Alice Roberts, the character was recast with Annabel Wolfe in February 2023 to accommodate more mature narratives as Ava transitions into her teenage years. She arrives unexpectedly to see her father and quickly expresses admiration for his apprentice, Theo Poulos (Matt Evans). Wolfe highlighted that this storyline delves into authentic father-daughter interactions, emphasizing Ava’s mental and physical growth during Justin’s absence. Their already tense relationship escalates when Justin learns Ava has been chatting with a boy online, triggering conflict and prompting her relocation to the Bay. Theo and Kirby Aramoana step in to defend Ava, suggesting it’s likely a youthful crush. Wolfe characterizes Ava as a source of "chaos" due to her defiant and resentful demeanor. The character is scheduled to return for Justin's wedding to Leah in April 2024.

Upon returning from the city, Ava reconnects with Justin by visiting Nina Gilbert's (Zoe Naylor) home, affirming their bond. She forms friendships with Justin's fiancée Phoebe Nicholson and his sister Raffy Morrison. After a dispute between Justin and Ava's stepfather Brian Gilbert (Tom O'Sullivan), Ava runs away and is accidentally hit by Patrick Stanwood’s car. Brian later allows Justin to spend time with her. When Nina and Brian leave town, Ava stays with Justin and befriends Scarlett Snow (Tania Nolan). Months later, she returns and develops a rapport with Justin’s girlfriend Willow Harris (Sarah Roberts) before being abducted by Boyd Easton (Steve Le Marquand) and his mother Hazel Easton (Genevieve Lemon). Willow assists in rescuing Ava alongside Justin and Colby Thorne (Tim Franklin). Following Justin and Willow’s breakup, Nina temporarily restricts Justin’s access to Ava.

When Ava returns to live with Justin, she initially resents his new partner Leah Patterson (Ada Nicodemou), but their relationship improves after sharing a football game. After Nina and Brian separate, Justin assumes responsibility for Ava and convinces Nina to permit contact between Ava and Brian. When Justin’s sister Tori Morgan (Penny McNamee) is hospitalized, a struggling Justin takes Ava on a family visit to Yarra Valley before returning her to Nina. Later, he brings Ava back to the Bay, revealing he has a spinal tumor requiring surgery. Preparing for potential difficulties, Justin spends meaningful time with Ava before sending her back to the city.

Others

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Context
			Louisa invites Josh Barrett over for an afternoon with friends from their HSC class. When Josh tends to Casey Braxton, Louisa along with Glen Day and Adriana Kerr visit his home. Louisa grows frustrated by Casey's crying and turns off the baby monitor so she can spend time alone with Josh.
			Glen and Adriana join Louisa and Josh for an afternoon together from their HSC course. Glen departs for work, prompting Louisa to encourage Adriana to follow him so she can be alone with Josh.
			A Psych Nurse permits Skye Peters visitation with her mother Carol, informing her that Carol can still hear despite her condition.
18 February			Destiny goes on a first date with Chris Harrington at the diner. They connect until Chris brings up his ex-girlfriend, revealing he hasn’t moved on; Destiny leaves abruptly.
25 February			At a high school basketball game, Coach McKinnon breaks up a fight between VJ Patterson and Hunter King, sending VJ off the court.
2 March	Zara Leonard	Georgia Nichols	Oscar MacGuire notices Zara at Angelo's and converses with her about their university program. Later, Skye Peters witnesses Oscar and Zara sharing a kiss on the balcony.
	Claire Lewis	Anita Hegh	Claire visits Irene Roberts suggesting she might be Irene's daughter. After bonding occurs, Olivia Fraser Richards grows suspicious leading to a DNA test which confirms Claire is not Irene's daughter. Claire departs following further revelations.
	Harry Kingswood	Wayne Bradley	Harry brings Florence and Lulu Kingswood to Summer Bay for a visit with their mother Isla Schultz. When Isla takes the girls without permission, Kyle Braxton persuades her to return them.
		Charlee Kwintner
	Lulu Kingswood	Mia Kwintner
17 March	Alessia De Luca	Bridgette Hollitt	Alessia attends a university party at Angelo's where she flirts with Oscar MacGuire; Skye Peters later sees them kissing on the balcony.
	Tanya Hardy	Ashleigh O'Brien	Tanya meets Oscar after Alessia leaves the party; upon learning about Oscar's earlier company, Tanya walks away.
22–31 March	Drew Panton	Govinda Roser-Finch	Drew attends Lindsay Ford's beach party; paid $50 by Lindsay to flirt with Olivia Fraser Richards for a photo intended to provoke Hunter King. Later admits he dislikes Lindsay and only attended for free drinks.
	Dom Loneragan	Lindsay Farris	Photographer friend of Ricky Sharpe; hired for Ricky's wedding photoshoot and hospital fundraiser. Flirts with Phoebe Nicholson; supports her after explosion injuries. Reveals he has a daughter named Bella. Ends relationship with Phoebe due to unresolved feelings for estranged wife Tess.
20 April	Womma	Dean Kyrwood	Kat Chapman and Martin Ashford confront Womma after discovering Dylan Carter hired him to intimidate witnesses and sabotage businesses.
21 April–9 March 2020 [...] (continued in next part) External links Cast and characters featured on the official Home and Away site Cast and characters listed on the Internet Movie Database