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Home and Away

Company type	Television soap opera
Industry	Television
Founded	January 17, 1988 (1988-01-17)
Headquarters	Australia
Area served	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. The list below highlights characters introduced throughout 2016, all brought in under the direction of executive producer Lucy Addario. The show's 29th season commenced broadcasting on 1 February 2016. On that premiere date, Dylan Carter made his first appearance. March saw the arrival of Isla Schultz and Lindsay Ford, while May introduced Mick Jennings alongside Tori Morgan. Her brothers—Brody, Justin, and Mason Morgan—followed in June. The character Tabitha Ford was added in July, with siblings Hope Morrison and Raffy Morrison appearing in September. November featured the debut of Jeannie Woods, and December brought in Justin's daughter, Ava Gilbert.

Dylan Carter

Dylan Carter, played by Jeremy Lindsay Taylor, made his initial appearance on 1 February 2016. Taylor's casting was publicized in August 2015. He characterized Dylan as a multifaceted detective connected to Summer Bay, working alongside Katarina Chapman (Pia Miller). Dylan returned for guest appearances in both 2017 and 2019.

Dylan spearheaded the inquiry into Charlotte King's (Erika Heynatz) murder, collaborating with his ex-fiancée Katarina and Mike Emerson (Cameron Stewart). Their investigation involved key suspects such as Martin Ashford (George Mason), Zac MacGuire (Charlie Clausen), and Hunter King (Scott Lee). Despite past abuse causing friction, Dylan attempted to mend his relationship with Kat but was rejected.

The discovery of a second phone belonging to Charlotte led to Zac’s detainment after surveillance footage implicated him. Zac’s attorney, Morag Bellingham (Cornelia Frances), contested Dylan’s methods, revealing his coercion of a judge to block Zac’s bail application. This misconduct resulted in Dylan’s suspension.

After being suspended, Dylan’s behavior grew increasingly volatile, culminating in a hostage situation at 31 Saxon Avenue before law enforcement apprehended him. It was disclosed that unresolved sorrow over the loss of his son Anton contributed to his instability.

Later story arcs revealed Dylan’s blood and firearm on a boat connected to amnesiac Robbo. CCTV footage showed Dylan holding Robbo at gunpoint. Two years on, Robbo recalled a violent encounter during which Dylan was presumed dead but had survived. Dylan reemerged as the mastermind behind Robbo’s abduction, asserting he bore no responsibility for the deaths within Robbo’s family.

Their clash concluded with both men being detained by the Australian Federal Police alongside gang leader Victor (Patrick Thompson). Weeks afterward, it was disclosed that Dylan had died while incarcerated.

Isla Schultz

Isla Schultz, brought to life by singer Samantha Jade, made her first appearance on 3 March 2016. Jade’s casting was revealed on 5 September 2015, with filming commencing soon after. She wrapped up her role in November 2016. Jade characterized Isla as "somewhat mischievous – a bit of a rebel" with a troubled history, yet fundamentally having good intentions.

Isla arrives in Summer Bay harboring "ill motives" and quickly becomes entangled with Kyle Braxton (Nic Westaway). She discloses that she works for Dave Rogers, a man to whom Kyle owes money from a poker debt. When Kyle refuses to settle the debt, Dave has them kidnapped and forced to dig their own graves; however, they manage to escape and Kyle contacts the police. Isla remains with Kyle, and their relationship develops into a romance.

Her ex-partner, Harry Kingswood (Wayne Bradley), brings their daughters for a visit. After disputes over custody arise, Isla is discovered working at a brothel but agrees to return the children to Harry. When Harry plans to relocate interstate, Isla attempts to rob Reefton Lakes golf club using a firearm she bought. Kyle intervenes and persuades her to flee before law enforcement arrives. He is arrested for armed robbery but shields Isla by accepting responsibility for the offense.

Later, Isla learns from Ricky Sharpe (Bonnie Sveen) that Kyle has been sentenced to thirteen years in prison. She commits to making their sacrifices meaningful, acknowledging Kyle as the finest man she has known before leaving.

Lindsay Ford

Lindsay Ford, played by Georgia Flood, first appeared 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 portraying her in this guest capacity.

Lindsay tries reaching out to Hunter King (Scott Lee), who ignores her attempts at contact. She visits the caravan park, introduces herself to Hunter’s girlfriend Olivia (Raechelle Banno), and reveals she was with Hunter the night he left Summer Bay. Lindsay intends to stay temporarily but insists she does not want to disrupt Hunter and Olivia’s relationship. However, she confesses to Olivia that she and Hunter shared a kiss and later hints at a deeper intimacy. After Olivia witnesses Lindsay with Hunter, she ends her relationship with him. Lindsay then organizes a beach party, hiring Drew Panton (Govinda Roser-Finch) to flirt with Olivia and capture compromising photos, resulting in Hunter and Olivia’s breakup. Lindsay provokes Olivia at the diner; after Hunter rejects her romantic advances, Lindsay steals Alf Stewart’s (Ray Meagher) ute. Hunter is injured trying to intervene, and Lindsay flees the scene. Olivia warns Lindsay to leave town or risk police involvement due to the accident.

Mick Jennings

Mick Jennings, portrayed by Kristian Schmid, debuted on 5 May 2016 as the long-lost son of established character Irene Roberts (Lynne McGranger). Irene had previously disclosed being raped at age 14 and giving birth at 15 before putting the child up for adoption. Mick was also revealed as the rapist of Billie Ashford (Tessa de Josselin)—a dark storyline that labeled him as a "disturbed" villain. Public reception toward Mick was largely negative.

Mick arrives claiming to be Chris Harrington’s uncle and gains Irene’s confidence. He kidnaps Irene, revealing himself as her son, though she initially doubts his claim. Attempting to abduct Olivia Fraser Richards (Raechelle Banno), Olivia hides her phone in his vehicle so authorities can track him. Irene escapes; Mick is arrested and DNA testing confirms their relation. Billie identifies Mick as her attacker by recognizing his tattoo. After an early release from psychiatric care, Mick returns but is arrested for violating an AVO after threatening Irene.

Upon learning he fathered Billie’s daughter Luc Patterson, Mick abducts Luc from the hospital but later hands her over to Irene before surrendering himself. He applies for parole but faces hostility from Billie's brother Martin Ashford (George Mason). Granted parole, Mick moves into a halfway house; Irene initially supports him but severs ties when others reject him due to his past.

Mick attempts reconciliation with Irene and Luc but encounters resistance. Following a violent altercation with Martin that results in Mick falling off a cliff, he is rescued by locals. Mick hires legal representation aiming for custody of Luc but struggles with medication adherence impacting his behavior. Despite setbacks, Mick plans to accept a mining job in Western Australia arranged by Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher), with Irene deciding to accompany him for support. Several months later, after a mining accident occurs, Irene travels to assist him.

Tori Morgan

Tori Morgan, portrayed by Penny McNamee, made her first appearance on 5 May 2016. Announced on 22 November 2015, McNamee referred to the role as her "dream job" and began filming in early November, expressing gratitude for the support from co-star Georgie Parker. Tori is introduced as a physician seeking a new beginning in Summer Bay, carrying "dark secrets". She is the first of the Morgan siblings to arrive, tasked with evaluating whether Summer Bay is a safe environment for her family.

Brody Morgan

Brody Morgan, played by Jackson Heywood, debuted on 7 June 2016. Heywood, who had previously appeared in 2009 as Lachie Cladwell, was cast alongside James Stewart and Orpheus Pledger, who portray his brothers. Filming commenced in early December 2015. Brody is depicted as a driven chef. Heywood acknowledged that viewers might draw parallels to the Braxton brothers from 2011 but highlighted that the Morgan family has a unique dynamic and storyline.

Justin Morgan

Justin Morgan, enacted by James Stewart, also first appeared on 7 June 2016. His casting was announced on 5 December 2015 alongside Jackson Heywood and Orpheus Pledger, who play his siblings. Filming began during the week of 7 December. This role marked Stewart's first continuous television role following a year-long break taken to care for his daughter. Stewart emphasized that establishing the Morgan family was more important than comparisons with the Braxton brothers, stating, "Creating this family is probably more our priority than taking over the Brax boys." In August 2017, Stewart was longlisted for Best Daytime Star at the Inside Soap Awards but did not progress to the viewer-voted shortlist.

Mason Morgan

Mason Morgan, portrayed by Orpheus Pledger, made his debut on 7 June 2016 as well. His casting was announced concurrently with his brothers' on 5 December 2015, with filming beginning in early December. Pledger relocated from Melbourne to Sydney for this opportunity. Mason is characterized as a medical student juggling academic responsibilities with an active social life and fitness regimen. Pledger described Mason as having a "positive outlook on life" and being someone who stands firmly by his convictions.

Tabitha Ford

Tabitha Ford, played by Eliza Scanlen, appeared between 21 July and 27 September 2016 in a recurring student role. Recognized as one of the "most evil mean girls in soap," Tabitha's storyline focused on her antagonism toward Olivia Fraser Richards, including acts of identity theft and blackmail. Her behavior led to suspension from school and a police warning before she departed for boarding school. Tabitha's narrative highlighted themes of manipulation and rivalry within Summer Bay’s youth scene, contributing significant dramatic tension to the series.

Hope Morrison

Hope Morrison, portrayed by Jessica Falkholt, first appeared on 19 September 2016. After hearing Justin Morgan outside her residence, Hope attempts an attack but is stopped by Martin Ashford and Kat Chapman. Justin informs her that her uncle, Atticus Decker, is hospitalized following a deliberate car accident. Spike Lowe and his associates attempt to kidnap Hope and her sister Raffy; Ash rescues Raffy while Hope is abducted. Spike impersonates Hope’s husband to gain access to Decker’s hospital room and tries to administer a fatal injection but is apprehended.

Hope and Raffy are invited to stay at the farmhouse with Kat and Phoebe Nicholson. Hope stirs conflict by wearing Phoebe's clothes and consuming her food without permission. After breaking her phone, she falsely accuses John Palmer of causing the damage and demands compensation, which he refuses. Justin offers Hope part-time work at the garage, where she steals customers’ credit card information. She attempts to flee Summer Bay but is arrested for theft.

Following her release, Justin reveals that Raffy is Decker’s daughter and Hope’s half-sister. Hope steals Mason's car intending to escape with Raffy, but the vehicle breaks down. After sustaining a liver injury from a fall, Nate Cooper treats her before surgery at the hospital. During recovery, Hope warns Raffy against trusting the Morgans; however, Raffy later uncovers their familial connection and learns Hope is not truly her sister. Together they plan to leave Summer Bay.

Hope steals money from Salt but is caught and placed in remand custody. Struggling with solitary confinement, she receives diazepam prescribed by Nate but accidentally overdoses on stolen sleeping pills, resulting in hospitalization. Before returning to prison, Hope apologizes to Phoebe, requests she care for Raffy, encourages Raffy to trust the Morgans, and asks Justin to look after her sister. A year later, Hope sends Raffy a handmade birthday card.

Raffy Morrison

Raffy Morrison, played by Olivia Deeble, made her first appearance on 19 September 2016. Deeble moved from Melbourne to Sydney specifically for the role and was contracted for three years. Opting not to extend her contract, she concluded her portrayal in May 2019, with Raffy's final episode broadcast on 12 September 2019.

Raffy's introduction occurs amidst familial turmoil involving her sister Hope Morrison and uncle Atticus Decker, which ultimately reveals that she is the half-sibling of the Morgan family. Upon learning about her true lineage, Raffy experiences difficulties with trust and finding her place, eventually settling in with the Morgans. When Brody Morgan's drug addiction worsens, Raffy moves out to live with John Palmer and Marilyn Chambers, where she encounters bullying and other personal struggles.

Her storyline includes a tense moment where she narrowly escapes abduction, saved by Robbo. Throughout her time in Summer Bay, Raffy's friendships develop, particularly with newcomer Coco Astoni, despite some initial friction. She also embarks on a romantic relationship with foster brother Ty Anderson, which ends after Ty discloses he is gay. Later, Raffy dates Ryder Jackson, but their relationship dissolves due to conflicting commitments.

A pivotal narrative thread involves Raffy being diagnosed with epilepsy following a head injury sustained during a camping trip. Her brothers provide support throughout her treatment, even as legal issues arise concerning medication obtained through questionable means. Raffy's story further intertwines with family crises, including her siblings entering witness protection and confronting Brody's infidelity firsthand.

Near the conclusion of her storyline, Raffy gains acceptance into a medical trial in Victoria, prompting her departure from Summer Bay. Before leaving, she bids farewell to close friends and leaves a letter for John and Marilyn as she moves forward to pursue new opportunities.

Jeannie Woods

Jeannie Woods, portrayed by Anna Bamford, first appeared on 1 November 2016 and remained on screen for approximately six weeks. Introduced as a potential romantic interest for Brody Morgan (Jackson Heywood), Jeannie arrives in Summer Bay after being invited by Evelyn MacGuire (Philippa Northeast) to participate in a volleyball match at the local youth centre. Bamford described Jeannie's dynamic with Brody as "unconventional" and mentioned a strong off-screen chemistry with Heywood.

Jeannie initially meets Brody while assisting him in collecting barbecue supplies he dropped. She registers for a charity beach volleyball event, originally teamed with Matt Page (Alec Snow), but Brody offers Evelyn $1000 so that he can partner with Jeannie in the final game. After briefly disappearing from the scene, Jeannie returns seeking employment at Brody's restaurant. Although the interview does not go smoothly, Brody hires her, leading to flirtatious exchanges during her first day. A misunderstanding causes Jeannie to quit temporarily; however, Brody later rehires her, and they begin dating.

Complications arise when Jeannie reveals that her parents are survivalist doomsday preppers, which creates tension between Brody and her father, Randall (Paul Ceaser). Despite efforts to mend relations, differing views regarding Randall’s beliefs ultimately lead to Jeannie and Brody ending their relationship. Jeannie then leaves the restaurant to accept a position in Yabbie Creek.

Ava Gilbert

Ava Gilbert was introduced on 8 December 2016 as Justin Morgan's (portrayed by James Stewart) daughter. The character was initially played by Grace Thomas, followed by Alice Roberts, before being recast with Annabel Wolfe in February 2023 to accommodate more mature plotlines that align with Ava's growth into her teenage years. Upon her return to the Bay, Ava navigates a complicated relationship with her father, including her admiration for Justin’s apprentice Theo Poulos (Matt Evans) and disputes stemming from her online activities. Wolfe described Ava's defiant nature as a source of upheaval in Justin’s life. Ava is scheduled to reappear for Justin’s wedding to Leah in April 2024.

Ava’s narrative arcs feature her developing connections with Justin’s fiancée Phoebe Nicholson and his sister Raffy Morrison. Following a dispute involving her stepfather Brian Gilbert (Tom O'Sullivan), Ava suffers a hit-and-run accident but subsequently gains permission to spend time with Justin. She also builds relationships with Willow Harris and Scarlett Snow, endures a kidnapping orchestrated by Boyd Easton and his mother, and experiences familial strain that leads Nina Gilbert to limit Justin's access to her.

When Ava returns to live with Justin, she initially shows resistance toward his new partner Leah Patterson but gradually forms a bond through shared experiences. Ongoing family conflicts result in Ava dividing her time between her parents, while Justin advocates for her continued communication with Brian. Throughout health challenges affecting the family—including Justin’s diagnosis of a spinal tumour and sister Tori Morgan’s hospitalization—Ava remains central to Justin’s personal storyline, highlighting themes of familial strength and the complexities of parent-child relationships.

Others

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Circumstances
11 February	Louisa O'Brien	Claudia Cranstoun	Louisa invites Josh Barrett to join her and fellow HSC students for an afternoon. When Josh cares for Casey Braxton, Louisa and friends visit his home. Frustrated by Casey's crying, Louisa disables the baby monitor to spend uninterrupted time with Josh.
	Glen Day	Logan Stevenson	Glen spends time alongside Adriana with Louisa and Josh. After Glen departs for work, Louisa encourages Adriana to follow him so she can have Josh to herself.
	Adriana Kerr	Hana Lee Woodbridge
	Psych Nurse	Angie Diaz	The Psych Nurse facilitates Skye Peters’ visit with her mother Carol and informs Skye that Carol is able to hear despite her condition.
18 February	Destiny Starr	Lara Schwerdt	Destiny goes on a first date with Chris Harrington at the diner; however, Chris’s references to his ex lead Destiny to realize he has unresolved feelings, prompting her to leave.
25 February	Coach McKinnon	Warren Ekermans	During a high school basketball match, Coach McKinnon intervenes in a fight between VJ Patterson and Hunter King, resulting in VJ being sent off.
2 March	Zara Leonard	Georgia Nichols	Oscar MacGuire notices Zara at Angelo's and initiates conversation about their university course; later Skye Peters observes them sharing a kiss on the balcony.
2–17 March	Claire Lewis	Anita Hegh	Claire approaches Irene Roberts, suggesting she may be her daughter. After bonding and DNA testing disproves this, Claire departs but is invited back by Irene later.
15 March–11 April	Harry Kingswood	Wayne Bradley	Harry brings Florence and Lulu Kingswood to Summer Bay to visit their mother Isla Schultz. When Isla takes the girls without consent after working at a brothel, Harry and Kyle retrieve them.
	Florence Kingswood	Charlee Kwintner
	Lulu Kingswood	Mia Kwintner
17 March	Alessia De Luca	Bridgette Hollitt	Alessia attends a university party at Angelo's introduced by Maddy Osborne; she flirts with Oscar MacGuire, whom Skye Peters later sees kissing Alessia.
	Tanya Hardy	Ashleigh O'Brien	Tanya meets Oscar after Alessia leaves the party; upon learning about Oscar's earlier interaction with Alessia, Tanya walks away.
22–31 March	Drew Panton	Govinda Roser-Finch	Drew attends Lindsay Ford’s beach party where he is paid to make advances toward Olivia Fraser Richards for a photo intended to provoke Hunter King; he admits disliking Lindsay and attending only for free drinks.
19 April–8 June	Dom Loneragan	Lindsay Farris	Photographer friend of Ricky Sharpe; hired for Ricky’s wedding photos and hospital fundraiser. Flirts with Phoebe Nicholson; they survive an explosion together. Dom reveals he has a daughter named Bella who initially resists Phoebe but later accepts their relationship. Dom’s estranged wife Tess visits Summer Bay; Phoebe ends their relationship recognizing Dom still harbors feelings for Tess.
20 April	'Womma'	'Dean Kyrwood'	'Kat Chapman and Martin Ashford confront Womma after discovering Dylan Carter paid him to intimidate local businesses and witnesses.'
21 April–9 March 2020	'Sergeant Phillip McCarthy'	'Nicholas Cassim'	'Following Sergeant Mike Emerson’s promotion, McCarthy assumes his role in Summer Bay. He manages workplace assault reports involving Dylan Carter and advises staff accordingly.'

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Circumstances
12 May–8 June	'Teagan Croft'	'Dom Loneragan’s daughter; initially hostile towards Phoebe Nicholson but gradually warms up as their relationship develops. Bella’s mother Tess visits Summer Bay; family dynamics evolve amid Dom’s new relationship.'
16 May	'Alexandra Newman'	'Kate Fraser'	'Admitted urgently due to fetal distress; gives birth to a daughter named after Nate Cooper and Tori Morgan.'
	'Natalie Newman'	'Uncredited'	'Newborn daughter of Alexandra Newman.'
17 May 2016 – 10 April 2017	'Dr Bernice Chung'	'Karen Pang'	'Conducts interviews for head of emergency position; oversees hospital prescriptions including Roo Stewart’s diazepam; involved in reviewing medical negligence cases; manages budget cuts affecting staff.'
30 May	'Andrew'	'Uncredited'	'Arrives at hospital suffering gunshot wounds following an armed robbery.'
	'Kathy'	'Susan Boyd'	'Also treated for gunshot injuries concurrent with Andrew.'
31 May–8 June	'Tess Loneragan'	'Sophie Roche'	'Dom Loneragan’s wife and Bella’s mother; visits Summer Bay, meets Phoebe Nicholson, expresses desire to reconcile with Dom.'
7 June 2016–12 July 2021	'Buddy the dog'	'Himself/Buddy'	'The Morgan family’s boxer dog featured in storylines including accidental methamphetamine ingestion and kidnapping incidents. The canine actor passed away in May 2025.'
9 June	'Janette Davis'	'Beth Aubrey'	'Informs John Palmer about Skye Peters’ contact with DHS and change of address.'
13 June, 20 February 2018	'Nurse Erica'	'Claudia Barrie'	'Interacts with Tori Morgan concerning patient charts; addresses workplace gossip regarding Tori’s influence on Nate Cooper.'
14 June–12 July	'Lara Adams'	'Elle Harris'	'Mason Morgan’s ex-girlfriend involved in clandestine meetings related to the syndicate targeting the Morgans; ultimately arrested.'
23 June–14 July	'Danika Kulevski'	'Ash Ricardo'	'Supervisor overseeing teens performing community service; facilitates connection between Nate Cooper and Jordan Walsh leading to a casual relationship.'
23 June–26 July	'Jordan Walsh'	'Benny Turland'	'Completes community service; experiences foster care placement; develops relationships within Summer Bay community; reconciles with estranged father before relocating back to city.'
27 June	'Sarah Smedley'	'Ella Rose Corby'	'Medical student interacting with Mason Morgan regarding clinical placements.'
28 June–10 November	'Burt "Simmo" Simmons'	'James O'Connell'	'Engaged in illegal car re-birthing activities alongside Andy Barrett; blackmails police officers Ashford and Chapman; participates in criminal acts including carjacking.'
29 June–20 September	'Kevin Arthur "Spike" Lowe'	'Jason Montgomery'	'Antagonist targeting the Morgan family through kidnapping and intimidation tactics; involved in drugging Nate Cooper, hostage situations, and issuing threats before arrest.'
5 July 2016 – 2 February 2017	'Nurse Gretchen'	'Vanessa Buckley'	'Hospital nurse assisting Nate Cooper and Tori Morgan during emergencies.'
5 July	'Beau Mitchell'	'Andrew Den'	"Assists Andy Barrett in helping Josh Barrett evade police custody."
11–12 July	"Blaine Varden"	"Ashley Lyons"	"Involved in threatening Mason Morgan and holding the Morgan family hostage prior to arrest."
12 July–1 December	"Atticus Decker"	"John Adam"	"Federal police officer managing witness protection for the Morgan family; rescues hostages, investigates syndicate corruption, fatally shot during investigation."
13 July 2016 – 10 May 2018, 19 February 2019	"Doctor Genner"	"Jennifer White"	"Provides medical care for key characters including Brody Morgan, Tori Morgan, Maggie Astoni, Hunter King, and Willow Harris across numerous critical incidents."
20–26 July	"Aaron Walsh"	"Justin Smith"	"Jordan Walsh's father who attempts reconciliation leading to complex family dynamics involving property vandalism before departing Summer Bay."
1 August	"Professor Calabra"	"Grant Lyndon"	"University professor who initially offers then retracts a lecturing position from Kat Chapman due to her past associations."
	"Kate Lee"	"Lucia Mastrantone"	"Mother of the Morgan siblings; deceased following syndicate violence; appears in hallucinations influencing Brody Morgan’s storyline."
29 August	"May"	"Kelly Butler"	"Caretaker aunt who mistreats Elly Page leading Elly to run away."
	"Brian Dyson"	"Sean Hawkins"	"Chris Harrington arranges a blind date involving Brian as part of Phoebe Nicholson's storyline."

External links

• Complete character and cast information available on the official Home and Away site
• Full cast listing on the Internet Movie Database