Suzy Sudiro

Home and Away

Company type	Television series
Industry	Television soap opera
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 following compilation lists characters who made their debut in 2009, arranged according to their initial appearance. All these characters were introduced under the guidance of executive producer Cameron Welsh. The show's twenty-second season was broadcast from 19 January through 27 November 2009. Early in the year, January saw the arrival of Gina and Hugo Austin. February introduced Robert Cruze, Trey Palmer, Freya Duric, and Joey Collins. In March, Liam Murphy and John Palmer joined the cast, followed by Lachie Cladwell and David Gardiner in April. May Stone made her entrance in June. July featured the birth of Harry Holden alongside the introduction of the Walker family members: Sid, Dexter, and Indigo. August brought Detective Robert Robertson, while September concluded with the arrival of Romeo Smith.

Gina Austin

Gina Austin, brought to life by actress Sonia Todd, first appeared on-screen on 27 January 2009 and remained until 18 April 2013. According to official descriptions, Gina is a devoted mother who openly acknowledges her past missteps with both her eldest and youngest sons. She demonstrates considerable strength and resilience, refusing to succumb to self-pity despite facing numerous hardships. Industry insiders depict her as a grounded individual prioritizing her family’s well-being above her own ambitions. Todd emphasizes that Gina’s identity as a mother to three boys is central to her character.

Hugo Austin

Hugo Austin, portrayed by Bernard Curry, made his debut alongside Gina on 27 January 2009. He exited on 26 January 2010, returned briefly on 6 May 2010, and left again on 9 June 2010. Curry, who had formerly acted in rival soap Neighbours, praised his time on Home & Away as both enjoyable and demanding. Hugo is depicted as an outdoors enthusiast with a fit build and sun-kissed complexion.

Robert Cruze

Robert "Robbo" Cruze, enacted by Aidan Gillett, first appeared on 1 February 2009. Robbo was employed on a boat together with Aden Jefferies and Joey Collins. He frequently antagonized Joey due to her sexual orientation, culminating in pushing her overboard and later sexually assaulting her while threatening silence. After Joey reported the assault, Robbo denied all accusations. His former girlfriend Tanya Gannon arrived intending to help but was struck by a vehicle. Subsequently, Robbo attacked Joey again, attempting to drown her until Charlie intervened and arrested him. Charged with these offenses, Robbo did not return to the series.

Trey Palmer

Trey Palmer, played by Luke Bracey, entered the series on 9 February 2009. Despite possessing "an angelic face," Trey quickly became known for his "mischievous conduct," capturing viewers’ attention early on. His introduction to Summer Bay sparked tension, particularly involving characters such as Geoff Campbell (Lincoln Lewis) and Nicole Franklin. A pivotal plotline involved Trey recording a private video with Nicole that was subsequently leaked, paralleling a real-life controversy related to actor Lincoln Lewis.

Initially seen at the local school, Trey engaged in bullying students like Jai Fernandez (Jordan Rodrigues) and challenging authority figures. His ongoing rivalry with Geoff Campbell and strained relationship with his stepfather John Palmer underscored his turbulent home environment. Additional conflicts arose between Trey and Miles Copeland, while his romantic interest in Kirsty led to further disputes and legal proceedings that were eventually dismissed.

Later developments saw Trey enter into a relationship with Nicole, culminating in the scandal surrounding the leaked sex tape he distributed as retaliation, causing significant public embarrassment for Nicole. His escalating misconduct reached a climax during a school excursion when he took hostages on a bus, revealing he had planted an explosive device underneath it. Although most students escaped unharmed, Hugo Austin suffered serious injuries from the blast. Trey was subsequently arrested on charges of attempted murder, marking a significant turning point in his narrative arc.

Freya Duric

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

In 2009, the series featured two lesbian plotlines, one of which involved Nicole Franklin (Tessa James). Freya’s kiss with Nicole provoked viewer complaints. James explained their relationship, describing Freya as a representation of Nicole’s former rebellious nature, which captivates Nicole despite her frustration at being placed on Freya's "not hot list." This kiss acts as a turning point for Nicole, prompting her to acknowledge that she has become dull.

Freya arrives with the intention of reigniting a romance with Xavier Austin, who initially resists due to his involvement with Ruby Buckton. Despite opposition from Gina, Freya seduces Xavier and causes disruption in the community. She deals drugs in the Bay and persuades Xavier to distribute them at Summer Bay High. After a confrontation with Nicole, Freya kisses her openly to demonstrate that Nicole is not boring, aggravating Geoff who suspects ulterior motives. Freya exploits Xavier for personal gain but loses interest and kisses his brother Hugo, unaware that Xavier witnesses the act. When Hugo ends their affair, Freya promptly departs.

Joey Collins

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

The producers introduced Joey to establish a lesbian storyline involving Charlie Buckton (Esther Jackie Anderson) aimed at increasing viewership. Over five weeks, their relationship develops from friendship into romance, featuring intimate scenes. Executive producer Cameron Welsh highlighted Joey’s popularity and suggested the possibility of her return.

Joey initially collaborates with Aden Jefferies and Robbo Cruze. Robbo harasses Joey and ultimately sexually assaults her while threatening her to keep silent. She confides in Aden; he and Belle Taylor encourage her to report the assault, but Robbo denies the allegations and Joey’s brother Brett refuses to believe her, even kicking her out of their home. After Robbo attempts to drown Joey, Charlie intervenes and Robbo is arrested. Charlie and Joey start a secret relationship but face homophobic reactions and gossip within the town. Charlie struggles with accepting her sexuality alongside work pressures; eventually Joey departs following an emotional goodbye.

Liam Murphy

Liam Murphy, played by Axle Whitehead, first appeared on 5 March 2009. Musician and TV host Whitehead earned the role through an audition and was initially signed for fifteen episodes. Whitehead described Liam as a "bad boy rocker" and incorporated personal experiences to portray the character’s drug use realistically.

Brendan Austin

Brendan Austin, enacted by Kain O'Keeffe, made his debut on 25 March 2009. After collaborating with other cast members, Brendan was introduced following the arrival of the Austin family, revealing his autism which caused friction between his brothers Xavier and Hugo.

Brendan comes to Summer Bay with his mother to live with family members. Xavier had been his main caregiver but resented the responsibility compared to older brother Hugo, whom Brendan disliked. Initially kept hidden from Xavier’s friends, Brendan gains confidence through Xavier’s girlfriend Ruby Buckton. Under Martha MacKenzie’s supervision, Brendan runs away multiple times, including an incident leading to a car accident injuring Roman Harris, who later decides not to press charges after learning about Brendan’s condition.

Brendan’s fear of blue cars originates from witnessing an earlier accident that injured Hugo and resulted in his girlfriend’s death. He later introduces his girlfriend Ruby Leeds, who has Down syndrome, challenging family assumptions about his independence. After courageously rescuing Xavier from drowning despite limited swimming ability, Gina supports Brendan moving into sheltered accommodation to attend a specialized learning center. Brendan briefly returns believing he is attending Hugo’s funeral, which is later revealed to be untrue. Following Gina’s death in 2013, it was noted that Brendan was too distressed to attend her funeral.

John Palmer

John Palmer, brought to life by Shane Withington, made his first appearance on 27 March 2009 as the stepfather of Trey Palmer. Withington, previously known for his role in A Country Practice, joined Home and Away in a recurring capacity. John's character is characterized as a "disciplinarian father" and is actively involved with the surf lifesaving club.

Claudia Hammond

Claudia Hammond, portrayed by Alexandra Park, was introduced on 10 April 2009. Her entry into the narrative is through her romantic involvement with Geoff Campbell, where she reveals she is expecting a child. Their relationship features a critical moment when they become trapped inside a caravan fire after being intimate, underscoring Geoff's struggle with religious guilt.

Series producer Cameron Welsh described Claudia’s pregnancy plot as intricate, focusing on her concealment regarding the child’s paternity. Initially, Claudia denies that her former partner Lachie is the father but later confesses the truth following Lachie's injury caused by Geoff. This disclosure creates tension, leading to Geoff’s angry reaction and Claudia’s expulsion from their home.

Despite Lachie's efforts to mend their relationship after exhibiting violent behavior, Claudia refuses reconciliation. Ultimately, she chooses to leave Summer Bay with her cousin Dubbo, removing herself and her baby from both men’s lives. The storyline delves into themes of accountability, conflict, and personal development within the show's rural backdrop.

Lachie Cladwell

Lachie Cladwell, enacted by Jackson Heywood, appeared starting 4 May 2009. He is the former boyfriend of Claudia Hammond (Alexandra Park) and their relationship is marked by intermittent reunions over six months. Lachie endeavors to win Claudia back, only to learn she is pregnant and insists he is not the father. Following a violent rugby match altercation with Geoff Campbell (Lincoln Lewis), Lachie sustains injuries that may cause paralysis. Subsequently, Claudia admits Lachie is the father, prompting Geoff to expel her. Lachie's frustration surfaces during his hospital stay, though he remains hopeful about building a family with Claudia as he recovers. Ultimately, Claudia rejects him and departs from Summer Bay.

The Daily Record observed that Geoff's bottled-up anger was directed toward Lachie after enduring multiple setbacks.

David Gardiner

David "Gardy" Gardiner, portrayed by Jeremy Sims, featured from 13 May until 10 June 2009. The Sydney Morning Herald commended Sims for a compelling portrayal, describing Gardy as "truly unsettling" in his manipulative tactics. The Daily Record referred to him as a "villain" despite his charismatic demeanor.

Gardy breaks into Roman Harris's residence while Roman is visually impaired, causing concern for Nicole Franklin (Tessa James) and Ruby Buckton (Rebecca Breeds). After a violent confrontation involving Roman and others, Gardy attempts hazardous procedures aimed at restoring Roman's vision. When these fail, he coerces Roman into robbing a liquor store, an act that triggers a heart attack in an elderly woman. Following Nicole’s rejection of his advances, Gardy threatens to implicate Roman.

He escalates his criminal activities by burglarizing the Palmer household and taking Trey (Luke Bracey) along with Jenena (Anna Lise Phillips) hostage. Although Roman confronts Gardy, he allows him to flee while denying any involvement. It later emerges that Gardy blackmails Roman over a wartime shooting incident.

Planning a warehouse heist in Mangrove River, Gardy aborts the mission due to police presence. He assaults Roman and intimidates Nicole to secure their cooperation. During the robbery, Gardy intends to eliminate witnesses; however, Roman resists and sustains a gunshot wound. A shootout follows with Xavier Austin (David Jones-Roberts) taken hostage. Hugo Austin intervenes but cannot prevent Gardy's attempt to shoot him. Roman ultimately incapacitates Gardy by shooting his leg. Despite injuries, Gardy escapes into a creek and vanishes permanently.

May Stone

May Stone, played by Alin Sumarwata, made her first appearance on 12 June 2009 as a new educator at Summer Bay High. She soon starts a relationship with Angelo Rosetta, who is secretly involved with Charlie Buckton. Esther Anderson, the actress behind Charlie, explained that although Charlie partly intended to stir trouble, Angelo remained drawn to her, which led to their secret affair. Despite this, Anderson defended Charlie’s character, emphasizing she never aimed to cause May harm. The Daily Record highlighted Angelo’s lack of sensitivity and May’s emotional turmoil following their breakup.

May settles into life at Summer Bay and begins dating Angelo after several successful outings. However, Angelo’s unresolved feelings for Charlie result in him sleeping with her and keeping it hidden. When May becomes serious about their relationship, Angelo admits the truth and ends things. Upon discovering this betrayal, May chooses to leave immediately, resigning from her teaching position and departing from the town.

Harry Holden

Harry Jack Holden, portrayed by various child actors, first appeared on 30 July 2009. He is the son of Rachel Armstrong and Tony Holden. After his birth, Rachel faces difficulties bonding with Harry due to his incessant crying, which leads her to isolate herself and even contemplate harming him before seeking assistance. Following a false accusation of neglect from Jane Avent, who kidnaps Harry, a police search is launched. Jane’s husband Rex is stunned by her behavior. Harry is eventually found unharmed and returned safely to his parents. In August 2010, Harry moves to Boston with Rachel and Tony, making a brief stop at his half-brother Jack's grave before leaving.

Sid Walker

Sid Walker, portrayed by Robert Mammone, was introduced on 30 July 2009 with an initial five-week guest role. Due to positive viewer reactions, Sid, along with Indigo and Dexter, was brought back as a regular cast member in June 2010.

Dexter Walker

Dexter Walker, originally played by Tom Green starting 30 July 2009, was recast in 2010 with Charles Cottier. Cottier remarked on the character's development and chose not to view his predecessor’s performance. One significant storyline featured Dexter’s romantic involvement with Marilyn Chambers (Emily Symons), which Cottier described as both awkward and thrilling given their notable age gap.

Indigo Walker

Indigo Walker, portrayed by Samara Weaving, first appeared on 30 July 2009 as part of the newly introduced Walker family: father Sid (Robert Mammone), mother Jody (Victoria Haralabidou), son Dexter (Tom Green), and Indigo herself. The family departed in September 2009 but returned in June 2010. Weaving noted that managing her studies alongside acting became more manageable during their return.

Robert Robertson

Robert Robertson, played by Socratis Otto, debuted on 2 August 2009. Created by James Walker for a murder-related plotline, the character was crafted to blend dark themes with humor and vitality. Walker described Robertson as a "chameleon," adept at deception and uncovering truth, enabling him to engage numerous characters in investigations. Otto drew upon his comedic skills and inspiration from quirky detective series for this role, calling it one of his most fulfilling.

Robertson is a detective who arrives in Summer Bay to investigate the murder of Grant Bledcoe, who is Ruby Buckton's biological father. He initially suspects Ruby's mother, Charlie, leading to her arrest; however, he later discovers that Charlie's father, Ross Buckton, confessed to the crime. An eccentric yet capable officer, Robertson briefly dates Leah Patterson-Baker but she declines pursuing a relationship further.

He returns to investigate the disappearance of Penn Graham, working alongside Detective Graves and focusing suspicion on Alf Stewart as the main suspect. Despite multiple arrests, Robertson is unable to gather conclusive evidence. He tries to revive his romance with Leah, but she rejects him due to unresolved feelings for her former partner. Robertson pressures Will Smith into implicating Alf, resulting in Alf’s arrest; nonetheless, Morag Bellingham challenges the case against Alf and reveals Will as dishonest. Consequently, Robertson releases Alf and charges Will instead. Disturbed by this failure, he confides in Leah about feeling lost in his identity; she comforts him by reminding him that errors are part of being human. Offered a promotion back in the city, Robertson invites Leah and her son to join him; however, she declines the offer.

Romeo Smith

Romeo Smith, brought to life by Luke Mitchell, made his first appearance on 10 September 2009. Mitchell landed this role after moving to Sydney without employment. Romeo is depicted as charming, witty, humorous, and courteous. His family on the show includes his sister Mink Carpenter (Matylda Buczko) and mother Jill Carpenter (Josephine Mitchell). Following his relationship with Annie Campbell, Romeo's main romantic involvement is with Indigo Walker (Samara Weaving).

Others

23–28 April Ash Murphy Dusty Piper Son of Liam and Chelsea Murphy, a toddler. 1–2 June Jenena Palmer Anna Lise Phillips Mother of Trey and spouse of John. 13 June–13 July Clint Mailer Matt Zeremes Rugby coach who pressures Aden Jefferies into sabotaging Geoff Campbell’s career under threat of removal from the team. 14 July–18 August Jane Avent Felicity Price Blames Rachel Armstrong for her stillbirth, harasses her, kidnaps Rachel’s son Harry before admitting she requires help. 14 July–18 August Rex Avent Sandy Winton Jane Avent’s husband, initially defends Jane but later accepts her need for assistance after the kidnapping incident. 14 July–26 January 2010 Wayan Rahardjo Dorje Swallow Non-English speaking hospital patient connected to Hugo Austin; used by Angelo to expose smuggling operations. 20–21 July Paul Thomas Norrie Briefly appears as an extra in the Bay. 23 July–18 August Squirt Ben Davy-Thorburn Collaborates with Aden Jefferies and attends his stag party. 29 July-27 November Marine Officer Bryant Michael Sutherland Water police officer working alongside Angelo Rosetta on human smuggling investigations. 30 July–17 August 2011 Jody Walker Victoria Haralabidou Sid Walker’s wife; attempts reconciliation for their children’s sake but leaves following infidelity; returns briefly in August 2011. 20 August Michelle Michelle Pettigrove Charlie Buckton’s aunt who reveals that Ruby Buckton is Charlie’s daughter. 24 August–8 July 2010 Therese Rose Ashton Nurse involved in workplace conflicts with Sid Walker and Nicole Franklin following a brief affair with Sid. 28 August–11 September Andy McLeod Paul Winchester Rachel’s acquaintance offering parenting advice; friendship ends due to boundary concerns. Sophia McLeod Madeline Andrews Andy’s daughter diagnosed by Rachel Armstrong with a hearing impairment. 1–16 September Grant Bledcoe Clayton Watson Ruby’s biological father accused of rape by Charlie Buckton; later found stabbed, with Ross Buckton confessing to the murder. 8 September Tracey Bledcoe Mary Anne Byrne Grant Bledcoe’s wife, shocked by allegations against him. 15 September–1 March 2012 Patrick Avery Clayton Williams Constable appearing intermittently during investigations, including bailing Sid Walker on assault charges. 18–22 September Ruby Leeds Tracie Sammmut Brendan's girlfriend advocating for his independence, moves him into sheltered accommodation. 18 September Pheobe Alisha Burton Brief friend of Jai Fernandez. 30 September Jim Mark Richardson Hotel manager appearing briefly. 1 October–27 January 2010 Bambang Rahardjo Joft Prastowo Wayan’s son assisting Martha MacKenzie on the farm; used by Angelo as bait in smuggling investigation. 3 October–26 January 2010 Suzy Sudiro Tasneem Roc Hugo Austin’s ex-wife involved in human smuggling; kidnaps Martha MacKenzie demanding ransom before being subdued by Charlie Buckton. 6–17 November Riley Radcliffe Tani Edgecombe School bully targeting VJ Patterson; father Ian attempts to conceal injuries caused during altercation involving Miles Copeland. Ian Radcliffe Ben Simpson Dismisses bullying allegations against son Riley, injures Riley blaming Miles Copeland before police uncover the truth. 9–24 November Poppie Merrin Elouise Blair Claims Liam Murphy had an affair with her leading Nicole Franklin to end their relationship; involved in incident causing Liam's drug possession arrest. 17–24 November Reg Merrin Dane Carson Manager of The Sands who hires Aden Jefferies then fires him following complications at a formal event involving his daughter Catie Merrin. 18–24 November Catie Merrin Tess Haubrich Reg Merrin’s daughter who manipulates situations involving Aden Jefferies and Nicole Franklin resulting in Aden's dismissal. 19–23 November Orson Cardillo Mark Lee Longtime gardener for Donna De Bono implicated in gun-planting leading to Donna's imprisonment; suffers heart attack during investigation. 20 November Bonita Cardillo Suzi Dougherty Orson Cardillo’s wife defending his innocence amid accusations related to Donna De Bono case. 25 November–18 February 2010 Hazem Kassir Ben Kermode Dates Leah Patterson-Baker; victim of racially motivated attack resulting in paralysis and subsequent relocation after ending relationship. 26 November Prison Guard Joe Tarena On duty during Derrick Quaid's escape from custody.

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Role Summary
30 January	Bank manager	Christopher Saunders	Detects an unauthorized attempt by Bridget Simmons to access Leah Patterson-Baker's bank account.
30 January–6 October	Don Gibson	Steve Anderson	Collaborates with Aden on a boat; engaged in illicit abalone trading; apprehended and tries to implicate Aden.
2–6 February	Steve Hogan	Damien Freeglass	Police officer conducting investigations in Summer Bay.
3 February	Lawyer	Blair Cutting	Legal counsel representing Angelo Rosetta.
4 February–25 January 2010	Lou De Bono	David Roberts	Dates Irene Roberts; dies at sea; Irene initially charged with his murder but later exonerated.
9–10 February	Archie Maddock	Tim Phillipps	Homeless individual protecting Melody Jones; informs Miles Copeland about her whereabouts.
10 February	Thug	Zen Ledden	Attacker of Melody Jones and Archie Maddock.
19 February	Mryll Ramsay	Kim Hillas	Initially refuses an interview to safeguard a nursing home; persuaded by Melody Jones to cooperate.
19–25 February	Audrey Long	Wendy Playfair	Melody Jones's grandmother; passes away due to a stroke.
3–19 March	George	Benjamin O'Donnell	Participant in a speed dating event; briefly connects with Leah before she chooses Roman.
9 March–29 July	Brett Collins	Toby Levins	Joey Collins's elder brother; initially rejects her sexuality but later reconciles; holds Charlie Buckton responsible for family troubles.
16 March–26 January 2010	Derrick Quaid	John Atkinson	Survivor of a shipwreck involved in human smuggling alongside Hugo Austin and Suzy Sudiro; arrested after conflicts arise.
19 March–13 November	Jerry Thibault	Nicholas Cassim	Newspaper employer who has an affair with Paula Gill; promises Belle a promotion but later withdraws it.
19 March	Tanya Gannon	Hayley McCarthy	Robert Cruze's former victim who files a complaint after persuasion by Charlie; suffers a hit-and-run incident.
20 March	Paula Gill	Paula Arundell	Colleague of Belle; involved in an affair with Jerry Thibault; bullies Belle over her pill addiction.
23 March–23 November	Donna De Bono	Suzie MacKenzie	Estranged wife of Lou De Bono; attempts to implicate Irene Roberts in Lou’s death.
23 April	Chelsea Murphy	Georgia Gorman	Liam Murphy's wife; struggles with his drug addiction leading to divorce and moving to Paris with their son Ash.

External links

• Present cast and roles on the Official Home and Away site
• Present cast and roles via Holy Soap