Ted Faulkner
| Company type | Television series |
|---|---|
| Industry | Television drama |
| Founded | January 18, 1994 |
| Defunct | June 4, 2006 |
| Headquarters | Australia |
| Products | Police drama television series |
Blue Heelers is an Australian police drama television series that was broadcast on the Seven Network from 18 January 1994 until 4 June 2006. The narrative centers on the personal and professional lives of the residents of Mount Thomas, a fictional small town in Victoria, alongside its local police officers. Below is a compilation of the principal and recurring cast members.
Adam Cooper
Adam Cooper, portrayed by Damian Walshe-Howling, made his first appearance on 6 September 1994.
Tom Croydon
Tom Croydon, played by John Wood, was introduced at the series' inception on 18 January 1994.
Maggie Doyle
Maggie Doyle, enacted by Lisa McCune, debuted alongside the show on 18 January 1994.
Amy Fox
Amy Fox, played by Rachel Gordon, joined the cast on 17 July 2004 during season 11, following the bombing incident at the Mount Thomas Police Station. Characterized as being in her early thirties, she combines a gentle manner and femininity with a resolute, uncompromising approach to policing. Amy is intelligent but grapples with a desire for affection and validation due to past childhood trauma. Initially partnered with Detective P. J. Hasham (Martin Sacks), their professional relationship develops from initial friction into a strong friendship. Her backstory reveals survival from abuse inflicted by her uncle after losing her parents in a car accident; this history shapes her motivations and character depth. After confronting her uncle—who is subsequently arrested for prior crimes—she continues working alongside P.J. until his transfer to Melbourne’s Homicide Squad. Later, she teams up with Evan Jones (Ditch Davey) once he attains detective status.
Tess Gallagher
Tess Gallagher, portrayed by Caroline Craig, first appeared on 24 May 2000.
Matt Graham
Matthew "Matt" Graham, played by Matthew Holmes, was introduced on 21 September 2005. A former Army peacekeeper deployed in East Timor, Matt initially struggled with colleagues due to his rigid, black-and-white view of law enforcement and temperamental nature. Detective Amy Fox (Rachel Gordon) was initially wary of him, especially after he faced murder accusations; although cleared, tensions remained until a near-fatal event exposed his vulnerability. Matt remained a committed member of the Mount Thomas police team until the series concluded.
P. J. Hasham
P. J. Hasham, acted by Martin Sacks, appeared from the first episode on 18 January 1994.
Mark Jacobs
Mark Jacobs, portrayed by Geoff Morrell, entered the storyline on 14 July 2004 after the Mount Thomas Police Station bombing. Presented as a mid-forties seasoned officer—steady, assured, intellectual, and ambitious—he was appointed Senior Sergeant to replace Tom Croydon by Inspector Falcon-Price. Married to Penny and father to Freya, Jacobs eventually resigned following community backlash caused by a fatal accident involving a drug-affected youth.
Evan Jones
Evan "Jonesy" Jones, played by Ditch Davey, debuted on 18 July 2001 as a Probationary Constable driven by a desire for justice regarding his biological father Sam Bridges’ death. Although initially met with suspicion, he was exonerated when the actual assailant was assaulted. Coming from a family deeply rooted in law enforcement—including half-brother Senior Detective Dylan Jones and adoptive father Commander Reg Jones—he gained notoriety for his rebellious 'cowboy' demeanor and frequent clashes with senior officers such as Senior Sergeant Tom Croydon and Sergeant Ben Stewart. Known colloquially as "Mad Dog Jones," he progressed to Senior Constable and later Detective Senior Constable, eventually partnering with Amy Fox after completing detective training.
Jonesy’s personal life was marked by turbulence that affected his career; he shared an intense but complicated relationship with Sergeant Tess Gallagher, which ended when Tess departed due to pregnancy-related issues. Subsequently, he proposed to Senior Constable Susie Raynor, though their engagement ended amid conflicts involving mutual colleagues. By the conclusion of the series, Jonesy and Susie had partially reconciled their friendship.
Alex Kirby
Alex Kirby, brought to life by Charlie Clausen, made his first appearance on 23 February 2005. Starting out as a senior constable, he earned a promotion to acting sergeant by the end of 2005. His son, Rory (portrayed by Louis Corbett), was introduced in the concluding episode of Season 12.
Jack Lawson
Jack Lawson, enacted by Rupert Reid, was first seen on 10 February 1999.
Dash McKinley
Dash McKinley, played by Tasma Walton, entered the series on 18 June 1996.
Kelly O'Rourke
Kelly O'Rourke, portrayed by Samantha Tolj, debuted on 21 July 2004 in the aftermath of the Mount Thomas Station bombing. She was introduced as a confident and energetic probationary constable, fresh from the Academy. Kelly is the daughter of a police constable who lost his life in the line of duty during her childhood.
Jo Parrish
Jo Parrish, played by Jane Allsop, first appeared on 18 August 1999.
Roz Patterson
Roz Patterson (also known as McGregor), acted by Ann Burbrook, made her debut on 18 January 1994. Married to Wayne Patterson, a police constable stationed at Mount Thomas, Roz relocated from the city with him and resided in police housing. Initially, her duties involved cleaning the station and cells—an unpaid role linked to her husband's position—which left her feeling frustrated due to limited independence and lack of urban amenities.
Roz endeavored to start a mobile beauty business after an unsuccessful attempt with a fixed location, using a car she had purchased for this purpose. However, multiple traffic infractions resulted in her license being suspended, forcing the closure of her enterprise. Despite some friction with officers over these issues, she later secured a position as a clerical assistant at the station. This role exposed her to the stark realities of police work and placed strain on her marriage.
Her emotional involvement with clients led Roz to misuse police resources, culminating in her dismissal. After a distressing incident involving Wayne during a burglary response, Roz chose to return to the city and end their marriage. She reappeared in Episode 97 ("Unfinished Business") for Wayne’s funeral.
Wayne Patterson
Wayne Patterson, portrayed by Grant Bowler, was introduced on 18 January 1994.
Joss Peroni
Joss Peroni, enacted by Danny Raco, arrived on 21 July 2004 following the bombing at Mt Thomas Police Station and the death of Senior Constable Jo Parrish. As a probationary constable, Joss is depicted as an eager officer committed to apprehending criminals and maintaining a robust police presence. He shares a friendly rivalry with fellow trainee Kelly O'Rourke (Samantha Tolj) and was initially stopped for speeding by colleagues Evan Jones and Susie Raynor.
Susie Raynor
Susie Raynor, portrayed by Simone McAullay, joined the cast on 24 September 2003. Her storyline includes coping with a paralyzed husband who was subsequently killed by Ben Stewart. Susie's narrative also involves accidentally shooting Ben during a burglary incident, which created tension and led to a brief romantic involvement. She was engaged to Evan Jones, but their engagement ended after she had an affair with his friend Alex Kirby. Susie was promoted to Senior Constable in early 2005 and served as Acting Sergeant later that year before being transferred due to considerations regarding rank.
Chris Riley
Christine "Chris" Riley, brought to life by Julie Nihill, made her debut on 18 January 1994.[1]
Nick Schultz
Nicholas "Nick" Schultz, enacted by William McInnes, first appeared on screen on 18 January 1994.[1]
Ben Stewart
Benjamin "Ben" Stewart, portrayed by Paul Bishop, was introduced on 26 August 1998.[1]
Clive Adamson
Chief Superintendent Clive Adamson is a fictional figure from the Australian police series Blue Heelers. His role spanned from 1995 to 1996 as the regional Chief Superintendent stationed in the fictional city of Evanleigh, occasionally visiting Mount Thomas in the wake of significant events. Holding a rank above both the Heelers and the district inspector, he was often at odds with Ted Faulkner. Adamson was characterized as a robust, grandfatherly, yet authoritative leader. After being absent for five years, he reappeared following the kidnapping of Inspector Falcon-Price.
Played by Terry Gill, 1995–1996, 2001
Sophie Ash
Sophie Ash appeared in Blue Heelers during 2005 and 2006 as a medical doctor at Mount Thomas Hospital.
Played by Stephanie Millar, 2005–2006
Gina Belfanti
Gina Belfanti served as an ambulance officer in Mount Thomas within Blue Heelers, sharing accommodation with Maggie Doyle. She joined the series in 1995 and remained until her death in the opening episode of season 4, caused by encephalitis. Her storyline involved a one-night encounter with Adam Cooper, a subsequent traumatic assault, and a brief romantic involvement with P.J. Hasham before he acknowledged his feelings for Maggie.
Played by Rachel Blakely, 1995–1997
Josh Carmichael
Doctor Josh Carmichael was featured on Blue Heelers between 2002 and 2003.
Played by Daniel Fredrikson, 2002–2003
Mel Carter
Mel Carter joined Blue Heelers as a doctor in season 6 during the episode titled 'Under Fire'. Initially portrayed as stern and impatient, her attitude reflected the pressure of responding to a bus crash emergency.
Played by Suzi Dougherty, 1999–2002
Charlie Clarke
Charlie Clarke worked as Mount Thomas' plumber on Blue Heelers, frequently causing additional challenges for the police. He was once under suspicion for the murder of his wife Cheryl, whom he nicknamed 'the minister for war'. Charlie lived outside town with his wife and their dog Dylan.
Played by Don Bridges, 1996–2003
Leila Clegg
Leila Clegg was an elderly regular at the Imperial Pub in Blue Heelers. She formed strong connections with Nick Schultz and Tom Croydon and took part in police operations, including a drug raid. Marie Trevor portrayed her from 1996 to 2000, having previously appeared as a guest star.
Played by Marie Trevor, 1996–2000
Ellis Corby
Ellis Corby is a fictional attorney featured in Blue Heelers, appearing from 1995 through 2005. The character was played by Adam May, who initially appeared on the show as an ambulance officer.
Played by Adam May, 1997–2005
Marissa Craddock
Marissa Craddock was a fictional character affiliated with the Salvation Army, previously engaged to Ben. Their engagement ended when Ben disclosed his reluctance to commit to marriage.
Played by Heidi Arena, 2003 – 2004
Anna Croydon
Anna Croydon featured in Blue Heelers from 1996 through 2006. She experienced two marriages and was involved in an extramarital relationship with her current spouse, Brett Allcott, with whom she shares two children.
Played by Alexandra Sangster, 1996, 2005–2006
Nell Croydon
Nell Croydon, the spouse of Mount Thomas’s officer-in-charge Tom Croydon, was mentioned frequently during the series. She passed away in the second season due to a car accident that also claimed her daughter Susan's life. Nell later appeared as a hallucination experienced by Tom in season six.
Played by Leigh Morgan, 1994
Susan Croydon
Susan Croydon, daughter of Tom Croydon, made her debut in the first season following the tragic accident that resulted in her mother’s death. Overcoming personal difficulties, she eventually pursued a career in education.
Played by Beth Buchanan, 1994 – 2006
Daniel Curtis
Daniel Curtis was Tom Croydon's older stepson from his marriage to Grace Curtis, appearing on the show from 2001 until 2004.
Portrayed by Kane McNay, 2001 – 2003 Portrayed by Abe Forsythe, 2004
Grace Curtis
Grace Curtis, Tom Croydon's second wife, appeared between 2001 and 2004. Her storyline involved a tragic assault and subsequent murder at the hands of villains responsible for detonating an explosion at Mount Thomas Station.
Played by Debra Lawrance, 2001 – 2004
Nelson Curtis
Nelson Curtis was a fictional character on Blue Heelers from 2001 to 2004, depicted as the younger stepson of Tom Croydon following his union with Grace Curtis.
Portrayed by Darcy Bonser, 2001–2004
Paul Donald
Detective Sergeant Paul Donald was a fictional character featured on Blue Heelers, brought to life by Marcus Eyre. As a member of the Homicide Squad, he debuted in 1996 and played a key role investigating Senior Constable Maggie Doyle's murder, suspecting P.J. as the perpetrator. Donald typically appeared during significant cases and was characterized as homosexual.
Portrayed by Marcus Eyre, 1996–2004
Celia Donald
Celia Donald was portrayed as a real estate agent on Blue Heelers, appearing from 1994 to 1997 and again in 2000–2001. Initially played by Helen Trenos, and later by Suzy Cato, Celia was depicted as an elegant and self-assured individual deeply engaged with community groups such as the local Racing Club. Utilizing her extensive network, she remained well-informed about major developments in Mount Thomas, often provoking local disputes.
Portrayed by Helen Trenos, 1994–1997 and Suzy Cato, 2000–2001
Sally Downie
Sally Downie appeared as a fictional lawyer on Blue Heelers between 1998 and 2000, portrayed by Catherine Wilkin. During Season Five (1998), she briefly dated Tom, highlighting tensions that can arise between legal professionals and law enforcement officers.
Portrayed by Catherine Wilkin, 1998–2000
Mick Doyle
Mick Doyle featured repeatedly in Blue Heelers as a member of Victoria Police's Ethical Standards Division from 1996 until 2000. He was the son of former Sergeant Pat Doyle and sibling to both Maggie and Robbie Doyle. Mick committed the murder of Maggie and was ultimately killed by his father Pat once his offenses came to light.
Played by David Field in 1995, then Terry Serio from 1996 to 2000
Pat Doyle
Pat Doyle appeared in Blue Heelers between 1994 and 2000, serving as a retired Sergeant at Mt Thomas alongside Tom Croydon. He was the father of Maggie, Robbie, and Mick—all of whom were police officers who died. Pat was incarcerated after shooting Mick upon discovering his son's corrupt actions and role in Maggie’s death.
Portrayed by Dennis Miller from 1994 through 2000
Robbie Doyle
Robbie Doyle was a recurring figure on the Australian drama Blue Heelers. Formerly a police officer suspended due to drug-related issues, his main plotline from 1996 to 1998 revolved around his struggle with heroin addiction. Robbie dies after being shot while defending Maggie from an armed attacker in Widgeree.
Portrayed by David Wenham in 1996 and Brett Climo between 1997 and 1998
Monica Draper
Inspector Monica Draper appeared in Blue Heelers from 1995 until 2006. She began her tenure with the Internal Investigation Division (IID), later advancing to Senior Sergeant above Tom Croydon, and eventually becoming Inspector at St Davids, succeeding Ted Faulkner. Draper is recognized for combining compassion with professionalism and maintained a solid working rapport with Croydon. Her investigative efforts led to the exposure of illicit conduct within the gaming squad, resulting in its closure and the reassignment of P.J. Hasham.
Portrayed by Peta Doodson from 1995 to 2006 * Doodson, a registered nurse since 1972, also contributed as a medical consultant for Blue Heelers.
Hilary Edmunds
Hilary Edmunds appeared as a guest character and was a former romantic interest of P.J., featuring during the first season in 1994.
Portrayed by Jennifer Botica in 1994
Rose Egan
Senior Constable Rose Egan, played by Dale Stevens, made her first appearance on 22 November 1994. Having previously portrayed antagonistic roles, Stevens prepared for this trainee detective character by engaging with actual police personnel. Rose was the second female officer stationed at Mount Thomas following Maggie Doyle and became a competitor when she was promoted ahead of Maggie for a detective role. Despite enduring a difficult history involving abuse, Rose is depicted as both resilient and accomplished. She eventually transferred after the station was declared overstaffed.
Rose’s introduction sparked tension due to her ambition for the CI position alongside P.J., who was anticipated to back Maggie’s promotion.
Portrayed by Dale Stevens from 1994 onwards (end date unspecified)
Russell Falcon-Price
Russell Falcon-Price appeared regularly on Blue Heelers from 1997 through 2006, portrayed by Neil Pigot. Nicknamed 'Rusty,' he was generally disliked among station personnel and sought career advancement by collecting compromising information on Tom Croydon. In 1999, he attempted to appoint Maggie Doyle as Sergeant, and in 2003 showed interest in Jo Parrish; however, this ended following a hostage crisis involving his children. Falcon-Price ultimately succeeded in closing Mount Thomas Station during the series finale but was later exposed for fabricating evidence, leading to the station’s reopening.
Portrayed by Neil Pigot from 1997 to 2006
Jasmine Farah
Dr. Jasmine Farah became part of Blue Heelers in 1999, serving as a physician at Mount Thomas Hospital and was occasionally referred to as "The Persian Princess."
Played by Sapidah Kian, 1999
Ted Faulkner
Inspector Edward 'Ted' Faulkner served as the district police inspector at St. David from 1994 until 1996, succeeding Inspector Murray. His understated approach stood in contrast to that of his successor, Russell Falcon-Price.
Portrayed by Nick Waters, 1994–1996
Brad Fingleton
Brad Fingleton appeared in 2003 as the husband of Constable Suzie Raynor and a former police officer adapting to life with a wheelchair. In the Season 10 finale, he took Suzie’s gun and issued threats amid suspicions of infidelity, resulting in Acting Sergeant Stewart fatally shooting him.
Portrayed by Matt Passmore, 2003
Clancy Freeman
Clancy (Joey) Freeman was a recurring character with intellectual disabilities featured from 1995 through 2004. After his mother passed away, Tom Croydon assisted in transforming Clancy’s residence into a supported group home with live-in care. Clancy became a father but faced challenges in parenting, leading to foster care arrangements facilitated by Tom. Both Clancy and Jo Parrish died during the Mount Thomas Station bombing in 2004.
Played by Michael Isaacs, 1995–2004
Hayley Fulton
Hayley Fulton was a fictional character on the Australian police series Blue Heelers. She was portrayed as a neglected child under the care of Tess before reuniting with her biological family.
Portrayed by Emily Browning, 2000–2002
Ian Goss
Senior Constable Ian Goss, often called Gossie, was inspired by an actual rural policeman. He operated the single-officer Widgeree station during Season 8 (2001), responsible for law enforcement in the small town. In Season 10 (2003), his failure to prevent the death of a young French filmmaker led to the end of his policing career. He later returned in Season 13 (2006) as a shopkeeper harboring bitterness toward Tom Croydon.
The real Ian Goss served approximately two decades at Riddells Creek, Victoria, gaining recognition as a quintessential 'country copper'. Victoria Police Media Advisor Sergeant David O'Connor introduced his character. Scenes set at Widgeree Police Station were filmed in Clarkefield, Victoria, near Riddells Creek, notable for its reputedly haunted hotel.
Portrayed by Roy Billing, 2001–2003, 2006
Peter Grantham
Peter Grantham appeared early in Blue Heelers as a Detective Sergeant stationed at St Davids and was P.J.'s commanding officer. He was dismissed for corruption but reemerged working as a bank security manager after orchestrating a robbery that implicated P.J. Maggie and Pat uncovered Grantham’s deceit, preventing his retaliation.
Portrayed by David Glazebrook, 1994–1995
Zoe Hamilton
Zoe Hamilton served as a doctor at Mount Thomas Hospital between 1995 and 1998. She married Sergeant Nick Schultz and relocated to Melbourne to pursue further education while Nick accepted a sergeant position at Footscray police station.
Portrayed by Karen Davitt*, 1995–1998
* Davitt initially played Nurse Karen in season one before taking on the role of Dr. Hamilton in season two.
Alan Hayes
Alan Hayes, also known by the nickname Compo, was a recurring figure on the Australian police series Blue Heelers. He was primarily recognized for his schemes aimed at securing compensation or financial gain but occasionally revealed a more community-minded side, such as when he organized a charity event for the CFA while running an illegal betting operation.
Played by Tony Rickards, 1995–2003
Rory Hayes
Rory Hayes featured during the last two seasons of Blue Heelers as a nine-year-old boy on a quest to find his father. Initially, Evan Jones was suspected to be his dad, but it was eventually disclosed that Alex Kirby was his biological father. Rory developed a close friendship with Jonsey before embracing Alex, establishing a strong father-son connection. Notable plotlines included Rory's involvement in a school shooting and an emergency appendicitis situation.
Portrayed by Louis Corbett from McKinnon Secondary College, 2005–2006
Siobhan Kennedy
Siobhan Kennedy appeared recurrently on Blue Heelers as a self-declared witch who provided consultation on cases involving the supernatural. Despite the skepticism from the Heelers, she maintained amicable relationships with them, particularly with Ben Stewart. Her appearances were spread between 1996–1997 and 2000–2001.
Played by Rosalind Hammond during 1996–1997, and Marie-Louise Walker from 2000–2001
Harriet Keppell
Harriet Keppell was a journalist character who frequently complicated police investigations throughout her recurring role on Blue Heelers. She appeared regularly between 1995 and 1996.
Portrayed by Beverly Evans, 1995–1996
Tibor Kerenyi
Dr. Tibor Kerenyi, serving as the town’s veterinarian in Blue Heelers, often contributed to cases involving animals. He was a recurring presence from 1995 through 2001.
Played by Colin Duckworth, 1995–2001
Len
Len was a fictional character depicted as the barman at Mount Thomas' Imperial Pub in Blue Heelers.
Portrayed by Axl Taylor, 1994–2002
Beth McKinley
Beth McKinley joined Blue Heelers in 1996 as the mother of Probationary Constable Dash McKinley. A widow raising nine children, Beth was well-known throughout Mount Thomas and had connections with many residents. Her knowledge occasionally proved helpful to police inquiries despite some resistance within the station. Actively involved in local women's organizations, her life ended in a car accident during season six, which led Dash to leave the force.
Portrayed by Pauline Terry-Bietz, 1996–1999
Charlie McKinley
Charlie McKinley was Dash McKinley's elder brother and appeared intermittently throughout the series. He had a young daughter in primary school who was often likened to Dash due to her forthright personality.
Played by Kevin Harrington, 1997–1999, 2003
David Murray
David Murray was introduced late in the series as a lawyer who became Kelly’s partner; they began cohabiting during the thirteenth season.
Portrayed by Joshua Lawson, 2006
Sean Neale
Detective Constable Sean Neale, portrayed by Richard Huggett, made his first appearance on 16 August 1994. Stationed at the district headquarters in St Davids, he contributed to a rape inquiry in Mount Thomas and developed a romantic relationship with Maggie Doyle (Lisa McCune). Recognized for his analytical and systematic approach, Sean departed after being suspected of corruption on two occasions, choosing to start anew in Melbourne.
Stacey Norse
Stacey Norse featured briefly in 1997 as the wife of Adam Cooper following her pregnancy with a child Adam believed was his—though the pregnancy ended in miscarriage. She later reconnected with an ex-boyfriend and conspired to murder Adam for insurance benefits, but their plot was uncovered, leading to their arrest.
Played by Kate Atkinson, 1997
Sasha Peters
Sasha Peters was a character in the Australian police series Blue Heelers. Introduced as the spouse of Nick's friend, her life took a tragic turn when her husband died during a high-speed police chase. Sasha formed a close bond with Nick, but tensions arose after her brother was detained by the Heelers.
Portrayed by Jane Longhurst, 1995
Merv Poole
Merv Poole appeared as a character on Blue Heelers.
Played by Peter Aanensen, 1997–2004
Keith Purvis
Keith Purvis was depicted as a dedicated farmer and community enforcer within Blue Heelers. Known for his patriotism and assertiveness, he frequently took action independently, at times carrying a firearm despite having lost his license.
Portrayed by Reg Evans, 1995–1999
"Richo"
Richo was a character featured in Blue Heelers.
Played by Stuart Baker, 1995–2004
Tim Ryan
Tim Ryan appeared in the series from 1998 to 1999.
Portrayed by Grant Piro, 1998–1999
Robyn Taylor
Senior Constable Robyn Taylor, enacted by Belinda McClory, made her debut on 5 May 1999 for a guest stint lasting six weeks. Originating from the Accident Investigation Squad, she showed an interest in rural living and relocated to Mount Thomas with her family to establish a vineyard. Robyn provided support during Maggie Doyle’s witness protection phase but departed after her husband became implicated in significant fraud allegations.
Tony Timms
Tony Timms, played by Jeremy Kewley between 1997 and 2005, served as Mount Thomas' often troublesome journalist for the Mount Thomas Gazette, regularly entangled in local affairs and complicating police investigations.
Jack Woodley
Senior Detective Jack Woodley, portrayed by Frankie J. Holden, first appeared on 30 April 1996. He succeeded Wayne Patterson (Grant Bowler) following Patterson’s death, arriving from Melbourne’s Armed Robbery Squad. His appointment surprised the Mount Thomas police team, who had anticipated a junior officer rather than a seasoned detective. Seeking a quieter existence with his wife and two children, Woodley’s time quickly became contentious. In his initial case alongside P. J. Hasham (Martin Sacks), he planted evidence to hasten an investigation into burglary and assault—an approach that escalated when he fabricated evidence in a shearer’s murder inquiry. When this misconduct came to light, PJ faced the difficult choice of reporting Woodley—potentially jeopardizing the prosecution led by Maggie Doyle (Lisa McCune)—or remaining silent. Ultimately, PJ revealed the wrongdoing, leading to Woodley’s dismissal from the force.