Wally Burns
| Company type | Television series |
|---|---|
| Industry | Television soap opera |
| Founded | January 17, 1988 |
| Founder | Seven Network |
| Headquarters | Australia |
Area served | Australia |
| Website | 7plus |
Home and Away is a long-running Australian soap opera that premiered on the Seven Network on 17 January 1988. The following section outlines the characters introduced in 2017, listed according to their initial appearance. All new characters were brought in under the guidance of executive producer Lucy Addario. The show’s 30th season commenced on 30 January 2017.[1] The character Riley Hawkins made his debut in the episode that followed. In May, Scarlett Snow was introduced, succeeded by the Astoni family—parents Ben and Maggie, along with their daughters Coco and Ziggy—who arrived in June. July saw the arrival of Robbo and Jennifer Dutton; Beth Ellis appeared in August; Ryder Jackson joined in October; followed by Willow Harris in November, and finally Jasmine Delaney in December.
Riley Hawkins
Riley Hawkins, played by Ryan O'Kane, made his first appearance on 31 January 2017.[2] Notably, singer Rob Mills, who shares a house with O’Kane, also auditioned for this role but was ultimately not selected.[3] Riley is introduced as a surgeon and former partner of Tori Morgan (Penny McNamee), stepping in to operate on Justin Morgan (James Stewart).[4] Their encounter reveals Tori’s family is under witness protection, which takes Riley by surprise.[5] Nate Cooper (Kyle Pryor), Tori’s ex-boyfriend, expresses jealousy towards Riley.
On his initial day at Northern Districts Hospital, Riley performs surgery on Justin Morgan, who is Tori’s brother (formerly known as Tessa Lee). He confides in Nate about his desire to rekindle his relationship with Tori and apologizes for previous unfaithfulness. Justin warns Riley to keep his distance from Tori. Riley treats an infection in Justin and conducts a bronchoscopy on Billie Ashford (Tessa de Josselin), identifying a mass. During a lunch date, he asks Tori for another chance, but she remains cautious. Brody Morgan (Jackson Heywood) advises Riley not to hurt Tori after witnessing him flirt with Evelyn MacGuire (Philippa Northeast).
After they reconcile, Riley proposes that Tori move to the city with him; she declines, prioritizing her family’s safety. Observing Tori spending time with Nate, Riley tampers with Billie’s medical records and files a complaint accusing Nate of negligence. When Tori uncovers the falsification and Riley admits to it, she ends their relationship. Following an argument, Justin confronts Riley; subsequently, Tori orders him out of her life. Riley resigns from the hospital and departs from the town.
Scarlett Snow
Scarlett Snow, portrayed by Tania Nolan, first appeared on 8 May 2017. Nolan was based in Los Angeles but flew to Sydney for a screen test before securing a six-month contract. She described Scarlett as "a bit of a mystery" grappling with past trauma, which influenced her decision to accept the role and relocate to Sydney. Nolan found personal resonance with elements of Scarlett’s storyline.
Within the series, Scarlett crosses paths with Brody Morgan (Jackson Heywood), who commandeers her car while fleeing police. Initially detaining him, she later assists Brody in confronting his drug addiction by involving his family and offering support. Scarlett disapproves of how Justin Morgan (James Stewart) manages Brody’s situation and begins working at Alf Stewart’s bait shop after losing her home due to Brody’s relapse and theft.
Scarlett faces pressure from her estranged husband, who hires a private investigator to track her down. Financially strained, she negotiates with Bruno Addlen, who demands payment to keep her location confidential; assistance from Tori and Alf helps resolve this predicament. She forms a connection with Justin’s daughter Ava Gilbert and reveals to Justin that her son Max died a year earlier—a significant event contributing to the breakdown of her marriage.
Her relationship with Justin develops amid various challenges, including a traumatic flashback triggered during a rescue attempt when Justin nearly drowns. They briefly explore a romantic relationship but encounter complications due to Justin’s unresolved feelings for his former fiancée. Scarlett also supports Brody legally by representing him as his lawyer during court proceedings.
The arrival of her husband Caleb Snow (Josh McConville) adds further complexity; he seeks reconciliation after attending counseling sessions. A trip to a bush cabin culminates in Scarlett sustaining injuries from an explosion, heightening tensions between Justin and Caleb. Ultimately, Scarlett chooses to leave the Bay with Caleb, recognizing that continuing her relationship with Justin is untenable.
Ziggy Astoni
Ziggy Astoni, brought to life by Sophie Dillman, made her first appearance on 20 June 2017. She is the eldest child of Ben and Maggie Astoni. The introduction of the Astoni family represented the first nuclear family added to the series in 17 years, following the Sutherlands' arrival in 2000. Characterized as a "rebellious teen" and "wild child," Ziggy was positioned as a potential romantic partner for Brody Morgan.
Ben Astoni
Ben Astoni, portrayed by Rohan Nichol, debuted on 20 June 2017. Nichol relocated from Melbourne to Manly to be close to the show's filming site at Palm Beach. Ben arrives in Summer Bay alongside his wife Maggie and their daughters, Coco and Ziggy. The Astoni family introduced a fresh dynamic as the first nuclear family in nearly two decades. Nichol described Ben as dependable, affectionate, and relatable—traits that resonated with viewers.
Maggie Astoni
Maggie Astoni, played by Kestie Morassi, first appeared on 21 June 2017. Morassi’s casting was announced early in 2017, with character details revealed on 4 June. She commented on the rapid pace of television production compared to film. Maggie relocates to Summer Bay with her husband Ben Astoni (Rohan Nichol) and daughters Coco (Anna Cocquerel) and Ziggy Astoni (Sophie Dillman). The Astoni family marked the return of a nuclear family unit after a 17-year gap since the Sutherlands.
Coco Astoni
Coco Astoni, enacted by Anna Cocquerel, made her debut on 21 June 2017. She is the youngest daughter of Ben and Maggie Astoni. The family's arrival signified the reintroduction of a nuclear family after nearly two decades. Coco was also identified as a potential love interest for VJ Patterson.
In December 2018, Cocquerel reduced her filming commitments to focus on completing Year 12, balancing education with acting responsibilities.
Coco's narrative arcs include suspension due to cyber-bullying involvement and battling bulimia, which resulted in hospitalization. Following a dispute with sister Ziggy that led their father to destroy her phone, the family moves to Summer Bay. At Summer Bay High, Coco endures bullying but gains support from friends Raffy Morrison and VJ Patterson. Her eating disorder escalates into serious health issues, prompting intervention from Leah Patterson-Baker.
Romantically, Coco becomes involved with Ryder Jackson; their relationship experiences several breakups and reunions. She stands by her mother Maggie during a cancer diagnosis and serves as maid of honour at Ziggy's wedding to Brody Morgan.
Eventually, Coco opts to attend boarding school in Cairns—a decision initially met with resistance from Maggie but later embraced by the family. She returns briefly months later for Raffy's birthday, engaging in family disputes before resuming her studies.
Robbo
Robbo (also known as John Doe), portrayed by Jake Ryan, first appeared on 25 July 2017. Prior to his debut, Ryan lost 13 kilograms following a taekwondo injury and was cast to fill the "heart-throb gap" left by Darryl Braxton (Stephen Peacocke). Robbo is introduced as a handyman, AFP Federal Agent, and gym proprietor embodying a "bad boy" persona who becomes romantically linked with Kat. The character was written out in early 2020. Ryan explained his departure was due to feeling his "time was done," expressing gratitude for his storylines.
Robbo initially appears with amnesia while hiding on an island and scavenging for food. Unable to recall his identity, hospital staff nickname him "Robbo." Alf Stewart offers him employment at the Caravan Park. After rescuing Raffy Morrison, Robbo chooses to remain and begins piecing together clues about his past, including mysterious tattoos. With help from Kat and others, he discovers a burned photograph connected to a woman whose body they find, leading him to pause his investigation.
His backstory unravels as he confronts Dennis Novak, an ex-partner who attempts to kill Kat. Robbo kills Novak in self-defense but becomes the primary suspect in the case. Following a car accident that results in Kat’s death, Robbo grieves while evading Ash’s vengeance. Tori Morgan assists him by providing shelter and medical care; he recalls his true name is Ryan Shaw and learns his family is deceased. Robbo turns himself in but is granted bail.
During his court proceedings, the Australian Federal Police unexpectedly intervene, revealing Robbo’s status as an undercover AFP operative whose identity had been erased as part of a mission to apprehend those responsible for his family's deaths. His fabricated backstory involved false crimes under the alias Beckett Reid; he had been assigned to protect Kat but suffered memory loss. Returning to Summer Bay with AFP backing, Robbo opts not to rejoin law enforcement and instead purchases the local gym.
Robbo develops a romantic relationship with Jasmine Delaney; their friendship evolves into engagement. He consents to father Tori Morgan’s child through IVF; after her miscarriage, he declines further attempts. Discovering Jasmine hid Tori’s second pregnancy effort causes tension leading to their breakup; however, they eventually reconcile and marry. During their wedding reception, AFP agents escort them to a secure location.
Robbo undergoes hypnotherapy sessions aimed at recovering memories related to Dylan Carter's disappearance; although initial sessions provoke violent reactions, they ultimately succeed. After sustaining injuries in a car crash requiring surgery, Robbo suffers a hemorrhage and dies despite medical intervention, later appearing to Jasmine within a dream sequence.
Jennifer Dutton
Jennifer Dutton, played by Brittany Santariga, made her first appearance on 27 July 2017. Cast in June 2017, she was introduced as a high school student who bullied Coco Astoni. Jennifer later became romantically involved with Hunter King (Scott Lee), leading to significant storylines at Summer Bay High.
Jennifer's early narrative focused on her bullying of Coco, which included mocking an embarrassing nickname and humiliating photos on social media. After several altercations that resulted in suspensions, Jennifer manipulated Coco’s eating disorder to secure a date with VJ Patterson, creating conflict with Raffy Morrison, who stood up for Coco. Additionally, Jennifer encouraged Raffy to drink excessively during a fashion launch event.
During the Glow Day festivities at Summer Bay, Jennifer injured her wrist while navigating an obstacle course. She then flirted with Mason Morgan and kissed him, but he rejected her due to his ongoing grief. Later, Jennifer consoled Hunter King following his breakup and began a relationship with him, despite Olivia Fraser Richards’ objections.
At a university party attended with Hunter, Jennifer’s father Nick intervened over concerns about alcohol consumption. After tensions at home escalated, Jennifer moved in with Hunter but was evicted by Alf Stewart after being caught kissing him. Following their breakup, Jennifer briefly experienced homelessness before returning to live with her father and eventually leaving Summer Bay.
This storyline emphasized Jennifer’s role in enriching the show's depiction of youth drama and romantic relationships, contributing to pivotal plotlines involving bullying, romance, and family disputes.
Beth Ellis
Elizabeth "Beth" Ellis, portrayed by Anneliese Apps, appeared for the first time on 31 August 2017. Apps landed the role five months after graduating from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. Initially uncertain about her audition performance, she was cast and described Beth’s storyline as deeply emotional. Apps depicted Beth as "cheeky," "complex," and "enigmatic," reflecting her quirky nature. Beth was introduced as a love interest for Mason Morgan (Pledger), with Apps highlighting Beth’s wish to support Mason because she saw similarities between them.
Beth’s first scene takes place in the hospital where she overhears Mason expressing frustration about his paralysis. She changes into nursing scrubs to uplift his spirits and encourages him to use his wheelchair more confidently. Their bond strengthens when Mason discovers that Beth is actually a patient being treated for cardiomyopathy and awaiting a heart transplant. Beth confesses she pretended to be a nurse to avoid sympathy, and they agree to rebuild their relationship as friends. She also inspires Mason to forgive his brother Brody Morgan (Heywood), who was responsible for the accident that left him paralyzed.
Beth’s bucket list brings them closer through shared tattoos and romantic experiences such as a dinner date and skinny dipping. During a casino outing organized by Mason, Beth faints due to breathing difficulties and is rushed back to the hospital. Despite her health struggles, Mason introduces Beth as his girlfriend to his siblings.
When Mason meets Beth’s parents—Alan Ellis (McDonough) and Jackie Ellis (Coopes)—he learns that Beth has kept their relationship hidden because of her parents’ focus on her medical condition. Alan later asks Mason to distance himself from Beth, prompting her to confront her father and reaffirm her commitment to Mason. As Beth’s health worsens, she requires a stent and is placed high on the transplant waiting list.
After a brief period of improvement, Mason takes Beth out for lunch on the beach where he presents her with a promise ring. Tragically, Beth suffers a sudden fatal arrhythmia and passes away in the hospital. Following her funeral, Mason experiences a vision of Beth encouraging him to continue living his life fully.
Ryder Jackson
Ryder Jackson, brought to life by Lukas Radovich, made his first appearance on 25 October 2017. Radovich was cast shortly after completing his studies at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts, marking his debut in acting. Ryder is introduced as the son of Quinn Jackson (played by Lara Cox) and the grandson of Alf Stewart (portrayed by Ray Meagher). His early narrative involves breaking into the Surf Club and attempting theft from Hunter King and VJ Patterson. Although he discloses his familial link to Alf Stewart, he withholds Quinn’s contact information, which raises concerns for his aunt Roo Stewart (Georgie Parker).
Willow Harris
Willow Harris (also known as Ranger), portrayed by Sarah Roberts, first appeared on 14 November 2017. Prior to landing this part, Roberts auditioned for the roles of Kat Chapman and Scarlett Snow. She depicted Willow as a determined, independent, loyal, and fierce individual who injects "mischief and a bit of trouble" into Summer Bay. Willow is portrayed as a "bad girl" whose actions are driven by devotion to those she cares about. Her storyline includes developing a romantic relationship with Justin Morgan.
Jasmine Delaney
Jasmine Delaney, played by Sam Frost, debuted on 18 December 2017. Frost’s casting was revealed on 17 July 2017 after she was invited to audition while participating in Hell's Kitchen Australia. Despite stiff competition, she secured the role following a second audition. Frost described this opportunity as a dream fulfilled and her first acting experience. Some industry observers viewed her casting as a publicity maneuver. Jasmine’s storyline begins with her involvement in a car accident that results in the death of Kat Chapman, played by Pia Miller. Frost characterized Jasmine as "guarded" with an "anxious energy," concealing secrets linked to a troubled past.
Additional Characters
| Date(s) | Character | Actor | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 31 January–23 November | Luc Patterson |
|
Luc is the daughter of Billie Ashford and Mick Jennings. Conceived through rape by Mick, Billie allows her boyfriend VJ Patterson to believe he is Luc’s father until their wedding day. Luc is born shortly after Billie escapes a bushfire. VJ and Billie name her after Billie's deceased brother Luke Ashford. Mick abducts Luc but returns her via his mother Irene Roberts. After Billie succumbs to terminal cancer, she dies with Luc in VJ’s arms. VJ struggles with caregiving, so Luc stays with Irene. Ash gains temporary custody; however, Patrick Stanwood’s PTSD nearly endangers Luc. She experiences bowel torsion and septicaemia but recovers post-surgery. Mick returns, acknowledges his inability to parent Luc, but later takes her from Irene's home without notifying others. Ash kidnaps Mick; Mick files for custody complicating Ash’s case, leading VJ to take Luc abroad to Cyprus. |
| 1 February– | Constable Corelli | Nick Cain | Constable Corelli supports Kat Chapman during an arson investigation and later uncovers CCTV footage showing Robbo being held at gunpoint by Dylan Carter. |
| 2 February | Lactation Consultant | Gail Knight | Provides assistance to Billie Ashford in breastfeeding her newborn daughter. |
| 23 February–1 May | Ambulance Officer | Rob Baird | Transports John Palmer following a seizure and later takes Zac MacGuire to hospital after a fall. |
| 27 February–8 May | Patrick Stanwood | Luke McKenzie | Patrick, thought dead brother of Billie and Martin Ashford, reappears after faking death due to depression after military service. Battling PTSD, he struggles with custody battles over Luc Patterson and causes incidents that lead to his departure after bonding with Luc and agreeing to seek help. |
| 7 March–15 August | Lena Ascot | Felicity McKay | A university student involved in drug dealing at Salt nightclub. She briefly dates Brody Morgan before being dismissed due to drug use. Later attends rehabilitation alongside Brody, attempting to lure him back into addiction. |
| 7 March | Byron | Benjamin Winckle | Encourages Olivia Fraser Richards to attend Salt nightclub; clashes with Olivia's boyfriend Hunter King over school-related matters. |
| 9 March | Local Woman | Meagan Caratti | Alongside Local Man, confronts John Palmer regarding fires he started; defended by Marilyn Chambers. |
| Local Man | James Caitlin | ||
| 13 March–18 April | Jess Kearney | Jess Bush | Engages with Olivia Fraser Richards for study sessions; participates in social events including Olivia's birthday celebration. |
| 21 March | Cal Whitman | Craig Scott | Resident displaced by bushfire caused by John Palmer; appreciates John's apology and offer of assistance. |
| 22 March, 6 December | Terry Diamond | Rob Flanagan | A distinguished restaurant critic who initially clashes with Brody Morgan at Salt but later commends his culinary skills. |
| 29 March–3 April | Donna Fields | Melissa Bonne | Visits Summer Bay unexpectedly to surprise Phoebe Nicholson; discusses music career opportunities and encourages Phoebe to perform at an engagement party; invites Phoebe on a US tour. |
| 29 March–29 August | Lachlan Piers | Warwick Allsopp |
John Palmer’s legal counsel who advises using an insanity automatism defense; later informs Ben Astoni about heritage considerations impacting pier planning applications. |
External links
- Cast and characters on the official AU Home and Away site
- Cast and characters at the Internet Movie Database
- Ben Astoni profile on the official AU Home and Away website
- Coco Astoni featured on the official AU Home and Away site
- Ziggy Astoni listed on the official AU Home and Away website