List of Neighbours characters (2013)
Neighbours is an Australian television soap opera. It was first broadcast on 18 March 1985 and currently airs on digital channel Eleven. The following is a list of characters that first appeared in the soap in 2013, by order of first appearance. All characters are introduced by the shows executive producer Richard Jasek. The 29th season of Neighbours began airing from 7 January 2013. Nell Rebecchi made her debut in the same month. The Turner family, consisting of Amber, Bailey, [|Matt] and [|Mason] arrived in February, as did Robbo Slade. Rhiannon Bates began appearing from April. Jayden Warley and the Willises – [|Terese], Imogen and [|Joshua Willis] – made their first appearances in May. The following month saw [|Walter Mitchell] and Hudson Walsh arrive. Marty Kranic and Josie Lamb made their debuts in July and August respectively. Alek Pocoli began appearing in September, while October saw the introductions of Gemma Reeves and [|Eric Edwards].
Nell Rebecchi
Nell Rebecchi, played by Scarlett Anderson, made her first screen appearance during the episode broadcast on 7 January 2013. She is the daughter of Sonya and Toadfish Rebecchi. Anderson was just four weeks old when she made her debut as Nell. Morey revealed that she instantly fell in love with her and joked that she had trouble letting her go after filming. She said "I just want her there all the time! I come home all excited about how I've been able to work with the baby. She's called Scarlett in real life and she's such a beautiful baby. Having her around just lifts everyone's mood, so we're very lucky."Morey believed that she "wore down the writers" to give Sonya and Toadie a baby. She commented "After everything they have been through, it just seems like the most natural thing for these characters." Morey's character was pregnant at the same time as Vanessa Villante, which allowed the two women to share their experiences. Both actresses were required to wear prosthetic bumps, which would be increased in size every few weeks. Morey stated that she became attached to hers and would constantly rub it. On-screen, Sonya opts to give birth at home, but experiences serious complications and has to undergo a caesarean section at the hospital. Toadie and Callum Jones are left "to frantically wait for news" and when Karl Kennedy cannot confirm the health of the baby, Toadie assumes that his daughter has died. A Soap World reporter said "Toadie is in agony until Karl finally reports that little Nell is healthy and happy. The new father joins a recovering Sonya and Callum to celebrate the newest addition to the family".
When Sonya and Toadie decide to have a baby, they initially struggle to conceive and Toadie learns he has a low sperm count. The couple think about putting their plans on hold. When Sonya goes to the hospital to give blood, Rhys Lawson asks her to take a pregnancy test. Believing the test is negative, Sonya throws it away, but Rhys retrieves it and reveals that the test is positive. Following the first ultrasound scan, Sonya and Toadie argue about whose surname the baby will take and ultimately choose Rebecchi. After learning that they are having a girl, Sonya finds a photo of Nell Mangel and decides to give the name to her daughter. Sonya chooses to have a home birth and goes into labour two weeks early. When a complication arises, she is taken to the hospital and gives birth to Nell via caesarean section. Nell stays in the hospital for a couple of days with Sonya, before she goes home with her family. Sonya and Toadie later throw Nell a naming day ceremony, where she gets to meet her grandmother Angie. During his campaign to intimidate Sonya, Robbo Slade moves Nell's pram when she is looking away. Sheila Canning brings Nell back to Sonya, explaining that her pram was around the corner.
When Toadie and Sonya realise that Nell has become too reliant on technology to keep her entertained, they go through a 24-hour digital detox. A few weeks later, Nell suffers a fall at the local park when Sonya is briefly distracted. A DHS worker investigates the incident when a formal complaint is made against Sonya. The following year, Nell is stung by a bee and rushed to hospital, as she suffers a mild reaction to the sting. Georgia Brooks becomes distracted and almost gives Nell an overdose of paracetamol, but Sonya stops her in time. Nell begins biting people and Sonya and Toadie struggle to work out the cause of the issue. While babysitting Nell, Amber Turner discovers that she is being influenced by a phone app. When Toadie is left paralysed after an accident, Nell becomes afraid of his wheelchair. Amy Williams helps out by dressing Toadie up as a spaceman and his wheelchair as a rocket to turn it into a game, which relaxes Nell. Sonya leaves Nell with Toadie, while she goes shopping, but he is unable to chase after Nell when she runs out the front door and into the driveway. Tyler Brennan stops Sonya from hitting Nell with her car. Sonya and Toadie separate, with Nell living at Sonya's, but having regular contact with her father. She grows close to family friend Mark Brennan, much to Toadie's jealousy. Nell swallows some medication she finds at the Kennedys', resulting in an opiate overdose. She is rushed to the hospital, where she is stabilised.
Sonya and Toadie separate, and he moves out. Nell's kindergarten teacher tells Toadie and Sonya that Nell has been misbehaving, and she suggests that Nell be held back from starting school, leading Toadie to contact a child psychologist. Toadie eventually moves back into the family home after reconciling with Sonya. Nell meets her younger brother Hugo Somers, born from a one-night stand between Toadie and Andrea Somers. The following year, Sonya is diagnosed with stage four ovarian cancer and she decides not to tell Nell, who is starting school. Sonya's health rapidly declines and she dies, leaving Toadie as a single parent to Nell and Hugo.
Amber Turner
Amber Turner, played by Jenna Rosenow, made her first screen appearance on 7 February 2013. The character and Rosenow's casting was announced on 4 November 2012. The actress previously appeared in Neighbours as an extra. Of her casting, Rosenow revealed "It's very exciting. I auditioned for the role and got short-listed and had a call back, then was told I got the role." Amber is Matt and Lauren Turner's only daughter. Kendall described her as "the typical teenage girl", while Rosenow called her "a regular 17-year-old." The actress went on to reveal that Amber is a little naive and was keeping a secret from her family. Rosenow commented "She seems like the perfect good girl, but she may not be." An online spin-off called Amber's Blog, which features Amber documenting her family's move from Mount Isa to Erinsborough.Bailey Turner
Bailey Turner, played by Calen Mackenzie, made his first screen appearance on 7 February 2013. The character and casting was announced on 4 November 2012. Mackenzie previously appeared in Neighbours as Thomas McPhee. Mackenzie successfully auditioned for the role of Bailey and was initially contracted for four years. Mackenzie commented "to be a part of something which has been going since before you were born and such a huge part of this collective consciousness is really amazing." Bailey is the youngest child of [|Matt Turner] and Lauren Carpenter. Kendall stated that Bailey is "a brain". A writer for the show's official website stated "Cheeky, left-of-centre and inquisitive, Bailey Turner is one switched on teen. A self described nerd, Bailey loves flexing his brain muscles and has a unique take on everything."Matt Turner
Matt Turner, played by Josef Brown, made his first screen appearance on 7 February 2013. The character and casting was announced on 4 November 2012. On 13 November, Brown revealed that he had been filming in Melbourne for four weeks and was enjoying playing his character. Matt is Lauren Carpenter's husband and the father of their three children; Mason, Amber and Bailey. Matt and his family arrive in Erinsborough from Mount Isa and he became the town's "newly appointed" police sergeant. Of the family, Brown commented "It's a great family and a little bit different. We've got a few secrets and a few dramas up our sleeves."Robbo Slade
Robert Alan "Robbo" Slade, played by Aaron Jakubenko, made his first screen appearance on 15 February 2013. Jakubenko previously appeared in Neighbours as two other characters; Rhys Sutton in 2009 and Brad Bain in 2011. Robbo is Mason Turner's friend from Mount Isa. Robbo came up with a plan for him and Mason to rob a factory, but it went wrong and Mason was arrested by his father, Matt. Robbo came to Erinsborough and broke into Number 32, the home of the Turner family. He later lied to Mason about having just flown into town when they met up. Mason tried to convince Robbo to leave town, but Robbo made it clear that he was not going anywhere and it was soon revealed that he was Amber Turner's secret boyfriend. When asked if Robbo was bad news, Rosenow commented "He is the bad boy of Mt Isa and that's what attracted Amber to him, the bad boy charm. He's very deceiving. To her face he's all charm and love, but he's the complete opposite behind her back." On 13 May 2013, Daniel Kilkelly from Digital Spy reported that Jakubenko had returned to filming, after pictures of him on set were released on the show's Facebook page. The actor returned on-screen as Robbo on 17 July. Dianne Butler from The Daily Telegraph branded Robbo "slippery". She later called him "hot, bad Robbo from Mt Isa."Robbo breaks into Number 32 Ramsay Street and ransacks the house. Lou Carpenter comes face to face with Robbo, who pushes him to the ground and makes his escape. [|Mason Turner] later calls Robbo to check in with him and it is revealed that Robbo is still in Erinsborough. Mason later meets up with Robbo and tells him that he will get him his money from the robbery soon. Robbo then meets with his girlfriend Mason's sister, Amber, revealing that they are a couple. Robbo persuades Mason to take part in another robbery at Lassiter's to pay him back. However, due to a wedding reception being held on the same day, the hotel is full of extra security and Robbo and Mason are forced to leave without taking anything. Outside, Robbo takes off his balaclava and he and Mason are spotted by Sonya Mitchell. Knowing that Sonya could identify him, Robbo quickly leaves Erinsborough.
A few months later, Robbo returns to Erinsborough. He runs into Amber and asks her to listen to his explanation of why he committed the robberies. Robbo is soon arrested and bailed, only for his mother to pay this off. He goes to see Mason and tells him that he knows Mason told the police about him. Robbo asks Amber for her support, but she tells him to leave her alone. Mason hits Robbo when he makes a comment about Amber. Robbo decides not to report Mason for breaking his good behavior bond. Matt warns Robbo to stay away from his family. Robbo later makes threats towards Sonya, which infuriate her husband Toadfish Rebecchi. Robbo intimidates Amber's date, [|Clay], into giving him Amber's phone, which she left in Clay's car. He also tells Josh Willis to leave her alone. Robbo continues to intimidate Sonya and later takes her infant daughter, which Sonya cannot prove. Robbo tries to apply for a job at Charlie's, only for Sheila Canning to dismiss him. Overhearing this conversation, Paul Robinson invites Robbo to his penthouse so he can gain information on Mason. While he is there, Paul invites Robbo to take part in a rigged poker game, forcing him into debt. Paul tells Robbo that he will forget the debt if Robbo forgets the money Mason owes him. Feeling dejected Robbo continues to pursue Amber and when she comes to see him soon after, they have sex. Robbo records it and then blackmails Mason with the footage. Robbo begins hosting poker games and Lucas Fitzgerald gets into debt with him. Robbo threatens to post the video of Amber on the internet, unless Mason gives him the money. Robbo threatens Sonya again, and secretly spikes her drink; however, it is Toadie that drinks it. Robbo is later involved in a hit and run accident, leaving him in a serious condition in hospital. When he wakes up, Robbo tries to tell Georgia Brooks something about Mason. He then goes into cardiac arrest and dies. Hudson Walsh later confesses to hitting Robbo with the car.
Mason Turner
Mason Turner, played by Taylor Glockner, made his first screen appearance on 22 February 2013. Glockner's casting was announced on 4 November 2012. During his first television interview, the actor revealed that he had been filming with the show for about five or six weeks before the annual production break in December. He shot his first scenes alongside Ashleigh Brewer. Mason is the eldest of Lauren and Matt Turner's three children. Kendall described him as "the smouldering, rebellious" child, while executive producer, Richard Jasek, commented that Mason is "a bad boy", who has a good heart. However, he has done the wrong things for the right reasons. Glockner explained that Mason would give his sister, Amber, "a lot of stick", as well as revealing that he has "a few issues" with his father. Mason arrived after his family due to being in juvenile detention on a robbery conviction. He was "innocently caught up in the crime." Following his arrival, Mason begins "incessantly flirting" with Kate Ramsay.Rhiannon Bates
Rhiannon Bates, played by Teressa Liane, made her first screen appearance on 8 April 2013. Liane had to undergo a transformation to achieve Rhiannon's "distinctive look". Her blonde hair was dyed brunette, she had hair extensions put in and "showy" make-up applied. Liane said "When I first started and would be waiting around for make-up, I did have cast looking at me very cautiously, wondering who is this person who's taken up residence in the green room. It was even funnier when I had worked with them the day prior." Rhiannon is Mason Turner's ex-girlfriend from Mount Isa. Liane described her as being "completely out there", not shy and someone who quickly makes "an unforgettable impression". The actress added that she had had fun playing Rhiannon, especially because she is cheeky and direct. Rhiannon travels from Mount Isa to Erinsborough to see Mason and makes "a spectacular entrance" when she climbs through his bedroom window. Glockner told Thomas Mitchell from TV Week Rhiannon has perfect timing, as he is just starting to get somewhere with Kate Ramsay. Mason later kisses Rhiannon to get information out of her and Kate sees them together. On 29 July 2013, it was confirmed that Liane would be returning to Neighbours to film more scenes as Rhiannon. A shows spokesperson commented "As one of our recurring guest characters, Rhiannon will pop in and out of the show." Rhiannon returned on 16 October 2013.Rhiannon comes to Erinsborough to surprise her ex-boyfriend Mason. She tells him that she wants to pick up where they left off back in Mount Isa, but Mason appears reluctant. He asks about her son, [|Jackson], and Rhiannon tells him that she left him with her sister back home. Mason's sister, Amber, asks Rhiannon about Robbo Slade and Rhiannon reveals that he tried it on with her, but she rejected him. When Amber gets upset, Rhiannon believes it is because she is worried about her cheating on Mason. Rhiannon is disappointed when Mason tells her that he is not returning to Mount Isa with her. Rhiannon then decides to stay in Erinsborough and moves into Number 26 Ramsay Street. Mason kisses Rhiannon to get information about Robbo, but then tells her that he is not interested in a relationship with her. Rhiannon later confesses to sending a threatening note to Mason's father, Matt, as she did not like the way Matt treated Mason.
Mason tells Rhiannon to go home to her son, but she reveals that she used all of her money on rent. She later realises that Mason is interested in Kate Ramsay. When Paul Robinson insults her, Rhiannon becomes upset and Sheila Canning gives her some advice about changing her image. A vengeful Rhiannon uses her new image to seduce Paul and leaves him handcuffed to a bed at Lassiter's. When Rhiannon reveals that she is broke, Sheila advises her to get a job and she has a word with Paul on Rhiannon's behalf. Paul offers Rhiannon $500 to go to dinner with him and [|Allan Hewitt], a councillor who he needs on his side to build some apartments. Rhiannon is uncomfortable when she realises that Allan wants to have sex with her and she quickly leaves. Rhiannon tells Sheila that she misses her son, but does not feel like a good mother. Rhiannon decides to go back to Mount Isa. Before she goes, she tells Paul that she has reported him to the police for bribing Allan.
A few months later, Rhiannon returns to Erinsborough to help Matt in the corruption case against Paul. Rhiannon agrees to withdraw her statement in return for a job at Lassiter's. Rhiannon brings her son Jackson to Erinsborough and they begin staying with Karl and Susan Kennedy at Number 28. Rhiannon tries to convince Mason to have a casual relationship. She is unhappy when she is given a job with the cleaning team at Lassiter's and learns that it is because she does not speak well enough to be placed on the front desk. Rhiannon asks Susan to teach her to speak properly and she agrees. Rhiannon wants to move in with Mason, but when Mason refuses she leaves to take a job at Lassiter's in Darwin.
Laura-Jayne Tyler of Inside Soap said that Rhiannon was like an Australian version of a female McQueen from the British soap opera Hollyoaks. Claire Crick from All About Soap branded her "racy Rhiannon". A TV Magazine columnist opined that Rhiannon "smartened up her act" following Paul's insults and added that her make over left him "dribbling over her like a baby in a milk aisle".
Jayden Warley
Jayden Warley, played by Khan Oxenham, made his first screen appearance on 6 May 2013. Oxenham's casting was announced on 2 February 2013. In April 2015, Channel 5 reported that Oxenham had returned to play Jayden once more. Oxenham said that he enjoyed playing Jayden, as the role was challenging and made him step outside of his comfort zone. He also said that he and Jayden shared some similarities, such as their lack of motivation during maths and science lessons. Oxenham added, "while he is a very confused guy and I do empathise with him, I don't want him to change, he is great to play." Jayden returned on 8 February 2018.Jayden bullies Bailey Turner. When Bailey grabs Jayden's lapels, Jayden pushes him away, causing Bailey to hit his face on a locker. Jayden tells Kate Ramsay that Bailey hit him. Jayden is given Callum Jones's role in the school play and after Callum trashes the sets, Jayden taunts him. Bailey tells Josie Mackay that Jayden has been bragging about the things they did while they were together, and she confronts him. Jayden takes his anger out on Bailey and arranges a fight. However, Bailey gives Jayden and his friends alcohol to stop the fight. Bailey later invites Jayden and his friends to his house to drink. Jayden leaves when he and Bailey argue over Josie. Jayden continues to bully Bailey and he gets into a fight with Ben Fitzgerald. He avoids getting suspended by blackmailing Bailey into saying Ben started the fight. Jayden buys Josh Willis's skateboard and injures himself trying to copy one of Josh's tricks. His mother, Sue Parker threatens to sue Josh, but is talked out of it.
Jayden trashes Sonya's Nursery when he learns Paul Robinson intends to hold a press conference there to announce his intentions of becoming mayor again. Paul forces a confession from Jayden and tells Sue that he will not press charges if she steps down as interim mayor. Jayden continues to bully Bailey and Brad Willis breaks up a fight between them. Jayden admits to Brad that his parents are fighting, and Brad encourages him to use his anger on the football field instead. Jayden and Bailey later spend time together getting drunk and vandalising the Erinsborough memorial wall. When Jayden mentions Bailey's recently deceased father, Bailey lashes out at him and Jayden leaves. Bailey later calls Jayden and apologises, inviting him over to his place. The two of them get drunk and Jayden discovers Matt's police I.D. which Jayden and Bailey use to pull over some cars. A few weeks later Paige Smith accuses Jayden of stealing some money from a bag she threw down a well, but he denies it and proves that the piece of broken keyring she found is not his. After spotting Paige and Tyler Brennan exchanging money, Jayden tries to blackmail Paige into having sex with him. She arranges a date at the Men's Shed and makes Jayden eat strawberries laced with laxatives. When he goes outside to relieve himself, Paige films him and counter blackmails him into keeping quiet about what he saw. After learning Paige is in trouble with the police, Jayden taunts and insults her. Following a fire at the school, Jayden's fingerprints are found on a Fitzgerald Motors jerry can. He explains that he tried to set Stephanie Scully up, as he believed he had accidentally started the fire by smoking in the principal's office. He later tells Steph what he did and apologises.
Three years later, Jayden has a job interview with Amy Williams, which proves difficult going, but she gives him a trial at the builder's yard when he admits that he has struggled to find a job. Jayden proves to be a very poor worker and Amy is hard on him, hoping that he will quit, but she ends up with a workplace bullying warning. Jayden is later caught working without a hard hat during an inspection. Amy struggles to tell Jayden that he is fired, but he realises what she is trying to do and goes to collect his belongings. Amy then offers him an apprenticeship, which he accepts. Leo Tanaka is injured by some falling concrete slabs and Jayden tells Rafael Humphreys that his mother asked him to loosen the ratchet straps on the truck carrying the slabs. Sue and Jayden are questioned by the police and they later receive a six-month prison sentence each.
[|Terese Willis]
Terese Willis, played by Rebekah Elmaloglou, made her first screen appearance on 14 May 2013. The character and Elmaloglou's casting was announced on 7 February 2013. The actress and her family relocated to Melbourne to be closer to the set. Shortly before she began filming her first scenes, Elmaloglou had to ask the producers to change the pronunciation of her character's name. Terese was introduced as the second wife of Brad Willis. The couple were joined by their teenage twins; Josh and Imogen. Elmaloglou thought Terese was the kind of person she would be friends with and thought they were similar in terms of how organised they both were. Terese first comes to Erinsborough to meet with Paul Robinson, who believes he is interviewing her for a job at Lassiter's Hotel.Imogen Willis
Imogen Willis, played by Ariel Kaplan, made her first screen appearance on 20 May 2013. The character was announced on 7 February 2013, while Kaplan's casting was revealed on 18 February. Kaplan was studying at the 16th Street Actors Studio in Melbourne in 2012 when she was offered the role of Imogen. Imogen is Joshua's twin sister and the teenage daughter of Brad and Terese Willis. Kaplan commented "I love the character, she is outwardly confident and very comfortable in her own skin, and doesn't feel she has to impress anyone by doing things she might regret. I think she is a great role model for young girls." Imogen often feels sidelined by her family and resents things being organised around Joshua's potential swimming career. While Bonner commented that [|Joshua] and Imogen have a love-hate relationship.Josh Willis
Joshua "Josh" Willis, played by Harley Bonner, made his first screen appearance on 20 May 2013. The character was announced on 7 February 2013, while Bonner's casting was revealed on 18 February. The actor was persuaded to attend the audition for the role by his agent. Bonner said that he was nervous on his first day on set because he and his on-screen family had only just met and had to pretend to be a family unit straight away. Josh is the teenage son of Brad and Terese Willis. Bonner stated that Josh is driven and does not let anything get in his way. He gets on well with his parents, but has a love-hate relationship with his twin sister Imogen. Josh was also an elite swimmer, which means Bonner had to embrace his character's hobby and spend a lot of time in a local pool during filming.Walter Mitchell
Walter Mitchell, played by Chris Haywood, made his first appearance on 17 June 2013. The character was announced on 5 June, while Haywood's casting was revealed on 14 June. A promotional trailer was released for the character's arrival on 8 June.Walter was reported to be the long-lost uncle of Sonya Mitchell, who she had presumed had died. Walter initially watches Sonya from afar and follows her every move, until she confronts him and he reveals that he is uncle. A writer for TV Soap explained that Sonya soon embraces Walter's stories and photos of her childhood. However, Sonya's partner, Toadfish Rebecchi, urges her to "tread carefully" as he worries that she could get hurt. While Walter gives Sonya advice on how to deal with her son Callum, he is not very forthcoming on details about himself. Daniel Kilkelly from Digital Spy added that one of the local Ramsay Street residents would become "smitten" with Walter.
Upon arriving in Erinsborough, Walter goes to the local bar, Charlie's, and meets Sheila Canning. He tells Sheila that has come to see someone that may live locally. He then watches Sonya Mitchell at Harold's Store, before bumping into her briefly at her garden nursery. Sheila invites Walter to a neighbourhood dinner and he meets Sonya again. Walter then admits to Sonya that he is her uncle and they begin to reconnect. Walter also meets her infant daughter, Nell and her son, Callum. When Sonya invites Walter to lunch, her partner, Toadie, makes him feel uncomfortable and he leaves early. Knowing that Susan Kennedy is at the lunch, Walter goes to her house and steals a watch, which he pawns. Toadie apologises to Walter and asks him to stay around. While Toadie is out of the room, Walter steals some money and takes the keys to the Men's Shed. Ajay Kapoor finds him and Walter explains that he is looking for somewhere to sleep. Toadie then invites Walter to stay with him and Sonya.
When Sonya contacts her aunt, she learns that Walter has lied to her and that he is an alcoholic. Sonya fears that he has fallen off the wagon and when Lucas Fitzgerald finds Walter getting drunk, she encourages him to attend an AA meeting. Sheila flirts with Walter and he steals her bank card, but finds himself unable to go through with taking her money. While he is in Charlie's, a man greets Walter by his real name Dave. After attending an AA meeting with Sonya, Toadie finds Walter getting drunk in the Men's Shed. Walter asks him to keep it between them. He later steals the proceeds from Sonya's nursery, packs his bags and decides to leave town. Kyle Canning sees Walter and begs him not to leave, concerned for both Sonya and his grandmother. Walter later returns to give Sonya the money back. He then explains that his name is actually Dave and that he met the real Walter Mitchell at a half-way house, where they swapped stories about their lives. Dave then goes to see Sheila, before leaving.
Hudson Walsh
Hudson Walsh, played by Remy Hii, made his first screen appearance on 28 June 2013. The character and casting was confirmed on 12 June 2013. Daniel Kilkelly from Digital Spy reported that Hii had already started filming with the show. Several pictures of Hii had been posted by Neighbours on their Instagram and Twitter accounts before the casting announcement. Hii told Kilkelly that he was unemployed and happened to be in Melbourne, where Neighbours is filmed, when he auditioned at the studio. Two days later, he found out he had the role. Hii explained that he was not nervous on his first day and that the cast had been very welcoming. When asked if he would be interested in a long-term role with the show, Hii said that he was "thrilled" with how the way the job had turned into a recurring guest role and that he had been asked back for filming in July.Hudson was introduced as a new love interest for established character Chris Pappas. Hii stated that he aware that Hudson was gay when he got the role and thought he was an interesting character with many layers to his personality. Hii told Kilkelly that Chris would enter into a relationship with Hudson with caution because he has just come out of a long-term romance. Hudson is also wary as he is new to the area and not sure who he can trust. When asked to describe his character, Hii replied "Hudson is a sensitive guy who is just starting to find himself. He has been incredibly focused all his life. He has had tunnel vision on this one goal, which is to be a champion swimmer, but since moving to Erinsborough he is starting to discover there is more out there for him." Hudson also becomes Joshua Willis's rival, after they meet at the local pool. Like Josh, Hudson is an elite swimmer at the top of his game. He has a natural talent, which his parents noticed quite quickly and he is therefore less competitive and more confident than Josh.
Hudson meets his new teammate, Joshua Willis, during a meeting with their swim coach Don Cotter. Hudson also meets Chris Pappas and go on a date. Hudson tells Chris that Don has convinced Josh to change to middle distance swimming to keep him out of his way. Chris tells Josh and he confronts Hudson. While Hudson and Chris argue about why Chris did not say anything about knowing Josh, Hudson suffers from chest pains. The pains continue and Chris calls the paramedics, who reveal that Hudson is taking performance-enhancing drugs. Chris urges Hudson to stop taking the drugs, saying they cannot be together until he does. Hudson agrees and he and Don part company. Realising Hudson has a lot of stuff to work through, Chris asks him not call. Hudson goes home to Sydney, but returns a couple of weeks later. He meets up with Chris and asks him out to lunch. Chris initially says no, but changes his mind. Hudson struggles to find a new swim coach due to Josh bad mouthing him. He considers moving to the United States, but Brad Willis decides to take him on. Paul Robinson approaches Hudson about a sponsorship deal. Paul threatens to revoke his offer when he learns about Hudson's drug use, but Hudson assures him that it was a one off and the deal goes ahead. Josh is hostile towards Hudson and he considers dropping Brad as his coach. They eventually make up. Mason Turner turns to Chris, Josh and Hudson for help when Robbo Slade threatens to post explicit footage of his sister, Amber online. Hudson offers to lend Mason some money and the group come up with a plan to pay Robbo off and make sure that he cannot continue to blackmail them.
Robbo dies after being involved in a hit-and-run. Hudson is seen on CCTV footage near the accident site and he is questioned. Hudson tells the police that he went to speak to Don that night and Don backs up Hudson's story. When Hudson discovers Josh got into a fight with Robbo, he covers for him with Brad. Hudson loses interest in swimming and quits. Shortly after, he confesses to running down Robbo. He explains that he witnessed Robbo hassling Amber and had driven straight at him, intending to scare him, but instead he ran him down. Hudson is charged and he refuses to speak to Chris. Hudson is later sentenced to four years in prison. Chris visits Hudson, who tells him that he cut off contact as he needed time to prepare himself for prison. Hudson asks whether Chris read the letter he sent him and explains that he wrote to say he loved Chris. He also tells Chris that he cannot expect him to wait for him, but they agree to give their relationship another go. Hudson becomes frustrated when Chris is late to their video chat and they are cut off early. Hudson then gets into a fight and loses his phone and internet privileges. When Chris goes to visit Hudson, he appears distracted. Hudson then tries to trick Georgia Brooks into telling him what is going on with Chris. He then invites Chris back and asks Chris if he is seeing someone else. When Chris hesitates, Hudson breaks up with him. Chris returns the following day and explains that he is not cheating on Hudson, but a guy asked him out and he wanted to go because he was lonely. Hudson hates the thought of Chris staying with him out of guilt, and they say goodbye.
Marty Kranic
Marty Kranic, played by Darius Perkins, made his first appearance on 29 July 2013. Perkins previously appeared in Neighbours as Scott Robinson in 1985. He was initially contracted for one month. Marty is "a shady associate" of Paul Robinson. He has a talent for making awkward situations disappear. Perkins commented "It's great playing a bad guy because Scott Robinson was such a nice bloke and the writers have done a terrific job with Marty by showing another side."Paul Robinson invites Marty to his apartment for a poker game, hoping to learn Marty's card shark skills. Marty asks Paul who he wants him to deal with and Paul tells him about Robbo Slade. Paul later thanks Marty for teaching him how to use marked cards by giving him access to the Lassiter's executive suite for free. Marty agrees to keep an eye on Robbo and find anything that will give Paul some leverage over him. A few days later, Paul asks Marty for an update and Marty explains that he cannot get into Robbo's poker games. Paul suggests using one of the regulars that have been attending the games and tells Marty to make it happen quickly, as he wants Robbo gone. Marty then tries unsuccessfully asking Lucas Fitzgerald for a way into Robbo's games. Not long after, Robbo dies following a hit and run. When Lucas is questioned by the police, he reveals that on the night of Robbo's accident, Marty told him Robbo was using marked cards. When Lucas confronted Robbo, Marty intervened and later brought Lucas the money he lost. Paul meets with Marty and tells him that Lucas has told the police about him. Marty tells Paul that he did not run Robbo over, he just used his powers of persuasion to make Robbo hand the money over. Marty refuses to go to the police to help Lucas and states that if Paul tries to pin the accident on him, he will make trouble for Paul. Marty is brought in for questioning, when Terese Willis recognises him from a photo. Marty lies to the police about seeing Toadfish Rebecchi committing the hit-and-run. A few months later, Marty returns and tries to blackmail Paul, who is running for mayor. Marty then tells Paul's opponent, Karl Kennedy,, about his connection with Paul and offers him information on Paul that would guarantee a win in the election. Karl refuses to use the information.
Josie Lamb
Josie Lamb, played by Madison Daniel, made her first screen appearance on 12 August. Daniel previously appeared in Neighbours as "snobby" Eden Hills Grammar student Claudia Howard in 2012. She was initially contracted to appear in the recurring role of Josie for ten months. Daniel returned to filming in 2016 and Josie began appearing from 6 February 2017.Josie was introduced as "quite a confident character" and a friend of Callum Jones. Josie developed "a big crush" on Callum, but when she learned that he liked Imogen Willis, Josie decided to try and change herself to be more like Imogen. Josie began to change the way she looks by dieting and exercising. Callum's mother, Sonya, notices this and tries to help. Morey encouraged the producers to tackle the issues of eating disorders and learned that they were already working on a storyline with the character of Imogen. She explained "People may be surprised that we're doing two eating disorder storylines in quick succession, but I think they've both been handled really well and they both explore completely different aspects of quite a complex issue. It also shows a perpetual cycle which is quite realistic, as Josie is influenced by Imogen's behaviour." Josie later signed up for the local fun run, in a bid to impress Callum. During the race, Josie goes to see Callum at the drinks stand, but when he ignores her, she decides to keep running without getting herself a drink. A combination of dehydration, not eating and her vigorous exercise routine cause Josie to collapse. Daniel said "Physically, it's just a matter of getting Josie on a drip and eating properly again. But for Josie to recover mentally will take a lot longer. Body-image issues don't just disappear overnight."
Josie is often bullied at school due to her intelligence, her appearance and having two mothers. She develops a crush on Callum Jones after they play an online game together. Josie buys Callum an expansion pack for the game for his birthday, but Callum assumes Bailey Turner told her to and rejects it. Josie is upset by this, but Callum realises his mistake and accepts the gift. He and Josie become friends and begin hanging out. They decide to attend a photo exhibition together, but instead of meeting Callum there, Josie comes to his house. Callum's parents invite her to dinner, before they all attend the exhibition. Callum tells Imogen Willis that Josie is his girlfriend, so she does not realise that he has a crush on her. Callum apologises to Josie, but she is fine with it. When Callum's father, Toadie, becomes the main suspect in a hit-and-run accident, Josie initially supports Callum, but later tells him they cannot not hang out anymore. It soon emerges that Josie's mother, Ellen, is the lead detective in the hit-and-run case. Josie notices that Callum likes Imogen and tries to wear her hair the same way as her. She also joins the gym to lose weight, causing Callum's mother, Sonya, to become concerned for her well-being. Josie changes her clothes and hair, but is disappointed when Callum fails to notice. She also begins excessively training for the local fun run, which concerns Sonya even more and she tells Josie that she does not need to change her appearance, especially for a boy. Biology teacher, Gemma Reeves, manages to destroy Josie's self-confidence when she humiliates her in front of the class.
During the fun run, Josie collapses and has to be taken to the hospital, where she is diagnosed with malnutrition. Josie's parents are surprised by this and Josie explains that she has been skipping meals and training hard for the fun run. Ellen initially blames Sonya for the situation, but Josie corrects her saying she wants to be like Imogen. Callum asks Josie to the school dance, but she turns him down and begins ignoring him. After a chat with Imogen, who tells Josie about her bulimia, she decides to attend the dance. Callum tells Josie that he likes her and they kiss. They begin dating, but Josie stops talking to Callum when he became angry with her for suggesting Jacob Holmes has a crush on his mother. To make things up with Josie, Callum buys her a puppy and Josie accepts Callum's apology. However, she has to give the puppy back because she is allergic to him. Callum surprises Josie on Valentine's Day with an engraved padlock that they lock onto the walkway over Lassiter's Lake. Bailey begins dating Josie Mackay and he and Callum get the two Josie's together so they can bond. The girls get on well together, but become fed up of the boys ignoring them and they leave. Josie starts to question her relationship with Callum, leading him to declare his love for her. They then decide that they are ready to have sex for the first time, but later change their minds. Josie is supportive of Callum when he leaves for the United States on a scholarship. The night before he goes, Callum and Josie sleep in the same room. Bailey asks Josie to get the girls' hockey team to join his astronomy club, so they can then vote him in as club president. Josie tells Bailey that the team have already signed up with forms given to them by Alice Azikiwe, Bailey's rival. Bailey then realises the team have signed a proxy form, meaning they have voted Alice in as president.
While Josie attends university, her parents Ellen and Victoria separate. When they try to reunite, Josie reappears, and realises Victoria has feelings for Stephanie Scully. She warns Steph to stay away from Victoria, as she and Ellen work through their problems. After someone breaks Steph's taillight, she attempts to fix it but is caught by Steph. When she finds Toadie's daughter Nell in the street, Steph confronts her. When Josie insults Steph, Steph warns her to stay away, and Josie files an intervention order. It is later discovered that Ellen is behind all these events and the order is expunged.
Alek Pocoli
Alek Pocoli, played by Damian De Montemas, made his first screen appearance on 9 September 2013. De Montemas's casting was announced on 30 August 2013. The actor commented "It's taken a while but finally, I can say I've been on Neighbours, tick that box." For the role, De Montemas was asked to acquire an accent and he explained that the director preferred that he did not have a thick eastern European accent since Alek had been educated in England and had lived in the United States. He called Alek's accent "a hybrid of different cultures" and added that if no one can work out what it is, then he would have "fulfilled the brief". Alek is established character Vanessa Villante's estranged ex-husband. He comes to Erinsborough to make an important announcement, that rocks Vanessa's world and leave her fiancé Lucas Fitzgerald "seething." De Montemas liked his character's sense of humour, which riles Lucas.Alek comes to Erinsborough looking for Vanessa Villante. He tries her home first and then tracks her down to Harold's Store, where Vanessa is surprised to see him. When she asks why he is in town, Alek tells Vanessa that she was the one trying to get in touch with him. Vanessa explains that it was not her, but a women pretending to be her. Alek tells Vanessa that he has been thinking about her and then admits that he did not file their annulment papers, so they are still married. Alek explains that an annulment would have brought shame on his family and he hoped that he would always see Vanessa again. He also apologises for how he treated her during their relationship. Alek invites Vanessa to his hotel room, so they can talk. Her partner, Lucas Fitzgerald, then turns up and learns that they are still married. Having become very wealthy since his marriage to Vanessa, Alek offers her $100,000 so she will not make a claim on his assets. Vanessa agrees to take the money and they sort out the annulment. Before Alek goes back home to his fiancée, he mentions a hotel that they stayed in, which was in Tirana, Albania, to Vanessa before they say their final goodbyes.
Gemma Reeves
Gemma "Gem" Reeves, played by Kathryn Beck, made her first screen appearance on 7 October 2013. Beck's casting was announced in September 2013, while the character had previously been mentioned on-screen. The actress stated "I loved playing Gem because she pushes all the boundaries and just when you think she has gone too far, she goes further." Gem is the cousin of established characters Georgia Brooks and Toadfish Rebecchi. Beck explained that Gem comes to Erinsborough to catch up with Georgia, who is her favourite cousin and someone she has idolised since they were children. Georgia is "delighted" to see Gem and convinces her to move into Toadie's house, with Beck hinting that is when "things get interesting". A TV Week reporter branded Gem a "hottie" and a "blonde bombshell".Eric Edwards
Eric Edwards, played by Paul O'Brien, made his first appearance on 10 October. The character and O'Brien's casting was announced on 2 October 2013. The actor filmed his scenes during a break from shooting a feature film in Jakarta. A role which required him to grow a beard. Of his casting, O'Brien commented "The beard was definitely non-negotiable as I needed it to finish the film. However, the timing worked out well to do both projects, and I hope the new look adds to the role." Eric is a client of local lawyer Toadfish Rebecchi, who becomes involved in a dispute.Eric claims he has injured his back at the local gym, after he used a faulty stepping machine. Brad Willis insists that there was an "out of order" note on the machine, but it has disappeared. Brad tends to Eric, who says that he will go to see his physical therapist for treatment. Eric decides to sue the gym and hires Toadfish Rebecchi to be his lawyer. Eric drops the case after his injuries are proved to be the result of a skiing accident. Toadie later calls Eric into his office to talk about a potential case against the ski instructor. However, Toadie learns that Eric was drunk on the day of the accident and lied about it. Eric then decides to sue Toadie for negligence, after learning Brad's daughter, Imogen, was working at the law office during his case. When his wife, [|Mandy], finds out Eric is suing Toadie, she moves out of their home with their young daughter. Toadie and his wife, Sonya, invite Eric to their house for lunch, along with Mandy. When Toadie and Sonya argue, it causes Eric and Mandy to look at their own marriage problems. Eric then decides to drop the legal case and sort things out with Mandy, who agrees to move back home.
Jacob Holmes
Jacob Holmes, played by Clayton Watson, made his first screen appearance on 28 November 2013. Jacob is "a struggling widow" and single father who befriends Sonya Mitchell via her online blog. After leaving the brakes off his son, Elliott's pram, it almost rolled into Lasster's Lake and left Jacob shaken. He then took advantage of Sonya's "kind nature" and left [|Elliott] with her, before taking off. After Jacob returned, Sonya continued to help him through his grief over his wife's death. Knowing that he needed money, she asked him to build a juice bar at her nursery, while she looked after Elliott. Rebecca Lake from TV Week said Sonya's offer was just "fueling Jacob's hopes for romance". When left alone with Sonya, Jacob kissed her.After reading Sonya Mitchell's blog about parenting, Jacob gets in touch and asks for advice. He later asks if they can meet and Sonya is surprised when he turns up, admitting that she thought he was a woman. Jacob explains that his wife, Hannah, died shortly after giving birth to their son, Elliott, and he has no support. Sonya helps Jacob out with Elliott. When Elliott's pram almost runs into Lassiter's Lake, Jacob is shaken and believes he is not a good father. He then leaves Elliot with Sonya, asking her to look after him. When Elliot is taken to hospital, Sonya contacts Jacob to tell him that his son could be made a ward of the state if he does not return quickly. Jacob arrives at the hospital and apologises to Sonya for leaving Elliott with her. He is unhappy to learn that Sonya's husband, Toadfish Rebecchi, has contacted his in-laws. Sonya offers to give Jacob some building work at her nursery and she encourages him and Toadie to bond.
Jacob kisses Sonya, but realises it was a mistake and apologises. Jacob asks for Toadie's help when Hannah's parents decide to fight him for custody of Elliott. While Toadie helps Jacob, Sonya makes it clear to him that they can no longer be friends and encourages Georgia Brooks to spend time with him instead. Sonya later confesses to Toadie that Jacob kissed her and he is angry with Jacob. He agrees to continue helping Jacob with the mediation for Elliott's custody. When Jacob learns that Hannah's parents knew about Elliott's illness, he accuses Toadie of telling them. Sonya informs Jacob that Hannah's parents used a private detective and he feels guilty about accusing Toadie. Jacob thinks about handing Elliott over to his in-laws, but Sonya tells him to fight for his son. Jacob eventually agrees. He also declares his feelings for Sonya, but she rejects him and he decides to move to Adelaide to be closer to his in-laws.