After more than three decades in Home and Away, Summer Bay is about to lose one of its most beloved residents. UK viewers will soon see Irene Roberts bow out in an emotional set of episodes that mark the end of an era.

A Diagnosis That Changed Everything

Six weeks ago, Irene received devastating news: she was suffering from Alzheimer’s following a series of unsettling memory lapses. Looking back through her old photographs and postcards, she realised there were still places she dreamed of visiting but feared she’d never reach. With Sunny’s encouragement, Irene decided she would not let her diagnosis dictate the rest of her life. Instead, she vowed to sell the beach house and use the money to travel the world — while staying with friends and carers along the way.

Breaking the News

Her friends tried to rally behind her, but Jon in particular struggled to accept the reality of losing his closest companion. As the days passed, Irene’s condition worsened, highlighted when Jon found her in the diner, forgetting she no longer worked there. It was a harsh reminder of why she needed to seize the time she still had. Refusing to delay her plans, Irene announced that she would leave in just a few days instead of waiting the six weeks originally intended.

Preparing for Goodbye

Leah, Justin, Alf, and Marilyn scrambled to organise a farewell celebration, while Jon wrestled with his emotions. Leah worked tirelessly with her Yabi Creek travel agent contact to finalise plans, but Irene ultimately chose the earliest date available — three days’ time. With only a short window to pack up her life, Irene’s decision left Jon reeling. Justin did his best to support him, reminding Jon that Irene wanted joy, not sorrow, to define her exit.

The Farewell Party

The grassy area outside the surf club was transformed into a tribute fit for a Summer Bay legend: a grand cake, a mocktail bar, and even Marilyn’s tarot cards to send Irene off in style. Yet Irene immediately noticed Jon’s absence, and her heart ached. Meanwhile, Jon sat alone in the diner, avoiding Alf’s calls, paralysed by grief. Justin eventually persuaded him that he would regret staying away, convincing him to come and celebrate Irene while he still could.

When Jon finally arrived, Irene’s face lit up. With the guests seated, Jon delivered a raw and heartfelt speech, declaring Irene “the bravest woman I’ve ever met” before raising a glass in her honour. Theo and Justin performed a duet, and Irene shared a dance with Jon, surrounded by her friends and neighbours on the floor one last time.

One Last Surprise

As the evening wound down, Irene quietly handed Alf letters to be given to her loved ones after her departure. Then, she stunned Jon with a plane ticket to Paris, reminding him of his dream to sip coffee under the Eiffel Tower. “It’s not goodbye,” she told him gently, “it’s au revoir.” Jon, overcome, promised he’d be there no matter what.

Final Moments

The next morning, Irene packed the last of her belongings and took one final look at her beloved beach house before Sunny, dressed in chauffeur’s uniform, drove her out of the bay. As her friends opened their letters — each filled with Irene’s wisdom and reminders to cherish every moment — the iconic “You Are Now Leaving Summer Bay” sign faded behind her.

“No regrets, love,” Irene whispered, leaving fans with one of the most poignant farewells in the show’s history.