A fresh wave of characters is about to arrive in Home and Away over the coming months, bringing with them new storylines, conflicts, and revelations — while at the same time, we may have to say farewell to some of our long-standing favourites. Over the past twelve months, several departures have already pulled on the heartstrings of viewers. Earlier in the year, Kirby (Angelina Thomson) and Rose (Kirsty Marillier) both made their exits, leaving behind unresolved relationships and unanswered questions. More recently, it was Irene’s turn: after a remarkable 34 years on the show, she said her final goodbye to the Bay.

That exit marked not just the end of an era but a moment of deep emotional resonance both for characters within the show and for generations of viewers who have watched Irene grow, endure, change, and remain a pillar of the community. Her departure leaves a gap that feels impossible to fill, sparking stories of grief, change and the impact of legacy. Meanwhile, the incoming cast members promise to shake up the Bay’s status quo — new faces, fresh conflicts, unexpected alliances, and the chance for both hope and heartbreak. As old relationships close, new ones are sure to form; as cherished familiar faces fade away, new ones will emerge to leave their mark.

So while we brace ourselves to say “goodbye” to some of our favourites, there’s also a sense of anticipation: what stories will the newcomers bring? How will the Bay adapt without the familiar? And ultimately, who among the familiar might still find their way back, perhaps in surprising ways?

We’ve also witnessed a number of temporary arrivals over the past year, each leaving their own mark on Home and Away despite their short time in the Bay. Among them were foster children Eliza (Martha Kate Morgan) and Cohen (Nathan Murray), whose presence brought fresh challenges and tender moments to their foster families, adding layers of complexity to the ongoing storylines. Their youthful perspectives and personal struggles highlighted the theme of belonging and the importance of community, even if their stay was only brief.

Music fans were treated to the arrival of Avalon Bracken (Gemma Dart), a talented musician whose charisma and energy lit up the screen. Her interactions with the locals brought both excitement and tension, as she navigated relationships and opportunities while staying true to her artistic identity. Then came Gage (Tom Wilson), the formidable leader of the River Boys, whose return injected danger, intensity, and a sense of unpredictability into the Bay. His presence was a reminder of the constant undercurrent of threat that this notorious group represents.

Adding another layer of intrigue was the appearance of the Fowler matriarch, Debra (Tammy MacIntosh). Strong, opinionated, and deeply protective of her family, she brought both drama and heart to the unfolding events, her influence leaving a clear impression even after her departure. While none of these characters remained long-term, each temporary arrival helped shape the direction of ongoing plots and reminded viewers that the Bay is a place where new faces, however fleeting, can stir up lasting consequences.