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Reference
> On This Day...
Darren's Arrival
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July 20th
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On this day... in 1993, the first of several Stark's arrived with the dark debut of Darren. Back then he was a very different character; not least because he was played by a different actor. Scott Major was the first man to play Darren in a guest role which lasted just a few weeks. Darren was introduced as a nasty inmate of the detention centre Michael Martin was staying in and once he got out he decided to cause trouble for the Martin family by hooking up with Debbie and getting her involved in an armed robbery. Rick Alessi and escapee Michael came to the rescue and Darren was imprisoned again for another three years. On his return in 1996, he was played by Todd MacDonald, who made the role his own and, aside from being a love-rat, Darren managed to stay on the right side of the law.
Click here to read a full summary of Darren's arrival.
The 1000th Episode
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July 7th
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On this day... in 1989, Neighbours celebrated its 1000th episode. A party was being held to celebrate the engagement of unlikely couple Des Clarke and Jane Harris, and the event was gatecrashed by Mike, who had just returned to the area and was upset that his ex-girlfriend was now involved with his best mate and the man he'd seen for many years as a father figure. Also announcing their engagement were Kerry Bishop and Joe Mangel, an announcement met with hostility by Kerry's dad Harold, who had been approved of the union. But the biggest surprise of the evening came when Hilary realised how much her secrecy was hurting Matt, and she announced to her family and friends gathered at the party that he was, in fact, her son.
Click here to read a full summary of episode 1000.
Paul and Gail's Wedding
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June 17th
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On this day... in 1987, Paul Robinson and Gail Lewis were married, albeit for convenience. With Japanese investors looking for a hotel with a family feel, Lassiter's manager Paul asked Gail to marry him, and the pair shocked their families, who believed they were simply going to dinner, with a quiet wedding service. But, during the six months that followed, the business arrangement was forgotten as Paul and Gail fell in love for real, renewing their vows in front of family and friends, who were gathered to see Paul's father, Jim, marry Dr Beverly Marshall. The marriage then lasted eighteen months before Paul's work obsession split them up, but it did produce three children, triplets Elle, Robert and Cameron. And the spirit of Gail is still present, with daughter Elle sharing 22 Ramsay Street with Paul, and Gail herself making occasional visits to the street she once called home.
Click here to read our tribute to Golden Couple Paul and Gail.
Tom Oliver Turns 70
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June 12th
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On this day... in 2008, Tom Oliver, Erinsborough's larrakin Lou since 1988, turns 70. Following a long career in television, with roles in shows including Number 96 and Prisoner: Cell Block H, Tom made his first Neighbours appearance in 1988, as Lou, an old school friend of the pair, attempted to come between Harold Bishop and Madge Ramsay. He was quickly sent packing, but made Ramsay Street his permanent home in early 1992, with Harold missing, presumed dead, and Madge on her own again, Lou slowly wormed his way back into her affections but by the end of the year, she'd turned down his marriage proposal and high-tailed it up to Queensland. Lou found love again in 1993 when Cheryl Stark made an instant impression on him, but since her death in 1996, he's struggled to find love again and, in 2001, said goodbye to their daughter, Lolly, when it was revealed that he wasn't her biological father after all. These days, Lou and former love rival Harold have teamed up, as both housemates and business partners, to run their own General Store.
Anne Haddy Passes Away
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June 6th
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On this day... in 1999, Anne Haddy, Erinsborough's favourite Gran, Helen Daniels from 1985 until 1997, passed away. Anne had been ill for some time, forcing to her to take extended breaks from her role as Helen throughout 1997, before finally leaving the role late that year. Originally it had been planned for Helen to simply leave Erinsborough on a world cruise, then scenes were filmed in which her family learnt that she had died, but Anne insisted on returning one final time, and Helen came back to Ramsay Street to reunite the warring Bishop and Martin clans with a viewing of Scott and Charlene's wedding, before quietly slipping away on the sofa. Anne passed away less than two years later, aged 68.
Click here to read our tribute to Anne Haddy.
Marc and Stephanie's Wedding: Part Two
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May 22nd
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On this day... in 2002, the ramifications of Marc Lambert and Stephanie Scully's disastrous wedding played out following Marc's failure to say "I do". Who'd have thought that six years later unlucky Steph would be having another botched wedding ceremony?! Back then it was her own sister Felicity's affair with Marc which caused catastrophe, and when Steph caught up with the love-cheats, an almighty showdown commenced in the middle of Ramsay Street. As well as the drama and tragedy of the day, a fair dose of comedy was thrown in with the arrival of gossipy "Auntie" Valda Sheergold who stuck her oar in left, right and centre while trying to help.
You can look back at all the fallout from Marc and Steph's wedding in our detailed episode summary.
Harold and Madge's Wedding
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May 12th
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On this day... in 1988, high school sweethearts Madge Ramsay and Harold Bishop were finally married. After almost getting together, both had gone on to marry other people, but they were reunited in 1987, both single and determined to make a go of things. After overcoming many obstacles - including the return of another of Madge's suitors, Lou Carpenter - they were married in a beautiful church wedding in May 1988. Three years into the marriage, Harold went missing, presumed drowned and, 18 months later, Madge left Erinsborough for a new life in Brisbane. But, in 1996, Harold was back - having spent his missing time in Tasmania suffering from amnesia - and Madge soon joined him. Reunited at last, the couple renewed their vows in a ceremony by the lake, with Madge even wearing her original wedding dress. 20 years on from that first wedding, Harold still calls Ramsay Street home, as does Lou, but Madge sadly passed away from cancer in 2001.
Reminisce about Madge and Harold with our newly-added Golden Couples article.
On this day... in 2002, Neighbours celebrated its 4000th episode with a bang - literally - when the church went up in flames. The star of the episode was undoubtedly Holly Valance who, as Flick Scully, had become one of the show's most popular characters at the time, and the landmark episode saw her not only rescue Reverend Rosie and Lou from the burning church, but then become further embroiled in a secret affair with her sister's fiance. Elsewhere, Mal Kennedy finally realised that his plan to try and buy the Coffee Shop from Harold was making everyone unhappy, and he patched things up with his dad, Karl.
Look back at some other milestones with our Clocking Up The Miles article.
On this day... in 2004, Neighbours hit a comedy high with episode 4473 which showed Sindi Watts presenting the ropey home improvement show 'Making Mansions'. The storyline had been building up over several weeks and had provided an opportunity to reintroduce the character of Sindi on a permanent basis after three previous guest stints. Sindi returned to Ramsay Street in an attempt to launch a career in TV presenting by filming a makeover programme focusing on renovating the Scully house. Sindi's cheesy on camera work and off camera hissy fits raised plenty of smiles along the way and Valda's insistence that Jack owned a Ricky Martin poster has become a real fan favourite quote. Unfortunately, the show was hijacked by Channel 44 who decided to poke fun at the Scully's and Sindi with some cruel onscreen captions and an unforgiving edit.
Why not take a look back at our full episode summary here.
The Hancocks Move In
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April 19th
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On this day... in 2001, the short-lived, and rather unpopular, Hancock family moved into Ramsay Street. Eldest son Matt and father Evan had both arrived already, with Matt taking a job as barman at Lou's pub, and Evan a teaching job at Erinsborough High, before winning the auction for number 32. As they moved in, they were joined by Evan's second wife, Maggie, and their two younger children, Leo and Emily. During their twelve months as residents of Ramsay Street, they were at the centre of some gripping stories, such as the time Emily's doll went missing and the side-splitting occasion when Matt took a job as an Elvis impersonator. But, as their stories become more exciting - Matt almost killed Harold in a drag racing accident, while Maggie was on the verge of an affair with colleague Toadie - their fate had already been sealed, and they bid farewell just before Neighbours celebrated its 4000th episode.
Were the Hancocks doomed to fail? Why not take a look at The Hancocks: The Eldorado of Neighbours? and make up your own mind.
Charlene Arrives In Ramsay Street
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April 17th
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On this day... in 1986, the actress who would go on to become an international superstar and one of Neighbours' most recognised stars - Kylie Minogue - made her first appearance as the fiery Charlene Mitchell. In a scene that has now become famous, Charlene was caught breaking into 24 Ramsay Street by her future husband Scott Robinson, who she proceeded to punch in the jaw. Originally intended to only stick around for a few weeks, the character quickly became one of the most popular the show had seen and, the following year, the hugely popular romance between Scott and Charlene ended with a wedding. Another 12 months passed, and Charlene's two years in Erinsborough came to an end as she headed off to Brisbane, while Kylie's music career went from strength to strength, with her tenth studio album, X, released in November 2007.
Why not revisit Charlene's arrival, here.
Darren Stark Departs
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April 8th
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On this day... in 1998, Neighbours said goodbye to one of its bad boys made good when Darren made his final appearance. He's returned twice since, but back then it looked like being the end for Libby and Darren's relationship as he - having already left Erinsborough days earlier - bumped into Libby as she was making her way to visit Grampa Tom. After helping her to get her scooter fixed, they said a final goodbye, shared a final kiss and went their separate ways... it would be another six years before they were reunited - Libby had been widowed and become a mother, while Darren was running his own business, but the old spark was still there and she ended up leaving Ramsay Street to be with him. Another three years then passed, and it seems that Darren's cheating ways are once again threatening the couple's happiness...
Also on this day, death stalked Ramsay Street when the Martins' beloved pet pooch Holly died after being poisoned. You can revisit both events here.
Myra De Groot Passes Away
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April 4th
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On this day... in 1988, Neighbours actress Myra De Groot lost her battle with cancer. Following a long stage and television career, Myra had joined the Neighbours cast from its fifth week playing meddling mum Eileen Clarke. Despite her status as a recurring cast member, Myra still appeared often and managed to steal every scene she appeared in as Eileen - just one of her facial expressions in the background could turn a mundane moment into something memorable.
Today, we take a fond look back at Myra - and Eileen - with our Myra De Groot tribute.
Janae and Bree's Arrival
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April 4th
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On this day... in 2005, two more members of the ever-expanding Timmins family made their debut, when young Janae and Bree turned up in Erinsborough. From the beginning it was clear what these two girls were made of; as the girls became stranded on the outskirts of town, Janae tried to flirt her way into a lift, while wily Bree pretended to cry, and quickly got them a ride, lying to the driver that they needed to get to Erinsborough, where their siamese twins were being separated. They then joined mum Janelle and (non-siamese) brothers Dylan and Scott at 26 Ramsay Street. A couple of years later, with the boys gone, Janelle and Bree moved up north, leaving Janae - now all-grown-up, divorced and running her own garage - to keep the Timmins flag flying on Ramsay Street.
Revisit Janae and Bree's arrival with our detailed episode summary.
Daphne's Death
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March 25th
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On this day... in 1988, the residents of Ramsay Street lost one of their own, as Daphne Clarke became the first regular character to be killed off. Elaine Smith had actually made her official departure the previous year, as Daphne went off, with baby son Jamie, to care for her dying father, but that was never going to be a long-term solution to the problem of losing one half of popular couple Des and Daph. So, a few months later, as she returned from her father's funeral, Daphne was involved in a car accident which left her in a coma. Elaine returned to film the tragic conclusion to Daphne's story, as her beloved Des heard her whisper the words 'I love you too Clarkey' before slipping away. In the 20 years since, few characters have come close to achieving the wonderful mix of personality traits that made up agony aunt, mother, lover and coffee shop owner, Daphne.
Look back at Daphne's tragic demise with our detailed episode summary.
Neighbours Is 23!
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March 18th
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On this day... in 1985, everyone's favourite Aussie soap was born. 23 years later, and Neighbours is still going strong. Plenty has changed, but a lot remains the same - the drama is still centred around the same six houses in suburban cul-de-sac Ramsay Street, and Stefan Dennis (Paul Robinson) is still around from that very first episode. 23 years of ups and downs have included 3 bouts of amnesia, hundreds of long-lost relatives and more comas than you can shake a stick at, but at the heart of it all, there has always been a warmth and sense of humour that makes Neighbours special, and we hope to see it continue for another 23 years. Happy birthday Neighbours!
Revisit that very first episode with our detailed episode summary.
Karl's Heart Attack
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March 16th
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On this day... in 2005, Karl Kennedy's dramatic love life came to a shocking conclusion when he collapsed on a country road, having suffered a heart attack. Finding himself increasingly drawn to ex-wife Susan, much to the jealousy of current girlfriend Izzy, Karl decided to escape his problems with a drive out in the middle of nowhere, only to find himself with a flat tyre. As the pressure built, he collapsed in pain as he tried to change the tyre, and called Susan to apologise and say his goodbyes, then Izzy, who ignored his call, before finally contacting the paramedics. Though his heart stopped briefly (which the Neighbours publicists sneakily trailed as him 'dying from a heart attack'), he was revived, though sadly his dying relationship with Izzy was beyond help and, within a few months, it was over for good.
Revisit Karl's brush with death with our detailed episode summary.
Dorothy Burke's Arrival
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March 7th
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On this day... in 1990, new Erinsborough High principal Dorothy Burke made her debut. Originally written to be the grandmother of character Lochy, actress Maggie Dence made it clear that she wasn't quite old enough for such a role, and so the part was changed into Lochy's aunt. Dorothy would go on to spend three years in Erinsborough, using her firm but fair hand to guide many of Ramsay Street's teens, and taking several, including her nephew Ryan McLachlan, as well as Phoebe Bright and Toby Mangel, into her home. She also had to defend her reputation when her jailbird ex-husband Colin turned up, beat breast cancer and managed to save Erinsborough High from closure.
Take another look at Dorothy's first episode with our detailed episode summary.
Perfect Blend Launches
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February 27th
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On this day... in 2003, Neighbours: The Perfect Blend was launched. Five years have since passed, some faces have changed, some are still the same, but hopefully we're still meeting the Neighbours needs of fans around the world, and we hope to do so for some time to come.
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Madge and Harold Renew Their Vows
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February 26th
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On this day... in 1997, recently reunited couple Madge and Harold Bishop renewed their wedding vows. Harold had been presumed dead in 1991, but had turned up back in Erinsborough in 1996, with Madge not far behind. The couple then overcame his amnesia, and love triangles with Lou Carpenter, then Claudia Harvey, to get back on track. Fearing that Madge was losing interest in him after all of his dithering, Harold then decided to propose, and Madge happily accepted. Wearing the original dress from their 1988 wedding, Madge stood with Harold at Lassiter's Lake, with the friends all gathered, and affirmed that they still loved each other as much as they had 9 years earlier. They then said their goodbyes and set off for Queensland, but returned - this time for good - a few months later.
Revisit Madge and Harold's vow renewal with our detailed episode summary.
The Full Monty
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February 19th
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On this day... in 1999, five of Ramsay Street's finest specimens took their clothes of at Lou's pub. Joel Samuels, Drew Kirk and Toadie Rebecchi, as well as father and son Karl and Bill Kennedy had been rehearsing for weeks with self-appointed choreographer Amy Greenwood, while Harold Bishop, an original member of the troupe, pulled out at the last second as nerves got the better of him. The night ended in disaster, however, when Lou was unable to turn off the lights at the last moment, and the boys ended up revealing everything to the screaming women in the crowd. Unfortunately, this led to a complaint, the police became involved and it looked as though Lou might lose everything...
Look back at some other incidents of neighbourly nudity with our When Good Neighbours... Get Naked article.
Jim and Beverly's Wedding
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February 15th
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On this day... in 1988, Jim and Bev were married at the Robinson house in a Valentine's Day ceremony (poorly scheduled, since Valentine's Day was on a Sunday that year). The episode also saw Paul and Gail renew their wedding vows, having entered into a marriage of convenience the year before, then fallen in love for real, and the arrivals of Beverly's niece and nephew, Todd and Katie, who ended up staying long after the buffet was over. Todd, especially, went on to become one of the show's most popular character, outlasting many of his relatives and staying for four years, before tragically being killed off as he rushed to stop girlfriend Phoebe Bright from aborting their baby.
Revisit Jim and Bev's eventful wedding day with our detailed episode summary.
Bouncer's Final Appearance
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February 12th
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On this day... in 1993, Bouncer made his final appearance in Ramsay Street. Having already left only days earlier, as Dorothy and Toby took him with them for his new life in the country, he made his way back to Erinsborough where he had fathered some pups, who, along with Bouncer, were shipped back off to the country in the Willis ute. Originally a replacement dog for Lucy Robinson's beloved Basil, Bouncer found his way around Ramsay Street with various owners, though spent most of his time with the Mangels. During his six years in Neighbours, his life was threatened on several occasions, whilst he also won an award for bravery and even got married in a dream sequence.
Find out more about Bouncer with our profile.
Jackie Woodburne's Birthday
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February 5th
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On this day... in 1957, Jackie Woodburne was born. After a career with highlights including the roles of Julie Egbert in Prisoner: Cell Block H and Maggie Gordon in The Young Doctors, Jackie joined the Neighbours cast in 1994, playing the role of country doctor's wife, Susan Kennedy. Susan and her brood weren't exactly an immediate hit with the fans, who'd already lost many of their favourite characters in the early 90s and were just getting used to the departure of the Willis clan when the Kennedys turned up. But the producers stuck with them, and by 1998 they were firm favourites, a family it was difficult to imagine Ramsay Street without. Despite the indifference of fans, few could argue that Jackie had put in some moving performances in her early years, with the revelation that she'd committed euthanasia on her mother a standout moment. These days, after more than 13 years in Ramsay Street, Jackie continues to give beautiful, underrated performances, both as the star of her own stories and the supporting cast in other people's. Long may she continue to reign as the Queen of Ramsay Street.
Find out more about Jackie and her career with our actor profile.
Annalise Hartman Departs
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January 31st
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On this day... in 1996, Annalise Hartman said a fond farewell to Erinsborough after three years living in Ramsay Street. During that time, she had gone from a schoolgirl who had a fling with 50-year-old Lou Carpenter to businesswoman and even detouring along the way to become a published poet! After Lou, her love life was no less eventful, with her relationship with Mark Gottlieb ending badly when he jilted her at the altar, then a fling with Stonie Rebecchi brought a halt to her new romance with Sam Kratz. Annalise left to go travelling after her affair with Stonie was revealed, later settling in London, where Sam agreed to join her and the pair ended up getting married. In 2005, Annalise made a return to Ramsay Street, as the brains behind a documentary interviewing past residents about what the suburban street had meant to them, screened just in time for Neighbours' 20th anniversary.
Revisit more of Annalise's exploits with our detailed character biography.
Episode 3000
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January 23rd
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On this day... in 1998, episode 3000 of Neighbours was screened. However, unlike the previous 1000th and 2000th episode milestones, the event produced little fanfare, coming only a week into the 1998 season, with characters still dealing with the fallout from the dramatic 1997 season finale. Episode 3000, however, still had its fair share of drama, with the beginning of the Sarah/Karl/Susan love triangle, Madge feeling the first symptoms of her brain aneurysm, and the Billy/Anne/Caitlin love triangle still ongoing, and it concluded with a small party, as Susan prepared to spend her weeks away from Ramsay Street, as the new principal of Wangaratta High School.
Take a look at the events of episode 3000 with our detailed episode summary.
Clive Gibbons Arrives
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January 21st
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On this day... in 1986, Clive Gibbons made a mysterious debut in Ramsay Street, dressed as a gorilla and confusing new neighbour Max Ramsay, who was determined to weed out anything unsavoury in 'his' street. Clive went on to become one of Neighbours' most popular characters, making the transition from enterpreneur to doctor, but constantly losing out where his love life was concerned. After one rejection too many - as he found out fiancee Susan Cole had been secretly seeing Paul Robinson, Clive moved out of Ramsay Street to the flat behind his surgery. He continued to be mentioned, but actor Geoff Paine didn't appear on the show again until 1989, when the character made a brief return, designed to lead into his own spin-off hospital drama, which sadly never materialised.
Why not revisit Clive's first episode with our detailed episode summary.
The Alessi Twins Arrive
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January 18th
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On this day... in 1990, identical twins Caroline and Christina Alessi made their first appearance - as one person. Under witness protection, the girls were pretending to be Linda Giles, Paul Robinson's new assistant, though it wasn't long before they were found out. Business-minded twin Caroline stayed on as Paul's assistant, while Christina captured his heart, and the pair were married in 1991, before welcoming a son, Andrew, into the world later that year. In 1992, the twins left Erinsborough - separately - with Caroline fleeing to Italy after sharing a night of passion with her brother-in-law. Chrissie found out about it, but eventually forgave Paul and they set off for a new life in Hawaii.
Why not revisit Caroline and Chrissie's first episode with our detailed episode summary.
Lana Crawford Leaves
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January 13th
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On this day... in 2005, Lana Crawford said her farewells to Erinsborough, as she left to return to Canada with her family. Though only a guest character, Lana proved very popular, as her friendship with Sky Mangel and her difficulties coming out as a lesbian struck a chord with many viewers. Indeed, her impact on Sky was still being felt into 2007, as a Canadian flag was featured at Sky's going away party at Lassiter's.
Take a look back at Lana's time in Erinsborough with our character profile.
1988 Season Return
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January 13th
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On this day... in 1988, Neighbours returned to Australian screens for its 4th season. 20 years ago, the show was at the peak of its success, with 1987 seeing the show's highest-ever ratings during Scott and Charlene's wedding. The 1988 season began with Paul and Gail returning to town, having finally reunited in the 1987 season finale, while Jane found herself threatened with a $100,000 law suit if she didn't return to America to complete her modelling contract. The rest of the year saw the departures of popular characters Charlene and Mrs Mangel, and the death of Daphne Clarke, as well as the weddings of Jim and Beverly and Madge and Harold.
Revisit the first episode of 1988 with our detailed episode summary.
Jack And Nina Reunited
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January 11th
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On this day... in 2005, Jack Scully and Nina Tucker were reunited in Los Angeles. It was a relationship that had begun two years earlier with them both cheating on their partners, and both Jack's girlfriend Lori and Nina's boyfriend Taj were devastated. Even once their affair went public, it was still a bumpy road to romance for Jack and Nina, and he once again cheated, this time with Edwina Valdez. Soon after, Nina left Australia to join her dad in India, but returned a year later, her feelings for Jack as strong as ever and determined to make a go of things with him. Jack, however, wasn't quite ready for romance, having just got over a drug problem, and so Nina left for Hollywood on her own. But, after getting his life back on track, Jack flew out to join her and, in the second episode of the 2005 season, he was seen arriving at his hotel, where Nina was waiting, disguised as a chambermaid, to surprise him.
Look back at Jack and Nina's reunion with our detailed episode summary.
Maggie Millar's Birthday
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January 6th
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On this day... in 1941, actress Maggie Millar was born. Maggie had already had a long and varied career, with roles in dramas including Bellbird, Homicide and Prisoner, when, in 2002, she joined the cast of Neighbours. Maggie's character, Reverend Rosie Hoyland, filled the matriarchal hole left by Madge Bishop, who had died the previous year, even finding herself caught between Harold and Lou, as Madge once had. Rosie was soon joined in the show by son Max and grandchildren Boyd and Summer, but, a year after joining, Maggie was controversially axed from the role, though the remaining Hoylands went on to become one of the show's core families, with Rosie's daughter-in-law Steph and grandson Charlie still resident at 32 Ramsay Street.
Find out more about Maggie's Neighbours character, Rosie Hoyland, with our character biography.
1995 Season Return
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January 2nd
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On this day... in 1995, it was the beginning of what would arguably become one of Neighbours' weakest seasons to date. The earliest season return ever saw the Ramsay Street residents deal with the fallout from Mark and Annalise's almost wedding, halted by the groom's revelation that he'd decided to become a priest. Elsewhere, Cheryl was processing the news that the woman she had believed Lou to be cheating with was actually his long-lost daughter, Ling-Mai, while Sam wondered whether anyone would believe that he wasn't the father of pregnant schoolgirl Squirrel's child, as she was claiming.
Take a look back with our detailed summary of the 1995 season premiere.
Alyce Platt's Birthday
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December 19th
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On this day... in 1963, Alyce Platt was born. After an extensive career, including the role of Amanda Morrell in Sons & Daughters and a long spell as the hostess on Sale of the Century, she joined the cast of Neighbours in late 1994 as mature student Jen Handley. After only a year in the role, during which Jen mostly found herself caught up in the problems of her boyfriend Philip and brother Luke, Alyce left the role. She has since focused on her music career, releasing three albums, but returned to acting in 2007 with the recurring role of Lorraine Sparkes in City Homicide.
Find out more about Alyce's career with her actor profile.
Brad and Beth's Wedding
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December 15th
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On this day... in 1993, Brad Willis and Beth Brennan were finally married. They'd already attempted it once earlier that year, only for Beth to realise during the vows that her husband-to-be had been cheating on her with head bridesmaid Lauren Carpenter. Having moved on from that little hiccup, they ended the year, and their time in Erinsborough, by getting married twice. After sneaking off and marrying at the register office, their families caught them heading off to a new life in Perth, and forced them to return to Ramsay Street to marry, unaware that they were already man and wife. Following their second ceremony of the day, they said their goodbyes and drove away from Erinsborough.
Take a look back with our detailed summary of Brad and Beth's wedding.
2002 Season Finale
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December 13th
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On this day... in 2002, Neighbours' 18th season came to an upbeat conclusion, as much-loved couple Susan and Karl Kennedy renewed their wedding vows in front of gathered family and friends. Susan had spent much of the year with retro-grade amnesia, believing she was 16 again and had come close to divorcing, so their second wedding was a chance to show everyone that they were back together and as strong as ever. The event also gave shy singer Nina Tucker the opportunity to perform for everyone, while Lyn Scully broke the news to stunned husband Joe that she was pregnant.
Revisit the 2002 season finale with our Magic Moment.
Katya Kinski Arrives
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December 12th
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On this day... in 2005, the mysterious Catherine Sangmu aka Katya Kinski made her first appearance. The eldest daughter of Alex Kinski, Katya had been thrown out of home as a teenager after going off the rails, and it later emerged that she'd gone on to develop a drug addiction and stolen cars and posed for adult magazines to help fund it. Katya was a reformed character by the time she stepped onto Ramsay Street, reuniting with her dad only hours before he passed away. She then entered into a custody battle over her younger siblings, Rachel and Zeke, with her new stepmother, Susan, and went on to find herself involved with the insane Robert Robinson, married man Max Hoyland and the terminally dull Ned Parker. She left Erinsborough in early 2007, having exhausted every unlikely plot scenario, and went to work in Adelaide, where she found a new boyfriend, ex-Ramsay Street resident Paul McClain.
Look back at Katya's year in Ramsay Street with her character biography.
Paul and Lyn's Wedding
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December 11th
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On this day... in 2006, the Neighbours gathered for the latest union of Ramsay Street residents, as bad boy Paul Robinson took the unlikely step of marrying his nice but dull personal assistant Lyn Scully. Having only just shared a kiss with lawyer Rosetta Cammeniti, Paul's conscience was troubling him, but he went through with the ceremony, only to end things on the wedding night, telling Lyn that he would break her heart sooner or later and he wanted to spare her any more pain. A humiliated Lyn left Erinsborough with son Oscar, deciding to settle in Shelly Bay with her mum Valda upon her return, while Paul, having suffered a brain tumour and become a reformed character, is now in a new relationship with the much more suitable Rebecca Napier.
Reminisce about other Neighbours weddings with A Ramsay Street Wedding.
1987 Season Finale
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December 8th
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On this day... in 1987, it was time for the third Neighbours season to come to an end. In the 80s, unlike other soaps, the Ramsay Street saga never bothered with big end-of-year cliffhangers, preferring uplifting Christmas gatherings. 1987 was no exception, with everyone at The Waterhole for a hoe down and the festivities were improved no end with the news that Paul and Gail had reunited and she'd decided to stay in Erinsborough.
Revisit the 1987 season finale with our Magic Moment.
1992 Season Finale
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December 4th
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On this day... in 1992, the Neighbours season came to a dramatic end, with several lives hanging in the balance. On the eve of her wedding to Stephen, heavily pregnant Phoebe found herself going into labour at home, while Cameron found himself being held over the top of an empty liftshaft, having discovered the secrets of the corrupt Gavin Heywood. Elsewhere, Beth and Hannah's search for the missing doll, Muffy, took them to the old abandoned cottage at the back of Lassiter's, where they became trapped inside by a fire...
Why not take another look back at the episode itself.
Brett and Danni Arrive
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November 30th
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On this day... in 1993, siblings Brett and Danni Stark arrived to visit their mum, Cheryl, after running away from their strict boarding schools. The kids ended up staying in Erinsborough, with nerdy Brett transforming into an independent young man, leaving to sail around the world, while rebellious Danni forged a career in fashion, leaving to work in Malaysia. Both Stark siblings - as well as their older brother, Darren - also made cameo appearances in 2005, in Annalise Hartman's documentary.
Click here to read Brett and Danni's arrival in detail.
Flick Scully Departs
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November 28th
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On this day... in 2002, it was time to bid farewell to Felicity Scully. After three years of boys, boys and more boys, Flick had finally settled on Stuart Parker and the pair got engaged, just as she was due to leave for a new job, working for the Lassiter's hotel branch in New York. After forgetting the ring, it was touch and go whether Stuart would make it to the airport to say goodbye, but he made it in time and joined the extended Scully family to wave her off. The following year, Flick's younger sister Michelle joined her in the US, where the pair are now running a bar together.
Revisit some of Flick's exploits in our newly-added Love Thy Neighbour article.
1997 Season Finale
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November 28th
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On this day... in 1997, Neighbours' thirteenth season came to a spectacular end with a marriage proposal, two illicit kisses and a car crash. In Sydney, thinking his relationship with Anne Wilkinson was beyond saving, Bill Kennedy kissed Caitlin Atkins, just as Anne was about to walk in, while at the Erinsborough Surgery, Dr Karl Kennedy found himself in an embrace with receptionist Sarah Beaumont, kicking off one of the show's longest-running stories, which saw the Kennedy family soar in popularity. Meanwhile, at Calder race track, Philip Martin was busy proposing to Ruth Wilkinson when her son Ben's car was involved in a horrifying collision and burst into flames.
Why not take another look back at the episode itself.
Carmella Cammeniti Arrives
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November 26th
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On this day... in 2003, spoilt Italian princess Carmella Cammeniti made her first appearance on Neighbours, quickly catching the eye of Irish barman Connor O'Neill and sparking an on/off relationship that would carry through to 2006. Though Carmella was just a recurring character in those days, she joined the regular cast in early 2006, having gone from bad girl to good girl and joined the convent. Eighteen months later, that nice girl remains, though her habit was cast off long ago, and more changes seem imminent in her life, with the recent discovery that she's pregnant to ex-boyfriend Oliver Barnes.
Why not take another look back at Carmella's first episode.
Henry Moves Out
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November 23rd
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On this day... in 1989, it was time for Madge and Bronwyn to wave a particularly teary farewell to Henry. It's hard to believe, but it's been 18 years since he boarded the plane to New Zealand, destined for his new DJing job, leaving his mum, girlfriend and guitar sobbing at the airport, to the sounds of Lynne Hamilton's In Your Arms. It was a matter of months before Bronwyn joined him there, where they later married and are presumably still together.
Look back at parts one and two of Henry's departure.
Cheryl Moves In
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November 23rd
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On this day... in 1993, the unrivalled queen of the giant perm, Cheryl Stark, made Ramsay Street her permanent home, moving into 22 Ramsay Street. Lotto winner Cheryl had appeared earlier in the year in a guest stint along with criminal son, Darren, but this time her brash presence in the street was long-term, much to the horror of neighbour Lou, who'd she'd earlier been intent on romancing. It wasn't long before she and Lou were a couple once more, joined by Brett and Danni, two more of Cheryl's kids, with another on the way.
Tad Reeves Arrives
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November 16th
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On this day... in 1998, Wayne 'Tadpole' Reeves made his Ramsay Street debut, sent to Erinsborough to stay with cousin Toadie, in the hope that it would help him stay out of trouble. Sadly it didn't, and before long, Tad was scamming the people of Erinsborough and staying with Madge and Harold Bishop. During his three and a half years in Erinsborough, Tad discovered he was adopted, almost died from a scorpion bite and donated bone marrow to his half brother, but always remained the happy-go-lucky young guy who left Ramsay Street in 2002 to follow his dream of professional DJing.
To find out more about Tad, check out his character profile.
Radha Mitchell Turns 34
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November 12th
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On this day... in 1973, actress Radha Mitchell was born. Radha made her first Neighbours appearance in 1994, before returning in 1996 in the, initially guest but later regular, role of activist Catherine O'Brien. She then quit the role after a year, though the character is still mentioned on-screen, having married Mal, the eldest son of long-running characters, Susan and Karl. Radha, meanwhile, turned her attention to films and is now a very successful actress in Hollywood, having appeared in Rogue and Feast of Love this year, and with no less than four more roles in the pipeline.
To find out more about Radha's career, check out our actor profile.
Kylie's 7th Number One
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November 9th
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On this day... in 2003, Kylie Minogue gained her 7th UK number one, with Slow from the album, Body Language.
Since then she has beaten breast cancer and on November 26th will release her tenth studio album X; her first new material in 4 years. The first single from the new album, 2 Hearts is released on Monday 12th November and is a already hotly tipped for the number one spot.
Many Happy Returns
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November 7th
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On this day... in 1972, actress Melissa Bell was born. Melissa joined the Neighbours cast in 1991, becoming the third actress to play the role of original character Lucy Robinson. Melissa stayed in the role for only a year, but returned briefly for the 2000th episode celebrations and again as a member of the regular cast in 1995. Melissa's most recent stint saw her spend a couple of weeks in Erinsborough in 2005, in the midst of the show's 20th anniversary year.
Also celebrating her birthday today is another popular Neighbours daughter - Marisa Siketa. Marisa joined the cast as cheeky Summer Hoyland in 2002 and stayed in the role for three years, departing only weeks before Melissa Bell's 2005 return. Marisa has since returned to the cast on several occasions, the most recent being in early 2007, when Summer came back to farewell her dad, Max.
Libby Kennedy's Farewell
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November 5th
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On this day... in 2004, Erinsborough's favourite daughter, Libby Kennedy, bid farewell after ten years as a Ramsay Street resident. In real life, actress Kym Valentine made a sudden departure in order to take the lead role in a new stage production of the movie Dirty Dancing but her character still got a good send-off, with the residents out in force to wave her goodbye as she packed up and drove away to a new life with boyfriend Darren Stark.
Click here to revisit her final moments in Erinsborough.
Terry Shoots Paul
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November 5th
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On this day... in 1985, Terry Robinson, Paul's wife of only a few months, shot him in the shoulder. Having realised that her husband had worked out that it was her, and not Daphne Lawrence, who had shot and killed criminal Charles Durham, Terry turned on Paul and, in a final desperate act, pulled the trigger. Paul made a full recovery, though the incident turned him into the single-minded businessman he became in 1986, while Terry ended up in prison, where she committed suicide a year later.
Take a look at some of the other gun crimes that have rocked sleepy Erinsborough in our In The Line Of Fire feature.
Stefan Dennis' Birthday
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October 30th
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On this day... in 1958, Neighbours actor Stefan Dennis was born. It would be another 26 years, however, before he joined the original Neighbours cast in the role of Paul Robinson, having actually auditioned to play his best friend, Shane Ramsay. He went on to play the role until 1992, returning briefly in 1993, before delighting fans by making a permanent return to Ramsay Street at the end of 2004. Happy Birthday Stefan!
And you can take a look back at Stefan's career so far with our Actor Profile.
Neighbours Debuts On The BBC
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October 27th
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On this day... in 1986, Neighbours made its debut on BBC 1, as part of their new daytime schedule. Shown for the first time at 1.25pm, straight after the One O'Clock News, that opening episode was then repeated the following morning at 10.05am, where it remained until, due to popular demand, it was moved to a 5.35pm evening slot in January 1988. Those BBC 1 afternoon and evening slots have remained one of the few constants in the life of Neighbours as, twenty-one years later, only the lyrics to the theme tune, Ramsay Street itself and actor Stefan Dennis (and even he left and came back again) remain.
Sadly, this will be the last birthday Neighbours celebrates on the BBC as, from next Spring, it will move to its new home on Five. But for now, why not sit back with a cuppa and look at how Neighbours has come of age with our All Grown Up article.
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