Home and Away celebrates special milestone

Australia’s longest consecutive running drama series Home and Away has celebrated a special milestone this week, 37 years since it first went to air.

The series, set on the idyllic shores of the fictional seaside town of Summer Bay, is marking 8000 episodes this week as it enters its 36th season.

And as a special treat to fans, show producers have pulled together a HUGE two weeks of storylines with two weddings – including that of Tane Parata (Ethan Browne) and Felicity Newman (Jacqui Purvis) and a big baby shock!

Yes, you read that right, there’s a new baby on the way to the bay with Bree Cameron (Juliet Godwin) revealing to partner Remi (Adam Rowland).

Question is, is Remi the father, or is it abusive ex-boyfriend Jacob?

Elsewhere in the bay, Xander’s life is also hanging in the balance but enough spoilers for now!

Since the very first episode aired in January 1988 there have been more than 200 regular characters.

However only one has stood the test of time – Alf Stewart, played by Logie award winning actor Ray Meagher.

The now 78-year-old has even earned a Guinness World Record for the longest serving continuous soap character on Australian TV – how about that?

Following in Ray’s footsteps is the character of Irene Roberts (played by Lynne McGranger) since 1991, Leah Patterson (played by Ada Nicodemou) since 2000 and Sally Fletcher (played by Kate Richie) from 1988 – 2008.

8000 episodes isn’t the only major milestone Home and Away has celebrated this year, marking 35 years on air in January this year.

At the time, Ray Meagher took to his Instagram to share in the celebrations with fans.

”I’d just like to wish everybody who’s ever worked on this show, ever been connected with this wonderful show, a very big happy birthday.”

Co-star Lynne McGranger shared in Ray’s happy sentiment.

”What do I love about being on the show? Absolutely everything! All the wonderful people I’ve met over the years, all the wonderful experiences. Happy birthday Home and Away!”

Leah Patterson actress Ada Nicodemou also gave a special mention to fans of the soap drama.

”It’s just really exciting because we’re celebrating 35 years, it’s our birthday!” said Leah.

”And the best part of the celebrations are you guys, the fans, thank you so much for watching the show. The show wouldn’t be anything if it wasn’t for you.”