Neighbours

January 20, 1997

Mal's life hangs in the balance as Karl struggles to save his son. Lou's emotional u-turn leaves everyone baffled. Ruth and Phil decide to stay apart - but can they live without each other?

January 21, 1997

Phil and Ruth are having difficulty staying away from each other. Lou's card night comes up trumps in the form of a friendship with Harold. Billy refuses to forgive Toadie for his interference with Anne's Christmas present.

January 22, 1997

Billy is determined to prove to himself that he can do wild things without Toadie around. Darren and Libby patch up their differences and Vince continues to annoy the girls at Number Thirty.

January 23, 1997

Catherine devises a plan to get rid of Vince. Karl has gained the reputation of an incompetent doctor and Toadie decides to leave Erinsborough.

January 24, 1997

Harold and Lou try to organise a friendly scrabble game, which turns into a full-on battle. Billy and Anne seem destined never to get together. Karl is not happy when he finds out about Billy's bungy-jumping adventure.

January 27, 1997

Lou and Harold both want to buy the same bus - for very different reasons. Mal and Catherine's romance is causing trouble with Catherine's housemates and Billy and Toadie just can't seem to work out their differences. *First appearance of Lisa Elliott

January 28, 1997

Catherine, Jo and Sarah stop quarrelling and get a new flatmate. Toadie prepares to leave Ramsay Street for a life in the country, but will anyone stop him?

January 29, 1997

Libby joins the men at Handy Sam's, and finds life as a labourer is hard work. Lance receives some humiliating news - but will he accept it without a fight?

January 30, 1997

Libby plays a workers prank on Darren, but he has the last laugh. Debbie approaches Phil about taking over the coffee shop, but Phil wants a written proposal.

January 31, 1997

Toadie gets the better of Karl - again. Susan must give Lance the benefit of the doubt or risk him giving up school. Is Debbie ready to run her own business?

February 3, 1997

Debbie finds a new investor for the Coffee Shop in Joanna. Philip joins the Parent Teacher Association to be with Ruth. Toadie and Lance break Susan's sentimentally-prized vase.

February 4, 1997

Philip and Ruth find working together quite difficult. Debbie and Philip's relationship crumbles over Debbie's plans for the Coffee Shop. Toadie's damage to Susan's irreplaceable heirloom is discovered.

February 5, 1997

The bus is in a decrepit state, but Lou and Harold are fired up with enthusiasm. Rumours circulate about a romance between Ruth and Phil. A letter arrives for Harold from an unknown woman.

February 6, 1997

Harold is less than happy with Madge's meddling. Mal won't teach Catherine to drive - but will she find a willing teacher in time to pass her test? Anne and Hannah hit upon a brilliant idea and are convinced they won't get caught.

February 7, 1997

Darren leaves Catherine in the country after an argument during their driving lesson. Hannah and Anne wag school and almost get sprung. Madge can't live with Claudia a second longer.

February 10, 1997

Anne and Hannah's wicked web unravels when Susan fails to be deceived. Claudia comes between Harold and Madge but should Madge pass on her farewell letter. Catherine and Darren share feelings that will only get them into trouble.

February 11, 1997

Cath and Darren have to do something about the attraction they can't help but feel for each other. Harold decides to go after Claudia, leaving Madge worried that he won't return. Ruth and Phil feel that power may be going to Susan's head when she gives Anne and Hannah a harsh punishment.

February 12, 1997

Susan gets on the wrong side of her students. Catherine's driving lessons are a disaster. Debbie and Philip's rift is far from being resolved.

February 13, 1997

Lou's got money-making plans to help everyone out. Debbie turns out to be the boss from hell in her new job at the coffee shop. Toadie thinks Lou is receiving stolen goods.

February 14, 1997

Toadie and Lance do some detective work - but are Toadie's suspicions justified? Madge and Harold run into some trouble with Claudia. Charity begins at Lou's home and it may cause him problems with the law.

February 17, 1997

Harold and Madge have to make an important decision regarding their future. Debbie and Phil make peace for the moment, but Phil's first pizza delivery ends in disaster. Lou discovers the identity of his mystery dobber, and Toadie is in deep strife.

February 18, 1997

Debbie displays poor management at the coffee shop, and Jo gives her an ultimatum. Lou tries to defend his honour, but his discount television causes a dangerous accident. Hannah has had enough of Susan's meddling.

February 19, 1997

Susan gets the feeling everyone thinks she's become a monster since getting the promotion at school. It looks like Billy's going to miss out on Anne because he doesn't tell her how he really feels. Can Darren and Cath control their feelings for each other?

February 20, 1997

Billy feels he may haved missed the boat with Anne. Harold proposes to Madge. Darren and Catherine can't deny their feelings any longer, but their kiss doesn't go unwitnessed.

February 21, 1997

Anne goes out with another guy, and it looks like Billy has lost his chance. Harold and Madge decide to get married all over again. Catherine confesses to Mal that she kissed Darren.

February 24, 1997

Lou is caught out hiring a stripper for Harold's buck's night. Toadie and Lance send Debbie on a wild goose chase. Darren and Mal have a punch-up over Catherine, and Libby finds out.

February 25, 1997

Darren has shattered Mal's happiness with Cath, and his own happiness with Libby. Toadie makes a date with two gorgeous girls. Harold and Madge believe a stripper is coming to Harold's buck's night.

February 26, 1997

Mal's time with Catherine is over, and he makes a momentous decision about his future. Harold and Madge reaffirm their vows in a beautiful ceremony. Billy decides to tell Anne his true feelings, but once again his attempt is thwarted.

February 27, 1997

Ruth has trouble finding the courage to ask Phil on a big dinner date. Ramsay Street has a new resident from the country. Anne's disgusted with Billy and Justin's behaviour at the beach.

February 28, 1997

Tim and Susan form a strong bond. Philip and Ruth's date gets off to a side splitting start, but ends well. Billy declares his love for Anne.

March 3, 1997

Philip and Ruth can't contain their true feelings any longer. Toadfish admires Lance's cartoon skills and decides to start up a school comic strip. Justin has it in for Billy over their fight for Anne.

March 4, 1997

Anne gives up on men after Justin reveals his true self. Tim and Susan strike up a friendship. Toadie and Lance's comic strip takes a turn toward bad taste.

March 5, 1997

Lisa is shocked to find an unflattering caricature of herself drawn by the students. Tim seems to like Susan just a bit too much. Ruth and Phil strike opposition from Debbie that threatens to end their relationship.

March 6, 1997

Debbie is caught out sabotaging Phil and Ruth's relationship. Lou finds a second hand car for Karl - but Karl leaves him in the lurch. Has Darren ruined his very last chance with Libby?

March 7, 1997

Lou can't sell the car he bought. Cath still wants Mal. Darren goes to desperate measures to win Libby back. Billy and Anne realise friendship isn't enough for either of them.

March 10, 1997

Libby says no to Darren's marriage proposal. Mal doesn't want Catherine coming overseas with him. Anne thinks Billy's the biggest sleaze in the world.

March 11, 1997

Darren looks like he is coming close to running off the rails. Mal and Catherine say goodbye to Ramsay Street. Billy and Anne finally get together.

March 12, 1997

Billy receives a blast from the past that may affect his budding relationship with Anne. Philip and Ruth are finding it difficult to be alone. Toadie confronts Tim about his crush on Susan.

March 13, 1997

Jo tries to help Lou out with his used car business. Tim does not want to face school after hearing the rumours about him and Susan. Lance and Hannah steal Lisa's bike.

March 14, 1997

Lance and Hannah try to do Lisa a good turn, which backfires. Karl's new car is repossessed, causing much amusement to the neighbours. Phil and Ruth finally find some privacy - or do they?

March 17, 1997

Toadie and Lance have a devious idea to make themselves some serious cash. Ruth and Phil's romance is growing stronger - but can Phil cope with Ruth's extroverted ways? Tim's tutorials with Susan leap to a passionate response.

March 18, 1997

Phil and Ruth decide to make some personal compromises for their relationship. Toadie's plan to get money out of Jo backfires. Tim drops a bombshell on Susan.

March 19, 1997

Phil and Ruth decide to make some personal compromises for their relationship. Toadie's plan to get money out of Jo backfires. Tim drops a bombshell on Susan.

March 20, 1997

Despite his bravado, Darren is beginning to lose control. Lou tells Darren it's time he got his act together. Anne's shortcut with her essay ends in embarrassment.

March 21, 1997

Darren looks like he's slipping downhill fast, but Marlene won't give up on him. Lisa and Sarah have housemate problems. Anne thinks forging a signature might get her out of trouble, but will it have the opposite effect?

March 24, 1997

Anne's forged note gets handed into Lisa, landing Anne and Billy in more hot water. Lisa offers a room at number thirty to Darren, and Sarah is not impressed. Tim sends Susan a letter which falls into Karl's hands.

March 25, 1997

Anne finally tells Ruth the truth about the forged signature. Hannah pals up with Sarah and changes her image. Karl has a confrontation with Tim over his feelings for Susan.

March 26, 1997

Susan returns to Erinsborough to sort out the mess she left behind. Anne promises Billy she'll support him, despite a temporary ban placed on their relationship. Toadie and Lance plan the party of the century.

March 27, 1997

Toadie and Lance's party ends up being a disaster. Ruth's still giving Phil the itches. Debbie's sure Darren has stolen money from the coffee shop till.

March 28, 1997

Toadie and Lance's party ends up being a disaster. Ruth's still giving Phil the itches. Debbie's sure Darren has stolen money from the coffee shop till.

March 31, 1997

Toadie realises he has to make amends with Joanna. Libby, Sarah and Lisa go on a girls night out, only to get chatted up by the same guy. Billy feels his emotional needs are being overlooked by the family.

April 1, 1997

Sarah and Lisa get caught chasing after the same man. Tim decides to leave Erinsborough. Can Toadie and Lance convince Joanna to go along with their surprise?

April 2, 1997

Tim finally decides he has had enough of Ramsay Street. Toadie and Lance take Jo on a special adventure. Phil's rash is coming between him and Ruth.

April 3, 1997

Phil and Ruth finally figure out the source of the itch. Lou is frustrated when business deals don't go according to plan. The war between Debbie and Darren grows more intense.

April 4, 1997

Lou's dream of a bus restaurant is turning into a nightmare. Debbie and Darren bury the hatchet. Ruth thinks Phil isn't taking their relationship seriously.

April 7, 1997

Darren's business is in trouble. Phil and Ruth can't sort out their communication problems. Billy makes the fatal mistake of calling Anne by his old girlfriend's name.

April 8, 1997

Darren is tempted by a dodgy offer to save his business. Karl can't say no to Marlene being his receptionist. Billy has to resolve things with Melissa or risk losing Anne.

April 9, 1997

Are Billy and Anne going to patch things up? Darren seems set to cross the line of the law again. There's a stranger in town who has more than a passing interest in Ruth.

April 10, 1997

Lou squares his debt over, but Sarah is unimpressed. Ben wins over the girls at number thirty - but is there something mysterious about him? Hannah writes a short story about Susan and Tim, and Susan is distraught.

April 11, 1997

Hannah's short story about Susan and Tim creates waves amongst the Ramsay Street residents. Lou is cynical about Marlene's 'bad luck' curse. New resident Ben Atkins is showing an odd interest in the Wilkinson family.

April 14, 1997

Darren is poised on the brink of committing a crime. Jo decides to renew contact with Rob. Ben takes more than a passing interest in the Wilkinson family.

April 15, 1997

While seeking a loan, Darren hits a financial dead end. Jo flies back to the arms of Rob. Ruth gets suspicious because Ben is too interested in the Wilkinson family.

April 16, 1997

Ruth continues to worry about Ben. Debbie and Wayne are getting closer, while Billy and Anne are drifting further apart. Toadie comes up with a brilliant way to make some fast money.

April 17, 1997

Marlene is proving to be quite a handful as Karl's receptionist. Despite temptation, Darren manages to stay clear of crime. Toadie's money making schemes get him into trouble again.

April 18, 1997

Toadie continues to beg - this time for forgiveness. Libby tries to drum up business for Karl. Darren confesses the truth about his business and discovers he has supporters.

April 21, 1997

Toadie has found someone special, but can he keep up his web of deceit? Debbie refuses to see Wayne's shady character. The news of Anne's crush does little to please Billy.

April 22, 1997

Does Anne's crush on Ben spell the end for her and Billy? Debbie must face a few home truths about Wayne. Toadie endures a disastrous date that ends up with a kiss.

April 23, 1997

Ruth is worried that Ben is chasing after Anne. Toadie thinks he has to lie to keep his girlfriend. Marlene finally drives Karl mad as his receptionist at the surgery.

April 24, 1997

Sarah's pushed too far at the pub. If Marlene hasn't quit, then Karl's going to have to fire her. Anne is shattered when Ben tells her she's still a kid.

April 25, 1997

Anne comes clean with Ruth, over her infatuation with Ben. Sarah needs her confidence boosted. Marlene is determined to remain Karl's only receptionist.

April 28, 1997

Marlene continues to thwart Karl's attempts to get a second receptionist. Appearances are deceiving where Toadie's romance with Rebecca is concerned. Anne learns the shocking truth about Ben.

April 29, 1997

Marlene's caught out once and for all by Karl. The game could be up for Toadie and his romance with Becky. Discovering Ben is the child she adopted out is too much for Ruth.

April 30, 1997

Becky surprises Toadie with a startling confession. Libby's new business venture gets off to a shaky start. Ben's revelation has turned Ruth's life upside down.

May 1, 1997

Billy gets roped into doing a job for Libby, with disastrous results. Darren and Debbie are developing a strong rapport. Ruth is clearly distressed by Ben's revelation and the whole family is affected.

May 2, 1997

Debbie has trouble with a customer, while Libby has a strange job interview. Billy tries to help Anne through a tough time in her life. Ruth has some tough decisions to make.

May 5, 1997

Marlene sets Sarah up for a fall on her first day at work. Ben decides to stay on and get to know his biological family better. Libby gets off on the wrong foot with Rohan.

May 6, 1997

Sarah's first day at Karl's surgery is a disaster. Ben and Ruth open up to each other and Libby's attempt to be more than a house cleaner to Rohan backfires.

May 7, 1997

Ruth has began to accept she is Ben's mother. Libby breaks through some barriers with Rohan. Has Darren pushed things too far with Debbie?

May 8, 1997

Debbie rejects Darren's offer of romance - but has her decision been too hasty? Billy feels he has to change in order to keep Anne's heart. Toadie can't hide the truth from Rebecca any longer.

May 9, 1997

Darren and Debbie make the first tentative steps towards romance, while Toadie and Rebecca finally part, but not without a few more surprises. Billy's birthday lunch is ruined by Karl and Susan.

May 12, 1997

Anne, Ben and Billy all make their peace. Darren helps out at the coffee shop, but his cooking turns out to be too hot to handle. Libby and Rohan have a shopping expedition which has disastrous results.

May 13, 1997

Marlene finds out about a receptionist of the year competition and proceeds to drive Karl mad. Libby wants Rohan to move in with the Kennedy's. Anne and Ruth have an all out battle.

May 14, 1997

Rohan finds his place in Ramsay Street. Marlene and Sarah's bickering is too much for Karl. Ann can't take family pressures any longer.

May 15, 1997

Ruth and Anne come to a new understanding. Lou wants to get his hands on Lisa's netball team. Helen gets in the way of Darren and Debbie's romance.

May 16, 1997

Susan gets the wrong idea about Billy and Toadie's night out. Lisa and Lou have some problems to work out regarding the netball team. Helen has had enough of being patronised.

May 19, 1997

Lou finds a new opportunity with the netball team. Marlene calls the shots in the receptionist of the year competition - but Sarah won't give up. Rohan makes a dramatic decision about his life in Ramsay Street.

May 20, 1997

Marlene's quick thinking wins her some points in the receptionist of the year competition. Lou is given a second chance to prove his worth as a netball coach. Libby and Rohan's trip to the country turns to disaster.

May 21, 1997

Hannah finds she's in the way with everyone. Rohan overcomes his fear and gets help for the trapped Libby. Lance and Ben find a common interest - boxing!

May 22, 1997

Lance gets enthusiastic about his boxing fight with Ben. Toadie finally arrives home from his long weekend at Wonthaggi - with a mysterious parcel!

May 23, 1997

The kids find the perfect location to set up the flying fox. Helen proves she's able to look after herself. Lance pays no attention to Ruth or Ben when it comes to boxing.

May 26, 1997

Lance is determined not to give up his boxing dream, that is until Karl has a chat to him. Susan takes Mal's video letter just a little too seriously.

May 27, 1997

Lance and Billy have a fight to prove a point. Susan and Karl have much to work through, dealing with the emotional dilemma of seeing their children grow up and eventually leave home.

May 28, 1997

Ruth has to deal with Lance's desire to box, while Libby cheers Rohan up with a day out.

May 29, 1997

Lou gears up for his inaugural bus-restaurant ride. Libby tries therapy on Rohan with devastating results. Meanwhile, Debbie is resentful of Libby getting too close to Darren.

May 30, 1997

Lou finally gets the bus up and running, but not for long! Libby is confused about her feelings for Rohan, while Darren and Debbie's new relationship seems to be floundering.

June 2, 1997

Lou's expecting a brilliant newspaper review about his bus, but he's in for a surprise. Debbie breaks off with Darren, only to be forced to rethink her decision. Libby tells Rohan her true feelings - but how will he respond?

June 3, 1997

Debbie and Darren repair their relationship with a new set of ground rules. Libby is shattered when Rohan tells her he needs more time to think things through. Marlene tries to patch up Lou's bus problems without much success.

June 4, 1997

Debbie and Darren finally find some time alone. Lou decides to throw a party and the whole of Ramsay street is invited. Billy, Toadie and Hannah search for ideas on how to avoid being grounded.

June 5, 1997

Susan shocks Karl when she says she wants another baby. Lance finally gets in the boxing ring. Toadie, Billy and Hannah sign themselves up for the school debate team as a way of getting out of their grounding punishment.

June 6, 1997

Karl is forced to make a decision about having another baby. Lance has taken a battering with his first spar, which ultimately encourages him to see Ben's advice in a new light. Toadie and Anne join ranks over a school debate, much to Billy's disapproval.

June 9, 1997

Lou sees a way to make some fast money using Helen's art. With Susan keen to have another baby, Karl is forced to make a tough decision. Lance and Ruth are headed for a disastrous car crash.

June 10, 1997

Ben is afraid of Lance cramping his style. Darren and Debbie start to realise their relationship is not normal. Helen is shattered when she discovers she'll never be able to paint like she used to.

June 11, 1997

Hannah is feeling left out from the netball team. Rohan helps Helen realise she's far from useless. Billy's plan to prove Anne wrong in the debate falls way short of the mark.

June 12, 1997

Marlene is dismayed with the finalist for the Erinsborough Receptionist of the Year competition. Billy is desperate to get Anne's forgiveness after his thoughtless prank. Susan receives news about her plans for another baby.

June 13, 1997

Will Sarah be enticed away from surgery by a modelling offer? The kids decide to sabotage the school debate. Susan is told she may have some complications with getting pregnant, but she is determined to have a baby.

June 16, 1997

Karl and Susan continue the debate about another baby. Darren and Debbie find getting time alone difficult. Libby proves to Rohan she's over Darren.

June 17, 1997

Billy notices his parents' odd behaviour and is worried they have changed their mind about having a baby. Libby pledges her love for Rohan prematurely. Lisa takes the result of the netball final to heart.

June 18, 1997

The netball team lose control on Lou's bus. Sarah asks Ben to find her a cheap second hand car and upon looking for one, decides with Ruth's permission to buy an old bomb for Anne and Lance. Ruth and Phil plan a camping holiday with the kids who are less than excited.

June 19, 1997

Ben's mechanical repairs turn Number Thirty into a car yard. Ruth, Phil and the kids go camping and have a terrible time. A burglar breaks into the Robinson house and terrorises Helen.

June 20, 1997

While camping Anne is certain she sees a snake but a search fails to find it. Karl refuses to let Susan have a baby if it means her life will be in danger. Helen gets to know the burgler.

June 23, 1997

Debbie decides to cheer Lisa up with a friendly netball game. Billy pawns his bike and watch to pay for an expensive birthday gift for Anne. Meanwhile, a snake is discovered in Ruth's house.

June 24, 1997

Ruth, Lance and Anne can't escape from a snake. Deb tries to cheer up Lisa but all goes wrong. Karl finds out that Billy's pawned his bike so he can buy an expensive gift.

June 25, 1997

Lance tries to protect Anne from a snake and ends up getting bitten himself. Jamie-Lee worms her way into Helen's life, while Libby thinks Sarah and Rohan are seeing each other behind her back.

June 26, 1997

Libby and Rohan sort out their relationship. Marlene joins a dating agency and Lou follows suit. Lou is also worried that Helen is being lead astray by Jamie.

June 27, 1997

Lou counts his chickens too early with the dating service and his problems with the bus appear to have gone up in smoke. Is Libby and Darren's relationship really over?

June 30, 1997

Sarah becomes fascinated with Karl's medical journals. Toadie sees a new side to Jamie-Lee. Lou's nonchalant attitude to the bus burning has got a few people in Ramsay Street talking.

July 1, 1997

Sarah remains convinced she's seriously ill as she investigates symptoms through Karl's medical journals. Toadie realises what's keeping Jamie away from her family. Detectives continue to investigate the deliberate burning of Lou's bus.

July 2, 1997

Helen supports Lou as the detectives point their finger at him for the arson attack. Ruth reacts badly when Billy gives Anne an expensive gift for her birthday.

July 3, 1997

Debbie finally faces up to the fact that her relationship with Darren is never going to amount to anything. Ruth decides that Phil needs to attend a therapy group for some assertiveness training.

July 4, 1997

Billy's horse is galloping out of control and Anne sets off after him. Darren confronts Libby to apologise and tell her just how much she means to him. Phil takes advice from Ruth and attends classes to learn how to be more assertive.

July 7, 1997

Billy and Anne have a lot of explaining to do after the horse riding camp. Debbie and Lisa get into a very embarrassing situation. Ruth decides to take the family away from Erinsborough.

July 8, 1997

No one can change Ruth's mind with regards to moving from Erinsborough. She does however confess to Susan why she wants to leave. Darren is about to get crushed in a lift.

July 9, 1997

Toadie helps Lance to get a date. Libby and Darren confront their feelings for each other with little success. Lou throws Marlene out of the house for doubting his innocence over the burning of the bus.

July 10, 1997

Lou is cleared of suspicion surrounding the bus fire - but at a price. Marlene and Lou are far from patching things up. Lance learns a lesson in love.

July 11, 1997

Sarah has an emergency at the surgery. Phil and Karl try to patch up their friendship with Lou. Lance decides not to get an earring, but will he fit into Amy's circle of friends?

July 14, 1997

Ruth is determined to leave Ramsay Street. Amy introduces Lance to the cool group at school who seem to know all about his lovelife. Billy plays a trick on Lisa to catch her out.

July 15, 1997

Lance feels like he's dating not just Amy, but all of her friends. Billy's trick catches Lisa out with dire consequences. Anne tries to get Phil and Ruth back together.

July 16, 1997

Lance and Anne put the pressure on Ruth to change her mind about moving away from Erinsborough. Lance realises he has to be totally honest with Amy about every little thing and admits it's the price he has to pay for going out with a great girl.

July 17, 1997

Toadie and Hannah manage to get their hands on a juke box. Darren refuses to give up on Libby and tries to talk sense to her about her class cutting. Lou, Karl and Phil are enjoying a day of fishing when suddenly the motor on their boat fails.

July 18, 1997

Toadie's genius money-making days are over after he discovers the jukebox he bought doesn't work. Marlene goes on her first date arranged by her dating agency and everything seems fine until Lloyd meets Debbie

July 21, 1997

It's a case of the green-eyed monster for Marlene. The search party is still on, with Karl still missing - will he be found dead or alive?

July 22, 1997

Karl has gone through a personality metamorphosis after his recent disappearance. Lance lets Anne take the wrap for Amy and her mates

July 23, 1997

Helen's date with Lloyd ends with Philip concerned for her well being. Lance owns up to the school prank and risks his relationship with Amy.

July 24, 1997

Harold thinks his tuba teacher is a suspicious criminal. Toadie and Hannah resort to desperate measures to raise money for their juke box. Ben thinks Lisa's in love with him.

July 25, 1997

Lisa bids Ramsay Street goodbye. Toadie and Hannah have an important meeting at the bank. Has Ben been given an offer too good to refuse?

July 28, 1997

Ben and Lou need a third party in the new business venture. Sarah finds a dog and it causes havoc in the house. Harold strikes up the band.

July 29, 1997

Ben can't help but become attached to Arthur. Ruth is about to become Karl's new workmate and Lance finally stands up to Amy's friends.

July 30, 1997

Amy's friends cause more trouble for Lance. Ruth decides to redecorate Karl's surgery. Lou and Marlene both plan a romantic dinner at home.

July 31, 1997

Both Lou and Marlene are stood up from their dates. Harold's tuba days could be over. Libby and Darren seem destined to be off side.

August 1, 1997

Karl volunteers to be a football umpire to the embarrassment of Toadie and Billy. Libby is forced to apologise to Darren. Helen finally reveals her secret.

August 4, 1997

Debbie draws the footy crowd with pizza. Helen's worried the family wants her out. Karl and Billy disagree on the footy field.

August 5, 1997

Can Billy forgive Karl over the footy mishap? Meanwhile, Toadie is out eaten. Food poisoning strikes the coffee shop.

August 6, 1997

The coffee shop food poisoning scare threatens Debbie and Libby's friendship. Is Ben and Sarah's new housemate as boring as he appears? Harold passes the band audition.

August 7, 1997

Ben and Sarah's new flatmate turns out to be quite a dark horse. Madge tries her best to persuade Harold to return to Queensland with her while Ben's worst fears about Lou's garage plans have come true.

August 8, 1997

Harold thinks Lou has spiked his drink. A girlie calender in Lou's garage does not go unnoticed. Lance is caught breaking into the nursery.

August 11, 1997

Lance gets in trouble for breaking into the nursery and Ruth is surprised when she accidentally bumps into an old flame. Libby is saved from a fall by a quick thinking Darren.

August 12, 1997

Phil is becoming jealous of Ruth's friendship with Alistair. Meanwhile, Robert does his ventriloquist act for Sarah and Ben, while Arthur the dog, takes a dislike to the dummy and tears it to shreds. Libby has one fight too many with Karl and decides to move out.

August 13, 1997

Sarah faces a difficult decision regarding Arthur. Harold gets a job at the coffee shop but is Debbie's business in jeopardy? Darren is having a hard time being 'just' friends with Libby.

August 14, 1997

Hannah has an artful plan to keep Helen from going to a retirement home. Debbie holds a competition for the coffee shop lease while Billy steals Toadie's dream job.

August 15, 1997

Toadie forgives Billy for taking the pool job but Anne's got concerns of her own. Debbie relinquishes her bid on the coffee shop lease while Anne has an interesting proposition for Billy.

August 18, 1997

Debbie finds working with Madge and Harold a nightmare. Ruth's romance heats up with Alistair. Meanwhile, Harold catches Billy with his pants down.

August 19, 1997

Madge and Harold take over the Coffee Shop Lease and if Debbie is to keep her job, she must swallow her pride. Alistair's overnight stay at Ruth's doesn't go unnoticed in Ramsay Street. Meanwhile, Anne's portrait of Billy shows more than he bargained for.

August 20, 1997

Darren and Libby pull together during a crisis. Anne's painting of Billy in his bathers causes trouble. Toadie's jokes in school prompt Susan to teach him a valuable lesson.

August 21, 1997

Toadie can't get out of a trashy job. Darren makes a move on Libby. Meanwhile, Ben discovers a new admirer.

August 22, 1997

Helen manages to steal a look at Hannah's essay and is amazed to discover just how much Hannah depends on her. Meanwhile, Lance's ego jeopardises his relationship with Amy?

August 25, 1997

Sarah's under pressure from Ben to let Angela move into Number Thirty but she doesn't like the idea as new couples' can spell trouble. Meanwhile, Alistair has dinner with Ruth and offers advice to Lance about how to handle his relationships.

August 26, 1997

Lance has got himself into more hot water with Amy by pretending that he really does have a secret admirer. Will Sarah agree to give Angela a trial run at Number Thirty. Ben is sure that once Angela moves in, Sarah will be delighted.

August 27, 1997

Lance and Amy don't seem to be getting any closer to a reconciliation. However, following Ben's advice, Lance devises a plan to win her back. Debbie gets reinstated as manager of the Coffee Shop but is warned about introducing the jukebox into the shop.

August 28, 1997

When Harold is electrocuted by the jukebox and taken to hospital, Madge remains adamant that the jukebox must go. The kids are shattered and ultimately Debbie protests and quits her job in the process.

August 29, 1997

Debbie declares war on the Coffee Shop and decides to open a lunch cart at Lassiters. Anne is mortified after failing her learner's permit test. She was the one who said only a total idiot could fail.

September 1, 1997

Debbie has no intention of giving up her food trolley at Lassiter's and Madge is furious. She's stealing all the coffee shop customers! Lance decides to take his mother's romantic life in hand and get Ruth and Philip back together.

September 2, 1997

The icy rift between Madge in the Coffee Shop and Debbie with her lunch trolley, is getting wider. They match up to each other with price cutting and free offers. Harold is very alarmed! The stunt Hannah and Lance are scheming for Ruth and Phil results in a major flood in the kitchen.

September 3, 1997

The coffee shop price war is hotting up as Madge offers Debbie to give up the lunch cart by offering further discounts to Coffee Shop customers. Meanwhile, Darren and Libby have come to the brink of an emotional reunion but can they face up to their true feelings.

September 4, 1997

Marlene is so envious of Sarah studying, she considers taking a course as well. Ben and Sarah begin interviewing applicants for another room-mate. A young policeman, Matt, impresses Sarah but not Ben when he's later pulled over for driving an unregistered car.

September 5, 1997

Marlene is quickly becoming obsessed with her new found love of the Italian language and its driving Karl crazy. Meanwhile, after Sarah offers Matt to move into Number Thirty, Ben gets all set to tell him he can't, however, Ben hasn't got a leg to stand on when Matt apologises for booking him.

September 8, 1997

Claire Girard, moves in with Madge and Harold. Though impressing everyone with her friendly and outgoing personality, Madge becomes sceptical. While the jukebox looks like being a raging success for Toadie and Hannah, Debbie's business seems to be at a loss.

September 9, 1997

Madge thinks she's won the Coffee Shop feud when she sees Debbie packing up her things, however, Lou and Debbie make a deal which will benefit them all. Meanwhile, Claire helps Hannah attract the man of her dreams, Jack.

September 10, 1997

After a disastrous meeting at the Coffee Shop with Jack, Hannah is convinced her chances with him are zero. It would appear he's far more interested in Claire. Billy and Anne are pleased with the little secret of their night time swim together, until they discover their rendezvous was captured on film.

September 11, 1997

Matt's discovery of a suspect engine at Lou's garage prompts a police search, much to Ben's disgust. Darren is preparing to leave for Byron Bay but the unresolved tension continues to mount between him and Libby.

September 12, 1997

Sarah and Matt realise they are enormously attracted to one another but there's no way they can entertain a relationship whilst Matt lives at Number Thirty. As Darren leaves Ramsay Street, Libby rushes to stop him.

September 15, 1997

Libby manages to catch Darren's bus before it's travelled too far but does he love Libby enough to stay in Erinsborough? Meanwhile, Claire decides to help love along between Jack and Hannah but is she setting Hannah up for a big fall?

September 16, 1997

Things are looking good for Hannah and Jack, even though Jack is unaware of her real age. How long can she keep it a secret or will someone spill the beans? Sarah is on dangerous grounds keeping secrets from Ben.

September 17, 1997

Sarah and Matt have a wonderful time at the Police Graduation Ball and realise they're more than just friends. But how can they hide this from Ben? Meanwhile, Billy is treating Anne like dirt and if he's not careful, he will lose her forever!

September 18, 1997

Ben's suspicions as to Matt and Sarah's relationship are increasing. He's going to get to the bottom of it once and for all but will Sarah beat him at his own game. Will the school car rally turn to tragedy?

September 19, 1997

Will Billy be involved in a serious road accident? Harold and Madge are shocked to learn they must close down the Coffee Shop. Does Debbie have the answer to their problems?

September 22, 1997

Anne and Billy enter themselves into a competition to find out if they are the perfect couple. Hannah has money to burn and Claire knows exactly how to help her spend it.

September 23, 1997

It's out and out war between Hannah and her father over how she should spend her money. Amy forces Lance into buying her a present with disastrous results.

September 24, 1997

Lance and Anne are home alone and Toadie sees it as the perfect opportunity to have the party of the century with serious repercussions.

September 25, 1997

Lance's party is going off, that is until the police arrive. Who has dobbed him in? Sarah decides to come clean about her affair with Matt but how will Ben react? What is the secret Libby is hiding from her family?

September 26, 1997

Can Lance and Anne hide the damage left by the party before their mother gets home? Can Matt talk Ben into letting him stay on in Ramsay Street and will a betrayal of trust ruin Darren and Libby's relationship?

September 29, 1997

Ben's sister, Caitlin, arrives earlier than planned and is already making enemies. Matt's got some shocking news and it involves Sarah!

September 30, 1997

The rivalry between Caitlin and Anne is heating up and Billy is caught in the middle. Sarah faces an important decision, will she give up everything for love?

October 1, 1997

It's crunch time for Matt and Sarah, will their romance survive or is it time for goodbye? Claire's got a devious plan and it's going to get Hannah and Lance into a lot of trouble.

October 2, 1997

Madge catches Claire red handed. Will she sell her friend out to save herself? Toadie faces a cash crisis. Lance's surprise for Amy turns into disaster.

October 3, 1997

Will Lance convince his mother to let Amy stay the night? Can Darren resist a showdown when he meets with an old enemy?

October 6, 1997

Lance and Amy get their wish - Amy is allowed to sleep over but she has more than sleeping in mind. Billy and Anne are chosen as the finalists in the Teen Girl Couple competition but Billy wants nothing to do with it. Will Anne find a substitute for Billy?

October 7, 1997

Anne and Lance pose together as a couple for a magazine competition but things go unexpectedly when they're asked to kiss. Libby and Darren's romantic plans are ruined once again and Libby is forced to compete with Martin for Darren's attention.

October 8, 1997

What starts out as a romantic day alone for Lance and Amy, ends up being a torturous affair. Claire's idle hands turn to mischief once again but when caught red-handed, Claire begs Hannah to take the blame. Will she do it?

October 9, 1997

Sarah discovers an expensive jewellery box in Matt's shopping bags. Is he about to propose? Nobody believes Hannah is really responsible for the trouble at the Coffee Shop. Can Debbie get to the truth?

October 10, 1997

Is Matt going to propose to Sarah, or will she spoil all his plans? Caitlin secretly tells Anne that she has the hots for Billy and she had better watch out!

October 13, 1997

Caitlin feels unwanted in Ramsay Street. An age-old feud between the Ramsay and Robinson descendents re-appears. Anne is convinced Caitlin is out to steal Billy.

October 14, 1997

Harold throws in his job to pursue a matter of pride. Marlene leaves Ramsay Street for the high seas. Anne fears Caitlin means business with Billy.

October 15, 1997

Billy chooses between Anne's love and Caitlin's friendship. Is Libby jealous of the friendship growing between Darren and Martin? Susan leads the fight for the school, but will she be around to see it?

October 16, 1997

Sarah farewells Matt. Susan's loyalties are divided by the offer of a lifetime. Lance gets framed by Jacinta.

October 17, 1997

Lance tries to get Amy to trick Jacinta into telling her the truth, but Amy says she will not tell her. Jacinta, Cara and Mitch are discussing her confrontation with Lance when Amy comes in wanting to talk Jacinta in private. Amy now pleads for Lance but Jacinta tells her that she has broken the group up with her relationship with Lance.

October 20, 1997

After hearing of Helen's death Michael, Philip's eldest son, drives through the night to join his family at this tragic time of loss. Rosemary also arrives from America and proves to be very supportive during Hannah's disappearance.

October 21, 1997

Will Hannah and Claire be discovered in Ben's garage before it's too late? Harold is writing a eulogy about Helen and is finding it very difficult. However, we are treated to some memorable scenes from Helen's time on the show.

October 22, 1997

Helen's memorial service brings everyone together for a last farewell. Michael's return to Ramsay Street gives Debbie cause for reflection and his talk of peace and tranquillity in the countryside brings her to a decision.

October 23, 1997

Anne's first modelling assignment with Teen Girl is to illustrate a story, however, she experiences a tragic start. Parenthood is proving too much for Ben as Caitlin moves in to Number Thirty.

October 24, 1997

Ben's at his wit's end when it comes to making Caitlin behave like a proper housemate. He is further shocked when Caitlin reveals to Sarah personal family secrets about him as a teenager.

October 27, 1997

Harold has to hide his unemployment from Madge. Toadie's pranking backfires. Billy's subconscious is straying from Anne.

October 28, 1997

Harold maintains the charade of a man with a job. Can Anne stay true to Billy? Caitlin and Mandi are caught out.

October 29, 1997

Karl tries desperate measures to keep Susan in Erinsborough. Ben plays reluctant parent to Caitlin. Sleepless nights for Hannah.

October 30, 1997

Hannah says goodbye to Claire. Toadie out-pranks himself. Darren has a life threatening fall at work.

October 31, 1997

Darren's injuries need some expert care. Libby has to cope with missing her first uni exam. Muck up day goes horribly wrong.

November 3, 1997

Ben's temper leads to trouble at the racetrack. Harold is finding lying to Madge about his work more and more difficult. Toadie confesses to the school prank that risked people's lives.

November 4, 1997

Toadie's shame drives him away. Harold's caught out over his fictitious job. Ben loses his nerve on the track.

November 5, 1997

Ben decides he'll stick with racing. Lance isn't happy about his Dad's impending marriage. Sarah and Matt call it quits. Ruth and Phil are reunited.

November 6, 1997

Phil and Ruth are back together. Darren gets involved in a flower mix-up. Caitlin meets James and they hit it off big time.

November 7, 1997

James and Caitlin's friendship moves quickly. Harold tells Madge the truth about his job. Toadie's hiding place is revealed.

November 10, 1997

Darren meets the boss from hell. Philip, Hannah and Ruth take to the country. Billy and Toadie fall out over Toadie's disappearance.

November 11, 1997

Philip and Ruth's trip to the country turns sour. Sondra pushes Darren to the limit. Toadie's goose is about to be cooked.

November 12, 1997

Toadie returns home, but Billy's not impressed. Caitlin and Mandi convince Harold to take in a boarder, but will they take in Mandi? Billy's torn - is he in love with two girls?

November 13, 1997

Are Madge and Harold going to become foster parents? Bob's back to stay with Sarah - for good. Billy's crush on Caitlin is no longer a secret.

November 14, 1997

Sarah has a terrible dream. Harold and Madge have a new member of the family. Will Billy go to Sydney?

November 17, 1997

Hannah is finding it almost impossible to drag herself away from the Internet and her new boyfriend. Billy decides to let Anne have the final say on whether he tries out for the local swim team's trip to Sydney.

November 18, 1997

Toadie decides the time has come for him to move out of the Kennedy house and move into Number Thirty. However, Ben doesn't like the idea and instead suggests Toadie move in with Lou.

November 19, 1997

Without her father's permission, Hannah installs an additional phone line to cope with her incessant Internet use. Libby confronts Sondra about flirting with Darren but is forced to question Darren's motives instead.

November 20, 1997

Billy is revved up for the big try out for the swim meet in Sydney. Will he make the team? Meanwhile, Anne admits to Toadie that she's paranoid about Caitlin being on the swim team.

November 21, 1997

Anne is outraged at Billy after discovering, thanks to Toadie, that Billy has feelings for Caitlin. Will Anne ever forgive him? Meanwhile, Hannah is shocked when her Internet love suddenly arrives. Is he what she expected?

November 24, 1997

Hannah is desperate for Mike to stay at her house but they first have to get around Phil. Lance is roped into a cricket game with Amy's brother and is scared of making a fool of himself.

November 25, 1997

Lance is feeling shattered after his dismal performance on the cricket pitch with Amy's brother. Susan and Darren urge Libby to find out how she went with her University exams.

November 26, 1997

Libby feels it might be time to throw in the academic towel, following her exam results. Hannah realises that Mike was more exciting on the Internet, than in Erinsborough.

November 27, 1997

Billy and the swim team are having a great time in Sydney and Billy is getting especially close with Caitlin. Should Anne be worried? Meanwhile, after checking the takings from the jukebox, Toadie discovers he's being rorted.

November 28, 1997

Anne tells Ruth she needs her to let her do something. She needs to talk to Billy, face-to-face. She promises that if Anne rings she'll leave, but Billy doubts she will. Billy tells Caitlin she should go and get her shower, but Caitlin says she can always have one here - 'isn't his shower big enough for two?'