The Last Thursday on Neighbours…

Mackenzie Hargreaves

It’s very hard to say goodbye to Mackenzie…

Mackenzie has been busy helping Yashvi with Toadie and Mel’s wedding preparations. She was struck with sadness when she saw a gift wrapped in the same paper as a gift to her and Hendrix. After some time, she was able to breathe through it and accept that throughout the rest of her life, she will always be reminded of her lost love. I am glad they aren’t rushing through and glossing over Mackenzie’s loss or forgetting her in the final week, as she had such a big story recently. She deserves to be a big part of the finale. She has been one of the best Neighbours characters ever created and I will miss watching her so much. I am sure Georgie Stone will go on to do amazing things.

Shane and Izzy

As expected, Shane and Izzy spent the day flirting with each other before kissing rather passionately in his car. Izzy backed off – eventually – but not before Kyle saw them at it and saw her making a hasty exit. See, we all knew she hadn’t mended her ways and that she was going to break Mal’s heart. Also, let’s just take a moment to acknowledge that Shane has named his car, Bouncer. We remember you, Bouncer. We love you.

Paul and Terese #Praise

Terese lost her temper with Glen (Metro)

So, things were understandably tense after Terese’s outburst. Paul left the house somewhat shell shocked while Glen looked out. Roxy probed Terese over her feelings but Terese denied still being in love with Paul. Unable to leave things be, Roxy went ahead and told Paul to tell Terese the truth of his love for her. Proving that his feelings really are genuine, Paul refused, not wanting to upset Terese’s life after everything he had already done to her.

However, it was Glen who put a halt to things in the end, realising that he would always be second best to Paul. Warning her against reuniting with Paul, as he would only hurt her and suggesting that River Bend would still be a good business option, Glen stepped out of Terese’s life.

Lucy, Chris, Annie and The Great Migration

Chris Pappas arrived in Erinsborough with Annie, the daughter he and Lucy share. He now has a beard and a pony tail and so much more confidence than he ever had when he lived on Ramsay Street. He is dating a chef called Tony and is so much happier with his life. It is lovely see this development of such a beloved character, even if it is only a brief glimpse. And I love that Paul still calls him Freckles.

As the family shared a celebration, Leo announced that he too would be joining them in New York. For the first time in his life, all of Paul’s kids will be living in the same place. But I still don’t want Paul to go. I want him to stay in Ramsay Street with Terese!

The Ramsay Street History Book

Chloe’s memories are full of Elly… (Digital Spy)

Chloe shared her memories of moving to Ramsay Street, all of them caught up with her love for Elly, including the way she supported her when she was diagnosed with Huntington’s, their first kiss and her heartbreak when they called time on their relationship, deciding to put their friendship first. We were treated to flashbacks throughout. There is something I quite like about Chloe seeming to have completely forgotten that she was ever married to Pierce. I really couldn’t stand him.

Later, Chris gathered with some of the Ramsay Street gang and shared his own memories of living in Erinsborough. He told them of his journey towards accepting himself and we saw a flashback to him coming out to best friend, Andrew Robinson. As he talked about his experiences, Chloe and Mackenzie in particular could relate.

Chloe opened up about her conflicting feelings for Elly. Mackenzie, Roxy, Yashvi and Chris all encouraged her to go for it and be happy. Yes! Go, Chloe! Be happy! #Chelly! I believe in you!

Name Drops: Elly Conway, Bouncer, Hendrix Grayson, Andrew Robinson

Arrivals: Chris Pappas, Annie Robinson

Departures: None

The Last Wednesday on Neighbours…

The Great Migration

Jane was devastated to discover that Nicolette, David and Aaron are planning to move to New York with Paul and baby Isla. They reassured her that she could visit every single school holidays and that they would be back to visit often. Aaron even went as far as suggesting that she could move with them, except that part of the reason Nicolette wants to leave is because she has had an argument with her mother.

Jane confronted Paul for taking her family away but he quite rightly pointed out that had she not interfered with his business deal with Shane, nobody would be going anywhere.

In a really classy move, Nicolette told Kiri that she was emigrating – by text. Charming!

Terese and Paul

Packing up, Paul continued to try and persuade Leo (one of the only members of the family without a record, as far as I can remember) to move to New York with the rest of them but he felt tied to the business and his life in Erinsborough. While packing, Paul found several items belonging to Terese.

Meanwhile, Glen fretted to Kiri about finding Terese crying the night before, admitting that he buried his head in the sand and pretended it didn’t happen. He is worried that she is unsure about River Bend and when Paige walked in on the conversation, she and Kiri both privately expressed their concern to each other that Terese had feelings for Paul. Paige took her concerns further when Kyle and Roxy arrived for the wedding, setting pregnant Roxy on the case of finding out what other people thought. Roxy gathered evidence from Aaron and Susan, who both thought it was entirely possible that love was not over between the former couple. And can I just say what a breath of fresh air Kyle and especially Roxy are to the show? I am so happy they are back!

Terese had also found some of Paul’s things while packing up her own house and took them over to him. They did an exchange, both attempting to be happy for each other and themselves. The love between them is just so clear, it is excruciating! I have held onto hope all this time, especially as the credits never changed and they always kept them together, despite the divorce and Terese getting together with Glen. And now… now they have to get them back together. They belong together!

Back at home, Terese discovered that Paul accidentally gave her Jim’s compendium, his most precious item that he always keeps with him. She was unable to stop herself from looking through it and in it, she found some letters, written to her, telling her how much he loves her and regrets losing her. Glen found her in tears and she was surprisingly honest about what had set her off.

Realising what he had done, Paul visited Terese to get the compendium back, only for the pair of them and Roxy and Paige to arrive to find Glen about to angrily throw the compendium in the bin. Terese flew into a furious rage at Glen, insisting that what he was doing was unforgivable, knowing what the compendium means to Paul. Everyone was stunned at her outburst and it only confirmed to the girls and probably Glen and perhaps Paul where her heart truly lies.

Toadie and Mel

Toadie and Mel were shocked that the entire Street is up for sale, not just theirs and Chloe’s, meaning that selling isn’t going to be all that easy. Mel gave Toadie the chance to opt out but he was determined to make a fresh start and create new memories in a new home with his new wife. I am happy for them but still sad at the idea that they won’t be living on our beloved Ramsay Street anymore.

They then got a surprise visit from none other than Toadie’s old bestie, Joel Samuels! Mel was amused and a little overwhelmed at the banter between them. He isn’t able to stick around for the wedding (and didn’t bother showing up for Toadie’s last wedding either so does it matter?) so wanted to drop in and meet Mel and give his congratulations.

While Lucas confirmed that he would be attending, Amy finally got in touch to say that she would be staying in Cairns and would send a van for her things. Toadie and Mel were upset not to get a chance to sort things out. Personally, I am thrilled that she is gone and no longer consuming all the air time that other characters and guest stars need at such a crucial time as the final few episodes. However, I doubt she will actually stay gone.

The Ramsay Street History Book

While he was visiting, Toadie and Mel took the opportunity to interview Joel for the Ramsay Street History book. With flashbacks, the boys recalled the time they tried to raise money for University by not washing – people threw food at them and they got locked out of the house. They then recalled their Full Monty, something Mel was keen for photos of. It was great to see some funny memories, not just the sentimental ones. Neighbours has been such an emotional ride over the years but let’s not forget how genuinely hilarious it is too. The writing on this show is so fantastic and it has only got better and better as the years have gone on.

Freya interviewed Jane for The Ramsay Street History book and she shared, via flashback stories of her beloved Nan, Mrs Nell Mangel. She admitted that she wasn’t the easiest person to get along with at times. She was sharp and didn’t care what people thought. But she was also kind and she took Jane in when she had nowhere else to go. We saw a lovely clip of Jane and Mrs Mangel saying they loved each other and being celebrated on the Street.

However, when Freya asked about Jane meeting her first love on Ramsay Street (Mike Young),Jane couldn’t talk about it and ended the interview early. So, this begs the question – will she sort things out with Clive or will she get back together with Mike when he returns later in week? Hey, maybe he’s living in New York now…!

Name Drops: Lucas Fitzgerald, Amy Greenwood, Jim Robinson, Mike Young

Arrivals: Joel Samuels, Roxy Canning, Kyle Canning

Departures: Joel Samuels (just visiting)

The Last Tuesday on Neighbours…

The Kennedy’s

Susan is devastated when Mal chooses Izzy

Directly continuing from Monday’s confrontation, moronic Malcolm chose Izzy. Susan’s lip tremble is a work of art. Jackie Woodburne is one of the people I am going to miss the most. Truly.

Later, Susan found Karl gazing at the infamous Kennedy Kids painting that when my wife started watching Neighbours again a few months ago, couldn’t believe was still hanging above the mantlepiece. It is legendary. They visited Mal and Izzy at their hotel and made peace. Susan even apologised for making her son choose and offered her support of their relationship and their move to Ramsay Street in order to maintain her own relationship with her eldest.

Thankfully, we know the relationship won’t last and Izzy hasn’t changed. While Malcolm was in the shower, Izzy received a gift from millionaire Shane Ramsay with a dinner invitation. To be fair, she binned it. But this is Izzy. She will have ditched Mal and hooked up with Shane by the final. I’d bet number twenty four on it!

David and Aaron

David and Aaron had both been looking at apartments in New York and Aaron had even got The Shed valued to see if emigrating was a possibility. Never mind that David, with a criminal record would be so unlikely to get a Visa to live in the States the whole plot is completely implausible but whatever! Let’s suspend our disbelief, I guess.

Their only concern seemed to be Nicolette and Jane. However, when they proposed the idea to Nicolette, she, having spoken to Kiri and with them having decided not to hold each other back, decided to go with the boys. She too has a criminal record and would also not be likely to get a Visa! Thinking about it, it’s very odd that in one Street we have a Doctor and two nurses all struck off. And even weirder that Freya can be struck off from nursing and yet it’s entirely possible for her to become a paramedic. None of them could have gone to The Karl Kennedy Medical School where he started off as a GP and can now perform any kind of life saving surgery required in any situation. I really am going to miss this show!

Anyway, Nic was very keen to escape Jane, with whom she had had a big argument over Byron’s departure. She accused her of letting her own judgements on his life being the reason he left, likening it to the time she left the UK because of Jane’s fear of Mrs Mangel finding out she was a lesbian.

Paul and Terese

The plaque for Josh and Doug will remain (Back to the Bay)

Paul found Terese looking at Josh and Doug Willis’s plaque. She thanked him for ensuring it would stay where it was when the hotel was sold. The grief and tension between them was incredibly strong. I am so desperate for them to get back together and I am really going to miss their scenes. #Praise

Arriving home, Terese laments for her life with Paul, even imagining him sitting on the sofa, as if they were still together. Going through the paperwork for River Bend, Terese weeps. She knows it isn’t what she wants. Glen silently observes her. He knows it isn’t what she wants too… I do feel a bit sorry for Glen. But he is also quite annoying.

Toadie and Mel’s Wedding

Nothing will get in the way of the wedding… (denofgeek)

So, while Yashvi, Toadie and Mel continued with the wedding plans, it became more and more apparent that both their histories – him and Sonya, her and Joe and everything in between, blocking their path.

When Yashvi pocket called Toadie, he overheard a sad conversation between her and Mel, where the bride to be fretted that they would never truly be able to move forward when they were constantly being pulled back into the past. He then made the momentous decision to sell his house so that he and Mel could buy a new place together nearby but not on Ramsay Street.

Paige the Estate Agent

Karl and Susan – and the rest of us, were in shock… (Metro)

Meanwhile, Paige was contacted by the Rodwell’s about a valuation. They have literally just moved in! And they upset the whole Street when they did! How ridiculous! And rude! So, Karl and Susan found themselves stepping outside to discover that the whole of Ramsay Street is up for sale…

The Rodwell House
Chloe’s House
Toadie’s House
David and Aaron’s House
Terese’s House

I’m sorry but this is not how I wanted Neighbours to end. I wanted to think of my favourite characters continuing to live their happy lives on Ramsay Street, not all abandoning ship and running away. Actually, I’m not sorry. I’ve been so happy with all these amazing tributes and how graciously the show has handled everything but I will be genuinely sad if all my favourite characters say goodbye. How can they ever bring back the show if everyone has moved away?

The Ramsay Street History Book

Levi and The Rodwell’s interviewed Lucy about the history book. She told them all about her beloved Gran, Helen Daniels. I expected it but I wasn’t prepared for it, all at the same time. We saw flashbacks to precious memories of Helen/Anne Haddy – her kindness, her advice, her love, her support and her gentleness. It was just magic and took me all the way back to my childhood, loving all those scenes with Helen. I used to hang on her every word after school. She was such a comfort and a joy to watch, everyone’s Gran. I am so happy that this is how Neighbours have chosen to honour the characters who made the show what it is but cannot visit either because the characters or the actors or both have passed on. Beautiful.

Name Drops: Sonya Rebecchi, Amy Greenwood, Joe Mangel, Mrs Nell Mangel, Holly Hoyland, Pam Willis, Josh Willis, Doug Willis

Arrivals: None

Departures: None

The Last Monday on Neighbours…

It is with great sadness that we reach the final week of Neighbours, one of the best shows ever created. I hold my hands up – I am very tearful about this. I think if it was ending voluntarily, it would be different. But this beautiful, creative and inclusive show being taken away in its prime is such a loss. However, they are handling it themselves with such grace. I wouldn’t expect anything less.

And so, this week, we see each character’s story wrap up and we reflect on all that has been. I felt it was the right thing to do, to review each episode, as it this is my last chance to do so.

This episode alone had so much in it, including a rightful focus on Jane Harris, some lovely moments between Chloe Brennan and Elly Conway, Susan Kennedy at her legendary best and some actual flashback footage of the amazing Madge Bishop. What more could we want?

Clive Gibbons and Jane Harris

Clive received a call from ex-love, Sheila… (Metro)

Clive was lamenting over how to fix things with Jane, including his past history of betrayal, including cheating on Beverly Marshall with Sheila. Meanwhile, Jane got the wrong end of the stick when son, Byron returned Clive’s watch to him. Danielle had stolen it in the hope that Clive would have to visit her but he didn’t. Once Byron had explained, Jane apologised but with the news that Byron was leaving for South Africa with a client, she wanted to spend his last evening with him instead.

In the meantime, Clive received a phone call from Sheila! Is this just a name check to honour the legendary Sheila Canning/Collette Mann or is she making a surprise return? She just disappeared, like poor Marlene Kratz who went on a cruise and never came back…

Chloe Brennan and Elly Conway

Elly declared her love for Chloe… (Metro)

Elly meets Nicolette who throws her quite the barb about how she is the reason that she and Chloe never stood a chance. I have always been a #chelly fan so I am quite enjoying the idea that Elly is the person Chloe has always loved and loved the most – including husband, Pierce Grayson. However, every time Elly refers to herself as ‘queer’ it feels really awkward and out of place. Just saying.

Upon David’s advice, Elly decides to take the pressure off and give Chloe the time and space she needs to make a decision. She opts to return to Sydney, promising to wait for as long as it takes. Chloe seeks advice from David, who thinks that Elly is genuine about her feelings. I am very hopeful for a reunion but Chloe, you only have a few days to sort your head out! Hurry up!

Shane Ramsay

Shane flirted with Izzy… (whattowatch.com)

Shane is still finding his feet after coming into his money. He assures Terese that written into the contract with Paul is the promise that her son, Josh’s plaque will never be removed. A good reference to his tragic death in the explosion at Lassiter’s, that Terese has never truly recovered from. If only she knew he was now a Doctor called Logan over in Home and Away. Shane flirts with Izzy when she helps him choose a new car and it turns out that they both want to buy number twenty four.

Izzy Hoyland and Malcom Kennedy

Understandably, Susan cannot accept Mal’s new girlfriend… (Metro)

Freya puts her foot in it with Izzy and Malcolm about number twenty four, sending them charging round to the Kennedy house, demanding to know what has happened. Susan admits that she has asked random estate agent, Paige Brennan to look for another buyer. Sending Izzy outside, Malcolm confronts his mother who demands that he chooses between her and Izzy.

The Ramsay Street Memory Book

Madge and Harold’s Wedding… (Digital Spy)

Levi, Freya and Toadie talk through the memory book with Harold Bishop (who steals every scene he is in), as quite rightfully he should be the first to put in his entry. He shares his memories of his wife, Madge and in a surprise, beautiful moment that made me well up, we were treated to actual footage of Madge herself! We saw Lou Carpenter interrupting a date between Madge and Harold and we saw Madge and Harold’s wedding. Thank you, Neighbours! Putting in flashbacks of these amazing memories (without overwhelming us and overdoing it) is just wonderful!

When Levi and Freya approached Shane for his entry, he told them about meeting Daphne at a Buck’s Night, falling for her and ultimately losing her to Des Clarke and once again, we were treated to a flashback of the party. This was all just so perfect and I am so excited for the next episode and to see whose memories and what past footage we may get to see.

To Be Continued…

David is pondering going to New York
Nicolette is considering going with the boys to New York but has only just started dating Kiri who is moving to River Bend for work
Yashvi Rebecchi is back to help Toadie and Mel with the wedding (but didn’t bother to show up for Mackenzie and Hendrix’s or when Hendrix Grayson died)
Yashvi and Ned are back together

Name Drops: Danielle Pendlebury, Beverly Marshall, Sheila Canning, Andrew Robinson, Madge Bishop, Charlene Robinson, Lou Carpenter, Des Clarke, Daphne Clarke

Arrivals: None

Departures: Elly (returned to Sydney), Byron (left for Cape Town)