An era is coming to an emotional close in Home and Away, as one of Summer Bay’s most beloved residents prepares to leave the town she has called home for more than three decades. Next Tuesday’s episode promises to be one of the most poignant chapters in the show’s history, as Irene Roberts makes the shocking decision to say goodbye to Summer Bay—and the friends who have become her family.

For viewers who have grown up alongside Irene, her departure is more than just a storyline. It marks the end of a remarkable journey defined by resilience, warmth, heartbreak, and hard-won hope.

A Devastating Diagnosis Changes Everything

In recent weeks, Irene’s world was turned upside down when she received devastating news about her health. Determined not to let fear consume her, she initially tried to carry on as normal—running the diner, laughing with friends, and insisting she was “fine.” But it quickly became clear that pretending nothing had changed was no longer possible.

In some of the most quietly heartbreaking scenes Home and Away has delivered in years, Irene began preparing for a future she never expected. As her memory started to falter, she took out her treasured photo albums and carefully wrote names on the back of each photograph—labeling faces she was terrified she might one day forget. The simple act spoke volumes, capturing her fear, her courage, and her determination to hold onto every precious memory for as long as she could.

Telling the Truth—And Letting Go

With gentle encouragement from John Palmer, Irene finally found the strength to share her diagnosis with Leah Patterson. The emotional confession marked a turning point, forcing Irene to confront a painful truth: she didn’t want to become a burden on the people she loved most.

That realization led to another shock. Irene made the difficult decision to sell her share of the diner to Leah—her closest friend and business partner. While Leah was deeply touched by the gesture, she was equally heartbroken that Irene felt the need to step back from the life she had built piece by piece.

But Irene wasn’t finished making life-altering choices.

The Biggest Shock of All: Leaving Summer Bay

Just weeks later, Irene stunned her friends—and viewers—by announcing she was selling her iconic beach house and leaving Summer Bay altogether. The decision came after an uplifting night with newcomer Sunny, whose music and dancing reignited something Irene thought she’d lost: joy.

Inspired, Irene realized she wanted to live fully while she still could.

“I want to see old friends while I still remember them,” she explained, her voice steady but her eyes full of emotion.

Her decision sent shockwaves through the Bay. Lodgers Harper and Dana were left reeling by the news that their home was being sold, while it was later revealed that new arrival Sergeant David Langham and his daughter Jo would become the beach house’s next custodians—ushering in a symbolic passing of the torch.

Friends Push Back—But Love Wins

John, Leah, and Alf Stewart all tried to talk Irene out of her plan. They reminded her that selling her house meant she’d have no base to return to—and that she might one day need the money for her care. Their concerns came from love, fear, and the painful prospect of losing her.

But Irene remained resolute.

Eventually, her friends came to understand that this wasn’t about running away—it was about reclaiming control. Leah, Justin, and Theo soon rallied around her, helping to plan what Irene excitedly called her “big adventure.”

Her journey will begin in Cyprus, where she plans to reunite with her granddaughter Luc, who lives there with adoptive father VJ. From there, Irene hopes to travel the world, reconnecting with old friends and unfinished chapters of her life—while she still can.

John’s Quiet Heartbreak

While most of Summer Bay comes around to Irene’s plan, one person struggles deeply with the reality of her departure: John.

As Irene’s closest confidant and constant companion, John finds himself unable to accept that their time together is running out. The idea of saying goodbye is simply too overwhelming.

“I don’t know how to say goodbye,” he admits quietly. “I don’t have the words.”

As Irene reveals she’ll be leaving in just a few days, the beach house is slowly packed up, left nearly empty for the first time in decades. The only item remaining is a board filled with travel plans—a stark reminder that change is inevitable.

A Farewell Fit for a Legend

Determined to leave on a high note, Irene announces she wants to say goodbye to Summer Bay properly.

“Let’s have a party,” she declares. “A real rip-snorter.”

What follows is a heartfelt community celebration on the beach, organized at lightning speed by Leah and Alf, with help from Justin and Marilyn. Familiar faces gather to honor Irene’s life, her laughter, and her unwavering presence through countless storms.

There are speeches filled with tears and laughter. There’s music—courtesy of Justin and Theo—and moments that feel both joyful and impossibly bittersweet.

Everyone is there… except John.

Will John Make It in Time?

As the farewell unfolds, John stays away, pretending Irene isn’t leaving at all. But his avoidance risks robbing them both of the chance to say goodbye properly.

Thankfully, longtime viewers can brace themselves for emotional release. A promo airing across the Seven Network confirms that John will arrive in time to see Irene off—setting the stage for scenes guaranteed to leave fans in tears.

Behind the scenes, the emotional weight of the storyline has been just as intense. Actress Lynne McGranger has spoken openly about how difficult—and meaningful—these final moments have been.

“We think we’re just making a bit of telly,” she reflected, “but I’ve realised that in some ways, this is a lifeline for people. Irene has had an impact on viewers, and that’s a huge honour and responsibility.”

A Goodbye That Will Be Felt Forever

After 33 years, Irene Roberts’ farewell is more than just an exit—it’s a celebration of endurance, friendship, and the courage to keep living fully in the face of fear.

There will be tears. There will be hugs. And there will be a deep sense of gratitude for a character who has given Home and Away its heart for over three decades.

As Irene steps away from Summer Bay, she leaves behind a legacy that will never be forgotten.