Home and Away spoiler: Irene makes a life-changing choice

John tells Leah about his strange phone call with Irene. They decide to pay her another visit at the rehab clinic the next morning, although she’s not happy to see them again so soon.

As John pushes for answers on what’s troubling Irene, she explains that being back in the Bay would trigger painful memories for her and perhaps cause her to relapse again. John convinces Irene that she’s strong and would have plenty of support, so Irene packs her bags to return home. Is she ready to face the Bay again?

Meanwhile, Rose lets her friends know that she’s moving to the city to become a detective. Mali helps Rose to celebrate but Abigail struggles when she sees their closeness.

The next day, Abigail gives Mali a hard time for seeming so cosy around Rose. Rose tries to step in and have an honest conversation over the situation. Rose admits that her nickname for Mali is “Half Truth Hudson” – how will Abigail respond to this warning from his ex?

Elsewhere, Dana confides in Kirby over struggling with writer’s block while putting her maid of honour speech together.

The next morning, John and Leah arrive at the rehab clinic, still concerned after John’s unsettling phone call with Irene the day before. Although Irene isn’t thrilled by their unexpected return, they persist, worried about her well-being. Irene is guarded at first, reluctant to open up, but John gently presses for answers, not wanting to leave until he knows she’s truly okay. After some hesitation, Irene finally reveals the truth — coming back to Summer Bay stirs up too many painful memories, ones that could jeopardize her recovery. She’s afraid of slipping back into old habits and undoing all the progress she’s made.

John listens carefully and reassures Irene that she’s not alone. He reminds her of the strength she’s shown and how much support is waiting for her back home. Leah adds her own encouragement, promising that everyone in the Bay will be there for her every step of the way. Touched by their sincerity and beginning to believe she might be ready, Irene agrees to give it a try. She makes the bold decision to pack up and head back home — but deep down, she still worries whether she’s strong enough to face the ghosts of her past.

Meanwhile, Rose is preparing to say her goodbyes, having made the big decision to move to the city and pursue her dream of becoming a detective. Her friends are proud, and Mali throws her a small celebration to send her off in style. But the upbeat mood isn’t shared by everyone. Abigail watches the growing closeness between Mali and Rose with unease, sensing an emotional connection that hasn’t quite faded.

The next day, tension bubbles to the surface. Abigail confronts Mali, feeling hurt by how relaxed and affectionate he seemed around Rose. She doesn’t hold back, making it clear that his behaviour was disrespectful. Things become even more awkward when Rose decides to step in. She pulls Abigail aside for a private chat and tries to smooth things over with honesty. Rose even shares a nickname she used for Mali in the past — “Half Truth Hudson” — hinting that he hasn’t always been the most transparent partner. Will Abigail heed the warning, or is this just stirring up more trouble?

Elsewhere, Dana opens up to Kirby, revealing that she’s hit a creative wall while working on her maid of honour speech. With the big day looming, she’s feeling the pressure — but Kirby offers a listening ear and some much-needed encouragement to help her through it.

John tells Leah about his strange phone call with Irene. They decide to pay her another visit at the rehab clinic the next morning, although she’s not happy to see them again so soon. As John pushes for answers on what’s troubling Irene, she explains that being back in the Bay would trigger painful memories…