Summer Bay is never short of surprises, and in the upcoming Home and Away episode airing Tuesday, 23 July, it’s Lacey who finds herself at the centre of a completely unexpected twist. The newcomer, still trying to carve out her identity in the coastal town, receives a stunning job offer—from none other than Justin Morgan.
For weeks, Lacey has been keeping a low profile. Having helped out at Salt and quietly built new friendships, she’s been flying under the radar. But her quick thinking and calm under pressure this week grab the attention of someone who’s seen it all—Justin.
The turning point comes when a minor car issue causes a hiccup near the surf club. Theo is left scratching his head under the bonnet of a customer’s car, but Lacey, passing by, casually offers a suggestion. Her idea—a temporary fix involving a loosened hose—actually works. Justin, who witnesses the moment, is impressed not only by her instincts but by her natural curiosity.
Later, to her total surprise, Justin approaches Lacey with an unexpected proposition: a trial job at the Garage as a trainee mechanic. It’s not a position Lacey had ever considered—nor is it something she feels remotely qualified for—but Justin insists he sees something special in her. He offers to train her from the ground up.
For Lacey, it’s a lot to take in. She came to Summer Bay hoping for a clean slate and maybe a future in hospitality. But now, this opportunity throws all her plans into question. Could this be the beginning of something new?
Of course, the news doesn’t go unnoticed. At Salt, Mackenzie is caught off guard when Lacey breaks the news. Mac had been preparing to offer Lacey a more permanent position as part of her plans to expand Salt’s community outreach work. Having invested in mentoring Lacey, she feels blindsided by the turn of events and questions whether she misread the young woman’s ambitions.
Tensions also rise with Theo, who’s not sure how he feels about sharing his turf. On the surface, he’s supportive—he knows Justin’s judgment is rarely wrong—but underneath, there’s a trace of jealousy. Theo’s worked hard to prove himself at the Garage, and Lacey’s sudden rise feels like it might shake up the team dynamics.
Meanwhile, Kirby tries to be the voice of reason. She urges Lacey to reflect on what truly makes her happy. Kirby knows how easy it is to lose yourself in trying to meet others’ expectations, and she encourages Lacey not to rush into something simply because it’s offered.
In the midst of the confusion, Irene steps in with her trademark warmth and wisdom. She tells Lacey that sometimes life throws curveballs for a reason—and that the things that scare us the most often lead to the most growth. It’s a moment that deeply affects Lacey, who’s been struggling with self-doubt ever since arriving in town.
Still unsure, Lacey takes a walk along the beach, weighing her options. The waves crash in the distance, echoing her own internal turbulence. There’s fear in taking the job—fear of failure, fear of judgment—but there’s also excitement. For the first time in a long while, she feels seen, capable, and wanted.
As the episode draws to a close, viewers see Lacey standing at a literal and metaphorical crossroads. One path leads back to the familiar safety of Salt and the quiet routine she’s settled into. The other leads into unknown territory—wrenches, grease, and the fast-paced energy of the Garage.
Her decision will not only shape her future but will undoubtedly ripple through her relationships with those closest to her. Mackenzie, Theo, Kirby—each of them will have to adjust to the new Lacey, whichever road she chooses.
What will she decide? Is she ready to swap cocktail trays for carburetors? Or will fear and loyalty keep her tied to the world she already knows?
One thing is clear: Lacey’s story in Summer Bay is only just beginning, and this bold new opportunity could change everything.
Don’t miss Home and Away on Tuesday, 23 July, for an episode full of heart, hope, and big decisions that may redefine the Bay’s newest resident.
Let me know if you’d like a more tabloid-style or dramatic rewrite!
