After decades of playing the beloved character Alf Stewart, actor Ray Meagher has officially departed Home and Away—a decision prompted by a decline in his health. The news comes as a heartfelt shock to long-time fans who have followed Alf’s journey since the show’s early days.

This week’s episode delivers an emotional turning point for Alf following his terrifying health scare. After suffering a heart attack and nearly dying at Northern Districts Hospital, Alf is left visibly shaken and questioning everything. The event has clearly left its mark, not only physically but emotionally, and now, Alf has made a life-changing decision.

Alf’s ordeal began when hospital doctor Bree Cameron (played by Juliet Godwin) froze in panic as his condition worsened. With his life hanging in the balance, it was a tense few moments as other medical staff scrambled to respond. In the aftermath, Alf seeks answers and wastes no time confronting Levi Fowler (Tristan Gorey), another doctor on duty during the emergency.

Levi, clearly uncomfortable, acknowledges that things went wrong very quickly. He admits that the emergency deteriorated beyond what anyone expected and that it’s nothing short of a miracle that Alf is still alive. While Levi seems remorseful, Alf’s trust in the hospital system has clearly been shaken.

Haunted by the nearness of death, Alf makes a personal decision: it’s time to leave Summer Bay, at least for now. Viewers will watch as Alf quietly packs his bags, leaving behind the home and community he’s known for years. But where is he going? That remains to be seen. Whether it’s to clear his head or to find peace elsewhere, one thing is certain—Alf’s departure will leave a noticeable void in the hearts of those closest to him.

Meanwhile, Bree is still reeling from her suspension following the incident. Her career hangs in the balance, and she’s struggling to accept the role she played in the medical crisis. Despite her boyfriend Remi Carter (Adam Rowland) trying to be supportive, Bree continues to direct her anger at Levi, blaming him for what unfolded at the hospital. Remi is increasingly concerned, watching Bree spiral into a state of denial and self-blame.

There’s a growing tension between what Bree knows deep down and what she’s willing to confront. Can she come to terms with her mistake and begin to rebuild her career and confidence? Or is this just the beginning of a deeper unraveling?

Over at the Board Shop, drama is bubbling up of a different kind. Employees Kirby Aramoana (Angelina Thomson) and Abigail Fowler (Hailey Pinto) find themselves in an escalating workplace feud. When their boss Mali Hudson (Kyle Shilling) leaves Kirby in charge during his absence, Abigail doesn’t take it well.

Clearly irked by Kirby’s temporary authority, Abigail tests her patience by disappearing for a break and then ignoring Kirby’s direction when it’s time to return. The tension reaches a tipping point, and things quickly get uncomfortable between the two.

Soon enough, Mali is notified by his housemate Mackenzie Booth (Emily Weir) that things have gone south between the staff. But what exactly is fueling the friction between Kirby and Abigail? Is it simply a clash of personalities—or is there something more personal lurking beneath the surface?

As tensions mount across the Bay—from the halls of the hospital to the sands of the beachside business—the emotional stakes continue to rise. For fans, Alf’s departure marks the end of an era. Ray Meagher’s performance has long been one of the show’s cornerstones, and it’s hard to imagine Home and Away without his signature “flamin’ galah” catchphrase and steady moral compass.

Though his exit is rooted in real-life health concerns, the show has handled the transition with grace and emotional weight, giving longtime viewers a heartfelt farewell to a beloved character. Whether this is a temporary break or a permanent goodbye remains uncertain, but for now, all we can do is wish Ray Meagher the very best and thank him for bringing Alf Stewart to life for more than three decades.

One thing’s for sure—Summer Bay won’t be the same without him.