Dr Rachel Armstrong, a qualified psychiatrist, who now works in the Emergency department of the Summer Bay Hospital.
Leah and Rachel are old friends from school days, and have kept in touch over the years. As a gifted student, Rachel sailed through school and always had good grades, even though she never spent much time studying, much to the annoyance of Leah and her friends!
Rachel has great instincts for people and has a sharp mind; she’s fiercely independent and has great strength of character.
When Kim Hyde was admitted to hospital in a drug-induced coma, Rachel is the one who saved his life. When they met later, there is an instant attraction between them. However, Rachel was worried about Kim being so much younger than her, but his persistence paid off and the two were married.
After the devastating news that Kim could not have children after a bout of mumps, Rachel was very keen to adopt a child. Then Kit discovered she was pregnant with Kim's baby after their night in the bush caused by the helicopter crash. Kim decided to leave Rachel to be with Kit and the baby.
Rachel's friend from Uni was a great support to her. Hugh was doctor at the hospital and fell in love with Rachel during this trying time. Rachel had been torn between her feelings for Kim and Hugh, but by the time she realised that she did love Hugh, it was too late, he had accepted a position overseas. Although crushed by the departure of Hugh, she started dating Lewis, another doctor at the hospital. She was delighted when she found she was pregnant, but he wasn't so supportive. When Rachel had a miscarriage, she knew Lewis was not the man for her.
After talking to Colleen, Rachel decided that she was going for the wrong type of man and has now found happiness with Tony Holden. Their plans to marry were destroyed when Aden kidnapped Rachel. She and Tony are now trying to repair the damage.
Relationship status
Rachel is engaged to Tony Holden.
Past relationships
Was married to Kim Hyde.
Family
Rachel’s father once worked at Summer Bay hospital and her brother is Brad Armstrong and her half sister is Tam Armstrong.
Friends
Rachels’ been mates with Leah for a long time and gets along well with Irene.
Living arrangements
Lives in a nice little beach house and is sharing with Jack and Martha.
