Sally Fletcher quickly became a memorable figure in Summer Bay, with Kate Ritchie stepping into the iconic role at the young age of eight. As an instant fan favorite on the popular Australian soap, she was especially loved by Irish audiences over the years. Kate first appeared on Home and Away in 1986 and held her place as one of the longest-serving characters until her departure in 2013. Here’s a look at her life beyond Home and Away.
Born on August 14, 1978, in Goulburn, New South Wales, Kate transitioned from her early acting career to hosting children’s television with ease.
Her exit from Home and Away came shortly before the birth of her daughter, Mae Webb, who arrived on August 14, 2014—right near Kate’s birthday.
In an interview with The Australian Women’s Weekly, Kate spoke warmly about her deep connection with motherhood, describing it as her life’s greatest purpose.
Appearing on The Morning Show with Larry Emdur and Kylie Gillies in 2015, she proudly shared her love for Mae, saying, “I think she’s divine, she’s the greatest achievement I’ve ever had, and she’s wonderful.”
Mae’s birth was a joyful occasion for Kate and her then-partner, rugby player Stuart Webb, whom she began dating in 2008. Despite their romance, reports later surfaced suggesting they had separated.
Kate dismissed these rumors in 2018, explaining that while she and Stuart weren’t seen together publicly or on social media, the reports were unfounded.
“Yes, of course it’s incorrect. Yes, of course it’s baseless. But I don’t want to give it any more attention because I know it would only fuel it further,” she said in an interview with The Australian Women’s Weekly.
“I’ve had to teach myself not to be affected by these things. So I make a conscious choice not to let it bother me,” she shared.
The couple got engaged in 2009 and later married in a private ceremony on the picturesque grounds of Tasmania’s Quamby Estate.
When it comes to sharing updates, especially about Mae, Kate is open with her followers but generally keeps her personal life, especially her romantic relationships, private.
Kate now shines on radio as part of Nova FM’s drive team alongside co-hosts Tim Blackwell and Joel Creasey.
Beyond radio, Kate has authored a series of successful children’s and cooking books, and she also reads stories for kids on ABC’s Play School Story Time.
In addition to her radio and TV roles, Kate has become a sought-after ambassador, working with notable brands like QV Skincare and Jockey Underwear.
