In the world of television, moments of mentorship are often fleeting, overshadowed by tight schedules and high-pressure sets. But for Lincoln Lewis, best known for his role as Geoff Campbell on Home and Away, one such moment left a lifelong imprint—and it came from none other than the legendary Ray Meagher, the man behind Alf Stewart.

Lewis, who joined Home and Away in 2007 as a fresh-faced 16-year-old, recently opened up in an interview with news.com.au about the early days of his acting journey. Nervous and uncertain, Lewis found himself at a call-back audition alongside Meagher—an industry titan with decades of experience under his belt. What could have been an intimidating encounter instead turned into a masterclass in kindness.

“I was 16 and completely new to all of it,” Lewis recalled. “Ray must have noticed how anxious I was and he just turned to the casting director and said, ‘Take five, love.’” That pause led to an unexpected but unforgettable five-minute acting lesson from Meagher himself. “Ray gave me a little five-minute acting class right there. It meant the world—he didn’t have to do it, but he did. It’s something I’ll always carry with me.”

For Lewis, that moment captured everything special about Home and Away: the camaraderie, the support, and the quiet, genuine nature of its stars. And no one embodies that more than Ray Meagher. With over three decades portraying Alf Stewart, Meagher has become a symbol of continuity and heart in Summer Bay. But beyond the iconic “flamin’ galah!” catchphrases and stern wisdom, Meagher is remembered just as much for his generosity off-camera as he is for his onscreen gravitas.

Now 81 years old, Meagher continues to maintain a low profile despite his legendary status. His birthday, celebrated earlier this month, was marked with warm tributes from castmates past and present. Yet true to form, Meagher preferred to skip the spotlight. “I’ve always been someone who’d rather stay under the radar,” he said ahead of his 80th birthday last year. “I used to tease Lynne McGranger for making a month-long event out of her birthday. That’s just not me.” His idea of a perfect celebration? “A quiet gathering with mates and a few beers.”

It’s that grounded approach that has earned Meagher not just respect but genuine affection across the Australian entertainment industry. Stories like Lewis’s aren’t rare—they’re echoed by countless actors who’ve had the privilege of working alongside him.

In an industry often defined by ego and ambition, Meagher stands apart. He is a teacher without needing to be, a leader without needing recognition, and a friend who understands the quiet power of simply showing up. For Lewis, that five-minute pause changed everything. And for fans of Home and Away, it’s a reminder that even off-screen, the real heart of Summer Bay beats strong.

As Ray Meagher continues to be a steady presence in the series and in the hearts of viewers, his legacy extends far beyond the screen. It lives on in the performances he’s inspired, the careers he’s helped shape, and the quiet moments that became defining ones.