The sun may still be shining over Summer Bay, but for its beloved residents, a shadow of sadness lingers as Irene Roberts (played by Lynne McGranger) makes a life-changing decision.

Fans have long speculated about Irene’s next chapter after her Alzheimer’s diagnosis came to light, and next week, the iconic character stuns her closest friends with a shocking change of plans.

Her exit is not just confirmed—it’s coming much sooner than anyone expected.

Memories of a Life Well Lived

The week begins with a poignant moment at Flat Beach, where Irene sits quietly on a bench, gazing over the glittering bay waters. For decades, this stretch of coastline has been her sanctuary, a place where joy and heartbreak have played out in equal measure. As she reflects on the memories she’s made—raising children, comforting friends, enduring tragedy, and celebrating milestones—there’s both pride and sorrow in her eyes.

Jon soon joins her, offering gentle companionship in a moment heavy with nostalgia. While Irene excitedly talks about her plans to see the world, both acknowledge that nothing she finds abroad will ever truly match the magic of Summer Bay. The waves, the community, the friendships—it’s home in every sense of the word. Yet, Irene knows deep down that selling her home and moving forward is the right thing to do.

Dreams Mapped Out

Back at the house, Irene reveals to Jon the physical manifestation of her dreams—a massive pinboard filled with maps, destinations, and bucket list adventures. Each pin tells a story of hope and determination. Halong Bay, Machu Picchu, an African safari—the places she once thought she’d never see are suddenly within reach. But it isn’t just landmarks that excite her; it’s the people she’ll reconnect with.

Her family is scattered across the globe: granddaughter Lucie and BJ in Cyprus, Bella and Nikau thriving in New York, Tori and Christian settled in London, and April and Dex living the Parisian dream. For Irene, this trip represents more than sightseeing—it’s about cherishing precious time with the people she loves before her health prevents her from doing so.

When Leah and Justin arrive, they’re struck by the board, impressed not only by the scale of Irene’s ambitions but also by her determination. Leah, ever the supportive friend, promises to connect Irene with a trusted travel agent in Yabbie Creek to help make the dream a reality. Yet as the conversation shifts, Leah can’t help but feel the weight of what’s coming. The thought of losing Irene’s constant presence in the Bay brings tears to her eyes.

But Irene, ever the optimist, won’t allow sadness to cloud the moment. “This is supposed to be fun!” she insists, determined to keep spirits high. In true Irene fashion, she suggests that her farewell won’t be a quiet one. “If I’m leaving Summer Bay, I’m leaving with a bang!” she declares, her eyes twinkling with mischief as plans for a raucous going-away party take shape.

A Frightening Slip

The following day, Leah, Justin, and Jon arrive at Irene’s house ready to dive into party planning. But when they walk in, the home is eerily empty. Concern ripples through the group. Leah stays behind, hoping Irene might return, while Jon sets out to search. He doesn’t have to look far—at the diner, Irene is happily serving customers, just as she has done for years.

But there’s one problem. Irene doesn’t own the diner anymore. She sold it to Leah.

Jon gently reminds her of this fact, and the realization shakes Irene to her core. Panic flashes across her face as she hurries back home, Jon close behind. But when she enters, her confusion only deepens. Why is Leah there? Why does everyone look so concerned?

Leah softly explains that they had arranged to go over party details. Irene, devastated, can’t recall the arrangement at all. The moment is heartbreaking, her bewilderment exposing the cruel reality of her condition. With Leah’s help, she manages to calm down, but when she admits her growing fear—“I think I’m running out of good days, and there’s nothing I can do”—the room falls silent.

Facing the Future

Later, Irene turns to Brie for guidance. Brie, compassionate but practical, reassures her that one bad day doesn’t define her future. “You still have time,” she insists, urging Irene to focus on her dreams rather than her limitations. It’s the encouragement Irene needs to hear, and it sparks a pivotal decision.

Realizing that waiting another six weeks for her grand adventure may no longer be realistic, Irene resolves to act now.

The Announcement

Gathering her nearest and dearest at the diner—Alf, Marilyn, John, Justin, and Leah—Irene delivers the news. With determination laced with emotion, she announces she’ll be leaving Summer Bay much sooner than anyone anticipated. Her trip around the world will begin immediately.

The reaction is one of stunned silence, followed by an outpouring of emotion. For decades, Irene has been the beating heart of the Bay: the woman who offered advice, scolded when necessary, but always showed unconditional love. To imagine Summer Bay without her is unthinkable.

The Weight of Goodbye

For Leah, the revelation hits hardest. Irene has been her rock through countless hardships, and now she must face the future without her closest confidante by her side. Justin too feels the blow—he’s watched Irene support Leah through every storm, and he knows how empty the Bay will feel without her presence.

Even Alf, the stalwart patriarch, is visibly shaken. He and Irene have shared decades of friendship, bickering like siblings but always having each other’s backs. Marilyn, ever emotional, bursts into tears, while John looks on with a heavy heart, struggling to imagine the community without Irene’s larger-than-life personality.

And yet, beneath the sadness lies pride. Irene isn’t leaving in defeat; she’s stepping into her next chapter with courage, determination, and a zest for life that has always defined her.

A Legacy to Remember

As Irene’s exit looms, the storyline serves as a powerful reminder of what Home and Away does best—telling human stories filled with warmth, heartache, and resilience. Irene’s journey is not just about illness or departure; it’s about living fully in the face of uncertainty, cherishing every moment, and leaving behind a legacy of love.

Her farewell promises to be as vibrant as she is, with a grand party set to send her off in style. But the real goodbye will be in the quieter moments: the shared glances, the heartfelt hugs, and the knowledge that Summer Bay will never quite be the same again.

For fans, Irene’s exit will mark the end of an era. But as she embarks on her travels, viewers can take comfort in knowing that Irene’s story isn’t one of loss, but of courage and adventure.

One thing is certain—her presence will be felt in every corner of the Bay long after she’s gone.