In the upcoming episode of Home and Away, viewers witness a pivotal moment as Irene Roberts contemplates a life-changing decision. After a heartfelt conversation with Sunny, Irene comes to the conclusion that she wants to leave Summer Bay and travel the world. This decision comes on the heels of her devastating Alzheimer’s diagnosis, which has prompted her to reassess her life and priorities. Having recently signed over her share of the diner after two decades, Irene is determined to sort out her affairs and make the most of the time she has left.

When John arrives at Irene’s beach house, he finds her busy sorting through boxes filled with trinkets and memories. Initially thinking she might be preparing for a garage sale, he soon learns that Irene is actually organizing gifts and keepsakes for her loved ones. While Irene cherishes her memories, she feels a strong need to declutter, ensuring that when the time comes, her friends are not burdened with her belongings. John’s concern for Irene’s well-being leads him to share his worries with Leah, who later visits Irene to check on her.

During Leah’s visit, Irene surprises her with a thoughtful gift—a teapot that holds sentimental value. She explains that making tea was a comforting ritual during her recovery from alcoholism, and she wants Leah to have it as a reminder of their special friendship. Although Leah appreciates the gesture, she can’t shake the feeling of unease about how easily Irene is parting with her possessions. As they head to the diner, Marilyn attempts to lighten the mood, but Irene is resolute about her decision to get her affairs in order. Leah and John express their concerns, urging her to take her time, but Irene insists that she won’t prolong the process.

Later, Irene reflects on happier times as she flips through old photographs, including memories from Leah and Justin’s wedding. When John stops by again, he reassures her that he will support her choices but admits he struggles with the idea of losing her sooner than necessary. He urges her not to isolate herself from her friends during this difficult time. The tension escalates when Irene candidly shares her fears of potentially being placed in a care home, emphasizing that she doesn’t want to be a burden to anyone. Sunny tries to ease the atmosphere with a joke about Irene’s memory, which surprisingly elicits a laugh from her, momentarily lightening the mood.

As the night progresses, Sunny finds Irene reminiscing over a collection of postcards from her travels, filled with destinations like Paris, Lima, Halong Bay, and Birmingham. Regretful about the places she may never visit, Irene expresses her sadness. However, Sunny challenges her perspective, encouraging her to see that getting her life in order should feel liberating. He believes her illness shouldn’t dictate her future, and that she still has control over her choices. Inspired by Sunny’s words, Irene wakes up the next morning with a renewed sense of purpose and announces to Leah, Dana, and Sunny her decision to sell her house and travel while she still can.

As Irene shares her news, Leah and Dana are left stunned, struggling to process the implications of her announcement. Dana is particularly taken aback when Sunny expresses his support for Irene’s plan, leading to a heated exchange between them. Dana eventually softens, realizing that her reaction may stem from her own feelings about losing the mother figure she has found in Irene. She resolves to spend as much time with Irene as possible before her departure.

When Irene is called to the diner by Alf, she anticipates a confrontation about her decision. As they express their concerns, Irene bristles at what she perceives as an ambush, firmly stating that her mind is made up. She emphasizes that they can either support her or step aside. Later, as Leah and Alf visit her at home, the atmosphere is less confrontational. Irene opens up about her plans, explaining that while the journey ahead won’t be easy, she intends to have safeguards in place. She refuses to sit idly in Summer Bay while her condition worsens, preferring instead to embrace life and see the world.

Irene expresses her desire for her friends to remember her as she is now, rather than watching her deteriorate day by day. All she seeks is their blessing as she embarks on this new chapter of her life. Despite their lingering unease, Leah and Alf begin to understand the seriousness of Irene’s decision. The question remains: can they truly support Irene as she prepares to leave Summer Bay for a journey that promises both adventure and heartache? As the episode unfolds, viewers will be captivated by the emotional turmoil and the bonds of friendship that are tested in the face of life-altering choices.