Travelling couple reveal 'hardest thing' about life on the road after ditching work for a 4WD
Instead of waiting for retirement, they gave themselves a year to save and get used to the idea before setting off on a no-thrills trip across the continent. Since January, they've been travelling around in a high top Land Cruiser 4WD that will be their home for the rest of the year.
"We were getting to that point where we just wanted a break," Tiaan told Yahoo News. "We wanted to travel while we were still young and fit."
Tiaan, 30, works in Indigenous affairs while Lewis, 31, is a soil scientist by trade and worked in corporate consulting. Tiaan still manages to do the odd bit of freelance work from the road, while Lewis isn't working at all. Instead, the couple spend their days enjoying the outdoors and even finding hidden treasurers on the beach.
"A big thing Lewis wanted to do was fossicking," Tiaan said after spending the previous months in Tasmania. The island state has a number of dedicated areas that are home to geological material that is of interest to collectors, and where you don't need a prospecting licence to engage in the activity.
One of those areas is the Weld River, in the northeast of the state, known for harbouring sapphires and other gemstones.
"Lew spent a couple days in the creeks there and found some sapphires which was really cool. And this was fossicking that anyone can do, we didn't have a lot of gear, it was just time and patience and knowing what to look for," Tiaan said.
"He came out with some blue sapphires, some quartz... semi precious to precious stones."
Related: Man's 'very rare' fossicking find at Aussie camping area
Likened to amateur prospecting or fossil hunting, the activity is intended to cause minimal environmental impact and at most requires basic hand tools. According to the Tasmanian government, "some of the best areas have been set aside for the use of fossickers".
"A lot of people don't know about that," Tiaan said.
The pair are currently making their way through South Australia before "heading up the middle" and have been taken aback by the sheer number of caravans moving across the country.
"We're seeing lots of grey nomads," Tiaan said, adding that they've been "kind of surprised" at just how many there are caravanning around the country. But the couple are also running into others like them, who have decided to momentarily tap out of the hustle and bustle of city life.
"Sort of the late 20s, early 30s van lifers," she explained.
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According to the latest data from the federal government's Tourism Research Australia, there were more than 901,00 caravan and campervan registrations across the country last year representing a near 30 per cent jump since 2019, while there were 15.2 million caravan and camping overnight trips taken in 2024.
Tiaan admits they can get a bit jealous seeing the large "luxury" caravans pull up beside them at campsites, but says you don't need to spend that much money to travel the country.
"You can spend $1000 a week, easily... we talk to people who say that's what they spend," Tiaan said.
However her and Lewis typically average about $500 to $600 a week, mostly on fuel and food. "If you times that by 52 (weeks), that's pretty modest," she said.
"We're not experienced hikers or van lifers but we just want to get out there and have a go … that's what we try to get across in our videos."
The couple rely on their vehicle's water supply for showers and admittedly don't have very many luxuries at the moment, but surprisingly that's not the hardest part of being on the road full time.
A few months in, Tiaan spoke of the mental fatigue of not knowing exactly where you're headed to next and the subtle anxiety that comes with trying to make sure you're seeing everything.
"The freedom of the road, is also the hardest thing of the road," she told Yahoo.
But it's definitely something the young Aussie couple are adjusting to.
"We met someone who has been on the road for five years and she said she still hasn't seen everything," Tiaan said.
"You can't see everything. Australia is ridiculous."
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Yahoo
a day ago
- Yahoo
We bought a beach hut for £3000 back in 1982. Now it's worth almost half a million pounds
Yahoo News speaks to the owner of a beach hut on Mudeford Sands, Dorset, about why the holiday homes sell for 'breathtaking sums'. Tucked away on a remote sandy peninsula off the Dorset coast is a community of beach huts that are among the priciest in the UK. With gorgeous coastal views of the coast off the nearby town of Christchurch, soft white sand and clean, clear water, it's easy to understand why the 350 or so huts on Mudeford Sandspit are so highly prized. One online travel guide says you might have to "pinch yourself" to check you're still in England, with one local owner likening the setting to the south of France. And the prices reflect that. Anyone wanting a taste of beach hut living will probably have to pay somewhere between £350,000 and £465,000, according to Denisons Estate Agents. That's if you're lucky enough to get hold of one, of course. In fact, many of these huts are passed through the generations as precious "family heirlooms", Stephen Bath, who part owns one of the huts, tells Yahoo News. "My hut cost exactly £3,000 in 1982. It would conservatively fetch £450,000 today," says Bath, managing director of aerial photography company Skycab Ltd. "These huts seem immune from the regular fluctuations of property prices," he says. "This is partly because there are more building plots made available in England all the time. But there is finite space at Mudeford. There have perhaps been 10 new hut plots since 1980." Another reason, says Bath, is that the huts get plenty of publicity whenever one sells for a "breathtaking price". Despite averaging just 150 sq ft in size, they are "worth 50% more than the average home in Britain", he says – and that's with no mains electricity and no running water. Another restriction means owners are only allowed to sleep in the huts - converted from Victorian-era bathing machines - between March and October, due to local rules. Bath says people are so eager to buy a plot on Mudeford Sandbank "because it's so famous and breathtakingly beautiful. It's the South of France effect". Another selling point, he adds, is that owners can park their boats right outside their huts, like a car outside the home, providing easy access behind the sandspit and into Christchurch harbour. As for the price, Bath says the top prices huts have sold for are often a "well-guarded secret", adding that one sold for £585,000 around eight or nine years ago. "It was very hush-hush," he said, adding: "The sellers have usually made a very tidy sum for their asset, especially if it's been in the family for a long time. Perhaps they are slightly embarrassed to cash in, and leave such a unique community." Growth is 'not sustainable' and 'prices are cooling' Purchases of these beach huts are cash only, which makes them out of reach to many aspiring owners, which perhaps adds to the sense of exclusivity of the community. If you are lucky enough to have over £350,000 lying around, investing might seem like a no-brainer, but Denisons - which has sold around 100 huts in the past 25 years - says the huts are still vulnerable to market forces. "Huts have followed the residential sales trend," said principal Andy Denison. "Prices have risen significantly in the past 10 years, as a result of demand for the huts." He says that while "significant demand after COVID did raise the bar on resales", prices have "noticeably cooled off in the past eight months and sellers are reacting by reducing the prices in order to attract buyers". One property expert even advised that, due to the huts only being available for cash and the limited yearly window you can sleep in them, they wouldn't particularly recommend them as an investment. Felix Newall-Smith told Yahoo: "They're not really the sorts of properties that we would be encouraging people to invest in, , unless they had a really clever angle on how they could make a profit in the limited period of time." Simon Barnes, from estate agent Winkworth, told Yahoo the huts have unique appeal due to their 'desert island' feeling - but not to hold your breath in hope of one becoming available soon. He added: "It's fair to say that these are legacy assets, passed down through generations of the same family. What has become a lovely thing to have and enjoy, remains a lovely thing to have and enjoy but has also become a prime, prize, exceedingly valuable asset. Rarity value against demand is always one of the main factors in property which drives values. "They're so desirable because you really do have a genuine 'desert island' feeling when you are on the sandspit. With sea on either side, no concrete, just drifting sand, birdlife aplenty, and the pretty huts set in the long grass of the dunes, it has this really wild feel." Viewings are taking place, "but not at the levels we have experienced in the past", says Denison, who adds that the idea of continual growth is "not sustainable", with prices adjusting to sales in the wider residential market. With around four huts coming into the market per year, according to the estate agents, it's easy to see why, despite changeable market conditions, they are still highly coveted. Most owners are 'never going to sell their huts' Whatever way the market is pointing, Bath, who was born in Southbourne Broadway just one mile away from his hut, says most owners wouldn't part with their family holiday homes anyway. While out-of-towners have to pay a £25,000 licence transfer fee to Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council, the fee for licencees transferring to their children is only £11,550, according to the council's website. Bath, former managing director of Bath Travel, inherited his hut from his father, who first bought the home in 1968 for £1,600. Having worked on the beach as a student in 1972, Bath says not a lot has changed, estimating that only 10 huts have been built since then due to the finite space on the peninsula. While all of the beach huts synonymous with Britain's coastline are remnants of bathing machines which became obsolete after the First World War, Bath says no one knows why the Mudeford ones are so much bigger than the ones beachgoers would see in many other coastal towns. They are so sizeable and sturdy, in fact, that they were temporarily removed from the beach between 1940 and 1947 due to fears German soldiers could use them as outposts if they invaded the beach, Bath says. This is yet another aspect of the community's unique history, which might explain why so many owners, according to Bath, are in no hurry to sell. 'Around 75% of the huts are still in the hands of families who bought them a long time ago and have passed them down generations," he says. "Most people don't consider themselves as rich as they are never going to sell their huts… they have them as an heirloom for their family." Click below to see the latest South and South East headlines Read more Boujee beach huts are booming — 3 decorating ideas for decking yours out (Country Living) 'We can't sell our £400k Dorset beach huts – and it's the council's fault' (The Telegraph) Beach hut owners accuse council of 'pushing' them to sell after fee doubles (The Telegraph)
Tom's Guide
2 days ago
- Tom's Guide
Origin Hybrid Mattress review: support and bang for buck combine for a good night's sleep
Founded in Germany in 2018, Origin has made a name for itself in the bed-in-a-box space in eight countries in a short period of time. It made the move Down Under only in 2023, competing against well-known Aussie bed brands like Koala, Emma and Ecosa for affordable, comfortable and downright good mattresses. Origin stocks a rather impressive catalogue of mattresses, pillows, mattress toppers and even bed frames, making it a one-stop shop for all things bedding. There are four different Origin mattresses to choose from, ranging in price and quality, including its cheapest Hybrid Mattress reviewed here. Priced exceptionally well within the budget category, it not only does what it says on the tin but it costs hundreds of dollars cheaper than several other hybrid options. Having already reviewed another hybrid mattress in late 2024, I was in a good position to test the Origin Hybrid — and I had high expectations, considering it's consistently been one of the most well-rated budget options overseas. But how does the Australian version hold up against the competition? I spent two months sleeping on it to find out. Everyone has their own sleeping preference, meaning something that suits one person may not be to another's liking. And that could well be the case with the Origin Hybrid. This affordable mattress-in-a-box option is ideal for back and stomach sleepers, but side sleepers might not be too comfortable on it. Despite that, I can't recommend it highly enough if you're after a budget mattress that will go the distance. Type: HybridMaterials: Tencel cover, foam, titanium, woolFirmness: Origin rating of 6.5/10, Tom's Guide rating of 8/10Height: 27cmTrial period: 120 nightsWarranty: 15 yearsPrice: AU$900 - AU$1350 Priced competitively at just over AU$1,000 for a queen but regularly discounted to well below that, it combines seven layers, including memory foam, bamboo-infused foam, a breathable Tencel cover, and Origin's own HexaGrid layer for enhanced support and cooling. It's designed to balance comfort and orthopaedic support, offering a firmer sleep surface than advertised (rated 8 out of 10 on the Tom's Guide firmness scale). The mattress excels in motion isolation for a hybrid construction, making it ideal for couples. Even its temperature regulation is impressive, staying cool throughout the night thanks to its cooling gel and airflow-enhancing layers. While there was some potent off-gassing during the first week or so, it dissipated within two weeks during my testing, and that's the only major complaint I have with the Origin Hybrid — some users are likely not going to be able to enjoy a restful sleep on it for the first few nights. There are a couple of other factors that might prove to be a sticking point for some potential buyers. First off, the mattress doesn't come with a removable cover. While this might not be an issue for many, it may not be the best option if you want to keep the top layer sparkling. I'd suggest picking up a mattress protector in this instance, which you can chuck in the wash when needed. Alternatively, you can upgrade to the Origin Hybrid Plus Mattress for an additional AU$100, which has not just a removable cover, but also a flippable firmness layer on the top. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. Edge support is also a weak point here, with noticeable sinking when sitting on the sides of the mattress. The mattress compressed down by 10cm during my testing of the edge, and the corners weren't that supportive to sit on either. However, I didn't find it to be much of an issue when sleeping on the edge of the mattress thanks to great body weight distribution over a larger area. It's also important to clarify that this isn't unique to budget mattresses — to keep the cost low, many manufacturers don't add an additional layer of foam for extra support, and that's not a bad thing at all. When it comes to overall support, though, the Origin Hybrid will be fantastic for many users, although as mentioned earlier, it can be too firm for some side sleepers as the top foam layers don't necessarily mould around the body enough. During my two-month testing period I found it provided excellent spine alignment while sleeping on my back and stomach, but I found my shoulders and hips didn't quite 'sink' enough when lying on my side to eliminate pressure points. If you're after true plush comfort, you'll need to look elsewhere — you can take a look at our Origin LumberCloud review for an alternative, but it will cost you more. As a stomach sleeper myself, I rate the mattress highly, especially given its price point, and found no sagging or structural concerns after two months of use. There's even the convenience of four side handles for easy moving or rotating. It may not be perfect for everyone, but for those wanting a cool, supportive and budget-friendly mattress, it's a standout in its category. Origin currently sells four mattresses in Australia, with the Hybrid being the cheapest on offer. At the time of writing this review, the queen-sized Hybrid Mattress was discounted to AU$809, which is a superb price compared to its AU$1,177 list price. No matter how you slice it, though, there's no denying that paying under AU$1,2000 for a queen bed is quite the bargain. Next in line is the Hybrid Plus, which also houses seven layers like its cheaper sibling and retails at AU$1,380 for a queen at full price. The Hybrid Plus is rated as medium-firm and comes with a removable cover and a flippable firmness layer. After the Plus, comes the 8-layer Hybrid Pro, which goes for AU$2,050 for a queen at full price, but is also typically discounted through the year. The top of Origin's range is the LumbarCloud, with a queen-sized mattress retailing at AU$3,597. The LumbarCloud is arguably the softest, thickest and most luxurious in the line-up. I've gathered the current list prices for all the Origin mattresses for comparison below. Do keep in mind that Origin does run sales and discounts throughout the year, which is when I would recommend you shop for a new bed to save extra cash. Single King single Double Queen King Hybrid AU$847 AU$957 AU$1,063 AU$1,177 AU$1,343 Hybrid Plus AU$963 AU$1,093 AU$1,233 AU$1,380 AU$1,567 Hybrid Pro AU$1,425 AU$1,675 AU$1,800 AU$2,050 AU$2,397 LumbarCloud AU$2,909 AU$3,199 AU$3,350 AU$3,597 AU$3,965 At considerably varying prices, the Origin range caters for most sleeping preferences, and while the Hybrid may be the cheapest option, it may not be what's "best" for you. However, having tested other hybrid mattresses — as you can see from my Valmori Hybrid II Mattress review — the Origin Hybrid comes at a very reasonable price, cheaper than similar products from other brands. All Origin mattresses come with a very impressive 15-year warranty at a time when the standard is 10 years. Plus, there's a 120-night trial, a step above most bed-in-a-box brands that offer 100 nights typically. Ecosa and Valmori are just two other mattress-in-a-box brands that offer the same long warranty across their ranges, while Onebed matches it with just select mattresses. This warranty is only exceeded by Yinahla (20-year warranty), but you would expect that when you purchase a premium mattress that costs a few thousand dollars even for a single. View the Origin Hybrid at Origin As with many mattress brands in Australia, Origin also has a lot of regular sales on its site. I would recommend keeping an eye on the price of the Origin Hybrid when the big sales come around, including EOFY and Black Friday. At the time of writing, the Origin Winter Sale was on with up to 45% off sitewide. The delivery process for Origin was stock standard and took three days to arrive at my address in metro Sydney after the order was processed. This may differ depending on your location, but the brand guarantees free delivery for any mattress purchase within 2-8 business days and next-day delivery if your order is placed before 1pm Eastern time. If you're outside the brand's metro delivery zone, you can expect to receive your order within 3-8 business days. There is a disclaimer on the Origin website for rural and regional delivery, as some customers may need to shell out an extra AU$175 for delivery to cover 'transportation costs', according to the brand. Origin doesn't have a showroom or warehouse for customers to try before they buy; however, a 120-day money-back guarantee is available if you don't find the mattress to your liking. You can organise a free collection within metro areas, but you might incur a fee if you live rurally. All returned mattresses are donated to The Salvation Army in Australia, so you can rest easy knowing your return will help a good cause and stay out of the landfill. Where the top-of-the-range Origin mattress (the LumbarCloud) has nine layers, the cheapest Origin Hybrid has seven — going to show that the brand isn't really cutting too many corners to keep the price down. Each layer is made out of different materials to enhance your overall comfort and support. The top fabric is a Tencel layer made from sustainably sourced wood pulp, and is cool to the touch. Unfortunately, this layer cannot be removed for regular washing, so if you're worried about surface-level stains, you may want to invest in a washable mattress protector. The second layer is made out of Australian wool, which provides a touch of plushness and has natural moisture-wicking properties. Directly underneath this is bamboo-infused memory foam, one of the key layers for temperature regulation. I found this worked just as described, providing excellent breathability that kept both me and another reviewer cool all night long even when the nights were muggy in Sydney. The bamboo foam is supported by a specialised HexaGrid layer, which is made from a blend of polymers and cooling gels. As the name suggests, this layer is designed as a grid to maximise breathability throughout the mattress without compromising overall support. In fact, it's a layer used throughout the Origin mattress range, including in its LumbarCloud that our reviewer really liked. Beneath the HexaGrid lies the motion-isolating high-density foam layer, which also does as the name suggests — it provides stability and minimises the movements of a restless partner. It held its own during my testing as one of the reviewers is a frequent turner and I felt nothing when sleeping alongside. These top layers, as lovely as they are, aren't soft enough to conform around the body when sleeping on the side. And the layer below them all adds to the overall firmness. This is the seven-zone titanium-spring layer, dubbed "antigravity" by the brand as it keeps everything else above it from sinking too deep and causing skeleto-muscular issues. The seven zones target the main pressure points: neck, shoulders, back and legs. While I enjoyed how supportive this layer makes the whole mattress while lying on my stomach, I was uncomfortable when sleeping on my side for long periods. That said, my co-tester — who is a back sleeper — preferred the firmness of the springs and noted that they provided excellent support to the lower back. Lastly, there's an edge-support layer that's new to the latest edition of the Origin Hybrid. It's a circumference of high-density foam surrounding the springs to keep the mattress from sagging. While this layer is solid and secure, don't expect to be able to sit on the edge of the mattress without sinking a little. When combined, all seven layers present a tidy, supportive and firm package that balances orthopaedic support and a little comfort quite well. Origin rates its Hybrid mattress a 6.5 out of 10 on its firmness scale, which makes it a medium. However, I found the mattress firmer than its claim and would rate it 8 out of 10, with 10 being extra firm on our Tom's Guide scale. The mattress is soft to the touch thanks to the wood pulp in the Tencel fabric, and has enough give to keep you from sinking into it. Where it differs from some other hybrid mattresses that also use memory foam is the amount of support it provides — it does an extremely good job of keeping your hips and spine aligned, with very little sinkage around the lower back, a problem our Tom's Guide reviewers have found in similarly priced mattresses previously. The two reviewers who tested this Origin Hybrid mattress prefer different sleeping positions but typically like medium-soft firmness. So, personally, I found the Origin Hybrid to be a bit firmer than I would have liked as I'm a side/stomach sleeper. I found that the top foam layers just didn't mould around my body enough to completely eliminate the pressure points around the bony areas of my shoulders and hips when on my side, but flipping onto my stomach was wonderfully comfortable. In a similar vein, our back-sleeping reviewer also found it comfortable and snug. Its firmness is exactly what minimises its motion transfer — there's barely any bounce, so movement is reduced and the foam inside does the rest to isolate motion. Comfort is admittedly subjective, but I would say it's comfortable enough for most back and stomach sleepers although it's not what I would call 'plush'. • Support & comfort score: 4.5 / 5 When it comes to dissecting a mattress's comfort, it's often very subjective. On the other hand, performance metrics are much more quantifiable. I've tested all the important factors here — i.e. setup, off-gassing, pressure relief, edge support, temperature regulation, durability and motion transfer — to provide a better understanding of the Origin Hybrid Mattress, and how it may improve your sleep experience. Do note, though, that when trialling a new mattress, many bed brands recommend sleeping on it for at least a month before making any decisions. This is because it takes time for your body (aka your muscles) to adjust to a new mattress, even one of similar firmness as before. What may feel uncomfortable at first might be much more comfortable after a few weeks have passed (or the mattress has been 'broken into', just like a new shoe). All the performance metrics below have been scored after a period of eight weeks for this review. Score: 5 / 5 The queen-sized Origin Hybrid as reviewed here comes in a large, wheeled box. Weighing 37kg, the mattress was a little lighter than many other similarly sized alternatives that typically tip the scales at around 40-50kg. While I had an extra pair of hands to unbox the mattress, I definitely could have managed the experience on my own if I needed to. As with all other mattresses in a box, the Origin Hybrid comes vacuum-sealed and shrink-wrapped. I used a box cutter to slice the plastic cover open after placing the rolled package in position on my bed frame, and let it unfurl on its own. Setting up is as simple as that. The mattress didn't take long to inflate to its full size. While I thought my review sample was ready for use in 12 hours, the brand recommends allowing it a full 24 hours to fully expand and off-gas. The Hybrid has two robust handles on either side of the mattress (so a total of four), making it super easy to move and rotate when needed — especially if moving it on your lonesome. I was pleasantly surprised by this, as my previous mattress didn't have the luxury of four handles, and most beds only come with two — one on each side. The Hybrid measures 27cm deep, so it's a great fit for most standard fitted sheets. If you choose to use a mattress topper for extra plushness, you may want to consider sheets with larger pockets, as the height of the mattress will, of course, increase. Score: 2 / 5 Despite being a hybrid mattress with pocket springs, there is foam used in the construction, and it's only natural to notice a distinct odour when you open up the plastic wrapping. This smell is due to a process called off-gassing that begins as soon as you rip the plastic — as fresh air begins to flow into the mattress, the gases trapped inside during the foam-manufacturing process escape, and that's what you would be smelling. It can take a few hours for the process to finish, and it's recommended that you allow at least 4-5 hours for off-gassing to occur in a well-ventilated room before you put sheets on and start using the mattress. In my testing, the off-gassing smell was rather potent and lingered for a full week. It was only after around 11 days that the smell fully disappeared, even though I would leave the doors and windows open each day. That said, the smell wasn't noticeable when sleeping with sheets on the mattress, meaning the emitted gases lingered in the room longer than I expected rather that continue escaping from within the foam layers. This issue seemingly affects more than just the Origin Hybrid, as my colleague who reviewed the Origin LumbarCloud had a similar experience. Once the odour completely dissipated, I found there was no smell coming from the mattress even without a sheet. Considering the Origin Hybrid is both CertiPUR-US and OEKO-TEX certified, meaning that the foams and fabrics are free from harmful substances, you can safely use it after making sure it's had at least half a day of off-gassing in a very well-ventilated room. Score: 5 / 5 Two reviewers of different height, weight and preferred sleeping positions slept on the mattress during its two-month testing period, and neither of us had any aches and pains after we started using it. The Origin Hybrid was designed with orthopaedic back support in mind without blowing out budgets, and it really showed throughout our testing for the back sleeper. The mattress cradled their pressure points well, especially the lower back and shoulders, and they didn't feel like they were sinking into the foam even when staying in the same position too long. As the stomach/side sleeper, on the other hand, I enjoyed the mattress when flopped on my front, but found it uncomfortable when side sleeping for long periods. The mattress, however, helped ease tension on my lower back and shoulders, and kept a straight spine while side sleeping, but the firmness was a bit stiffening as there was not enough give to the area around the hips and thus creating a pressure point. Overall, we both found the mattress to be firmer than we'd prefer, but in no way does it compromise support in any position. Score: 5 / 5 Even with an air conditioner, a hot summer's night can be worsened by a warm mattress. In fact, even in cooler circumstances, lack of airflow and moisture wicking can build up humidity and impact your sleep. While body heat can affect how comfortable you are at night, the Origin Hybrid did a very commendable job of circulating the air to keep things cool. As already mentioned earlier in the review, the mattress has a number of layers designed to keep you cool all night long. While my testing was through autumn and into winter, Sydney did have the occasional muggy night during this period and I found the Origin Hybrid was a bit too efficient in keeping me cool. So much so that I needed a warmer blanket. That's in no way a complaint, but a happy observation. The Tencel cover constantly kept the surface of the mattress cool, even under the sheets, thanks to the wood-pulp fibres, and it's just as effective at absorbing moisture. Coupled with the HexaGrid layer infused with cooling gel particles, the mattress effectively maintains good airflow. My additional blanket during testing can vouch for how good it is. Score: 3.5 / 5 Compared to other mattresses I've used, the Origin Hybrid didn't deliver as expected when it comes to edge support. I used two methods in my testing, including a digital force gauge, to measure the edge support. The mattress depressed significantly when sitting on the side, falling 10cm when using an average body weight and a tape measure. With the force gauge, I did a comparative test between the middle of the mattress and 10cm from the side and corners. In the middle, 50N (5.1kg of force) sunk 4cm into the mattress. 10cm from the edge, the same force sunk 6.5cm. On the corners, I recorded 7cm of sink. This shows that while the Origin Hybrid has foam wrapping around the edge for extra support as per its web listing, it's not high density and noticeably softer towards the edge. In comparison, the same 50N test on a mattress with excellent edge support will show similar depth numbers in the middle and the side, or in some cases, even less sinking on the sides. This might be a problem for people with mobility issues who would sit on the edge to get their shoes or slippers on, but in no way does the lower edge support affect what it's like to lie on. The larger surface area on the mattress taking on wider weight distribution means the sinkage wouldn't be as noticeable as when sitting. Score: 5 / 5 The seven layers within the mattress — including the special HexaGrid layer — do a commendable job of isolating movement while sleeping beside a restless partner. For example, I didn't bat an eye when my partner — a frequent turner — consistently moved around throughout the night. This included regular position changes, constant tossing and the occasional feline companion joining us in the middle of the night. That also means the top cover is nicely fitted, so there's no pulling of fabric to disturb light sleepers either. Score: 5 / 5 During my testing period, the Origin Hybrid didn't show any signs of wear and tear or sagging, although I do admit that two months is a drop in the bucket for the lifespan of a mattress. Still, Origin definitely has confidence in its product as evidenced by its industry-leading 15-year warranty. I have little to no doubt that this mattress will hold up over time and will be worth the money. The mattress also comes with two firm handles on either side, which made moving the it a breeze, but importantly, they seem to be well-stitched on, so they won't rip any time soon. The quality of the mattress fabric was great too, with robust thread used in the stitching of the soft Tencel cover. That said, the cover isn't removable like other similar mattresses, so if you want to preserve the cleanliness, you may want to consider purchasing a mattress protector. During my testing, I rotated, flipped and stood the mattress up to test how the layers flexed and moved. It held up rather well through all this, being stable and well attached. I didn't find any areas of concern in the springs or indentations, and I don't anticipate any warranty claims. For the price, I'm honestly impressed at how well the Origin Hybrid has been constructed. As we often mention in our mattress reviews, the best choice for you depends entirely on your personal sleep experience. Something we recommend might not suit you, so to broaden the scope of the review, we usually include what other users have to say, particularly from Product Review. It's Australia's biggest consumer review site and a reliable source for unbiased opinions. As per Product Review, the Origin Hybrid mattress has mostly positive comments, with a 4.5 out of 5 star rating over 1,470 reviews at the time of publication. Customers were fans of the price of the mattress, which is considerably lower than competitors' for a hybrid, and the balance between comfort and support it delivers. There is some debate over the firmness level, with the majority of reviews (743) suggesting its medium firmness, while a significant minority (295) refer to it as having a hard firmness. But with 92% overwhelmingly positive reviews, there's no denying the Origin Hybrid mattress has cultivated a fan base. And it can include me in that number as well. I was pretty impressed with the Origin Hybrid Mattress, especially considering the attractively low price and the support this bed provides. I would personally would have preferred a little more softness, but again, that's a personal preference where others might well prefer the firmness this offers. In my opinion, I think it's particularly suited to stomach and back sleepers, but some side sleepers might actually prefer the extra firmness it provides, although it was a touch too much for me. Origin's HexaGrid layer definitely does what it says on the tin, not just providing support, but also keeping things cool under the blankets each night. And working in concert with the bamboo-infused materials and cooling gel, temperature regulation is exceptional. Motion isolation is a top selling point for the Origin Hybrid, as I found it truly minimised movement, although I think the edge support is a little underwhelming, particularly in the corners. However, when sitting in the middle of the bed, there was ample support to remain upright and lying close to the edge doesn't diminish the overall support either. And it would be remiss not to mention the impressive 15-year warranty and 120-night trial, and as such, Origin undoubtedly delivers a great, affordable hybrid mattress. When it comes to alternatives, there are a few to consider. It all comes down to firmness, though, as that was my biggest discrepancy while testing the Origin Hybrid. The closest rival to the Origin Hybrid would be the Eva Comfort Classic mattress, with very similar features and pricing. I've popped two other alternatives below, too, alongside the Eva, to even out firmness measures and support. Type: HybridFirmness (1-10): Medium firm (7.5/10)Materials: Foam, polyester, steelHeight: 32cmRRP: AU$900 - AU$1,300Trial/Warranty: 100 nights / 10 years Our Eva Comfort Classic review scored 4.5 stars as it was near perfect in our tests. The only setbacks were that it doesn't have any side handles or a removable cover. It can also be a bit heavy when changing sheets, but if you can get past that, the Comfort Classic is a true rival to the Origin Hybrid. The Eva Comfort Classic houses an impressive five zones of pocket springs, each dedicated to support and provide the ultimate comfort for all sleepers. The mattress has a similar medium-firm rating, but our reviewer found it softer than advertised. Its softness didn't compromise its support, making it a great option for stomach sleepers. It's also not as breathable as a specialty mattress designed for cooling, but the air pockets under the foam do help regulate some body heat. Price wise, it's very similar to the Origin Hybrid, with a queen costing AU$1,200 at full price but, as always, there are discounts to be had during major sales and, as per Eva's website, you can nab up to AU$275 off if you sign up to the brand's email marketing, bringing it down to AU$925. Choose Eva if: You prefer a softer mattress Avoid it if: You can't move a mattress by yourself Type: HybridFirmness (1-10): Customisable (extra firm 8.5/10)Materials: Foam, polyester, steelHeight: 31cmRRP: AU$999 - AU$2,699Trial/Warranty: 100 nights / 10 years In our Sleeping Duck Mach II review, we called it the "best mattress in a box we've had the pleasure of sleeping on". This was largely because you can customise your firmness levels with interchangeable foam layers without compromises support or comfort — although it's worth noting that the firmer the foam layer you choose, the less 'cloud-like' the mattress will be. The SD Mach II performed well in most areas, too, but much like the Origin Hybrid, our reviewer found the off-gassing smell took a while to dissipate. It also features good edge support, which is a step above the Origin Hybrid, and the motion transfer could be improved, especially if you're a light sleeper. Choose Sleeping Duck if: You want customisable firmness and more supportAvoid it if: You prefer all-foam construction with better motion isolation Type: HybridFirmness (1-10): Medium firm (6/10)Materials: Polyester, foam, latex, steelHeight: 26.5cm RRP: AU$900 - AU$1,300Trial/Warranty: 120 nights / 15 years If you prefer a softer but still supportive mattress, you may want to consider a memory foam-like alternative like the Valmori Hybrid Mattress II. As the reviewer myself, I gave it 4.5 stars in my Valmori Hybrid Mattress II review, ranking it rather favourably for pricing, the impressive 15-year warranty and the free pillows, which I still use to this day. It is worth noting that the Hybrid II doesn't have any handles, so it can be tricky to rotate or move, but it is lighter than other similar mattresses. I thoroughly enjoyed the support the mattress gave me as a side and stomach sleeper, and found I woke up with no soreness every morning. There's also just enough of the 'hug' from the memory gel foam without feeling like you sink into the mattress. Motion transfer is also pretty minimal on it, and edge support is great too. Choose Valmori if: You want a relatively softer hybrid mattress for side sleepingAvoid it if: You want a firm hybrid mattress
Refinery29
2 days ago
- Refinery29
Everything We Know About Survivor: Australia V The World
Buckle up, Australian Survivor fans, because the biggest season yet is about to hit our screens. Channel 10 has pulled off an impossible task by bringing some of the most iconic players from the worldwide Survivor franchise to Samoa, and pitting them against our best Aussie stars in Survivor: Australia v The World. It's been billed as the "ultimate showdown", with the coveted title of World Sole Survivor up for grabs. This format has a few changes, with a shortened season and fewer contestants, levelling the playing field a bit. It's going to be fast, furious, and dramatic — exactly what you expect from top-tier reality TV. Will an Aussie take out the prize, or will one of the overseas competitors beat us to the punch? We're backing the Australia Tribe all the way. Below, we've rounded up everything we know about Survivor Australia: v The World so far, including the air date, where it was filmed, and any rule changes for this special season. When does Survivor: Australia v The World air? Survivor: Australia v The World premieres on Sunday, August 17, 2025 at 7pm on Channel 10. The 14 contestants will be competing for a prize of $250,000 (and bragging rights). Three episodes of Survivor Australia v The World will air each week on Sunday to Tuesday. Where was Survivor: Australia v The World filmed? While Australian Survivor has filmed in multiple locations, including Fiji and rural Queensland, the show returned to Samoa for this year's Australian Survivor: Brains v Brawns and Survivor: Australia v The World. The cast will compete in challenges and search for idols on the beautiful island of Upolu, Samoa, for a shortened season of just 16 days. Shonee Bowtell Coming in strong with her signature floral dress, giant hair accessories and Gucci slide, Shonee Bowtell is ready to finally cinch an Australian Survivor win. She currently holds the record for the most days of Australian Survivor played, with 124 days under her belt. "I've got my red dress on, my platforms and I'm ready to try my best. This is going to be the most insane showdown ever, it's the Olympics of Survivor," she told Channel 10. Shonee had an incredible game on Australian Survivor: Heroes v Villains, but was blindsided by her alliance member George Mladenov. She might be looking for revenge this time around. David Genat Known as 'The Golden God', David Genat is back to become a two-time winner of Australian Survivor. He knows he'll have a target on his back, but is hoping to still make it far in the game. "I am in the driver's seat from this game on day one. There's nowhere for me to hide, they're all looking at the bus driver. The question is, can I dodge some of those shots when I'm not looking at them?" he told Channel 10. Kirby Bentley Kirby Bentley is a newer player, having competed in Australian Survivor: Titans V Rebels just last year. Known as the "Rebel Queen", she's ready to use her physical, strategic and social game to take out the title. Her main strategy for Survivor: Australia v The World is simple: she's going to let people think they're in control, while pulling the strings behind the scenes. "I am an Aboriginal woman in Australia, and we're not considered the top of the food chain. I've worked in mainstream construction, mining, AFL, male dominated sports and environments. So, I've always known to take a back seat and allow people to feel empowered that they're in control of what I'm doing," she told Channel 10. Sarah Tilleke Sarah Tilleke played Australian Survivor nearly a decade ago, but she's still a huge fan of the game. She's planning to change her strategy for her second time playing, and wants to put loyalty over multiple alliances. "This time, I want to nurture those authentic relationships," she told Channel 10. Where you've seen her: Australian Survivor (2017) George Mladenov King George from Bankstown is back to try and secure a crown for the first time. Known as the manipulative brain behind the "best Tribal ever" from Australian Survivor: Heroes v Villains, he was pipped to the post by winner and ally Liz Parnov. " Australian Survivor v The World is going to be the best season ever," he told Channel 10. . "I'm going to win by being glorious like I've always been." Janine Allis The "Godmother" is back. Janine Allis is the founder of Boost Juice and Retail Zoo, so she has no problem taking charge. "I'm going to win this game like I do in business — I just try harder and never give up. I have the grit to get to the end," she told Channel 10. Luke "King of the Jungle" Toki is seeking "redemption" rather than "revenge". He has a close friendship with David, so their alliance will be one to watch. "I'm very fortunate to be able to play this game, it's changed my life," he told Channel 10. "The one thing that will not change is I will be going out to have as much fun as possible — at other people's expense." Parvati Shallow Parvati Shallow is one of the most notorious players from Survivor USA. Known as "The Black Widow", she formed the first all-female alliance and created a lasting legacy. "I think I might be the most dangerous player out here because I think I will be underestimated and overestimated simultaneously," she told Channel 10. Cirie Fields Cirie Fields is playing Survivor for the fifth time, and while she's known for her great strategic and social gameplay, she's never won. Cirie isn't underestimating anyone, but she's here to play hard. "This season will by no means be a breeze, this lineup will be huge and it's going to be a battle every day out here," she told Channel 10. Where you've seen her: Survivor US: Panama Survivor US: Micronesia - Fans v Favourites Survivor US: Heroes v Villains Survivor US: Game Changers Tony Vlachos Tony Vlachos has already won Survivor USA twice, but third time's a charm. The New Jersey native is outspoken, confident and sneaky. "I absolutely see Australian Survivor players as a threat because they have called us here for a challenge. They're going to give their best performance and I'm hoping they do," he told Channel 10. Runner-up of Survivor Quebec, Kass Bastarache plans to play the role of a "sweet little Canadian girl". Her season was set in the Phillipines, so moving to Samoa will shake things up. "It's going to be fast, it's going to be intense and it's going to be fun," Kass told Channel 10. Lisa Holmes Lisa Holmes won Survivor New Zealand and is a self-proclaimed Survivor superfan. "In my season, a lot of the people were playing Candyland and I was playing Checkers. Now a lot of people are going to be playing Chess and I've got to see if I can up my game," she told Channel 10. Where you've seen her: Survivor New Zealand Rob Bentele Known as a challenge beast, Rob Bentele will use his physical power to his advantage. He's already won Survivor South Africa, and now he's coming for the world title. "There's no question Australians are tough in Survivor, but they've never come across an African. And that will be their downfall," Rob told Channel 10. Tommi Manninen Rounding out the Survivor World Tribe is Tommi Manninen, who came runner-up on Survivor Finland. "I want to go a little bit under the radar because no one knows this guy from Finland. Like, you have seen all the US and Australian seasons, but you're going to be surprised by me," he told Channel 10. Where you've seen him: Survivor Finland Who is the host of Survivor: Australia V The World? This is the last season that Jonathan LaPaglia will host Australian Survivor, after he was axed by Channel 10 recently. While his replacement has not been officially announced, there are rumours that it will be Survivor: Australia V The World contestant David Genat. Channel 10 has released a trailer for Survivor: Australia v The World, and it looks intriguing. You can watch it below. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Channel 10 (@channel10au) Have there been any spoilers or leaks for Survivor: Australia V The World? As of yet, there haven't been any big spoilers or leaks for Survivor: Australia v The World, but Shonee did appear on Parvati's podcast Nice Girls Don't Win to speak about their experience recently. This has fans theorising that Shonee ends up aligning with Parvati, meaning both make it to merge. If strong women dominate this season, it will definitely make for a great watch. David and Parvati also worked together on Deal or No Deal Island, which filmed right before Survivor: Australia v The World. David walked away with a $9.2 million prize, so Parvati could be out for revenge.
