Australian Survivor Top Five: Who has what it takes to win?

Shane, 61, Champion

Olympic swimming legend Shane says she enjoyed the survival element of the show.

“I didn’t miss the home comforts or special people in my life – and I actually enjoyed the survival lifestyle,” she tells TV WEEK.

Shane, 61, also reveals her tribemates taught her a valuable lesson she’s going to take home.

“I’m going to try to remember names of dishes I eat at restaurants overseas and take more time to understand their provenance,” she says.

“Most of the players were so well travelled and are gourmet foodies.”

Wonder if rice and beans will be on the menu?

Shonee, 26, Contender

There’s no doubt Shonee’s best friend on the island is Fenella. The HR assistant reveals the pair already have plans to appear on screen together once Australian Survivor is over.

“We’d love to do another reality show,” the 26-year-old says. “Fingers crossed The Amazing Race will come back. How fun would that be?

“We clicked because we both love to laugh – we’re a match made in heaven. And having such a close alliance has helped me in the game. I have a safe space where I can talk and know I’m not going to be ratted out.”

Sharn, 41, Champion

Criminal barrister Sharn isn’t one to give up easily. More than once the mum-of-four was convinced she was going home – only to survive another day.

“I’m a fighter and I never give up,” the 41-year-old tells TV WEEK.

“I’ve come to realise I have a real determination, and will give my absolute all to reach my goal.”

She’s also made several close friendships on the show, in particular with Lydia and Moana, who’ve since left the island.

“They’re both good, kind-hearted people and I value their friendship immensely,” she says.

Monika, 27, Champion

As a former Miss Australia, Monika is used to looking polished – but the 27-year-old says her experience on Australian Survivor has proved she can cope without the glitz and glam.

“I found myself revelling in the simplicity of life on the island,” Monika says.

“I didn’t wash my hair, use soap, brush my teeth or shave my legs for over a month and I embraced it.

“I feel like I can do anything now. After my experience on the show, I could go camping with nothing but the shirt on my back.”

Brian, 36, Champion

Former AFL star Brian certainly holds a lot of power over his tribemates – and he credits his game plan for helping him get this far in the competition.

“I didn’t try too hard to get an alliance together early on, because I wanted to focus on my strategy in challenges, push the boundaries and distract the opposition,” the former Western Bulldogs and Hawthorn player tells.

Despite missing his partner, two sons and daughter, the 36-year-old describes his experience on the show as “great fun”.

“It’s been a wild ride, for sure!” he adds.