What does it mean to be truly Australian? Is it the easygoing attitude, the cheeky sense of humour, or the ability to make the best of any situation, no matter how unconventional?
A recent viral video making the rounds on social media might have captured Australian culture’s essence better than any tourism ad or outback documentary ever could.
The video posted on social media is captioned: ‘Nice day for it…’ And honestly, it’s hard to argue with that sentiment. In the clip, three blokes are spotted floating down Melbourne’s iconic Yarra River—not in a boat, but on a mattress.
Yes, you read that right: a mattress. They’re fishing, wearing hats (sun safety first, of course), and even having a blanket for good measure. We don’t know what it is if that’s not peak Australian ingenuity and laid-back living.
The online response has been overwhelmingly positive, with commenters celebrating the trio’s commitment to ‘living their best lives’.
One user summed it up perfectly: ‘Anyone that hates on this is just jealous. Enjoy it, lads!’
Another chimed in, ‘Just some guys being absolute dudes. What a life.’
Of course, not everyone was focused on the fun. Some viewers were genuinely impressed by the physics at play: ‘I’m impressed three adults managed to get on,’ one person marvelled.
‘I’m genuinely impressed that the mattress is keeping them all afloat and seemingly balanced,’ another agreed.
But, as with any great Australian adventure, there’s always a bit of risk involved. The Yarra isn’t exactly known for its pristine waters, and a few commenters quickly pointed out the potential downsides.
‘Not sure I’d be eating anything they catch in the Yarra…’ one person quipped.
Another added, ‘There is zero chance it doesn’t end in getting wet & diseased, right?’
Nice day for it…
by u/Ifeelsiikk in melbourne
Credit: Ifeelsiikk/Reddit
The Yarra: Melbourne’s murky playground
For those unfamiliar, the Yarra River is as much a part of Melbourne’s identity as trams and laneway coffee shops. It’s seen everything from rowing regattas to New Year’s Eve fireworks, and, apparently, mattress-fishing expeditions.
While the river’s reputation for cleanliness has improved over the years, it’s still not exactly the first place you’d think of for a swim—or a seafood dinner.
But that’s the thing about Australians: we’re not easily deterred. Whether braving the elements, making do with what we’ve got, or just laughing at ourselves, we find a way to make the most of any situation.
And if that means floating down the Yarra on a mattress with your mates, so be it.
We want to hear from you! Have you witnessed a moment that perfectly sums up what it means to be Australian? Maybe it was a neighbour mowing the lawn in thongs, a family BBQ in the rain, or a mate who managed to cook a snag on a campfire made from nothing but gum leaves and determination.
Share your stories in the comments below—let’s celebrate the quirks, the laughs, and the true-blue Australian spirit that makes our country so unique.
Also read: This dangerous new fake Facebook AI video ad could trick millions! Are you at risk?
