It’s hard to top winning The Block but as a new ambassador for Myer and having recently published a book, life just keeps getting better for Seafolly model Elyse Knowles.
Photo by Emily Abay
At only 25, Elyse Knowles became a household name when she and her partner Josh Barker won Season 13 of The Block. The couple sold their winning house on The Block to comedian Dave Hughes for $3.067 million and are now set for life but, boy, did they work hard for it.
“It was the most challenging thing we’ve ever done and probably will ever do,” Elyse says. “There were times when we didn’t sleep for three nights in a row.”
You’d understand if the couple never wanted to renovate again but they’re planning on doing just that.
“We’ve just bought a new home around the bay in Melbourne and we’re waiting on our permits to get approved so we can start renovating,” Elyse says. “We’re living there right now and it’s pretty average but it means we don’t have to worry too much – we’re just living a happy, carefree life.”
Josh has a job just a few minutes down the road and pops home for a break and lunch and the couple’s dogs Isla and Harlow are loving the nearby beach and dog park.
“At first Isla didn’t like Harlow at all and was a bit depressed,” Elyse says. “We had to work on getting her used to having another dog around but now they’re besties.”
It’s been a busy time for Elyse, who is currently juggling a number of commitments.
“This year I picked up Myer as an ambassador, which was always a goal of mine, and I’m working with eco-friendly haircare company Aveda and Vital Greens, which is a green supplement that gives you all your vitamins, minerals and probiotics,” Elyse says. “I’m also a global ambassador for Davidoff Cool Water and recently shot their latest campaign in Tahiti with Scott Eastwood.”
Despite her busy lifestyle, Elyse has also recently released a book. Titled From Me to You, it’s an intimate collection of stories from her upbringing, school days and entrance into the modelling world, which wasn’t all smooth sailing.
“I had a lot of obstacles with the modelling industry. I started quite young and was told to go overseas as it would make my career but it definitely didn’t,” Elyse says.
“It was more of a rude awakening to the industry, which can be brutal at times, especially travelling overseas by yourself when you’re quite young. I learnt a lot about myself including not to be shy and let anyone take control of my voice.”
Containing valuable advice for navigating life’s ups and downs, From Me to You is an engaging read that Elyse hopes will empower others to take control of their lives.
“Everyone is different and we need to celebrate that,” she says. “We really need to stop comparing ourselves to others and embrace what we’re doing. Nothing happens at the click of a finger. We just have to be patient and be true to ourselves.”
Images used in this story are from the book From Me to You Elyse Knowles. Living Life With Positivity, Passion And Purpose by Elyse Knowles. Published by Murdoch Books RRP $29.99 www.murdochbooks.com.au
Photography by Emily Abay.
CONNECT NOW
www.elyseknowles.com.au