Yep I agree with so much here. I do think though that it is sort of chalk and cheese comparing the old format with this one. Like, they are just SO totally different, because like you said, the old versions were pretty much just personality that carried you, strategy just wasnt really part of it.
I think it just seems us newbies are focused on gameplay because thats all you are shown. There was so much quirky, funny, interesting stuff we got up to in there. Its just annoying because its a subtle thing, but reading your post you stop the buck with us, that its US HMs that are laser focused on gameplay, the WE lost sight of the damage we're doing our end game, but like, we dont get to choose what they show of us, and how they show it. Ive been lambasted for lying to Drew and Tully, but even Reggie lied straight to Gabbies face countless times about the exact same thing. I bring Reg up because she is seen as the moral compass of the show, but even the moral compass did "selfish" things to further their game. I say "selfish" in commas because this iteration is a friggen game haha! Like none of you play monopoly to lose do you?!
Tim is the only one who I think is a freak and could potentially be a Newbie that sways Australia. BUT, now that Ive experienced what I have with the public, I honestly think he would still have an incredibly hard time, because I dont even know if the producers would see and be able to portray his incredible nature correctly, and if Australia would embrace him more than an OG that was playing.