Channel Nine’s iconic reality series The Block has returned for its historic 20th season, and this time, the show is taking on a massive renovation challenge on Phillip Island. As filming nears the halfway mark, fans are already getting a tantalizing glimpse of the jaw-dropping transformations underway, thanks to billboards strategically placed by the producers months ahead of the final auction.
One billboard showcases House 2, a two-story architectural marvel boasting an ultra-modern design with a soaring pitched roof. The striking exterior is complemented by a sculptured front garden featuring lush tropical elements, including a striking array of towering palm trees. Meanwhile, another billboard advertising House 3 offers a similar contemporary aesthetic, complete with a lavish garden and warm timber finishings.
These first-look images provide a window into the massive building site, which originally consisted of nine homes, a BBQ pavilion, and a children’s playground. One photo reveals the layout of the new homes, part of a compound with access to a pool, a tennis court, and bordered by a street on one side and a row of trees on the other. The Block’s site also neighbors a serene parkland area.
All the new renovations appear to be built as two-story homes, situated on spacious blocks and equipped with solar panels, reflecting the show’s commitment to sustainable living. Channel Nine’s production company purchased the site, the Island Cove Villas, for a staggering $9.5 million to bring this season’s ambitious vision to life.
However, the excitement of the new season has been tempered by the recent departure of beloved judge Neale Whitaker. Whitaker announced his decision to step down from his regular judging role last week, leaving fans and the cast devastated. After taking on a limited role in the previous season to support his partner David during health challenges, Whitaker confirmed he would no longer be a regular on the Channel Nine juggernaut.
While Whitaker is expected to make guest appearances alongside judges Shaynna Blaze, Darren Palmer, and newcomer Marty Fox, his exit marks a significant change for the show. Joining him in a guest capacity is the fan-favorite Foreman Keith, who revealed his decision to step back from a full-time role due to the lengthy commute times to Phillip Island, which would keep him away from his two daughters for extended periods.
“I couldn’t see a way of seeing my children more than once a week or something like that,” Keith explained. “I wouldn’t have been able to commute from Melbourne; I would have to live down there. It just didn’t feel it was the right thing to do at the time. I don’t really want to spend three months without them.”
Despite the changes behind the scenes, The Block remains a beloved institution, and fans can expect to witness some of the most impressive renovations in the show’s history as the teams tackle these ambitious projects on Phillip Island. With the season nearing its midway point, the anticipation for the final reveal and auction is building, promising an unforgettable season for the long-running reality series.
