The Block Returns: Filming Wrapped for the 2026 Series on the Mornington Peninsula
Get ready, Australia! The beloved renovation reality show, The Block, is gearing up for its 2026 season, and filming has officially concluded. This year, the cameras have been rolling in the picturesque Mornington Peninsula, specifically at a significant development site in Mt. Eliza. With the cameras now down, anticipation is building for what promises to be another dramatic and inspiring season.
Foreman Dan Reilly, a veteran of the show, shared his wrap-up post, noting that this was his 13th season. He even had his adorable newborn son, Fletcher, in tow for a final site inspection, joking that the little one offered his “2 cents” as one of the “real judges.” The sentiment was echoed by judge Darren Palmer, who celebrated the wrap with his husband Olivier Duvillard, posting a carousel of photos on Instagram. The celebratory mood was palpable as the crew, including judges Shaynna Blaze and landscape judge Dave Franklin, marked the end of another demanding season in Mt. Eliza.
A Prime Coastal Location: Mt. Eliza’s $11 Million Development Site
For its 22nd season, The Block has set up shop in Mt. Eliza, a move that signals a return to a more coastal setting after last year’s rural foray in Daylesford. The production has secured a substantial $11 million development site at 109 Old Mornington Peninsula Road. This prime location will be transformed into six luxury homes, representing one of the network’s most significant site investments to date.
Industry whispers suggest this strategic shift to Mt. Eliza is a deliberate move to tap into a prestigious coastal market, renowned for its high-end family residences and affluent buyer demographic. However, the design direction of the homes has already ignited some debate. Aerial views of the ongoing construction have led some property experts to comment that the homes appear denser and more akin to “Melbourne townhouses” than the sprawling estates typically associated with Mt. Eliza properties.
Adding another layer of intrigue is a substantial “mega-structure” that has emerged alongside the main construction area. Far from being a simple storage shed, this imposing building is reportedly set to function as both an on-site production studio and a private warehouse-style hub for sponsors and building materials. This innovative setup is designed to streamline logistics for what is being described as one of the show’s most complex operational challenges in years.
Meet the Diverse Cast of 2026 Contestants
While Channel 9 is yet to make the official announcement, RealEstate.com.au has provided an early glimpse at the diverse range of teams set to compete in The Block 2026. This year’s lineup appears to be a compelling mix, featuring individuals with backgrounds ranging from seasoned renovators to social media influencers.
Here’s a look at some of the teams spotted:
Tayla & Rick, Victoria: This father-and-daughter duo, Tayla and Rick Peroomal, bring a blend of skills to the competition. Rick, a reportedly experienced builder, will provide the hands-on construction know-how, while his daughter Tayla, a personal trainer, is expected to contribute significant physical stamina and energy.
Chantel & Wyatt, Queensland: Hailing from the Gold Coast, Chantel Green and Wyatt Randall were seen sporting the show’s distinctive blue gear. While they might not have extensive building backgrounds, their involvement in the fitness industry suggests they’ll bring considerable strength and determination to the renovation challenges.
Rosco & Lisa, Western Australia: Married couple Rosco Wilson and Lisa Dunbar are parents to a young son and are expected to inject a high level of enthusiasm into the competition. Their lifestyle appears to be active and outdoorsy, based on their coastal life in WA, and they also possess some prior renovation experience.
Courtney & Sevilay, Queensland: This pair of friends, Courtney Kain and Sevilay Keser, could be formidable contenders. They bring a wealth of experience from the building industry. Sevilay is an interior designer and has held significant roles, including Director of interior design company Troupe Studio and Queensland General Manager for Women in Design and Construction. Courtney has a background with iQ Construct, a company involved in new builds and other construction projects.
Adam & Jolene, South Australia: Station managers for the Aboriginal corporation Kokatha, Adam and Jolene Wagner are anticipated to bring strong values and a unique perspective to The Block.
The official reveal of all the 2026 teams is eagerly awaited.
The Returning Judges and Familiar Faces
The judging panel for The Block 2026 will see the return of familiar and respected figures. Marty Fox, Darren Palmer, and Shaynna Blaze are all confirmed to be back, bringing their expertise and critical eye to the contestants’ renovations. This season, the judges will have the added bonus of water views from the build site, and a new look for Marty Fox, who has reportedly grown a moustache.
Since the conclusion of the last season, the judges have been busy with their own projects. Darren Palmer and Shaynna Blaze collaborated on a new series, “1 Euro House,” where they renovated a property in Sicily. Darren also made an appearance on “The Edit by Home Beautiful” podcast, discussing his recently renovated beach house in Byron Bay. Meanwhile, Marty Fox has been focused on expanding his Whitefox real estate agency into Dubai.
Hosts and Foremen: The Backbone of The Block
Foreman Dan Reilly is back for his 13th season, and this year’s location in Mt. Eliza is a welcome change, being closer to home. This proximity will allow him to be more present for his newborn son, Fletcher, who was born in April. Dan and his wife Dani experienced a profound loss with the passing of their firstborn daughter, Billie, shortly after birth.
The familiar hosting duo of Scott Cam and Shelley Craft are also set to return. Despite earlier rumours, Scott Cam has confirmed his “definitely” continued involvement, and there has been no news suggesting Shelley Craft’s departure.
Where Are They Now? A Look Back at The Block 2025
Last year’s season saw impressive results for winners Britt and Taz, whose modern organic masterpiece has since been transformed into a successful Airbnb. In May, the pair announced their next venture: the purchase of a $1.4 million hobby farm in Western Australia, which they are currently renovating and documenting for their followers.
While Britt and Taz walked away with a significant $520,000 cash prize, the auction results for other contestants were more varied. Perth couple Han and Can from House 2 unfortunately had their property passed in, a disappointing outcome. New parents Emma and Ben, who announced their pregnancy on the show during their renovation of House 1, also failed to secure any prize money, and their home remained unsold even as the next season neared its premiere.
The financial pressure meant Emma and Ben had to sell their own home. Thankfully, it sold successfully in January 2026, allowing them to move and embark on their next renovation project: a $920,000 fixer-upper in Mount Martha.
Another contestant making waves is Adelaide hairdresser Mat, who competed with his best mate Robby. They shared $110,000 in winnings. Mat has since purchased a church in Brinkworth, South Australia, which he is meticulously transforming into a character-filled heritage home.
