The Block producers have received permission to film the upcoming season in Daylesford, a town in Victoria, Australia. While initially slated to film in Daylesford, delays in obtaining building permits led the production to relocate to Phillip Island instead. However, the application for building approval on a 2,000sqm block of land in Daylesford was eventually approved by the Victorian Planning Minister in December. The show’s producers always seek out great locations to film, and Daylesford’s natural beauty and historic charm make it an ideal backdrop for the renovation series, which typically begins filming in the middle of the year to allow for ample preparation time.
Daylesford, located 114km from Melbourne, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and vibrant local culture, making it an attractive location for The Block. However, the series faced a setback in September, just five months before production was set to begin on the 20th season. Despite more than nine months of groundwork being laid in Daylesford for the upcoming renovations, delays in permit approvals and opposition from locals forced Nine to change locations. The network had secured sites on Raglan Street in Daylesford but ultimately decided to relocate to Phillip Island due to challenges faced in the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal.
The network’s decision to relocate to Phillip Island for the 2024 season came after facing hurdles in securing the Daylesford location, despite plans being approved by the Hepburn Shire. The production insider mentioned that they do not film in places where they are not welcome, emphasizing the importance of finding a suitable location for the milestone 20th season of The Block. The network reportedly had to cancel $500,000 worth of accommodation bookings for the cast and crew due to the relocation. Previous seasons of the show have been filmed in various beautiful locations, including St Kilda, South Yarra, Prahran, and Gisborne South.
While The Block has been known for filming in both city and regional areas, the relocation to Phillip Island for the 2024 season showcases the challenges that can arise in securing filming locations. Despite initial plans to film in Daylesford, delays and opposition led to the decision to move the production to an equally scenic location. The series has a history of finding stunning backdrops for the renovation challenges, and Daylesford’s picturesque setting would have been a fitting choice for the show. However, the change in location highlights the flexibility and adaptability required in the production of a reality renovation series like The Block.
