The Block’s much-loved Open Day has been axed for another year.
Channel Nine has quietly shelved the fan favourite tradition that once drew thousands to the hit renovation show.
The Daylesford season was tipped to be the perfect opportunity for everyday Aussies to tour the luxury builds before Auction Day.
Still, producers have again shut the gates — and the decision has left die-hard fans reeling.
‘They’re proud of what the contestants have achieved, and they want the right people to see it,’ a source told New Idea.
Instead of the public open house, Nine and Domain will host an invite-only showcase for industry insiders, agents and property experts in October.
The Block’s much-loved Open Day has been axed for another year
Channel Nine have quietly shelved the fan favourite tradition that once drew thousands to the hit renovation show
The move has been slammed by insiders who say the show risks ‘alienating’ its loyal fanbase.
‘Viewers tune in night after night, but then when it comes to the chance to actually experience the homes in person, they’re locked out,’ one industry source told Daily Mail.
‘It feels like the show has forgotten who put it on the map in the first place.’
According to New Idea, safety concerns around Daylesford’s limited infrastructure were a key factor.
Producers feared the regional town couldn’t cope with the thousands who would descend, causing parking chaos, overcrowding, and pressure on local services.
But one insider claimed the move was also about optics: ‘The network wants to position The Block as a high-end property event. By restricting access to professionals and investors, it looks more exclusive.
But the ordinary fans – the mums, the tradies, the families – they’re the ones who miss out.’
For many, it’s a move that’s taken the heart out of The Block.
The Daylesford season was tipped to be the perfect opportunity for everyday Aussies to tour the luxury builds before Auction Day, but producers have again shut the gates – and the decision has left die-hard fans reeling
Instead of the public open house, Nine and Domain will host an invite-only showcase for industry insiders, agents and property experts in October
The move has been slammed by insiders who say the show risks ‘alienating’ its loyal fanbase
‘Open Day was always the highlight — seeing the blood, sweat and tears of the contestants up close,’ one long-time viewer said.
‘Now it’s just another TV show where the viewers are kept at arm’s length.’
The cancellation comes as judge Shaynna Blaze hit back at trolls, taking to Instagram to slam what she called ‘appalling, disgusting comments’ about the show and its contestants.
‘A few people have asked me, ‘How do I cope with this?’ It’s not about coping, it’s about how it’s addressed,’ Shaynna explained.
‘It’s not that it doesn’t hurt me, of course it does, and I just say this: move on and reflect.’
The Block continues Monday at 7.30pm on Channel Nine.
