Former contestants of The Block left outraged as new cast are ‘pampered’ and live in luxurious $235,000 caravans

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The Block was once known for its grueling challenges – contestants faced exhaustion, cold conditions, and intense pressure. But things have changed.

The Daily Mail has learned that this season’s contestants on The Block are staying in comfortable, high-end caravans at night instead of sleeping in the unfinished houses they’re renovating.

Pictures have surfaced showing this year’s cast enjoying downtime – grabbing coffee, having beers, and walking back to their luxurious on-site trailers, some of which cost as much as $235,000.

This decision has made former contestants very angry, as they were required to live in homes that weren’t yet completed.

According to one source, established employees are being overly critical of new hires, believing the younger generation doesn’t face the same challenges they did.

Retired players point out that current athletes have much easier training experiences compared to the incredibly demanding ones they went through.

But while past contestants are fuming, Nine bosses insist the caravan lifestyle is here to stay.

People familiar with the situation say this idea started during limitations in Daylesford, but those involved have now realized it offers a significant benefit beyond the initial need.

‘The caravans protect the contestants’ mental health,’ the source revealed.

This allows them to get good rest, fully disconnect after work, and return feeling prepared. That’s what we’re focusing on right now.

This isn’t a single instance; the Daily Mail reports a deal for caravans has already been secured for 2026.

According to a source, Channel Nine is firm in its decision. They want to avoid pushing contestants too hard just for the sake of creating drama, and believe that caravans will be a key feature of future seasons of The Block.

Although some viewers who enjoyed the unpredictable energy of the exhausted contestants might be let down, show officials insist there’s still a lot of drama and suspense.

Despite continuing to face significant challenges, the source confirmed they are not being exploited simply for the amusement of others.

This news follows the recent announcement that The Block’s popular Open Day won’t be happening again this year.

Channel Nine has stopped a popular tradition that used to attract large crowds to the renovation show.

The Daylesford open house events were designed to give regular Australians a preview of the high-end properties before they went up for auction.

But producers have again shut the gates — and the decision has left die-hard fans reeling.

Rather than a public open house, Nine and Domain will hold a private showcase in October, inviting only industry professionals, real estate agents, and property experts.

The move has been slammed by insiders who say the show risks ‘alienating’ its loyal fanbase.

As a huge fan, it’s always frustrated me that so many people watch these house-hunting shows every night, but then they can’t actually *visit* the properties themselves! One insider told me it’s a real issue – we watch them, dream about them, but can’t step inside.

‘It feels like the show has forgotten who put it on the map in the first place.’

New Idea reports that a major reason for the issues was Daylesford’s lack of sufficient facilities and services to ensure everyone’s safety.

As a huge fan, I remember the producers were really worried about filming here. They thought our small town just wouldn’t be able to handle the massive influx of people – they pictured parking becoming a nightmare, streets completely packed, and our local shops and services being totally overwhelmed. It was a big concern for everyone involved!

However, a source revealed the decision was also about creating a certain image. They said the network is trying to establish ‘The Block’ as a prestigious property showcase. Limiting attendance to industry professionals and investors makes it appear more exclusive and upscale.

‘But the ordinary fans – the mums, the tradies, the families – they’re the ones who miss out.’

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2025-10-11 05:49