July 28th, 2025Final tools down

The filming of television show The Block had its final hurrah on Friday, July 18 with a gathering of hosts Scott Cam and Shelley Craft, the contestants and a host of media showing up at the Raglan Street, Daylesford site.

The houses were open for inspection, but with an embargo on any identifying photos, and in House 1 Scotty gave a short speech saying after number crunching he could reveal the production spent $8 million in the town.
“That’s on catering, cleaning, challenges that we do. And that’s not including employment, employing local people as well.”
Scotty said community service was also a part of the show’s mantra.
“We re-did the cinema, which would have cost a fair bit. And we did the Hepburn Springs Bathhouse. Whenever we come to a town like Daylesford, we really embrace the local community for what they offer us. Pete and Zac from the Seafood Bar, they named a hamburger after me. The Scotty Camburger. And it was very popular. They sold thousands, apparently. It’s still on the menu.”
Scotty said the town was also known for its hatted restaurants and some which are “just off a hat”.
Shelley said the cast and crew had all enjoyed their time in Daylesford.

“The ladies, and the gentlemen, we hit the shops a fair bit of time. I think we supported a fair bit of the community in the fashion stakes of town.
“We felt really welcomed, we felt really loved.”
Special guest, Ballarat MP Catherine King thanked the show on behalf of the Daylesford community “for taking care with us”.
“It’s really important. This is a really beautiful community. I really do want to thank you for the way in which you’ve worked with the community and worked so hard to make sure that this place is showcased. You’ve done that and invested (in the area) and taken care. To the contestants, this is a life-changing experience for all of you. Thank you for being part of our community for all the time that you have been.
“We’re delighted to hear that you’ve spent so much money in the district and you’ve enjoyed the restaurants. But what you’ve also done is you’ve showcased what regional Victoria is like.
“I look forward to seeing your finished product. I watch every season. And I’m very glad to have met some of the amazing people who have been part of it. “
Words & bottom image: Donna Kelly
The Block is now airing on Channel 9.