The Block is a series where certain locations and events turn into myths and legends. This is what happens when your programme has run since 2003 and for 53,706 minutes. Almost anything can develop a backstory.
This is also the case for The Block’s 2023 returning crew members. Some of these folks have worked on this programme for over a decade. There’s a warmth and excitement about such people returning to our lounge rooms.
But which of The Block’s classic crew members have returned for its 2023 season? Here are the details you need to know.
Scotty Cam
That’s right, Scotty Cam is back to host the 2023 season of The Block. It has been his role hosting this programme since 2010, and not once has he taken a break.
“This series is guaranteed to be a dead-set blockbuster,” said Scotty in a media statement.
“Our five new teams from across the country are all fired up to make their home states proud. The Block 2023 offers more twists, turns, and curve-balls than ever before.”
Shelley Craft
Shelley Craft is also returning to be a crew member on The Block’s 2023 season. She has been co-hosting this series since 2011.
What’s more, Shelley isn’t tired of this work. She still gets excited about what the contestants are bringing to the table.
When discussing this year’s projects, she said, “I think there is more continuity between the whole house, the interior and the exterior.
Neale Whitaker
Neale Whitaker has been judging rooms on The Block since 2010. That’s right; he’s been a part of this programme for the same amount of time that Scotty has.
“It’s been an amazing honour, really,” said Neale. “There is no other way I could describe it. It’s been a privilege to be part of this show for so long. “
“When they asked me to judge in 2010, if someone had told me I would still be here in 2023, 13 years later, I would not have believed them.
However, Neale won’t feature in every room review for this season of The Block. Neale’s partner is sick, and he wants to spend more time with him.
“For the 2023 season, I’ve put family first and cut back on my judging weeks,” explained Neale.
“My partner of 20 years, David, experienced some serious health issues earlier this year, and my priority has been to spend more time at home.”
Darren Palmer
Darren Palmer is another returning judge on The Block. This will be Darren’s eleventh year on this series.
“This season has probably been one of the more difficult to judge because each of the houses are so different, the floor plans are so different, and the spaces are all unique,” said Darren.
But if anyone is up for this challenge, it would be Dazza.
Shaynna Blaze
Last but not least, Shaynna Blaze is the final returning judge for this season of The Block. Additionally, Shaynna has been on this series for a bit longer than Darren. This will be her 15th season.
Since the last season of The Block, Shaynna has been working on her own programme, Country House Rescue. Going through this series has informed how she’ll review The Block’s rooms moving forward.
Dan Reilly
If you want to discuss someone who has made a name for themselves on The Block, you can’t go past Dan Reilly. ‘Cause Dan Reilly and his wife, Dani Wife, starred in the 2003 and 2013 seasons of The Block.
After these triumphs took place, Dan became a permanent member of The Block’s crew. Since 2014, he’s been the series’ permanent foreman.
Keith Schleiger
Keith Schleiger is another classic foreman Block. This will be Keith’s 16th season.
“The Block has been a fantastic experience, and it’s great to come back again,” said Keith.
“It’s going to be very different to last year in Gisborne, but for me, once again, a very busy few months working with the contestants.”
Tom Calleja
Tom Calleja and Sarah-Jane Wilson were on The Block in 2022. They were fan favourites but only made $20,000. However, due to Tom’s attitude and winning personality, they have brought him back as The Block’s resident plumber.
“I’m loving being back; it was an honour to be asked,” declared Tom.
“It’s great to be on the other side after being a contestant last year. It’s also great to learn and get an understanding of the production side of things.”
The Block drops on Sundays through to Wednesdays on Channel 9 and the 9Now app.
Want more Block details? Read all our coverage here, and click the links below:
- Is the Finale of This Year’s Block Already in Trouble?
- Why We Love The Block — Even in a Cost of Living Crisis
- A Definitive Ranking of Every Block Cheating Scandal
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