The Block Heads to Greenhills Beach: Shire Braces for Renovation Drama

Finn Seabrook | Local Correspondent | Sutherland Shire Gazette

8 January 2025

Following last week’s Sutherland Shire Gazette exposé on the Greenhills Beach home that dared to defy local colour codes, rumors are now swirling that Channel 9’s The Block will be filming its next season in the Shire’s most controversial suburb. Greenhills Beach, known for its million-dollar homes and rigid design rules, is set to become the battleground for Australia’s most dramatic renovation show.

Insiders say the upcoming season, The Block: Greenhills Showdown, will pit five teams against each other as they renovate beachside mansions while navigating the suburb’s strict “beige and beyond” colour palette. Contestants will need council approval before painting walls, laying tiles, or even planting succulents.

Adding to the excitement, former Block contestants and Shire locals Ryan and Rachel Carr have been tapped as judges. “We’re thrilled to bring our experience—and a little Shire sass—to the show,” Ryan said. Rachel added, “If you can’t pick the right shade of white, we’ll have to let you know.”

The Carrs are already planning challenges, including:

• Shade of Shire: A timed competition to select the perfect neutral paint colour without sparking a community outrage.

• Fence Off: Designing a front fence that complies with council regulations while “screaming understated luxury.”

• Cobblestone Chaos: Crafting the ideal driveway that blends practicality and suburban prestige.

  
  

Local businesses are cashing in on the buzz, with Bunnings Kirrawee announcing a “Greenhills Essentials” aisle featuring pre-approved paints, council-friendly landscaping options, and stress balls for frustrated contestants.

Not everyone is thrilled about the influx of TV crews and tradies. “The last thing we need is more people blocking my driveway with their utes,” grumbled one resident. Others worry the show will inspire more daring colour experiments. “If I see one more charcoal garage door, I’m calling the council,” a frustrated local said.

Despite the tension, Ryan and Rachel promise the season will be a love letter to the Shire. “It’s about celebrating everything that makes Greenhills Beach iconic—well, except for that turquoise feature wall.”

Filming begins soon, so buckle up, Shire residents. If you thought the Great Render Debate of 2023 was big, wait until The Block turns Greenhills into Australia’s hottest renovation postcode.