The Block favourite Mat Johnson unveils shock new property purchase after disappointing Auction Day result
Mat Johnson was a renovation rookie when he first walked onto The Block's worksite, but the baptism by fire hasn't put him off.
In fact, he's got his next project lined up... and it's definitely a little unusual!
Mat is the new owner of a run-down church in the tiny South Australian town of Brinkworth.
We didn't see this coming! Instagram @mat_johnson_
Stream every episode ever of The Block for free on 9Now.
It certainly seems like an unusual move, but it's actually the realisation of a long-time dream.
"I can't tell you the reason I wanted a church or the need that I wanted one, but it's been a goal that I've had for years," Mat told Glam Adelaide.
"It's unique for other people but not for me."
Clearly a lot of work to do! Instagram @mat_johnson_
Mat, a hairdresser, discovered the 1900s sandstone church listing only hours before it was set to go under the hammer, while working at his salon with a client.
So he registered to take part over the phone, put in his headphones and bought the house – all while cutting someone's hair.
According to Domain, the property was sold for $250,000 in December.
READ MORE:
"I could tell by the structure and everything that it was sound. Properties like this don't come up very often, structurally sound, ideal location, on land with an incredible view. I knew I had to have it there and then," he said.
Robby and Mat won Australia over with their fun sense of humour during The Block 2025. Instagram @robbyandmat
Mat hopes to transform the church, which was decommissioned in 1997, into a fully functional space with a kitchen, bathroom and mezzanine.
That will require a lot of hard work, as shown in a video where he gives best mate and Block teammate Robby Lippett a tour.
"Can I opt out?" Robby joked in the comments.
We can't wait to see this after Mat's hard work! Ray White Clare Valley
While he was apprehensive, The Block's very own Shelley Craft couldn't wait to see the reno get underway.
"Aaaaahhhhh!!!! I'm so excited!!!! 🙌🙌" she commented on Mat's announcement.
READ MORE: Fans in tears as The Block's Steph and Gian reveal harrowing birth story
Overwhelmingly, his followers agreed with her.
"Please tell me you are doing with videos or a TV station has signed you up?? I loved your personality on The Block... you were a breath of fresh, hilarious air!" one fan wondered.
Thankfully, Mat said he planned to document the process on social media for all those following along.
It's been a very big few months for Mat.
He welcomed his first child, a son, with his friend and co-parent Leah Cocks in December.
"Yesterday my life changed forever," Mat captioned photographs of him holding his son while in an Adelaide hospital.
Mat holds his newborn son in his arms. Instagram @mat_johnson
Robby and Mat became quick fan favourites during The Block's 2025 Daylesford season.
The pair were also tipped by many, including the judges, to win the season on Auction Day, but walked away in third place after securing a modest prize of $109,000 to split between them.
Stream every episode ever of The Block for free on 9Now.
FOLLOW US ON WHATSAPP HERE: Stay across all the latest news from your favourite shows via our WhatsApp channel. No comments, no algorithm and nobody can see your private details.
Most viewed in The Block
The Block’s Dan and Dani Rielly announce huge new mission in daughter Billie’s honour
Episode 22 recap: Foreman Dan’s shock replacement and a surprise All Star returns
Episode 24 recap: ‘Angry’ duo forced to rip up entire room as ‘gut-wrenching’ call is made
‘Something wasn’t right’: Rick and Tayla reveal the grim reality of his Block hospitalisation
