The Australian backyard is defined by the iconic hub around which we meet and greet friends and family – and inevitably “throw a prawn” on – the beloved Aussie barbecue. We Aussies don’t shy away from the icons that made a name for us on the world stage. Our beaches, vegemite, the koala, Croc Dundee and the humble (or these days not so humble) Aussie barbie from which our national fare springs forth from.
“Australians take their outdoor settings very seriously,” says Robert Caulfield, managing director of Archicentre. “For them, this is the place to kick back for eight months of the year.”
There is a barbecue made to match every man and woman. Whether it’s a full gas-powered rangehood, a compact hot coal Webber or a wood-fired breed, all are designed to perfect seafood to snags.
So what makes a good barbecue? BeefEater Barbecues tells us that the recipe for a great barbecue is: functional design, solid construction and stylish looks.
Look for a reliable ignition system that doesn’t require batteries. A flexible modular design that includes rust-free surfaces that are easy to use and clean, and a solid, commercial-quality construction. Look for materials such as stainless steel or porcelain enamel, high heat output for instant searing and demanding cooking requirements and a vaporising grid system for reduced flare-ups.
Of late, we Australians have grown to consider the barbecue concept even further. The outdoor room makes the ultimate entertaining and relaxing area.
“People are building quality homes or undertaking quality renovations with a view to stay in the same home until retirement and beyond,” says John McGran from Lifestyle Barbeques. “They therefore want to be sure they won’t have to replace their outdoor set up after a few years.”
No longer just a cleared-out corner where Dad flips burgers, the trend is for large, centrally located custom spaces with countertops and stainless steel appliances that have their design, longevity and practicality considered before purchase. Many companies, such as Kleenmaid and Barbecues Galore, are offering modular outdoor kitchens that are ready for assembly in your backyard.
When selecting your barbecue, match a list of functions with a list of possible uses. For example, if you’re partial to hosting large shindigs you may like to opt for a rotisserie accessory.
“These days outdoor kitchens are customised and designed to suit each client, and include cooking equipment, storage options, refrigeration and dishwashers,” says Maria Monteverde from Kastell Kitchens. “Some are opting for large hooded barbecues, Teppanyaki plates, smokers and roasters, wok burners or an integrated gas, electric or wood burning pizza oven.”
The Aussie barbie remains the centrepiece, but it too has been updated with advanced control tools, temperature readers, hoods with built-in lighting, and built-in grilling plates.
Location location
Location is everything. Gas-fueled centres need to be near an outlet, and position it so as to avoid smoke billowing out over your guests. It’s also important to protect it from prolonged exposure.
“Consider a roof over the area – while a lot of outdoor kitchens will stand up to the elements it does mean a lot of cleaning unless it’s roofed,” says John from Lifestyle Barbeques. “Arm yourself with a list of requirements when you begin shopping around. You need to know the dimensions of the area and a list of inclusions in the configuration.”
So when experiencing the Australian great outdoors, remember: there is nothing better than the sweet smell of a sizzling steak and a side of potato salad to be washed down with an icy cold beer on a hot summer’s day. Now get outdoors and get grilling!
 Lifting the hood
BeefEater Barbecue’s annual in-depth study exploring the what, when, where, why and how Australians cook outdoors turned up some major findings. • 50% of Australians think the smell of barbecue puts them in the mood for love
• 72% believe cooking on a barbecue reduces stress
• 97% of men said they handle the cooking outdoors
• 42% of women say their partner underestimates their barbecue knowledge and skill
• 87% of men said preparing vegetables on the barbie made them taste better and more likely to be eaten
• Barbecues are central to many Australians’ holiday plans. Summer holidays that will be celebrated with a barbecue include Australia Day (86%), Boxing Day (68%) and Christmas Day (56%)
• 46% of Australians say they’ve been jealous of a neighbours or friends barbecue
• 33% of Aussie males said they invite others around to show off their own barbecue
• 15% of Aussies say impressing friends or neighbours was an influence when purchasing a BBQ |