Australians love a good barbecue (BBQ)! There’s something magical about gathering under the sun, enjoying good food and great company.
As an international student, you can expect this to be a big part of your new life here. Whether you’re hosting, joining or simply curious about Aussie BBQ culture, this guide covers all the essentials so you’re fully prepared to embrace the fun and flavour of this tradition.
Why Aussies love a summer BBQ
A BBQ is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of laid-back vibes, outdoor living and community spirit. From backyard get-togethers to sizzling sausages at public parks, BBQs mean sharing laughs, stories and delicious food. Plus, with Australia’s endless sunshine, there’s no better Aussie summer activity.
Food: The heart of the BBQ
You can’t have a BBQ without food. Here’s a breakdown of the essentials:
The staples
- Sausages (snags): Easy to cook and universally loved. Serve them with bread, sauce, and a dollop of onions for the classic Aussie ‘sausage sizzle’. If you don’t eat meat, you’ll find plenty of alternative sausage variations at the supermarket.
- Steaks and chops: Add some variety with steaks or lamb chops. Marinate with ingredients like garlic, rosemary and olive oil.
- Seafood: If you’re near the coast, fresh prawns, barramundi or calamari can steal the show.
- Burgers: Whether beef, chicken or veggie, patties are crowd-pleasers. Don’t forget burger buns and toppings like lettuce, tomato, cheese, tomato sauce (ketchup), mayonnaise and beetroot (an Aussie twist).
Sides and salads
Balance out the protein with some colourful sides:
- Potato salad: A creamy, filling favourite – keep it vegetarian and don’t add bacon.
- Coleslaw: Refreshing and crunchy, it complements rich BBQ flavours.
- Pasta salad: A versatile option, easy to make or buy at the supermarket.
- Grilled veggies: Capsicums, zucchinis and corn on the cob are fantastic when charred on the grill.
Desserts
- Pavlova: This meringue-based dessert topped with fresh fruit is an Aussie icon.
- Zooper Doopers: When it’s hot, a sweet icy pole will cool you right down.
Drinks
It’s important to stay hydrated. At an Aussie BBQ, there is an expectation for some drinks to be provided – usually soft drinks (sodas, like lemonade and cola) and juice are available in a cold esky. If you’re hosting, have a few options available for your guests.
Otherwise, a BBQ might be the first time you experience a BYO instruction, which means ‘bring your own’. This is where you are expected to bring your own drinks (usually alcoholic).
Essential items to bring
Beyond food and drinks, these practical items ensure a smooth and enjoyable BBQ:
- BBQ tools: Tongs, a spatula and a basting brush are essentials if you’re cooking.
- Paper towels and wet wipes: For spills and sticky hands.
- Recyclable plates, cups and cutlery: Eco-friendly options are a plus.
- Sunscreen and hats: Stay sun-safe while enjoying the outdoors.
- Bug spray: Mosquitoes can crash the party – be prepared.
- Picnic rugs and chairs: Great for extra comfort, especially at public BBQ spots.
Games and activities
No Aussie BBQ is complete without some friendly competition. Popular games include:
- Cricket: Backyard or beach cricket is a quintessential Aussie activity. All you need is a bat, ball, and some makeshift stumps.
- Footy: Perfect for public spaces with plenty of room.
- Bocce: Easy to set up and enjoyable for all ages.
- Music: Bring a portable speaker and create a playlist with classic Aussie hits to keep the vibe upbeat. Essential if your summer BBQ is to celebrate the triple J Hottest 100.
Public BBQ spaces: An Aussie treasure
One unique aspect of Australian BBQ culture is the abundance of free or coin-operated BBQs in public spaces. These communal facilities are a great way to enjoy a BBQ without the hassle of hosting at home.
Just remember to bring:
- Cooking oil and cleaning tools to leave the BBQ spotless for the next user.
- A garbage bag to pack out your rubbish and keep the space pristine.
- Containers for leftovers.
Many student accommodation providers in Australia also have their own public BBQs, so it’s easy to host with your friends.
Final tips for a memorable BBQ
- Plan ahead: Coordinate with friends to avoid duplicate dishes or missing essentials.
- Embrace the Aussie spirit: Relax, laugh and don’t stress about perfection. BBQs are all about connection and fun.
- Respect the space: Whether it’s a backyard or a public park, be mindful of others around you. Clean up when you’re finished. Many hands make light work!
