On any given Saturday or Sunday, especially during the summer, the haze surrounding the sprawling suburbs of Australia's cities is not smog but the smoke from smoldering backyard barbecues as Australians celebrate the age old ritual of incinerating good cuts of meat, chops, steaks or sausages on their "barbies". No, we dont put Shrimp on the Barbie but sometimes we put "Prawns".

These items are cooked by the Host usually the "hubbie" of the house on a flat metal griddle plate or grill suspended over a wood stoked fire. Charcoal Grills and Gas fired Barbecues are a recent addition to the Barbecue scene in Oz..

If invited to a Barbecue dress casual, bring a six pack of beer or bottle of "Red Ned" (dry red wine) but never bring cookable meats. This would be considered an insult to your host who of course knows a Butcher where he gets the "best cuts". Unfortunately most Australian steak is cut thinner than American so be wary when asked "howdayalikeya Steak Sport ?". Although "medium mate" might be an appropriate response (in the USA) "a bit rare is OK for me thanks" might ensure that your Steak is not scorched all the way through requiring the deft use of a carving knife or hack saw to get at a slice.
During the meal you may be pested by the family dog. It is a great Aussie tradition to reward, the irascible family mong (dog) with redundant well chewed bones and other Barby scraps (with of course the hosts OK).
Always compliment your host on the "bloody good tucker" or "grouse grub" even though the steaks and chops may have been burnt and the sausages burst open at both ends.

During the festivities dont be surprised if the men and women segregate. This is a common phenomenon whereby the blokes get together to swap stories, off color jokes and yarns while the girls have a nice "cuppa" and a "chin wag" or catch up on the latest "goss" (juicy news).

When leaving, leave with the crowd. Thank both your host and hostess to ensure another invitation.
So go ahead and enjoy your first "Aussie Barbie" but please refrain from that stereotypic American comment " throw another shrimp on the barbie".

Your Mates
Bob and Bazza.