BBQ Comp | SmokeFest GC

BBQ COMPETITION

SFGC '22 is a fully sanctioned triple header for ABA, SCA and KidsQue competitions

Featuring over 30 of Australia's best competition BBQ teams, SFGC is one of the pinnacle events on the competition BBQ calendar. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a backyard BBQ warrior, everyone is welcome to register for the comp and join in the fun! With over $15,000 in cash and prizes up for grabs, this is sure to be an incredible showcase of BBQ talent.

- WHAT'S A BBQ COMP? -

A BBQ competition is an event where competitive BBQ teams from the across the country submit a range of foods to a panel of judges who score the hand-in on a number of categories - generally taste, texture, appearance and overall impression. There are a number of strict guidelines which must be adhered, covering the types of BBQs that may be used (solid fuel only, no gas permitted), the format in which a hand-in must be presented, the "cooking window" or hand-in timelines and the cuts of meat allowed for each category.

Originating in the USA (the home of low'n'slow BBQ) these competitions have become increasingly frequent in Australia over the past few years, with teams often traveling interstate (and occasionally internationally) to compete.

Below are a few examples of hand-in boxes from past competitions.

While SmokeFest GC '22 will see some of the most experienced teams in the country converge on the Gold Coast, we absolutely welcome first time cooks to try their hand at competition BBQ! We have a separate prize category for best rookies (teams who've never competed in a sanctioned BBQ event previously) and are happy to help with any questions leading up to the event. You'll also be invited to join a competitors-only FB group, where you'll be able to ask any and all questions to the extremely friendly comp-BBQ community. If you think you'd like to have a go, follow the links above or contact us for any further details.

- CAN I TRY THE COMP TEAMS' FOOD? -

The short answer is: unfortunately not. COVID restrictions/regulations have essentially put a complete halt to the days of comp teams handing out left overs/tasters to the general public. The teams pay an entry fee to compete, and while they have no obligation to the festival, you'll find that the vast majority are extremely friendly and are happy to have a chat about their team, their setup and BBQ in general, so feel free to say hi and ask questions!

For a more up-close idea of exactly what is involved during the competition, come and join one of our competition team tours - these will be happening at 1200, 1330 and 1500 daily and will commence in front of the BBQ stage.