This particular book has been waiting for me to write it; I can’t believe that it took me so long to get here. It’s a style of cooking that has been part of my life since I was a kid. This is my first stand alone publication and I have to thank Julie Pinkham for believing in my idea and giving me the support of such a great team, Mary Small, Janet Austin and Ellie Smith (who have put up with my illiteracy, delays and excuses) and the rest of the team at Hardie Grant.
I could not have managed to write this book without the endless patience of my beautiful wife De-arne. She kept our kiddies from under my feet whilst I was twirling the tongs and hammering out recipes on the computer, as well as helping to clean up after barbeque sessions and parties. To Ruby, Herb and Cash my little ones for being my inspiration and joy. Craigy Kinder the main man with the camera for doing some of his best work for me and for being an awesome bloke, mate and surfing partner! His side kick and all round star and equally awesome camera man Rosco Picco Train! Sorry mate – had to do it! To Mandy Biffin, for her wonderful organizational and cooking skills, being the most relaxed and amazing person to work with. And a great cook. Thanks to Valli Little for putting me in contact with her, for which I am truly grateful.
Thanks to Nanette Backhouse for a great look and design, Jane Hann and Adele Snyman for a great styling and propping job which allowed me to get on with the job of barbequing. The girls with the smoke and mirrors! For making me look half decent on the cover and wherever necessary: Samantha Theron (stylist to the stars and me) and Linda West (make up/magician) – love you guys. Dan Single at Ksubi for some fine threads, your support is appreciated.
The Suppliers: Barbeques Galore for all the hardware and support. What they don’t know about barbequing is not worth knowing and their service and support is second to none – it’s the only place to buy a barbeque. Terry Wrights the finest butcher in the Eastern suburbs of Sydney and to Clayton Wright for his invaluable knowledge of all things meaty and Decosti for the freshest and finest fish. Nice one guys!
David, Erica and Jade Anderson for their friendship, support and hospitality. For all you have done for me, thank you. And all my mates who have been subjected to barbeque sessions at my house. Jamie Granger-Smith the only Scouser with a hyphenated name, Antonia, Zac and Benjie, John, Georgia and tribe (you are coming to Australia for a barbeque!). All the other Geordies we know, you know who you are! Those that enjoyed the pig session at the warehouse. Taxi drivers, KPs and chefs whom I have ever worked with, talked about food or consumed it with, you all give me inspiration.
If I have missed anyone I’ll blame the editor for not picking it up in the second proof!