So I have had the privilege of judging a number of the Australian Barbecue Alliance (ABA) sanctioned events over recent years and figured I would put fingers on keys about the experience. There are now just over 30 sanctioned events scheduled for 2017 including the first ever New Zealand event, Meatstock, taking place this weekend. It’s a sign of just how big this movement is becoming and according to the ABA website there are now 203 registered teams for 2017. Judging competitive barbecue (bbq) is a great way of seeing just how good your own skills are going and understanding the standard of competition bbq is. If you’re thinking of actually competing in a comp, I highly recommend you go and judge a competition for yourself. A number of top teams have had members be judges at certain competitions to understand the process for competition, probably also pick up some fresh ideas. It’s also a great day socially meeting new people and spending the day talking all things bbq. Continue reading →