We Aussies love nothing more than a Christmas BBQ on the beach and who can blame us? Those who live in the Northern Hemisphere have snow at this magical time of year, while we enjoy a great summer, which is the highlight of our year.
Choosing a location
Not every beach allows Barbies, so the first thing to do is check with the local authorities; the last thing you need is to set everything up, only to be told you have to move on. Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane have miles of coastline, so finding a quiet spot shouldn’t be an issue. Shade is obviously vital, so choose an area with a treeline at the back of a beach that gives you ample shade from the harsh sun.
Cooler boxes
You can never have enough cooler boxes, some for beer, some for meat and at least one for salad, and let’s not forget ice; a couple of large ice boxes on the back of a ute and you’re sorted. Between the participants, you should be able to provide everything you need and don’t forget a healthy dose of quality beach towel, something you cannot do without.
Delegate a planner
A large get-together really needs one person to plan the event; choose someone with attention to detail and they can delegate accordingly.
Things such as:
- Food & beverages (ice and drinking vessels)
- Music
- Shade
- Food, acquisition, menu and storage.
- Mats, anti-sand devices (trays of water)
- Power – Generator or mains.
If you have half a dozen vehicles, transportation won’t be an issue and no one has to double back to a get a repeat load.
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Check with state website about restrictions
Gone are the days when 50 people can rock up to the beach and set up a party; do a search on the state website and make sure you adhere to the regulations and guidelines. Music volume might be an issue; the further away you are from other people, the better and if the party rocks until the early hours, keep things civil.
Delegate a cook & bar manager
You might prefer the term ‘chef’, the person who will be responsible for all the food; while things can work out with zero planning, it is better to plan everything and with a capable pair of hands taking care of the food, assign another person for beverages. They can organise the ice and acquisition of the many drinks for the party. Let’s not forget the kids!
Invitations
When you invite people, make sure you give them all the information they need; email is probably the easiest way to communicate with the partygoers. Attach a Google Maps link then no one will get lost.
With some planning and forethought, you can organise a great Xmas BBQ that everyone will remember for all the right reasons.
