Top 5 AFL Grand Final Day BBQ Ideas

The last Saturday in September is just days away, which can only mean one thing – AFL Grand Final Day. More than just a game; it’s a nationwide celebration (well, much of the nation anyway) that brings friends and family together.

And there’s no better way (or typically Aussie way, for that matter) to mark the event than with a classic barbecue.

Whether you’re a one-eyed Swans or Lions supporter, a general footy tragic, or just here for the Katy Perry of it all, a delicious spread fresh off the grill will certainly take your gathering to the next level. From classic snags to mouth-watering seafood – and even some healthy vegetarian options – there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So fire up the barbie, impress your mates, and make this Grand Final day one to remember!

One thing is for sure. You only need to go to your local Bunnings on the weekend or a polling booth on election day to know that, here in Australia, we love a sausage. And you just can’t go wrong with classic Aussie sausages on AFL Grand Final Day.

Simply put, they’re easy to cook, loved by everyone, and perfect for a backyard BBQ. Absolutely go high-quality for the occasion to really impress. And whether you go beef, pork or one of the many gourmet options around these days, make sure they’re perfectly browned and juicy.

But don’t stop there!

Even the best sausages just aren’t right without some sweet, caramelised onions. Slowly cook the onions on the BBQ or stovetop with a little butter and sugar until you’ve got them all golden and tender. Serve your sausages with bread, or go a little fancier with some fresh buns. Top them with the caramelised onions, and add a dollop of mustard or sauce for that extra kick. Simple, tasty, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!

If there’s one surefire addition to the menu that will have everyone talking for days after, it’s BBQ prawns cooked in a rich garlic butter. They’re super easy to prepare.

1. Pop down to your favourite seafood store or market and select fresh, large prawns. You can choose them with the shell-on for more flavour or peeled for easier eating.
2. Whip up a quick garlic butter by melting butter and mixing in crushed garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of parsley.
3. Toss the prawns in this mixture, then place them straight onto the barbie. They only need a few minutes on each side until they turn pink and slightly charred.
4. Serve with extra garlic butter on the side for dipping and a squeeze of lemon for that zesty finish.

These prawns are guaranteed to have everyone coming back for more!

Lamb and the footy go hand-in-hand. There’s even a footy legend (Sam Kekovich) who appears as the public face of lamb each year towards the end of January. So serving BBQ lamb chops on Grand Final day is a no-brainer.

The perfect lamb chops need the perfect marinade for extra mouth-watering goodness. We suggest marinating them in a mixture of:

• fresh rosemary
• garlic, and
• a pinch of salt and pepper

Let them soak in those flavours for at least an hour or even overnight if you can. When you’re ready to cook, heat your gas BBQ to a medium-high temperature and grill the chops for 3-4 minutes on each side, depending on how you like them done. Finish with a drizzle of mint sauce or fresh mint leaves for a bright, refreshing contrast to the rich lamb. Serve with a crisp salad, and you’ve got a real winner on your hands!

Look, you’ll never go wrong with chicken wings. Much like hearing Up There Cazaly in the Grand Final pre-game entertainment, they’re a perennial crowd favourite. And when you grill them to perfection with a smoky BBQ flavour and a sweet and spicy kick, they’ll be a true highlight.

Start by marinating the wings in your favourite BBQ sauce mixed with a bit of honey, soy sauce, and chilli flakes for that sweet and spicy balance. Let them absorb the marinade flavours for a good hour, if not longer. Then, pop the wings on the BBQ over medium heat, turning regularly until they’re crispy and cooked through. The skin should be golden brown with just the right amount of char.

Serve with extra sauce on the side for those who like things saucier, and don’t forget a few napkins—these wings are finger-licking good!

Of course, we can’t let our herbivorous friends go hungry, so here’s a great veggie-friendly choice that can appeal to everyone.

Grilled veggie skewers are a colourful and tasty BBQ  option that vegetarians and meat lovers alike will love. Start by chopping a mix of veggies—think peppers, courgettes, cherry tomatoes, and red onions—for a variety of flavours and textures. Add chunks of halloumi cheese to the skewers; halloumi grills beautifully and has that perfect salty bite.

Brush the skewers with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of dried herbs. Grill them on the barbie until you’ve got the veggies at just the right amount of tender and slightly charred. The halloumi should be perfectly golden too. Finish with a generous drizzle of fresh pesto for a burst of flavour. These skewers are easy to make, delicious, and add a bright, healthy touch to your BBQ spread!

Perfect Sides for Your BBQ Feast

No Grand Final Day BBQ is complete without a selection of tasty sides to complement your grilled dishes. Here are some classic ideas:

• A rich, creamy potato salad, loaded with boiled eggs, mayonnaise, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a bit of extra flavour.
• A crisp coleslaw, with its tangy dressing, adds the perfect contrast to smoky meats.
• Some corn on the cob onto the BBQ—brushed with butter and charred until sweet and tender.
• A refreshing green salad with avocado, cucumber, and a zesty vinaigrette is a lighter option that balances out the richness of the BBQ.

These sides are simple to prepare and keep everyone satisfied while they wait for the main event!

Get Your Gas BBQ Ready for the Day

If you’re firing up a gas BBQ on the big day, it’s important to check that it’s in top condition for a smooth, safe and enjoyable cooking experience.

Start by thoroughly cleaning the grill. Scrape off any leftover food remnants, and use a wire brush to get rid of any grease build-up from the grates. Check the gas connections to ensure there are no leaks, and make sure your gas bottle has plenty of fuel. Preheat the BBQ for about 10-15 minutes to ensure it reaches the right temperature before cooking.

If you considering upgrading from a portable LPG-fuelled barbecue to a fixed mains-powered setup, or need an urgent gas leak check, consider calling a BBQ gas fitter specialist before the big day to get everything running safely and efficiently. That way, you’ll be ready to cook up a feast with total confidence!

Fire Up the BBQ and Enjoy the Game!

Now that you’ve got your BBQ feast planned, it’s time to kick back and enjoy AFL Grand Final Day with friends and family.

Whether you’re serving up classic snags, smoky chicken wings, or a vibrant veggie skewer, the BBQ is sure to bring everyone together. Make sure the grill is hot, the drinks are cold, and the game is ready to go. A well-prepped barbecue, complete with delicious sides and a few surprises from the grill, will keep your guests happy long after the final whistle.

So, fire up the barbie, soak up the roar of the crowd (or the Roar of Katy Perry), and make this Grand Final Day one to remember!

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.