Dan is the builder, caretaker, and proud custodian of Mabel, the region’s most recognisable barbecue icon. While he’s often working behind the scenes, his fingerprints are on every detail—from the engineering that keeps Mabel running flawlessly to the smooth logistics that get her from one event to the next.
With a deep passion for craftsmanship and community events, Dan ensures Mabel is always ready to put on a show. He’s the steady hand that keeps the smoke rolling, the wheels turning, and the crowds fed. And when he steps out front, he loves sharing the stories, challenges, and triumphs behind Mabel’s journey—giving fans a glimpse into the heart and hard work that fuel her success.
Whether coordinating major festivals or supporting local gatherings, Dan brings reliability, creativity, and a genuine love for bringing people together. Mabel may be the star, but Dan is the one who makes the magic possible.
Paul brings a rare blend of culinary skill, teaching expertise, and pure entertainment to every stage he steps onto. A chef by trade and a seasoned Secondary Hospitality Teacher, he knows how to break down complex techniques into simple, practical steps that anyone can follow. His demos aren’t just informative—they’re genuinely fun. Beyond the kitchen, Paul is a trained musician, DJ, and MC, giving him a natural command of the crowd. He reads the room, keeps the energy high, and turns every session into a lively, engaging experience. Whether he’s explaining the science of smoke or showing off a foolproof BBQ trick, he delivers it with clarity, confidence, and charisma. With his mix of professional know‑how and showmanship, Paul transforms BBQ education into entertainment. He’s the guy who makes people laugh, learn, and walk away ready to fire up their own grill with newfound confidence. | |
Justin is a chef who refuses to stand still. Trained in the traditions of Italian cuisine and sharpened by years of hands‑on experience in his own food van, he brings a rare mix of discipline, creativity, and pure flavour obsession to the Grill Yard. His cooking is grounded in classic technique, but he’s never afraid to push boundaries—experimenting with smoke, spice, and unexpected combinations that keep crowds leaning in for the next bite.
What sets Justin apart is his instinct for flavour. He treats every cook‑up like a canvas, blending the finesse of his Italian roots with the bold, rugged energy of barbecue. Whether he’s slow‑smoking a cut to perfection or riffing on a new marinade, he approaches each dish with the curiosity of a tinkerer and the precision of a seasoned chef.
On stage, Justin brings flair, confidence, and a spark of showmanship. He’s engaging, quick‑witted, and always ready to share the “why” behind the “wow.” Fans love him not just for the food he creates, but for the passion he brings to every demonstration. In the Grill Yard lineup, Justin is the flavour‑forward wildcard—the chef who keeps things exciting.
With both Australian and American heritage woven into his story, Dennis brings a unique authenticity to his role as Pitmaster. His approach to barbecue is shaped by two cultures, two traditions, and a lifelong appreciation for the craft of cooking over fire. That blend gives him a voice—and a flavour perspective—that stands out wherever he goes. As an experienced MC, Dennis knows how to hold a crowd. His storytelling is warm, vivid, and full of personality, turning every demo into a shared experience rather than just a lesson. Whether he’s explaining the finer points of smoke and seasoning or recounting the origins of a dish, he brings passion, humour, and a natural sense of connection. On stage or by the pit, Dennis is the bridge between technique and tale—someone who not only shows you how great barbecue is made, but makes you feel the culture and history behind it. His presence elevates every event he’s part of. | |