Labour Day Long Weekend Cook Up: Fire It Up & Feed Your Loved Ones

Labour Day is more than just a public holiday. It is a pause. A long weekend that reminds us to slow down, step outside, and spend time with the people who matter most. There is no better way to do that than around a fire, with some food turning slowly, changing colour to become golden on the Auspit.

Whether you are cooking for two in the backyard or hosting a crew of fifteen at the campsite, Labour Day is the perfect excuse to fire it up and make a proper meal of it.

Why Labour Day Is Made For Fire Cooking

Long weekends have a different energy. There is no rush to be anywhere. No early alarms. No reason to keep things quick and simple. That extra day gives you time to cook properly, and create a memory that will live on long after the coals have gone out.

Cooking over coals suits the occasion perfectly. It is unhurried, hands on without being demanding, and it brings people together naturally. The smell alone pulls everyone outside. Conversations start earlier. Drinks are poured sooner, and time starts to stand still. The whole day feels more relaxed.

According to official data from Tourism Research Australia Caravan and Camping Data, Australians took more than 15.2 million caravan and camping overnight trips last year and spent millions of nights exploring their own backyard, highlighting just how popular outdoor travel and camping remains across the country.

The Auspit fits right into that rhythm. Once the meat is secured and the fire is steady, it spins quietly while you enjoy the weekend instead of standing over a grill. Let the motor go to work while you enjoy being present. 

Cooking For Two? Make It Count

Labour Day does not have to mean a big crowd. Sometimes the best cook ups are the quiet ones.

If it is just the two of you, consider:

• A small lamb roast with rosemary and garlic
• Grilled Prawns 
• Leg of Lamb on an Auspit Rotisserie
• A simple basket cook of potatoes and vegetables alongside your main

Cooking something slowly over fire, even for two people, turns an ordinary afternoon into something memorable. Set up a table outside, light the coals early, and enjoy the process.

Feeding A Few More? 

If you are hosting family or friends, Labour Day is a great opportunity to go bigger.

For larger groups, aim for approximately 200 to 250 grams of meat per person. That means:

• 2 kilos will comfortably feed 8 to 10 people depending on sides
• 3 to 4 kilos suits 12 to 16  guests
• Add a basket of roasted vegetables or potatoes to round out the meal

Great crowd friendly options include:

• Whole lamb legs
• Rolled pork shoulder
• Multiple whole chickens
• Beef roasts with a simple salt and pepper crust

The key is to keep it simple. One quality main, a couple of solid sides, and let the fire do the heavy lifting.

Plan Ahead For A Relaxed Day

The secret to a stress free Labour Day cook up is to have good preparation.

The day before:

• Season or marinate your meat
• Check your Auspit motor, brackets and skewer
• Make sure you have enough charcoal or firewood
• Prep salads or cold sides in advance

On the day:

• Light the fire earlier than you think you need to
• Allow extra time for the coals to settle into an even heat
• Keep drinks cold and chairs nearby

When you plan properly, the cook feels effortless. You are not rushing around while guests arrive. You are already in control and ready to enjoy it.

Fire Safety In Early Autumn

March can still bring warm days and dry conditions. Before lighting up, always check local fire restrictions and daily fire danger ratings. Some regions may have total fire bans in place. This ties into planning ahead, properly. 

Use designated fire pits where required, keep water nearby, and never leave your fire unattended. Responsible fire cooking means we can keep enjoying it for years to come.

Make The Auspit The Centre Of The Weekend

Labour Day is about recognising hard work and taking time to recharge. Cooking over fire captures that spirit perfectly. It is simple, honest, and shared.

Whether you are feeding two people quietly in the backyard or hosting a full crew at camp, the Auspit becomes the centrepiece of the day. The fire draws people in. The food brings them together. The memories last well beyond the long weekend.

So this Labour Day, do not just take the day off. Light the coals, set the spit, and make it count.