The Lost Art of the Great Aussie Roast
For many Australians, the rolled beef roast represents a cherished culinary tradition, evoking memories of Sunday dinners with rich gravy, roast vegetables, and leftovers perfect for sandwiches. However, for decades, this classic dish has been a source of disappointment for countless families, including journalist John Anderson.
Anderson recalls a time when the rolled roast was a highlight of the week, but his love affair with it soured over the years as quality plummeted. The final straw came in March 2006, after covering the aftermath of Cyclone Larry. He purchased a roast on his way back to Townsville, only to discover it was a roll of fat dyed pink on the outside to mimic meat—a betrayal that led to a near-total ban on rolled roasts in his household for years.
A Forsayth Discovery Restores Faith
Hope was rekindled unexpectedly at the Forsayth pub/store. There, Anderson discovered cryovac-packed beef labelled Bethel’s Farm Fresh Beef. Recognising the Bethel name as synonymous with the local beef industry, his curiosity was piqued. He purchased a brisket and, crucially, a rolled rib roast.
The meat is produced by Willi and Kristy Bethel, a young couple from Jenkins Creek Station in the Gulf Country. With two children at boarding school in Charters Towers, they embody the Australian spirit of 'having a go,' marketing their own homegrown, grass-fed beef.
The subsequent meal was a revelation. The rolled roast was fantastic, with no need to cut away excessive fat. Nothing was thrown away. This experience single-handedly restored Anderson's faith in the classic Aussie dinner.
Supporting Local Producers and Quality
Further investigation revealed that the Bethels process their cattle at Dan’s Country Meats in Charters Towers and deliver orders across a wide area of North Queensland, including Townsville. Their direct-to-consumer model allows them to maintain quality control from the paddock to the plate.
This story is more than just a culinary review; it's a testament to the value of supporting local producers. By choosing beef from producers like the Bethels, consumers not only get a superior product but also help sustain a young Australian family and the regional agricultural community.
For those tired of substandard meat, the solution might be closer than they think. Seeking out dedicated local growers is the key to reviving the great Aussie rolled beef roast.
