Karratha meat-lovers compete in Rib Master cook-off

The rise in popularity of American-style meat was the reason for a group of barbecue lovers to come together to talk all things smoky and compete for the title of best pork ribs.

The Karratha Pit Masters had their second catch-up and cook-off on Saturday, October 13 at Baynton West Park.

Founder Gavin Canning said the group already had more than 800 members on Facebook but the meet-ups were an opportunity for everyone to get to know each other.

“I’ve been barbecuing for a long time and I knew there would be like-minded people out there, so I wanted to create a comm-unity group that could learn from each other,” he said.

Only four members competed for the Rib Master title at the gathering, with Bruce Hill taking home the grand prize of a Weber barbecue donated by Mitre 10.

“It was a close competition but Bruce’s ribs were really tender and moist, plus the sauce on them was really tasty,” Mr Canning said.

Bruce Grieg won second place and was gifted a Karratha Quality Meats voucher — another prize donated by a local business.

“Having the butcher in town has allowed us to buy select cuts of meat that we haven’t had access to before,” Mr Canning said.

The next Karratha Pit Masters cook-off will likely not be until next year, as it will be too hot for an outdoor smoke session this year.

In the meantime, the public are welcome to join the Facebook group and share the barbecue love.