This summer, South Australians are being invited to rediscover their coastlines, reconnect with their communities and celebrate local produce through the launch of a brand new digital cooking series from Aussie Park Barbies.
Built around the humble public barbecue, the series blends food, storytelling, culture and community spirit, filmed in some of South Australia’s most iconic outdoor locations. It’s a concept that feels unmistakably local, celebrating the everyday places and people that make the state such a special place to live and explore.
Founded by long-time mates Denis Smith and Phil Donnelly, Aussie Park Barbies has grown from a grassroots passion project into a community-focused show with a clear purpose. Each episode centres on cooking outdoors, but the heart of the series lies in the stories shared around the grill — from local legends and small businesses to multicultural communities and coastal characters.
The launch of the series was partially supported through a Placemaking Grant from the City of Port Adelaide Enfield Council. The funding helped develop a digital series designed to encourage people to get outdoors, reconnect with local public spaces, and make positive use of parks, coastlines and public BBQ facilities across the council area. The project aligns closely with the council’s placemaking objectives by strengthening community connection and supporting local businesses through accessible, family-friendly content.
In response to the ongoing algal bloom affecting coastal areas and local operators, episode three of the series features North Haven business Wildwater Jetski Tours. The episode acknowledges current environmental conditions while highlighting how local operators are continuing to engage with the coastline responsibly during this period. By showcasing public assets, local stories and community-led activity, Aussie Park Barbies contributes to coastal recovery efforts and encourages respectful, ongoing engagement with the Port Adelaide Enfield coastline.
The series is anchored by two familiar Port Adelaide faces. Phil Donnelly, owner of the iconic Mayfair Bakery, brings warmth, humour and deep local pride to the BBQ. Known across the community as a passionate cook and Port Adelaide icon, Phil’s presence bridges local history, homegrown recipes and plenty of laughs along the way. Co-creator Denis Smith is a Port Adelaide local, photographer, filmmaker and mental health worker, renowned for capturing landscapes, community events and the unique spirit of South Australian culture. His creative eye shapes the visual identity of the series, showcasing public spaces and coastlines in a way few others can.
“Our goal was simple,” Phil says. “Get people back outdoors, reconnecting with the coastline, supporting local producers, and enjoying everything South Australia already has right in front of them.” Denis adds, “Between the public BBQs, the coast, the communities and local legends like Phil, this show is about celebrating where we live and the people who make it special.”
The Aussie Park Barbies series has launched across YouTube, Instagram and its interactive website, with plans to expand into TV broadcasting longer term. With Christmas on our doorstep, it’s perfectly timed to inspire families, visitors and locals alike to fire up a public BBQ and make the most of South Australia’s summer outdoors.
Check it out on YouTube here: https://youtube.com/@aussieparkbarbies?si=UvOLD6Cz2hNmv8Kl
