Meatstock Butcher Wars: Betts Butchery

Answered by: Ryan Watson

How did you get into the butcher business? I was jackerooing in Bourke on a 150,000 acre sheep and cattle station. Met the love of my life (my now wife), came back to Sydney where she was a nurse, started a butcher's apprenticeship. With my agricultural history, it seemed perfect!

If you had to choose, what would be your favourite cut of meat and why? Lamb forequarter chops. They are extremely underrated and versatile as they are great slow cooked for Irish stews and perfect on the BBQ for grilling. Great flavour and good value.

What will make you the winner at the Butcher Wars? Have you been doing anything to prepare for the comp? I've been thinking about my approach and products every second of the day since my application to Butcher Wars. I'm confident with my theme and hope it's unique. Using fresh ingredients that the audience can access and flavours and cooking techniques they can replicate at home to create tasty meals.

Which bands/artists are you keen to catch at Meatstock? The Beards will be fantastic: great tunes and great fellas.

What else are you looking forward to at Meatstock? I'm really excited to learn some barbecuing techniques from the pros. Also talk turkey (pardon the pun) with fellow butchers. All in all it's exciting to be able to showcase what we do for a living and love.