A brief history of jerky

and why it’s still the ultimate Aussie snack

Jerky has been a trusted source of fuel for centuries, dating back to ancient cultures who needed reliable, preservable sources of protein on long journeys. In Australia, jerky quickly became a bush essential, tough, tasty, and perfect for the rugged outback.

Traditional jerky was made by drying thick strips of meat in the sun, often seasoned with salt and pepper to keep pests away. This slow drying process preserved the meat naturally, without the need for refrigeration or additives.

At Billabong Jerky, we honour those traditions by crafting jerky the old-fashioned way: thick, chewy, and made to last. With flavours inspired by the Aussie bush and a nod to its roots, our jerky isn’t just a snack, it’s a taste of Australia’s story.