No usage of lava rock is required on Outback models which include the Flame Tamer.

How the flame tamer works:

1. The burner heats up the flame tamer underneath the grill, which in turn heats the food on the grill.
2. The natural food juices produced during cooking fall onto the hot flame tamer below and vaporise.
3. The subsequent rising smoke bastes the food, as it travels upwards, imparting that unique barbecued flavour.
4. More even cooking of food will be achieved by using the BBQ with the hood down.  This should only be done with the burners on low.

Advantages over lava rock:

1. Unlike lava rock, the flame tamer reduces the amount of grease and juices falling on to the burner below, which not only helps prevent clogging, but also reduces the amount of corrosion, thus extending the life of the burner.
2. It provides more even heat distribution, controlled cooking and reacts quicker to the heat controls.
3. Excess grease drips off instead of being soaked up, helping reduce major flare ups.
4. The flame tamer can be easily lifted out for cleaning or to access the burner below.