BUILD a tower of kindling and paper in the centre of the oven to start your fire.
ALWAYS start your fire in the middle of the oven, (never at the front), then shift the fire to the side or back. Be mindful to give your oven floor even wear.
GENERALLY you will only need to cure your oven once. If, however the oven hasn’t been used for a long period, it is advisable to start with a smaller fire beforehand to warm up the oven before you establish a large hot fire.
ETHICALLY sourced ‘dry red gum’ and ‘yellow/white box’ wood is recommended, other woods may be toxic. See www.firewood.asn.au.