Meet the Aussie fella cooking up furry good looks in the UK, it is Alan Bishop!
Alan Bishop, known online as BigOzBear, is an Australian expat who has made the United Kingdom his home, bringing with him the warmth and straightforward charm that Australians abroad are well known for. While many Aussies carry their identity lightly when they relocate, Alan has leaned into his heritage as a defining part of his online persona — the “Big Oz Bear” moniker speaking both to his national pride and his place within the bear community, a subculture within LGBTQ+ spaces that celebrates bigger, often hairier men and the culture surrounding them.
Across his social media platforms — Facebook, Instagram, and Bluesky — Alan has built a following as bigozbear_official, cultivating a presence that bridges his Australian roots with his life in the UK. His engagement across multiple platforms suggests someone who is genuinely invested in connecting with community, whether that’s through personal storytelling, advocacy, or simply sharing slices of his life as an Aussie navigating British culture.
Living as an expat comes with its own rich tapestry of experiences — the cultural clashes, the moments of unexpected homesickness, the joy of finding your tribe in a new country — and Alan’s journey appears to reflect all of that. His dual identity as both an outsider (the Aussie abroad) and an insider (a well-established voice in his community in the UK) gives him a unique vantage point, and that perspective is likely to make for a fascinating conversation.
Luka Musicki (L.M.): Welcome, Alan, to the interview. Do you prefer Alan or Al? Or you do not mind either?
Alan Bishop (A.B.): G’day, I’m Al, or Alan to be formal. It always feels like I’m back at school when someone calls me ALAN. I’m a 53-year-old Aussie living in the UK, having been here for almost a decade. I relocated from Sydney to Cardiff, Wales, in 2016 to be with my then-partner. We met through the popular Growlr app, chatted and video-called endlessly for over a year, visited each other a few times, and then decided to move in together. However, this meant one of us had to relocate. My chances were better since I had been a chef since the late 90s, so I was the one uprooted.
Yes, it was scary and life-changing, but we both felt it was “this” moment. I didn’t want to miss this opportunity for happiness and love, so I went for it. Unfortunately, after 5 years together, our marriage (and subsequent marriage visa application) didn’t last as long as planned, and we divorced in 2024. Now I’m single but still a resident of the UK!
L.M.: So, you grew up in Adelaide, South Australia? What was it like growing up in Australia, and when did you come out in the queer community and then later on in the bear community?
A.B.: I was born in South Australia (SA), but my family moved to New South Wales (NSW) when I was a toddler, so I have no memory of living in SA. I was raised and educated around the Blue Mountains of NSW. Eventually, in my late 20s, I relocated back to SA to reconnect with my hometown. That’s where I came out to my friends and family (2001-2002), met my first gay partner, and we stayed together for over thirteen years (NSW). I then relocated again to Sydney to work while studying communication design at a college. Sadly, when that 13 year relationship ended, ‘twas around a year or so after that that I met my future husband in the UK… and now we’re all caught up.
I’ve been in hospitality since the late 90s, mainly to help pay the bills while I was in various bands. I played drums in most of them. From the end of year 12 onwards I’d been playing music with some school friends. We were together as a band for about ten to twelve years. During this time, I also played in a hard rock/metal band a folk band a blues band and a pop-rock band. My schoolmates’ band was a rock band that played our favourite covers and our own compositions. As gigs slowed down my shifts in cafes and restaurants increased. Eventually I asked to be trained. I studied at college and became a chef – still doing it. The rest is history.
L.M.: What did you do in Australia? Did you join any bear kindred community, like the Harbour City Bears, and/or others?
A.B.: When I lived in Sydney from 2008 onwards, I actively sought out the local Bear community, known as the Harbour City Bears. They held an event every Friday night at The Oxford Hotel on Oxford Street, NSW. However, this venue changed frequently as I was part of the group. There was always a reason why they didn’t want us there anymore, which was frustrating, but we did have some great and some not-so-great venues.
One memorable place I cooked at was a rooftop beer garden not far from Oxford Street (The Lord Roberts Hotel, Darlinghurst). HCB then started a weekend event called ‘Bears on Sunday’. This was a daytime, afternoon social event, a refreshing change from the usual late-night gatherings. It was held at a bar/restaurant where I worked, which was very fortunate for me. As far as I knew, the HCBs felt the same way. I became somewhat of a connection or link for people (and they became the same for me) within the community, I became a bit of a host of sorts.
It was a lot of fun and I’m not entirely sure, but I know it remained the meeting place for a long time after I left for the pre-parade march and other Mardi Gras activities. Many guys would often thank me for being there. It was easy for them to say hello to me because the kitchen had a door right by the staircase leading up to the beer garden and restaurant where I would often be sitting to greet friends. I would introduce them to friends who were part of the community or club, especially if they were out-of-towners visiting for the weekend.
So, ‘Bears on Sunday’ at that venue became more than just another day at work for me. It was enjoyable, boosted my ego, and something I genuinely looked forward to. There were so many great events, especially those during Mardi Gras, which runs for a week or two with Bear Events culminating in the parade. I highly recommend anyone who hasn’t been to the HCBs to go as soon as possible. It’s a great time, the people are fantastic, you’ll have the best time. I miss these events and the people. Nothing beats Aussie food, the beer and the weather – bloody hell, what am I still doing in the UK?
L.M.: And then you moved from Australia to the UK, so how have you been since moving there? And what is the weather, food, people like? And do you enjoy being in the UK vs. Australia?
A.B.: Living in the UK is fine, it’s not a bad place. When the weather is nice (sun and warmth), it makes it a different place. But the UK being the UK, most of the time it’s overcast, wet, windy and cold. That’s not so nice and can get irritating and depressing, especially for someone who’s grown up in the sun. But the people I’ve met, and friends I’ve made, are probably the reason why I’m still here. I know I’ll eventually move back home to the land down under, but for now, I’m good here. The odd holiday back home every now and then will ease my Aussie soul until I make the big move back.
L.M.: So what do you do now in the Gloucester, UK? Same same, or something different?
A.B.: Now, in 2026, living in Gloucester, UK, and doing very little besides work. I don’t go out in the gay bar scene anymore. The disappointment and heartbreak from my last relationship/marriage, dating has changed me a lot. I know I’ll get my mojo back and go out again to meet people. I did try, met a few really nice guys, but deep down I wasn’t ready. I didn’t want to pretend everything was okay with those guys, that wasn’t the right thing to do, so I just stopped socialising. I’m currently sharing a house with a good friend and that’s enough for me for now.
L.M.: You seem to be a Star Wars Fan. What, in your opinion, makes Star Wars unique passion to be into, verus other alternatives in the Sci-Fi world?
A.B.: Growing up, Star Wars was a huge part of my life. I think I saw it on its second theatrical release in the early 80s, with my mother taking me. I vividly remember seeing Darth Vader for the first time. He walked onto the screen through all the blaster smoke, and I remember squeezing her hand. I adored R2-D2 and wanted one for myself, which I still do! Most of my friends on my street shared my love for Star Wars. We all had favourite characters and would play with our action figures, often losing or breaking them. I’m not sure how many of my Star Wars figurines are now buried in mud under someone’s house, haha. My mother collected all the collector cards available at the time. As a very young child, once we had them all, we could turn some over to create the iconic Millennium Falcon scene with Chewbacca, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Luke Skywalker and Han Solo looking out the cockpit at the Death Star. I had this friend back then who wanted the cards, and being my usual selfless self, I gave them to him without hesitation. When I got home and told my mother what I’d done, she couldn’t believe it! I think she was more hurt that we’d lost those cards than I was, looking back. I reckon they’d be worth something now, whatd’ya think?
L.M.: I can see from your shirtless pictures that you have a tattoo of a bear print on your left pecks (or as I like to call them, furry man boobies, because I like to take many interviews very seriously and respectfully. haha, just kidding, everyone is unique and different). So, tell me when and why you got it? Does it symbolise being part of the bear community, like an imprint?
A.B.: My partner and I had a fantastic time with the HCBs. I even got a Bear Paw tattoo on my chest – cliché, I know, but I loved it!
L.M.: You have a nice beard with a manly jawline. So I have seen that you had a moustache, a short beard, and a medium-sized beard from 2006 to 2026, so which beard style do you prefer? And what is your daily beard or maintenance plan with your beard?
A.B.: My beard: I sometimes want a change of pace, and facial hair can dramatically alter your look depending on the style. I usually oscillate between a full beard and a moustache. In the early 2000s, I kept my beard trimmed, a closer-to-the-face style. However, as I’ve aged, a thicker, longer beard has become more my norm. I enjoy the effect a moustache can have on your face. After months or years of it covered or coated in fur, you often forget how you look without a beard; sometimes it’s nice and other times you can’t wait for your beard to grow back LOL.
L.M.: And you have a nice physique. Do you go to the gym or do you have a work-out rountine? You do have a lot of shirtless pictures with a smile, so you must have a good body positivity about how you look at the moment, is this a fair assessment?
A.B.: My body: Ever since school I’ve been in and out of the fitness circuit. My best friend used to drag me to his home gym to work out with him all the time. He introduced me to weight training, jogging (which I hate with a passion) and stretching. However, my biggest problem was consistency; I never stuck with it long enough to achieve my goals. Let’s just say ‘The Hulk’ was always my favourite comic book hero. But every few years I’d get back into the routine and just as easily, fall back out.
I enjoy using weights and strengthening myself but don’t do it enough. My diet isn’t always ideal either. I’m a such a bear, LOL. I loved my beer, carbs and junk food too much. However, as I get older, I try to look after myself better and eat healthier than I used to. I don’t drink alcohol anymore, I use the gym at my current job to keep my ageing body from seizing up, LOL. I’ve always been bulky and broad-shouldered and way too easy to put on weight, but it all balances out which helps a lot. I do have some negative feelings about my body, but I think everyone does. Even those who love their bodies still have that one thing they wish wasn’t there or could change. I’m comfortable in my own skin and I think those (Bears) who’ve seen my online presence would agree. I want to gain and maintain the motivation to keep up with my weight training and be more consistent with my workouts and diet. However, being 53 and still a belly bear, I’m not sure if my ‘HULK’ days will ever come true. All I’m focused on now is being healthy and able to get around on my own without any difficulties.
L.M.: So what you do in your spare time? Any hobbies? Travelling around Europe and back home?
A.B.: My favourite hobby was playing the drums, though nowadays I miss it. Since moving to the UK, I haven’t done much music, but I am still a strong part of who I am. So, I try to see live bands whenever I can. Collecting vinyl, CDs and merchandise from my favourite bands is a big part of my life. Cinema is another major interest. There’s nothing quite like seeing a movie in the theatre. The dark room, the smell of popcorn and candy, the laughter, the screams and cheers – it’s an event. Watching at home is comfortable, but you’ll never experience that group gasping of hearing “Luke, I am your father!” moment or the deafening cheer when Captain America catches Thor’s hammer in “Avengers: Endgame”. Nothing compares to the camaraderie and excitement of the cinema. I still dabble in graphic design, but it’s mostly for myself these days. I used to run my own business, “Alan Bishop: Design,” in Sydney for a while, but I put it on hold when I moved to the UK and haven’t resumed it yet. I might get back to it one day, who knows.
Travelling: When I was with my partner in Australia we travelled quite a bit. Vietnam and Thailand were favourites. He had many family members spread across Europe so one year we had a big European holiday covering Italy, Paris, Germany, Liechtenstein, Amsterdam and more. It was great for us as a couple and also for me as I’d never been to that part of the world before. It was lovely to see all the history. Australia doesn’t have the same history as Europe; it was beautiful.
L.M.: Would you say being a bear has helped your career? Is your audience primarily bears for work and life?
A.B.: Being a bear: the positives from identifying as a BEAR haven’t significantly impacted my career, but it has helped boost my ego and confidence. Since coming out, the people I’ve met, mingled in social groups and events, and used chat sites that have appeared on our PCs and eventually smartphones. This has broadened my sense of self and pride in being part of the ever-growing LGBTQ+ community.
L.M.: What are your career goals for the future?
A.B.: My career goals moving forward are to leave the hospitality industry. It’s incredibly stressful for both my mental and physical health. Chefs develop a unique persona that only other chefs and hospitality professionals can truly understand. Australians have a favourite four-letter word, and it perfectly suits me! I’d describe myself as open, kind-hearted, thoughtful, honest, outspoken and dryly sarcastic. However, all of that comes out in a big bag of “C**t!”
In Australia, “C**t” is mostly used as a friendly term among friends and loved ones. You might hear someone say, “Aww ya, such a funny C**t, aren’t ya?!” or “How ya do’n C**T?” I aim to be helpful and friendly in the workplace. However, when things get tense, I can be blunt and direct. I’ve been told I show off my “C**t side” of my personality, which I find amusing. Take that as you like, I know I’m a sweetheart!
In the future, I’d like to transition into IT, perhaps cybersecurity. I’d love to work a bit more from home and still earn a living doing something I enjoy.
L.M.: Is there any advice that you would give someone (like a bear) who would be interested in moving overseas (Australia to another country), and in the social media influence area, and what is involved?
A.B.: Advice: If someone’s a bear and wants to relocate, research is key. Knowledge is power. If it’s for a partner, ensure it’s for the right reasons, and both are committed to making it work. Talk about problems openly and honestly. Don’t bottle up negative thoughts, especially about your closest loved one. For exploring or travelling, research again. Plan, strategise, save money and let everyone know your plans. Seek out gay-safe areas, clubs, and public places to meet people before private meetups. Prioritise safety and avoid being deceived. Social media is great for tagging places, especially when travelling alone. If you go silent, people can easily find you. Above all, be yourself. Everyone else is taken. Be honest; if you don’t want to share details, keep it simple. But be confident and proud of who you are – not boisterous or arrogant, just comfortable in your own skin. No one likes a know-it-all or being talked down to. Arrogance is also a turn-off. Kindness costs nothing but gives so much. We all have our moments, but they shouldn’t define us or scar us (or anyone else). In a world full of negativity and diversity, it’s wonderful to be the source of positivity, happiness, love and joy for those around us. Make one person smile; you’ve made a difference.
L.M.: Thank you, Alan, for answering the main interview questions. Time for quick-fire questions.
- Location: Gloucester, UK
- Pronouns: He, Him
- Relationship status: Divorced, Single
- Favourite drink: A strong, flat white.
- Guys I’m into/turn my head: Facial hair, body hair, a bulky stocky build and strength.
- Favourite cities: Sydney and Melbourne (Australia), Cardiff (Wales), and Amsterdam (Netherlands).
- Favourite hobby: Working on graphic media in Photoshop, sketching and other related activities.
- A good date: An afternoon or evening at the cinema or a show (live gig, comedy or theatre). Food somewhere – street food or other casual options, not necessarily a restaurant.
- What I look for in a guy: A caring face and happy eyes, honesty, confidence, not taking everything or themselves too seriously, being grounded and educated.
- Where can we find you?
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