I have just read that SA operates a fire ban from November to May

Does that mean no barbeques during that period?

On most days you can light up a gas barbeque, or a Weber barbeque, but over an open fire is definitely "verboten".
A few days will pose a higher risk than others, with temps over 100 degrees and a strong wind blowing too . . . . . the combination will set the area alight in no time . . . . so every outdoors fire, including barbies, are forbidden until the OK is given over the wireless and / or TV.

Here's all the info from the SA Country Fire Service

http://www.cfs.org.au/

Click on Fire Restrictions down the left of the page and you'll find out all the details of what you can do when.

In many places you can still build a fire within certain limitations even during fire ban season - but you have to check first if it is a total fire ban day, when you mustn't build a fire (or even use an angle grinder outside!) under any circumstances.