Carlisle Hotel operator Andrew Friars (or Tuck as he’s affectionately known to his friends) is very happy being a publican but it’s more than just a job for this local business owner.

Faith Jones, Andrew Friars and Angela Daly from the Carlisle Hotel

After a 25-year corporate career overseas, Tuck describes his business venture as ‘my retirement’ and in a job where he hopes to ‘have an influence and make a positive change’, he is invested in supporting the local community, especially during the construction of the METRONET Victoria Park-Canning Level Crossing Removal Project.

Tuck explains that he carefully considered the impact the project would have on the area and business and while he knew there would be disruption during construction, his love for the business (first as a punter and then with the community it brings together) means he’s here for the long-term.

“I honestly didn’t realise how much people rely on the trains until the shutdown. We have responded to this by running a shuttle bus from Carlisle to Victoria Park Station on Optus Stadium event days, and also using the shuttle for those who may need to visit senior citizen centres, the TAFE and other customers with local commute transportation needs,” Tuck said.

“We are committed to doing whatever we can to support the community at this time and we look forward to the benefits of the beautiful new space once the project is complete.”

As an astute business operator, Tuck also sees the construction phase of the project as a chance to boost his much-loved business and is catering for the new construction clientele now on their doorstep by offering special food and drink packages for the project teams, hosting events to cater for late shifts and starting the ‘Tuck Shop’ for walk-in or drive-through pre-ordered coffees and meals.