Fairleys Shoes owner Scott Fairley overcame a slow start to win the Courier Business Footy Tipping Competition this year, walking away with an extra $3000 in his pocket.

The business beat Les Chandler from Mt Barker Bottle and Can, who finished second for a $1000 prize and Team AHS from Adelaide Hills Storage, which placed third, winning $500.

While he describes himself as a “bit of a Geelong supporter”, Mr Fairley said he generally supported whichever team he backed in his tips each round.

“I wouldn’t say I’m heavily involved (in supporting Geelong), I try and barrack for the team that I’m hoping to win,” he said.

He took over the tips for his business after his dad retired, continuing a tradition that he believes stretches back to the inception of the Courier competition.

“My start of the season wasn’t great, I think I was near the bottom or middle of the way and then slowly crept my way up as the season progressed,” Mr Fairley said.

“It was a tough tipping year to a degree.

“... I’m going on holiday soon so it’s good to have a bit of extra money for that.”

When asked to give his tipping advice to fellow tipsters, Mr Fairley remained tight-lipped. “Do the opposite of me so I can keep winning,” he joked.

“I don’t have any favorites, I try not to pick my favorite team every time because they usually let you down.”