A Cut Above the Rest: Joe’s 25-Year Friendship with a Community of People

Celebrating 25 Years of Joe at The Tradies

If you’ve stepped foot into The Dickson Tradies anytime in the last 25 years, chances are you’ve met Joe the Barber.

Whether you came in for a trim, a yarn, or just to soak up the banter in the shop, Joe has been a fixture of the club since the year 2000—scissors in hand, a warm greeting at the ready.

Joe took over as The Tradies’ resident barber at the turn of the millennium, and he’s been shaping more than just hair ever since—he’s shaped friendships, stories, and a sense of belonging for countless locals. Joe and Paul’s shop, now known as Barber Bros, is more than just a place to get a cut; it’s a cornerstone of the Dickson and inner north community. The coffee machine is always brewing, the chairs are always full, and the conversation flows as freely as the snipping of scissors.

The Barber Bros Legacy

Joe’s brother, Paul, joined him at the Dickson location when The Tradies’ Woden shop closed, cementing their reputation as the go-to duo for top-notch service with an old-school touch. This year, Paul celebrates 20 years alongside his brother—two decades of laughter, loyalty, and shared stories behind the barber’s chair. Together, they’ve built something special—a place where everyone feels welcome, where names and faces are never forgotten, and where the simple act of getting a haircut is transformed into an experience of camaraderie and connection.

More Than Just a Haircut

People don’t just come to Barber Bros for a trim; they come for the laughter, the storytelling, and the sense of community that fills the shop. Regulars pop in for a chat even when they don’t need a cut, and newcomers quickly find themselves drawn into the fold. From long-time patrons who’ve been coming for decades to young ones getting their first-ever haircut, Joe and Paul have created a space where everyone belongs.

Joe’s commitment to old-fashioned service—where a handshake still means something, and a barber knows not just how you like your hair, but how your family’s doing—has made him an anchor for many. Some travel across Canberra just to sit in his chair, proof that his reputation stretches far beyond Dickson.

And if you’re lucky, you might catch Joe talking about one of his other great passions—horse racing. Known for having a good eye for the form guide, he’s not shy about sharing a cheeky tip or two with those in the know, always delivered with a grin and a wink.

Reflections and Recognition

Reflecting on the milestone, Joe shared, "This place isn’t just a barbershop—it’s our second home. The people who walk through that door aren’t just customers; they’re mates, they’re family. I’ve had the privilege of watching kids grow up, hearing people’s stories, and sharing plenty of laughs along the way. It’s been an incredible 25 years, and I wouldn’t change a thing."

As Joe marks 25 years—and Paul celebrates 20—the club and its community celebrate them both. Not just for the years of haircuts, but for the countless memories, friendships, and moments of connection they’ve fostered.

“Joe isn’t just a barber—he’s a part of the fabric of The Tradies. Walking into his shop is like catching up with an old friend, whether it’s your first visit or your hundredth. His kindness, his attention to detail, and his ability to make everyone feel valued is what makes him truly special. We are incredibly lucky to have Joe and Paul as part of our Tradies family.”

— Alison Percival - The Tradies CEO

Here’s to Many More

Here’s to Joe, Paul, and the Barber Bros—may the laughter never fade, the coffee keep brewing, the tips stay hot, and the scissors keep snipping for many more years to come!