WES Carr was pulling beers at Sydney's Robin Hood Hotel while the final of Australian Idol was broadcast live last year.

But now he's very much part of the action as the favourite to win against shearer Luke Dickens . . . and loving the spotlight: "I'm kind of excited rather than nervous," Wes says.

Wes also says he's not surprised it's a case of the last two men standing in the singing comp.

"The voters are mums and young girls so you can see why we're here," he laughs. You may recall that was the case way back when the show, which is now in its sixth series. Guy Sebastian and Shannon Noll took centre stage at the Opera House and it was the Adelaide lad, Guy, who took out the title . . . here's hoping.

Meanwhile, while Wes's close family will be in Sydney for the final verdict, his old Trinity College school friend Sarah Soteriou will be rallying supporters at the Stag Hotel on East Tce from 6pm.

The Stag has a special Wes connection – he used to play there