About The Tradies
Proud of Our Past, Excited for Our Future
When you walk into The Tradies in Dickson, you’re not just stepping into a club — you’re walking into a piece of Canberra’s living history. For more than three generations, locals and visitors have celebrated milestones, shared meals, connected with friends, and have been part of something bigger.
We believe the best venues are defined not only by what they provide, but by the people who bring them to life. That belief still guides us today, shaping a place that’s warm, inclusive, and deeply connected to our community.
What We’re All About
At The Tradies, we’re not just here to serve — we’re here to connect. We believe in creating a place where everyone feels welcomed and looked after.
We enjoy bringing people together through activities, events, and shared spaces where friendships can grow and memories are made. We take pride in creating an environment that feels comfortable, familiar, and open to everyone.
For more than 60 years, The Tradies has been a trusted place Canberra locals know and love — built on care, connection, and community. That’s what we’re all about.
born from the vision of working people, built for the community
It’s 1964, some workers of the Building Workers Industrial Union and the Operative Painters & Decorators’ Union had a bold idea: to create a social club in Dickson that would serve not only their fellow workers but become a true community hub for working Canberrans and their families. That vision became The Canberra Tradesmens Union Club — now proudly known as The Tradies — and more than six decades later, the spirit behind it still guides us.
The Tram era
Long-time members still smile when they remember our famous tram dining cars. The first trams were installed in the club in 1985, and most remained until 2008. Over the years, we housed eleven vintage trams from capital cities across Australia, transforming them into unique dining spaces right here in Dickson. One of these beauties still calls The Tradies home today.
But the trams were just part of what made us unique. The Tradies built the BMX track in 1981, prior to its relocation to Melba, and we were home to the Canberra Bicycle Museum. What began as a small display grew into a 600-piece collection, eventually becoming a recognised museum in its own right. In 2008, it moved to the Daramalan Club. We also had a farmyard museum and even a planetarium at our Downer venue. Members enjoyed holiday units across Queensland, Victoria, and South Australia — a tradition of giving back that’s always been part of who we are.
The Dickson Tradies, 1964
Looking to the Future
The Tradies has always been more than a club — it’s been a part of Dickson’s story for over 60 years. Today, our dining spaces, relaxed lounge, bustling café, and four-star Quality Hotel welcome locals and visitors alike, offering the kind of hospitality that makes people feel at home.
But our eyes are firmly on the future. We’re imagining what The Tradies can be in the next 10, 20, or even 30 years — a place that continues to serve our members, strengthens our community, and reflects the very best of Dickson.
Whatever we build next will stand the test of time. It will honour our history while embracing change, ensuring The Tradies remains a place to belong for generations to come.
Discover why Canberrans have been choosing The Tradies as their local for five decades.
Become a member today!
