Chef’s Selections - Summer 2025

Seasonal, handcrafted dishes created just for you

Step into Essence and enjoy a deliciously curated two-course experience designed to bring a little extra joy to your day. Our Chef’s Selections menu celebrates fresh seasonal produce, comforting flavours, and the simple pleasure of sitting down to a meal that’s been created with real care.

Choose your favourite main and dessert, settle in, and let our culinary team look after you. It’s the perfect option for long lunches, mid-week dinners, festive catch-ups, or those moments when cooking feels like one task too many. Warm, hearty, generous — just the way dining at The Tradies should feel.

With exceptional value and beautifully crafted dishes, Chef’s Selections is our way of giving you something special to enjoy any day of the week.

Members $32.00 · Non-Members $38.50
Available daily for lunch and dinner in Essence.

Come together, slow down, and savour the season — one plate at a time. 🍽️✨

*Terms & Conditions Apply

Get ready for back-to-back weekends of great music at The Tradies! Our December lineup is filled with talented local bands and the always-popular DJ Sue, bringing the perfect soundtrack to your nights in Dickson. Also, don’t miss DJ Sue for New Year’s Eve - FLURO FEVER - details below.

Whether you’re in the mood to dance, sing along, or just relax with friends over a drink, our live entertainment is the perfect way to kickstart your weekend.

🎶 DECEMBER ENTERTAINMENT

• Friday 5 December

  • MEGA HAM RAFFLE | Tickets available: 5:30pm, Draw: 7pm

  • DJ Sue | 8:30pm–LATE

• Friday 12 December

  • Jimmy McGrath | 5:00pm - 8:00pm

  • The Rubiks Dudes | 8:30pm–11:30 pm

• Friday 19 December

  • MEGA HAM RAFFLE | Tickets available: 5:30pm, Draw: 7pm

  • Special K | 8:30pm–11:30pm

• Wednesday 31 December - NYE FLURO FEVER!

  • DJ Sue | 8:30pm–LATE

  Dig deep into that wardrobe, find the brightest, boldest fluro you rocked in the 80s (we know it’s still in there 😉), and get ready to light up the dance floor!

  DJ Sue will be on the decks all night, spinning feel-good favourites, party classics and the kind of tracks that make you want to dance like it’s 1989 again.

  Whether it’s neon tights, glow sticks, headbands, mesh tops, leg warmers or something truly questionable you once wore to a Blue Light Disco, this is your chance to dust it off and relive the fun.

HAPPY HOUR: EVERY FRIDAY & SATURDAY 6:00PM - 8:00PM

🎄 The Christmas Grinch💚

A festive favourite served in a chilled martini glass — smooth, creamy and deliciously minty.

The Christmas Grinch blends creamy Baileys, fresh cream and cool Crème de Menthe for a velvety, festive-green cocktail. Finished with a sprinkle of crushed Christmas candies and a candy cane for that perfect holiday touch.

$14 Members / Happy Hour $12 | $16.80 Non-Members

🧊 Ingredients:

• 🍃 45ml Crème de Menthe

• 🥛 45ml Baileys

• 🧁 45ml Cream

• 🍬 Crushed Christmas Candies

• 🍭 Candy Cane Garnish
  

✨ Available — only at The Tradies.

60 HAMS - 2 MASSIVE NIGHTS!

Friday 5th & 19th December | Ticket Sales from 5:30pm | Raffle starts at 7:00pm

There’s something special about Christmas at The Tradies. The shared moments, the familiar faces, and the simple joys that make this time of year feel so good. Our Mega Ham Raffle is one of those traditions we look forward to every year, and we’re excited to bring it back for the festive season.

We’ve stocked up on a huge selection of Christmas hams, ready to be won by our members and guests. Whether you’re planning a big family lunch, gifting to someone you care about, or simply love the fun of a festive raffle, this is the perfect way to celebrate the lead-up to Christmas.

Grab a drink, settle in, and enjoy the atmosphere — it’s a relaxed, feel-good night that’s all about community, cheer, and a little Christmas luck.

Good food. Good company. Good Christmas vibes.  It’s all part of what makes The Tradies a place to belong.

Mega Ham Raffle: Terms & Conditions

Promoter

The Canberra Tradesmen’s Union Club
2 Badham St, Dickson ACT 2602
ABN 17 098 615 760

Raffle Dates

• Friday 5 December 2025

• Friday 19 December 2025

Method of Entry

• Tickets cost $1 for 5 numbers.

• Tickets are sold from 5:30pm to 7:00pm on the night of the draw.

• Ticket sales close strictly at 7:00pm.

• $20 worth of tickets in the same transaction will issue a bonus $20 in tickets.

• Participants must be 18+ to purchase tickets or claim prizes.

• All sales are final.

Prizes

• 30 x Legs of Ham

• Total prize pool: $2300

• Prize quantities may vary depending on supply.

Draw Procedure

• Draws commence at 7:00pm and continue until all prizes are awarded.

• All draws are conducted using a random number generator.

Re-Draw Policy

• Winners must be present within 3 minutes of their number being announced.

• If not claimed within 3 minutes, the prize will be re-drawn.

• All prizes will be awarded on the night.

Collecting Your Prize

• Prizes must be collected on the night, unless approved otherwise by management.

• The Tradies is not responsible for uncollected or damaged prizes once claimed.

Eligibility

• Open to all financial members, their guests, and visitors.

• Membership card or visitor slip is required to claim prizes.

• Members with suspended or cancelled memberships are ineligible.

• Directors, staff, and contractors of The Tradies Club cannot enter.

• Management decisions are final.

Responsible Conduct

The Tradies promotes responsible gambling. Gambling is not permitted for anyone under 18 years. The venue may refuse entry or service if required.

Changes or Cancellation

The Tradies may amend or cancel the raffle due to unforeseen circumstances.
Any updates will be announced at the venue.

Gather your friends and soak up all the excitement of Cup Day at The Tradies!

Enjoy a delicious Chef’s Selections Lunch and we’ll shout you a free drink.*

Catch the race LIVE on the big screen, take part in the sweeps, and enjoy a relaxed afternoon filled with great food, good company and Cup Day cheer.

Bookings recommended – seats fill fast!

T&C’s Below.

Terms & Conditions

• Offer valid Tuesday 4 November 2025 only.

• Members Only Promotion.

• One (1) drink voucher issued per person with each Chef’s Selections Menu meal purchased.

• Drink voucher valid for a glass or house wine or champagne, schooner of tap beer, Cascade light stubbies or soft drink only.

• One voucher per person, per meal purchase.

• Not transferable or redeemable for cash.

• Sweeps available on the day; please gamble responsibly.

• The Tradies promotes the responsible service of alcohol.

•  Management reserves the right to amend or withdraw the offer at any time.

🎄 Christmas Day Lunch at The Tradies

Celebrate the magic of Christmas with family and friends at Essence Restaurant, The Tradies Dickson.

Enjoy a three-course lunch, complete with a complimentary drink on arrival, plus tea and coffee to finish. Let us take care of everything — you just sit back, relax, and soak up the Christmas cheer.

📅 Date: Thursday 25 December 2025
🕰 Doors Open: 11:30am | Lunch served from 12pm
💰 Adults: $120 | Children: $55 (5–12 years) | 0–4 years free (no meal provided)

Bookings Essential:

🌱 Vegetarian/Vegan Options:
Pre-order required – please select ‘YES’ when prompted and advise how many of each course are required.

📍 Location: Essence Restaurant, The Tradies Dickson
📞 Enquiries or direct bookings: 02 6162 5656

🎄 Christmas Day Lunch – Terms & Conditions

1. Pre-Paid Event:
   Full payment is required at the time of booking to secure your reservation. Bookings are not confirmed until payment has been received.

2. Cancellations & Refunds:

   • Cancellations made at least 48 hours prior to the event will receive a full refund.

     Cancellations made within 48 hours of the event, or non-attendance on the day, are non-refundable.

3. Seating Arrangements:

   • Seating allocations are made by management and will be arranged as close as possible to your requested group size.

   • Please advise at the time of booking if you wish to be seated with another group.

4. Dietary Requirements:

   • Vegetarian and vegan meal numbers must be advised at the time of booking to assist with catering.

   • Other dietary requirements (e.g. gluten-free, allergies) should also be noted when booking.

5. Children’s Pricing:

   • Children aged 5–12 years are charged at the child rate.

   • Children under 4 are free of charge (no meal provided).

6. Event Details:

   • Doors open from 11:30am.

   • Lunch will be served from 12:00pm.

   • Essence Restaurant is located at The Tradies Dickson.

7. Responsible Service of Alcohol:
   The Tradies practises the Responsible Service of Alcohol at all times. Management reserves the right to refuse service to any person deemed to be intoxicated or behaving inappropriately.

8. Photography & Marketing:
   By attending this event, guests consent to being photographed or filmed for promotional purposes unless otherwise advised in writing prior to the event.

9. Event Changes:
   The Tradies reserves the right to alter menu items or event details if necessary due to unforeseen circumstances.

Party Makeup Session with Florian Lau

Glam it up or keep it natural — learn the techniques that make it work.

On Sunday 19 October from 4pm, professional makeup artist Florian Lau will run a hands-on workshop focused on creating a simple, polished look for your next night out. Whether you’re new to makeup or just want to refresh your skills, this session is practical, fun and easy to follow.

✨ Step-by-step demonstrations
✨ Pro tips for every face
✨ Simple techniques you can use straight away

Make it more than a workshop and turn it into a girls’ day out with:
🍸 Cocktails at the Lounge Bar
🍴 Dinner at Essence
☕ Coffee & cake at Bluey’s Café

Please bring your own makeup. You can take part or simply watch and learn.

Free for members. Limited spots — book now.

NRL GRAND FINAL - BARREL DRAW THIS SUNDAY 5 OCTOBER

Spend $7 or more in a single transaction at the Lounge Bar between 6:00pm & 9:30pm, Sunday 5 October, to receive your entry voucher for the barrel draw!

✨ The more you spend, the more entries you earn.
✨ Prize will be drawn immediately after entries close.
✨ Winner must be present – only 3 minutes to claim before a redraw.

FAQ’s

Q1: Do entries count across multiple transactions?
A: No. Entries are calculated on each individual transaction only. For example, two separate $5 transactions do not equal one entry.

Q2: Can non-members enter the draw?
A: No. This is a members-only promotion. The voucher prints with the member’s name and number.

Q3: Do members have to be present to win?
A: Yes. If the winner is not present, the Duty Manager will re-draw after two minutes.

Q4: Where do members put their vouchers?
A: The promotional barrel will be placed at the Lounge Bar. Members must place their vouchers in the barrel before 9:30 PM.

Q5: What time is the draw?
A: The draw will be conducted by the Duty Manager directly after entries close at 9:30PM in the Lounge.

Q6: Can I exchange the prize for cash?
A: No

Enjoy next-level entertainment with the TCL 75-inch P7K QLED 4K Google TV. With vibrant visuals, immersive audio, and smart voice control, this TV upgrades your home viewing experience.

KEY FEATURES:

• QLED 4K Display delivers stunning clarity and rich colour depth for a cinematic experience at home

• Features Google TV, so you can stream, search, and organise your favourite content across most of your apps

• Hands-free voice control lets you easily change channels, search content, or adjust settings

• HDR10+ and WCG offer enhanced contrast and colour detail, bringing scenes to life

• Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos provide vivid visuals and surround sound

TERMS & CONDITIONS:

Members only. One entry per $7 spend, per single transaction. Promotion runs Sunday 5 October 2025, 6:00pm–9:30pm. Prize drawn immediately after entries close. Winner must be present at the time of draw with 3 minutes to claim before a redraw. Management reserves the right to alter or cancel promotion at any time.

Looking for a night out with a difference? Gather your friends and join us for Cocktails & Cards, where tarot meets tradition in a fun and relaxed setting.

Tarot reader Apoorva Ranade will be at The Tradies on Saturday 6 December from 5:30pm, ready to guide you through the mysteries of the cards. Tarot Night is the perfect way to mix a little magic into your weekend.

And because every great night out deserves a drink in hand, we’ll be serving cocktails from 6–8pm. Sip, relax, and see what the cards reveal.

Are you ready for a night of live music and fun?

Then come check out Cabinet Shuffle Band at The Tradies lounge on Friday 22 August from 9:30 pm until 12:30 am.

This local Canberra band is guaranteed to get you up on your feet and dancing.

Don't miss out on a night filled with great tunes and good vibes. See you there!

Are you ready for a night of live music and fun?

Then come check out The Rubiks Dudes Band at The Tradies lounge on Friday 15 August from 9:30 pm until 12:30 am.

This local Canberra band is guaranteed to get you up on your feet and dancing.

Don't miss out on a night filled with great tunes and good vibes. See you there!

🍹 Bramble is shaking things up at The Lounge Bar this month!
Cool, fruity, and oh-so-sippable — grab yours for just $13 (member price).
📍Only at The Tradies Dickson

*The Trades promotes Responsible consumption of alcohol.

🎨 Let your energy speak in colour!
Aura painting with Nessa Lovell is back — sit down for a mini session and watch as your unique aura is brought to life on canvas.

🕠 Starts 5:30PM | Free sessions
🪩 Followed by DJ Sue’s disco beats from 9:30PM
Friday 4 July at The Tradies Dickson

#AuraAndBeats #FridayVibes #TheTradiesDickson

Why wait for December to enjoy Christmas?
This June, celebrate with us at Essence Restaurant with a traditional Christmas feast!
Indulge in our mouth-watering Roast Turkey, Ham and delicious Christmas Pudding. We've brought all the festive favourites to our menu just for you.

Eat || Drink || Have a good time

Snack, sip... and score? Yes, please! 

We’re giving away three seriously cool prizes — just for doing what you already love at The Tradies.

Here’s what you could win:
Samsung 65" 4K TV
Phillips 1200 series automatic coffee machine
Bose SoundLink Flex portable Bluetooth speaker

How to enter:
Spend $10 or more on food or drinks at The Tradies between now and 31 July, and you’ll automatically go into the draw to win.
Every $10 spent = 1 entry (cumulative).

We’ll be drawing the lucky winners on 1 August, so keep those fingers crossed.

Eat, drink, repeat
Members only. T&Cs apply.

Craving something good to kick off the week?

Bluey’s has you covered every Monday night from 5:30pm – burgers and chips for just $15.

No bookings needed, just bring your appetite…

Your Friday forecast? A little mystery, a splash of wine, and a whole lotta groove.

We’re kicking off Mum’s Month in style this Friday 2 May:

Kerrie from Murrumbateman Winery will be in the Lounge from 5:30pm, offering free tastings and sharing the stories behind their local drops.

Tarot readings with Melissa Ohana from 5:30pm.

Live music from 9:30pm by local band Cabinet Shuffle in the Lounge.

Swing by, sip something special, and ease into the weekend.

Parma & Pint is back—let the cravings be satisfied.

�Crisp, hearty, satisfying... and perfectly paired with a cold one for $28.

�• Monday to Thursday – Lunch & Dinner�• Friday to Sunday – Lunch only

Bring your appetite—we’ll bring the crunch.

#memberspecial #termsandconditionsapply

💐 It’s Mum’s Month at The Tradies! 💐

We’re celebrating the ones who’ve had our backs since day one—Mums, step-mums, grandmas, aunties, and anyone who’s filled those big-hearted shoes.

They’ve found our lost socks, cheered from the sidelines, and always seem to know what we need—sometimes before we do.

All May, every $10 you spend puts you in the draw to score something special:

🎁 1st Prize: Dyson Airwrap (good hair days = sorted)
🎁 2nd Prize: Nutribullet 1200W Blender (blends everything but the drama)
🎁 3rd Prize: Jackson Frameo Digital Photo Frame (for all the happy snaps)

Whether it’s your morning coffee and a slice of cake from Bluey’s, something tasty from the cabinet, a schnitty at Essence, or a cheeky glass of local wine—you’re in with a chance.

Eat, drink, celebrate the ones who care—and you might just walk away with more than a full belly 💛

🗓️ Winners drawn 6 June
Members only. T&Cs apply.

Are you ready for a night of live music and fun?

Then come check out Sugar & Cream Band at The Tradies lounge on Saturday 26 April from 9:30 pm until 12:30 am.

This local Canberra band is guaranteed to get you up on your feet and dancing.

Don't miss out on a night filled with great tunes and good vibes. See you there!