About the Demo Club

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About the Demo Club

The Barrier Social Democratic Club (The Demo Club) is centrally located in the heart of Broken Hill. We provide a warm and friendly atmosphere to locals and travellers where they can relax and meet their family and friends.

Our club is open for service from 10am Sun-Thurs and 9am Fri-Sat. Our family friendly Dining and Bistro offers Lunch (12pm to 2pm) and Dinner (5.30pm to 8:30pm). Enjoy our top notch bar facilities and TAB lounge in a very snug and friendly environment, You can relax whereas the kids are pleased in our outside playground and video games area.

There is forever one thing happening at the Demo Club, together with regular prize attracts and raffles, therefore whether or not you're a neighborhood friend or simply passing through, come in and experience some local Broken Hill hospitality.

Board of Directors

Club management

History of the Demo Club

History of the Club

The Barrier Social Democratic Club (affectionately known to locals as ‘The Demo’) was founded in 1903. Its original purpose – the achievement of social democracy – is emphasised in its name.

The Club had a modest beginning. In early 1903, a small group of workers held a meeting for those who were interested in a social movement. The forty or so people present decided to form what is today known as the Social Democratic Club. In the beginning, the Club provided Broken Hill residents with a place to socialise, exchange opinions and discuss the trials and tribulations of everyday life. Through this exchange of values and ideas, the club grew. Through meetings, the creation of a circulating library, book depot and function room, its focus shifted to the education of the people in the principles of social democracy. Women played a large part in the Club’s activities, forming their own committees and governing municipal affairs.

The Demo Club has weathered many storms including:

the lockout of 1909;
the struggle of the 44 hour week;
the fight against military conscription; and
the 1912-1920 fight for compensation rights.

However through adversity it has survived and today offers travellers and locals exceptional service, a diverse bistro menu, fantastic weekend entertainment and an all-round welcoming atmosphere.