Broadrick was born on 29 July 1864 in Plymouth, and was educated at Sherborne School.

[1][2][3] Broadrick began his career in the civil service as a clerk in the H.M.Office of Works.

In 1895, he was acting Second Magistrate, Penang, combining the role with that of Second Protector of Immigrants, and two years later he was appointed District Officer, Dindings.

[1][2][3] In 1911, he left Singapore for Selangor where he was appointed acting Secretary to the British Resident.

He continued the tradition by joining the Singapore Volunteer Rifles in 1888, and rose up the ranks becoming Lieut.