Diamond Dogs Lounge a Dapto hidden gem - just ask Joslyn Bosoms

Pull into a nondescript carpark on the highway in Dapto, between Thunderbird Chickens and H Parsons Funeral Directors, and look for a flashing sign that looks a little like a pokies display.

Trust me, you’ll notice it.

Walk through the dark glass doors underneath and you’ll find yourself in Diamond Dogs Lounge.

The cozy space has capacity for about 80 people.

The first thing you’re likely to notice is the complete absence of gambling. No pokies, no TAB, not even a poker table.

You might also notice your phone doesn’t automatically connect to a WiFi network. The decor is quirky but not over the top – think discreetly placed Duff beer cans and gig posters, not made for Instagram installations.

It’s all part of owner Neil Townsend and his wife Claudelle’s plan to give punters a good old-fashioned night out.

Plenty of care has gone into it, including the names of the dishes on the menu. Burgers, wings and loaded fries are on offer, with names like the Nickleback (burger) and Metallica (loaded fries).

There are a few solid vegetarian options and some surprise specials, as Claudelle merges her Filipino heritage with the pub fare.

Live music, comedy and theatrical performances are the order of the day, with acts ranging from the Sunday afternoon open mic session to trivia, the movie session, metal bands, the State of Origin and drag music bingo.

There’s also a monthly Filipino barbecue day that features street food as either an all-you-can-eat buffet or a la carte.

“It’s just the two of us, we’re flat out,” Neil laughs.

“I bought the business just on five years ago and we moved to our current location in December 2023.

“I set up to support independent live music, not cover bands and stuff like that.

“We wanted to give people a place to play where we don’t take fees out of their merch; they just pay for sound, we supply the venue and that’s it.”

Neil, who was in a band himself in his younger years and worked supplying PAs for bands before he purchased Diamond Dogs, is working with the council to get the new venue the approvals it needs to continue to support the local independent music scene.

In the meantime, the focus remains on providing a space for live, local entertainers.

One of the most popular events is the fortnightly drag music bingo, hosted by Joslyn Bosoms.

For more than a year, each performance has been sold out – and if you book a ticket you’ll see why.

Before the show Joslyn hugs and chats to regulars who make a point to come up and say hi.

There’s a buzz in the air, although it might not be the crowd you’d ordinarily associate with a drag event.

A table of women who volunteer at the local charity shop are there, as well as a group of pensioners sharing dinner and a bottle of wine.

There’s a hen’s party in one corner and a 20th birthday in another. One table is occupied by a group of university students, and another by two women who’ve brought their knitting along.

“We’re going to do roll call,” Joslyn commands from the stage.

“Who’s from Dapto?”

The Daptonians in the audience cheer. Much of the show is based around the quirks – good and bad – of the area.

All the jokes are delivered with love, an ocker accent, and a sprinkling of profanities.

“I feel like my drag is non-threatening because I look like your drunk aunt that would rock up at Christmas,” she says.

“You’re not quite sure how she’s related but she’s cool so you accept it? That’s my drag style.

“I’m very proud to say I grew up in Dapto and the bingo makes me that much prouder.

“Everyone is so nice; everyone has a great time and it’s so good to see everyone laugh and forget about s— for a couple of hours.”

Joslyn honed her craft in Melbourne, but after COVID she moved back home to be closer to family.

She says live entertainment venues like Diamond Dogs are a crucial part of the cultural fabric of any area.

“Neil had created a venue where regardless of who you are, how you identify or where you are in life you can come in and have a good time,” she says.

“He’s created a venue that’s so comfortable and laid-back, everyone knows each other’s name.

“Isn’t that the whole point of entertainment – to come in, live in the moment, and have fun for a little while?”