The only straight table in the bar.
We went to the Sportsman Hotel to play Bingo - on a Friday night. Bingo games in Bars are pretty common but this one was a little bit special.
Sportsman Hotel
The Sportsman Hotel is a Gay and Lesbian meeting place in Brisbane and if I was wholly conversant, I should include every category that comes into the LGBTQI.
So going there on a Friday night to play their appropriately named Balls OUT Bingo was novel, different and really a great night out.
The Sportsman Hotel is in Leichhardt St in Spring Hill. It is pretty lively most nights, but Friday night seems action-packed. Meals from the restaurant, good value and big portions, Bingo at 8pm, a drag queens show at 10.30 pm and karaoke downstairs till 2 am. A full and varied night.
Balls out Bingo
We were possibly the only straight table in the joint, which made it easy for the MC to pick on us with humour. We did walk away with three great prizes, so we had a good night. In playing Bingo, which I can tell you is hilarious and different, we helped raise money for HIV research. Puppies, young men, ball boys or whatever they may be called on the night, when called upon, take off bits of clothing to reveal pert bottoms, so there is some nudity, but it is measured.
Ball boys
The drinks flowed, as did the puns, the tricks and the uproarious laughter that accompanied some of the antics that went with the calling of the numbers. The prizes were generous and the bingo games were fun to play. The atmosphere was lovely. Warm, welcoming and a community at the top of their game.
Affectionately known to regular patrons as "Sporties" they describe themselves as located in the heart of Brisbane, capital of Queensland "The Land of Queens!"
"The only totally gay owned and operated hotel in Brisbane, we are now in our 28th year of serving Brisbane's gay community. We extend a warm welcome to all Brisbanites, as well as all visitors to Brisbane, whether you're from just out of town, interstate or overseas."
They are truly welcoming, whatever your sexual orientation and frankly so much more fun than straight people. So support their good causes, they have several, and go and have a riotous evening with some gays and queens. They look a million dollars. stand head and shoulders above all of us and manage to walk on high heels which as a woman I have never managed to do!
The gals
The queens performing
For more information on this interesting venue as well as details of their weekly programme, go to
Sportsman Hotel
