What’s Happening?
Townsville parents can bring their babies to a new stand-up comedy show designed to make socialising easier after childbirth.
Called Nappies and Comedy, the event combines adult humour with an infant-friendly setting where families can enjoy live entertainment without judgement.
The initiative aims to address parental isolation by making comedy more accessible to families who often miss social activities after welcoming a baby.
Why It Matters
For many new parents, attending public events can feel difficult because they worry about disturbing others when their baby cries.
That fear of judgement can keep families at home, limiting their opportunities to socialise and enjoy activities outside parenting.
Comedian and producer Sarah Stewart hopes to remove that pressure by creating an environment where parents feel comfortable bringing their children.
“We are creating a comedy show where disapproval doesn’t exist,” Stewart said. “If your baby cries, nobody is going to look at you. If you have a blowout, you’re in good company. We want parents to feel like they can exist in a professional, adult space without the constant fear of being a nuisance.”
Local Impact
The show features Townsville comedians who understand the challenges of parenthood, including local fathers James Shilock and Paddy Hoot.
They will join Stewart, a new grandmother, to share candid stories about sleepless nights and the everyday realities of raising children.
Alongside the comedy, the event offers local mothers and fathers an opportunity to meet others experiencing similar challenges.
Families can arrive early, enjoy a coffee or beer and chat with other parents while their babies settle in.
By The Numbers
The event also highlights the mental health challenges associated with early parenthood, particularly when families lack regular social connections.
- 1 in 5 women experience postnatal depression in Australia, highlighting the emotional challenges that can follow childbirth.
- 1 in 10 men experience postnatal depression, while organisers note that anxiety rates among new parents are even higher.
- 30 minutes before the performance, doors will open to give families time to socialise, settle their babies and prepare for the show.
Zoom In
Unlike traditional comedy performances, Nappies and Comedy welcomes prams, feeding breaks and blankets for tummy time, even during the show.
However, the material is strictly for adults, with swearing and frank discussions about parenting forming part of the performances.
Event Details
| Event | Nappies and Comedy |
| Date | Sunday, 1 November 2026 |
| Venue | Jubilee Bowling Club |
| Address | 13 Burdekin Street, Townsville |
| Doors Open | 2.00 pm |
| Show Time | 2.30 pm to 3.30 pm |
| Tickets | $25 |
| Bookings | Book tickets here |
Tickets are already selling fast, with organisers encouraging interested families to secure their places.
Zoom Out
Although the event centres on comedy, it also raises awareness of how social isolation can affect parents’ mental wellbeing.
Stewart acknowledges that entertainment cannot replace professional mental health support, but believes laughter and social connections can make a difference.
“We aren’t claiming to cure PND,” Stewart said, “but we know that laughter and community are powerful tools. If we can help a parent feel like themselves again for just sixty minutes, we’ve done our job.”
What To Look For Next?
The November show could help demonstrate the demand for more baby-inclusive entertainment in Townsville, particularly among families seeking social connections.
If the event receives a positive response, similar activities could give local parents more opportunities to enjoy community life with their children.
