Laugh for a Cause: Supporting Body Positivity with BOWL’s Comedy FUNdraiser

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Dave O'Neil will be bringing the laugh to BOWL's Comedy FUNdraiser. (File)

Body of Wellbeing Ltd (BOWL) is bringing laughter and awareness together at their Comedy FUNdraiser on Thursday 6 March at The Healesville Memo.

Starting at 7.30pm, this event features an impressive line-up of comedians while supporting a crucial local cause.

The event will be headlined by Dave O’Neil, a beloved fixture in Australian comedy for over 30 years. Known for his numerous appearances on shows like Fisk, Spicks and Specks, and The Project, O’Neil brings his relatable humour and storytelling expertise to the stage.

Joining O’Neil is Dave Hughes, one of Australia’s most recognizable comedians. ‘Hughesy’ is celebrated for his distinctive Australian charm and quick wit, regularly appearing on programs like The Project and The Weekly.

Rounding out the line-up is rising star He Huang. Born and raised in China but now living in Australia, Huang has already claimed impressive accolades including the 2021 Raw Comedy Award and Best New Comedian at the 2022 Sydney Comedy Festival.

While the evening promises entertainment, the mission driving BOWL is addressing serious community health concerns. As a not-for-profit organization, BOWL leads eating disorder-safe initiatives throughout the Yarra Ranges, combating issues like body image disturbance and weight stigma.

BOWL’s flagship initiative, the National & Victorian Eating Disorders Strategy Translation Action Plan (NVEDSTAP), is built on a foundation of national and state-level strategies. This comprehensive 10-year plan aims to create a safer Yarra Ranges community for those struggling with disordered eating, body image distress, and weight stigma.

Equally important is ‘My Body’s Story’ a project helping women reconnect with their bodies in a culture where many describe their physical selves as ‘battlegrounds.’ Through guided exploration, participants address body image concerns, challenge diet culture, practice mindfulness, and rediscover intuitive eating and joyful movement. BOWL plans to expand this successful program to serve additional demographics, with new session dates to be announced soon.

Beyond the Comedy FUNdraiser, BOWL has scheduled a Body of Empowerment Exhibition at Warburton Waterwheel Gallery in April, featuring an exhibition opening, a ‘My Body’s Story’ taster session, and a screening of Your Fat Friend with Q&A. May brings a Community Fundraising Day celebrating International NO DIET Day.

Tickets for the Comedy FUNdraiser are available through Culture Tracks. For more information about BOWL’s initiatives and upcoming events, visit their website: bodyofwellbeing.com.au

By attending this night of laughter, community members can enjoy top-tier comedy while contributing to vital work that promotes healthier relationships with our bodies.