Australian comedian Geraldine Hickey, with a career spanning over 20 years, discussed her upcoming comedy show, personal experiences, and her wife's work. Hickey won the top award at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival in 2021 and has appeared on television programs such as "Spicks and Specks" and "Have You Been Paying Attention?".
Personal Interests and Show Material
Hickey developed interests in running and birdwatching during Covid lockdowns, which she incorporates into her life, including creating annual bird photo calendars. Her comedy material often originates from her personal life; previous shows have addressed her adult ADHD diagnosis and Raynaud’s syndrome.
Her 2024 show, "A Weight Off My Chest," focuses on her breast reduction surgery, which she underwent in 2025. Hickey stated that the decision was driven by lifelong physical discomfort and its impact on activities like running.
She clarified that her surgery is distinct from gender-affirming top surgery, emphasizing her personal gender affirmation and lack of gender dysphoria.
Wife's Work and Public Discourse
The show also features stories about her wife, Cath Bateman, an abortion nurse. Bateman established a reproductive health clinic in Morwell in 2022 to provide accessible care.
Last year, Bateman performed 300 free abortions. Hickey's public sharing of this milestone resulted in critical online comments, primarily from right-wing Christian groups.
Hickey noted that she did not perceive these comments as personal attacks, differentiating them from experiences during the marriage equality debate.
Hickey views comedy as a platform to understand diverse perspectives and experiences.