RAW Comedy has been uncovering Australia’s next generation of comedians for decades. It is the country’s longest-running open-mic comedy competition and a proven pathway to national stages.

The Northern Rivers has played a meaningful role in that story. For years, the region’s heats have been hosted by Mandy Nolan, helping identify and support emerging talent before they break through.

Local comedians discovered through RAW have gone on to national success, including Hannah Gadsby, Ellen Briggs and Alexandra Hudson.

RAW Comedy nights are raw by design. Nerves are high. Sets are short. Anything can happen. Some acts soar. Others fall apart. That unpredictability is what makes it special.

Winners from each heat progress through to the National Grand Final, held during the Melbourne International Comedy Festival.

Byron Bay Heat

Date: Monday 23 February 2026
Time: 7:00pm – 9:30pm
Venue: Byron Bay Services Club
Tickets online

Mullumbimby Heat

Date: Monday 9 March 2026
Time: 7:00pm – 9:30pm
Venue: Mullumbimby Ex-Services Club
58 Dalley Street, Mullumbimby
Tickets online

National Grand Final

Date: Sunday 12 April 2026
Status: On sale soon
Location: Melbourne
Held during the Melbourne International Comedy Festival