Funny women ready to “cut their teeth” in raw comedy - and be paid for it - are urged to put their names down for an upcoming comedy gala in Nimbin.

Organiser of the 17th annual Nimbin women’s dinner and comedy gala, Natalie Meyer, said she was still looking for new and emerging talent to book in for a five minute slot in the show on March 5.

“The gig is on at Nimbin Town Hall in the week leading up to International Women’s Day,” Natalie said. 

“It’s all about celebrating the achievements of women and getting together once a year to have a good laugh – and since the bushfires, we need it now more than ever.”

Natalie said she already had a couple of well-known comedians booked as headliners, but was still looking for some fresh faces to fill a couple of spots.

“It’s a good gig for new talent because not only is it paid, but it is a women only gig and there won’t be any heckling – everyone is supportive.

“If you are considering entering the upcoming Raw Comedy heat in Mullumbimby on March 16, this gig can be a great warm up for warm up for you to test your material.

“We encourage Mandy Nolan comedy graduates to come and share their jokes in front of audience of up to 200 women.”

Natalie said all the people involved in running the gala were women - with the exception of some supportive men who would be baking cakes for the Nimbin gig.

“All the paid lighting and sound technicians for the gig are women too, as are the many volunteers,” she said. 

Last year’s event saw comedians Mandy Nolan and Sarah Gaul headline the event.

Natalie describes Sarah as “a feminist Tim Minchin”.

“When she went on the Tom Ballard nightly show, I saw her and recruited her from there,” she said. 

“In previous years, we have had Fiona O’Loughlin as a headliner and local comedians Vanessa Larry Mitchell (of Larry laughs Out Loud) also cut her teeth at this gig.”

If you want to put your hand up for a spot at the gig, email Natalie (who is also the manage of the Nimbin Neighbourhood and Information Centre) at admin@nnic.org.au by January 26.

For information about the Nimbin Neighbourhood and Information Centre, visit https://www.facebook.com/Nimbin-Neighbourhood-and-Information-Centre-316382298537853/

For information about entering Raw Comedy, visit https://comedyfestival.com.au/raw/competition?fbclid=IwAR3ZLG-MoScOCS8_4qHOGXx95nxKl1gp-dUB6np6EmTYGXbF_cO5KMo4XAY