As the sun bathes Yarra Bend Park in a warm glow, comedian Geraldine Hickey invites us into her world, where running, birdwatching, and personal revelations intertwine. With over two decades in the Australian comedy scene, Hickey is not just a household name; she’s a vibrant storyteller who uses her experiences—both joyous and challenging—to connect with her audience. On this particular Monday morning, she’s out in the lush surroundings, keen to spot birds and share her journey, including her recent decision to undergo breast removal surgery.
Running Towards Passion
In the heart of Melbourne, Yarra Bend Park offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. With her two dogs, Harry and Lloyd, leading the way, Hickey reflects on her newfound love for running, a pursuit that blossomed during the pandemic. “Initially, I thought running was something I could never do,” she admits, recalling the moment she first managed to run for 20 minutes. “It was a revelation.”
Her journey into running began with a step challenge alongside her wife, Cath Bateman. “It took ages to reach 10,000 steps,” she laughs, “and I thought there’s got to be a quicker way.” This playful spirit shines through in her interactions, where laughter flows as freely as her candidness.
Birdwatching soon became another passion, sparked by a challenge posed by fellow comedian Sean Dooley. During lockdown, he encouraged her to identify as many birds as possible within her local area. This quest has since evolved into an annual tradition, with Hickey releasing a calendar filled with her own bird photography. “It’s quite meditative,” she says, her enthusiasm palpable. “I’m trying to make it cool, mate.”
Sharing Personal Journeys
Yarra Bend Park holds a special significance for Hickey, serving as a sanctuary for reflection amid the chaos of life. It was here that she processed her grief following her father’s death during a comedy festival. “I’ve sat on benches and cried here,” she shares, revealing the depth of her emotional connection to this place.
Hickey’s comedy is deeply rooted in her personal experiences. “My material has always come from whatever’s been going on in my life. I’m not good at making stuff up,” she explains, underlining her authentic approach to storytelling. Her latest show, *A Weight Off My Chest*, tackles her decision to undergo breast removal, a topic she approached with both humour and sincerity.
“I grew up with big, shit boobs,” she jokes, describing them as “two big sandbags … getting in the way.” The surgery, which she underwent in 2025, marked a significant turning point for her. “From the moment I heard about breast reduction, I was like, ‘Oh, I’ll do that’,” she recalls, her deadpan delivery eliciting laughter. “I don’t need ’em! I don’t want ’em!’”
Navigating Gender and Identity
Hickey is carefully aware of the language surrounding her surgery. She emphasises that her experience differs from the gender-affirming surgeries often undertaken by transgender individuals. “I’m quite affirmed in my gender,” she clarifies, noting that she doesn’t experience gender dysphoria. “I’m aware that a lot would assume that I’m non-binary, but I don’t care about my pronouns.”
The comedian’s honesty extends beyond her own journey; she also highlights the work of her wife, Cath Bateman, who established a reproductive health clinic in Morwell, providing essential services in a region previously lacking them. “I’m really proud of the work she does,” Hickey beams, recounting how Bateman performed 300 free abortions in her first year. “There’ll be a chat about safe and accessible abortion care,” she adds, her voice steady and resolute amidst a landscape of controversy.
The Power of Comedy
Hickey’s unique perspective fuels her comedy, allowing audiences to engage with her world in a profound way. “One of the great things about comedy is all the different voices that you get to hear,” she muses. “When you see shows from people with a different life experience, you’re just like, oh, who’d have thought that?”
In a society where personal narratives can be complex and challenging, Hickey stands out as a beacon of authenticity. Her willingness to share her vulnerabilities and triumphs not only entertains but also fosters understanding and empathy among her audiences.
Why it Matters
Geraldine Hickey’s journey is more than just a tale of personal triumph; it’s a testament to the power of self-acceptance and the importance of sharing our stories. By blending humour with her candid reflections on life, identity, and health, Hickey invites us to explore the nuances of our own experiences. In a world that often struggles to embrace diversity, her voice resonates, reminding us that laughter can be a powerful catalyst for connection and change.
