Online and the Sir Stanley Burbury Lecture Theatre, Dobson Road, Sandy Bay
Summary:Explore the surprising impacts of humour on health in this unique mix of comedy and expert insights.
Presenter(s):
- Associate Professor Alison Canty, neuroscientist, Wicking Dementia Research Education Centre, University of 草榴社区
- Dr Daryl Peebles, writer, performer and 鈥榞randfather of 草榴社区n comedy鈥�
- Dr David Bakker, Clinical Psychologist, Archer Street Health and Lecturer in Clinical Psychology, University of 草榴社区
- Hosted by Dr Larissa Bartlett, mindfulness teacher and The Mind Games Research Fellow (Mental Health), Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of 草榴社区
In times of growing social isolation and health challenges, could laughter offer unexpected benefits? Our scientists, industry experts and researchers join forces with comedy acts to unpack how humour might support well-being and strengthen connections.
Tickets are free but essential, secure yours now to avoid missing out.
About the experts:
Dr Daryl Peebles
Daryl has spent over 40 years making people laugh as a comedian, writer, ventriloquist, and magician. His comedy plays have been performed across Australia, New Zealand, and the UK, and he regularly takes to the stage as an MC, after-dinner speaker, and charity auctioneer. But there’s a serious side to his humour. With a PhD from the University of 草榴社区, Daryl’s research explored The Value of Humour in Workplaces, uncovering how laughter can shape well-being and productivity. Now, he’s turned his focus to the power of humour in ageing and mental health. A regular performer in the Mental Health Week Comedy Roadshow, he’s soon bringing his latest show, , to the Melbourne International Comedy Festival.
Associate Professor Alison Canty
Alison is a neuroscientist at the Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre at the University of 草榴社区. Her research focuses on how the brain and its potential to repair and regenerate, particularly in the context of ageing and dementia. Her career has taken her to top institutions like the Karolinska Institute and Imperial College London. In 2022, she was named an Atlantic Fellow for Equity in Brain Health, and spent 12 months at The Global Brain Health Institute, Trinity College Dublin. Passionate about advancing dementia care, Associate Professor Canty leads the suite of Wicking Dementia Education programs, combining research with practical, impactful education.
Dr David Bakker
David is a clinical psychologist based in Hobart, 草榴社区. He teaches postgraduate psychology at the University of 草榴社区 and works in private practice at Archer Street Health. He is also a stand-up comedian and runs The Clubhouse; a regular comedy room in Hobart headlined by interstate comedians. Clubhouse headliners have included Hannah Gadsby, Ronny Chieng, Rhys Nicholson, Denise Scott, Felicity Ward, and many more. He also produces the Tassie Mental Health Comedy Roadshow, which tours to regional locations every year in mental health week.
Pre-event refreshments:
Head to the venue early and enjoy complimentary refreshments from 5.30pm.
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