After a barnstorming performance at last year’s Cannabiz Awards, Katie Wainhouse will bring her uncompromising brand of stand-up comedy back to the Plaza Ballroom stage in Melbourne on August 11 for the 2026 presentation ceremony.
Performing new material amid her hosting duties, Wainhouse becomes the first MC to be invited back to helm the awards.
Cannabiz co-founder Martin Lane explained: “Katie was a huge hit with our audience last year, bringing just the right blend of no-holds barred roasting and seriousness to her MC duties and we can’t wait to learn what she has in store for us in 2026.
“It’s a bit like Ricky Gervais hosting the Golden Globes year after year – she’s in danger of becoming a Cannabiz Awards institution.”
The Australasian winner of the Joke Nation International Comedy Competition, Wainhouse has also performed on Comedy Central and the Jim Jefferies and Friends TV specials, as well as supporting Jefferies on his Australian tour dates.
Chortle UK describes her as “hugely appealing” and a “dynamite hit”, The Sydney Morning calls her punchline pauses “absolutely perfectly timed”, while The Herald Sun says she’s their “favourite 30-something mum with award-winning comedic talent”.
The Daily Show’s Ronny Chieng describes her as “dark, edgy and disarmingly hilarious” while fellow Australian comic Fiona O’Loughlin says she’s “perfectly unique, relentlessly hilarious”.
As well as announcing Wainhouse as this year’s host, Cannabiz welcomes new sponsors Tilray Australia and BS3 and thanks them – and all our partners – for their support.
Tilray Australia director Adam Kramer said: “Tilray is proud to support the Cannabiz Awards 2026 and to have our brand – Redecan – recognised among this year’s nominees. The awards are a celebration of the people, innovation and collaboration that continue to drive Australia’s medicinal cannabis industry forward.
“Our involvement reflects Tilray’s long-term commitment to the Australian market. We congratulate all of this year’s finalists and look forward to celebrating the achievements that continue to shape the future of our industry.”
BS3 general manager Michelle Johnson added: “BS3 Specialist Storage Solutions is proud to sponsor the Cannabiz Awards – a fantastic opportunity to recognise the people and organisations who are truly passionate about driving this industry forward.
“We’re excited to be part of this premier medicinal cannabis event, and to celebrate an evening focused on improving product quality, expanding knowledge, increasing accessibility, and ultimately enhancing patient outcomes and experience.”
Taking place at the Plaza Ballroom, Melbourne on August 11 during the week of the ACannabis conference, the Cannabiz Awards 2026 presentation ceremony will sell out so grab your tickets now via this link.
- Katie Wainhouse’s appearance is sponsored by platinum partner The Australian Cannabis Group.
