In an unexpected turn of events, the iconic Martin Place in Sydney has officially been designated as the new "National Comedy Zone," where tourists from all corners of the globe converge not just to snap pictures, but to partake in the inaugural Laughing Tour of the area. From the leapfrogging of the taxation office's security guards to the impromptu stand-up routines erupting from the buskers, it seems Australia has finally decided to put the 'fun' back in 'fundamental civil engineering.' Authorities first announced the initiative after complaints from local residents who claimed that the usual foot traffic was being bogged down by out-of-towners interested only in the tasteful cracks in the pavement. “We’ve had enough of people taking pictures with their cameras instead of embracing the rich cultural history of the region—mainly how many times it’s been resurfaced,” said local humorist and part-time barista, Barry Bloke. As part of this new initiative, big-name comedians, including the likes of Paul Hogan and a suspiciously familiar looking kangaroo impersonator, were invited to perform during the Laughing Tour’s grand opening. The event was headlined by a lost troupe of international circus performers who had mistaken Martin Place for Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, but their misadventure only added to the hilarity. Tourists now have the option of purchasing a “Comedy Pass,” which grants them access to interactive shows where they can participate in activities such as “Miming the Mona Lisa” and “Silly Walks Workshops” led by enthusiastic locals. Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with some claiming, “I laughed so hard, I nearly dropped my meat pie!” But with comedy, comes controversy. Critics have raised eyebrows over some of the chosen comedic themes, particularly during a session titled “Knock-Knock Jokes: A Deep Dive into Trauma.” Local politicians have expressed their disapproval, insisting that self-deprecating humor should remain a nice sideline to sports commentary and questionable fashion choices. As discussions about expanding the Laughing Tour swirl, some local businesses are capitalizing on the trend by rebranding their establishments. One café teased its new menu item, “The Flat White and the Four Stages of Grief,” while a local ice cream shop is now promoting its “Ha-Ha-Milkshakes” which will apparently make you cry and laugh simultaneously, a taste experience that is definitely not for the lactose intolerant. With Martin Place now as the home of slapstick, satire, and possibly the best laughing yoga class known to man, experts believe that Sydney is on the verge of becoming the world’s first fully interactive comedy city. The goal is to evolve from a simple tourist destination to a cultural wonderland where citizens can laugh away their student debt and rising housing costs. So if you’re feeling down and out, make your way to Martin Place, where the only things up for grabs are the last pieces of assorted humor. Just remember to keep your camera ready, because in this city, you never know when someone might escape from an oversized foam kangaroo costume – or worse, a mismanaged corporate pitch meeting.