Oyez, Oyez. Town Crier Kevin Howarth re-appointed to 2024

Expect to hear and see a lot more of Toowoomba Region Town Crier and Honorary Ambassador Kevin Howarth at the region’s events and ceremonies in coming years.

Toowoomba Regional Council’s (TRC) July Ordinary meeting today (July 21) approved the extension of Mr Howarth’s tenure to May 2024.

TRC Environment and Community Services Committee chair Cr James O’Shea said Council was pleased to re-appoint Mr Howarth to the respected ceremonial position. Cr O’Shea said the position would be reviewed on a quadrennial basis following the election of a new Council.

“Mr Howarth’s friendly manner and his ability to dial up the volume for his cries at will adds a commanding presence to our events and functions,” Cr O’Shea said.

“There is no doubt the Town Crier’s participation is a welcome addition at regular civic functions and a host of events, including Australian citizenship ceremonies, Australia Day and Queensland Day celebrations, civic Christmas events and major events, most notably the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers and others across the region.”

Toowoomba Region Mayor Paul Antonio said the Town Crier’s position added a sense of occasion to the region’s events and played an important promotional role.

“Our Town Crier left a lasting impression at the 2019 Australian and world Town Crier titles at Echuca-Moama on the New South Wales-Victoria border,” Mayor Antonio said.

“Mr Howarth won two titles and was awarded three second places at the Australian Guild Town Criers’ 30th anniversary championships at the twin towns on the Murray River.

“He capped his trip south by recording an ear-splitting 101.7 decibel cry, similar in volume to a helicopter or chainsaw, to win the loudest cry in the world title at the World Invitational Town Crier tournament. He finished fourth in the overall world competition, behind the winner from the United States and two Canadians.

“These competition performances are part of a rich tradition for Town Criers. Mr Howarth’s volume is matched by his passion for representing our region and encouraging people to visit the Toowoomba Region.

“I look forward to many more enthusiastic performances by our Town Crier and Honorary Ambassador, especially when events spring back to life later this year, all going well.”