Joseph McGrail-Bateup was appointed on July 26 by the the Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council to be town crier for the region.

Mr McGrail-Bateup is currently the town crier for the ACT and approached the council about establishing the honorary position across the border.

“I’m involved in theatre and have been for the last 30 years,” Mr McGrail-Bateup said.

“I do all this [town-criering] for my own enjoyment, and for the enjoyment I see it bring others.”

Events where a town crier may be present are at official mayoral events, Australia Day awards and fetes and festivals around the region.

As a former resident of over 10 years, Mr McGrail-Bateup has a strong connection to Queanbeyan where his daughter still attends school. He is also involved with the Queanbeyan Players group.

Despite it being a novelty to most, Mr McGrail-Bateup said that town criers are still thriving with approximately 35 holding official positions Australia-wide. It has been embraced by the younger generation too, his daughter often dons her own kilt and helps out with some cries.

Mr McGrail-Bateup is running a Go Fund Me campaign to purchase an Australian tartan so that he does not have to wear the Canberra version while on Queanbeyan duties. Details are available on his Facebook page.