Toowoomba Region town crier and honorary ambassador

Kevin Howarth was appointed as town crier and honorary ambassador on 24 January 2017. As town crier, Kevin will represent the region and its people in Council’s official costume, reading proclamations at public functions determined by the Office of The Mayor. A Toowoomba violet is represented on his tricorn hat and the tartan on his kilt is that of the Ruthven tartan.

The position is a voluntary role and is predominately ceremonial, created for the benefit and enjoyment of the community. As town crier, Kevin services our civic needs, stimulates community pride, and enhances our visitor experience at large scale events such as Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers.

Town crier responsibilities

In his duties as town crier, Kevin is required to write and receive approval for an appropriate cry when attending events in an official capacity. All cries commence with the traditional three ‘Oyez’ or ‘Hear ye’ and conclude with the traditional ‘God save the King’ or ‘God Bless Australia’.

Official functions requiring the town crier’s attendance include:

• citizenship ceremonies
• Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers events, including participation in the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers parade
• Toowoomba CBD Christmas Parade
• Australia Day activities
• Queensland Day festivities
• various other events as requested by the Office of the Mayor (e.g. swearing in of newly elected Council)