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Last Updated: Tuesday, 04 July 2023 10:45

Published: Tuesday, 04 July 2023 10:23

Toowoomba Region Town Crier Kevin Howarth has added the title of Australian champion to his award list following a successful outing at Saturday’s (July 1, 2023) national Town Crier Championships at Maryborough in Queensland.

Mr Howarth also won the Loudest Cry at the championships with an ear-piercing Cry that was recorded at more than 96 decibels, a little below his regular 100 decibel-plus range, but loud enough to drown out a chainsaw.

Mr Howarth’s success in the Champion of Champions event atoned for his second place in the same event at the 2022 championships hosted by Central Coast Council in New South Wales and in 2018 at Echuca-Moama.

Toowoomba Region Mayor Paul Antonio congratulated Mr Howarth for his performances at the national championships of the Ancient and Honourable Guild of Australian Town Criers that were held in conjunction with the Mary Poppins festival.

“Kevin is passionate about representing our Region and has performed with distinction at many competitions,” Mayor Antonio said.

“He is a fine ambassador for our Region and has left another lasting impression on the national stage. I’m especially pleased that he has won the Australian Champion of Champions title after coming so close in recent years.”

Mr Howarth said he was proud to represent the Toowoomba Region at the national championships.

“It is a friendly competition, but the Criers take great pride in representing their home Regions and performing across the weekend,” Mr Howarth said.

“There was a packed program with many events to enjoy at the Mary Poppins festival, where the Criers made several appearances.

“I had an amazing time at Maryborough and took the chance to encourage people to visit our beautiful part of Queensland.”

Mr Howarth said he was thankful for the support of Council and good wishes from many people who have encouraged him over the years.

“I was twice a UK number one DJ, and now I’m number one in Australia. It’s a relief and a great feeling,” Mr Howarth beamed.

Mr Howarth competed against 11 Town Criers from across the country.

The Criers each performed two cries, starting with a Home Cry promoting their home area, followed by a Host Cry, detailing aspects of Maryborough and the Fraser Coast Region.

Caption: Toowoomba Region Town Crier Kevin Howarth with the spoils of victory; below with Mayor Paul Antonio.