Joseph McGrail-Bateup was officially recognized by Guinness World Records on June 23, 2026, as the world’s loudest person [4].
The achievement highlights the extreme capabilities of the human voice and brings international attention to the traditional role of the town crier.
McGrail-Bateup, 58, is a professional air-conditioner cleaner and an honorary town crier based in Canberra, Australia [1, 3]. His record-breaking shout was measured at 122.4 decibels [1], though some reports rounded the figure to 122 decibels [2].
According to Guinness World Records, this sound level is comparable to the noise produced by a jet taking off [3]. The measurement met the strict criteria required for the organization to certify the record [3].
McGrail-Bateup's background as a town crier involves the public announcement of news and proclamations, a role that requires significant vocal projection. This professional experience likely contributed to his ability to reach such a high decibel level without damaging his vocal cords.
The announcement on Tuesday marks the first time a Canberra resident has held this specific global title [4]. Local officials and community members have celebrated the feat as a point of pride for the capital city.
“His shout was measured at approximately 122.4 decibels.”
This record underscores the intersection of niche cultural traditions and physiological anomalies. While the role of the town crier is largely ceremonial in the modern era, the certification of such a high decibel level provides data on the upper limits of human vocal projection and the physical endurance required for high-volume shouting.
