Joseph McGrail-Bateup, the official town crier of Canberra, has set a Guinness World Record for the loudest human shout [1].

The achievement highlights the intersection of traditional civic roles and modern record-breaking, demonstrating the physical limits of human vocal projection.

McGrail-Bateup, also known as Lord Joseph, achieved the feat in Canberra and Queanbeyan, Australia [1], [2]. According to reports from June 19, the record-breaking yell was measured at 122.4 decibels [1], [2].

To secure the title, McGrail-Bateup focused his vocal power on a single word. "I shouted 'now' at 122.4 decibels," McGrail-Bateup said [1].

The town crier sought to test the boundaries of his professional capabilities. "My voice is my tool, and I wanted to see how loud it could be," McGrail-Bateup said [2].

Guinness World Records officially recognized the shout as the loudest of its kind [1], [3]. The event serves as a high-profile showcase for the town crier's role in the Australian capital, a position that requires a booming voice to capture public attention.

While many people attempt vocal records, the precision required to hit 122.4 decibels [1] requires significant breath control and projection. The measurement was verified shortly before the public announcement on June 19 [2].

“"I shouted 'now' at 122.4 decibels."”

This record provides a benchmark for human vocal capacity and brings global attention to the dwindling tradition of town criers. By quantifying the loudness of a shout, the record underscores the physical demands of the role and the rare ability to project sound at levels typically associated with heavy machinery or sirens.