By Claire Fenwicke
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| Audrey wrote of her father, Joseph McGrail-Bateup: “He will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him.” Photo: Facebook. |
Messages of shock, sadness, and love have poured in following news that Canberra and Queanbeyan’s official town crier, Joseph McGrail-Bateup, has died unexpectedly.
The 58-year-old recently set the Guinness record for the world’s loudest shout (he was already in the book for the fastest time to shoot 10 arrows into a target) and also gathered a legion of fans hosting the No-Name Trivia Show each Tuesday night.
His daughter took to social media to break the news that her “beloved” father had died on 31 July.
“I love him with all my heart, and even when he was a lot, most would have to admit that they loved him too. He will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him,” Audrey wrote.
“I appreciate your thoughts, prayers, and support during this difficult time.”
His friends took to Facebook to express their sorrow at the loss of ‘Lord Joseph’.
“No doubt he was one of the kindest human beings I’ve ever met in my life,” wrote one.
Another described him as an “Australian legend, archer and town crier”.
“RIP Lord Joseph … the loudest voice and truest bow in the sky,” she wrote.
A long-time No-Name Trivia Show listener expressed the joy Joseph had brought to his life for the past five years.
“I really loved the interaction among the hosts and the viewers that was encouraged, whether it be viewer comments, trivia answers, etc and it was great to have a special guest every week that often used to reflect and talk about their past and present career, a rare chance to have them recorded ‘on film’ doing that,” he wrote.
“I have made online friends thanks to the No-Name Trivia Show. I also remember now more treasured phone calls between myself and Joseph.
“Joseph was so very talented until his sudden death.”
Canberra and Queanbeyan also expressed their sadness and support for Joseph’s friends and family.
ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr said Joseph brought a “sense of tradition, colour and occasion” to several events and celebrations across the Territory.
“Joseph was a wonderful ambassador for our city and recently earned a Guinness World Record as the world’s loudest town crier, a testament to the enthusiasm and spirit he brought to his role,” he said.
“Through his warmth, character and dedication, Joseph became a cherished part of Canberra’s identity. Canberra is a little quieter today without him, but his voice, spirit and contribution to our city will long be remembered.”
Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council mayor Kenrick Winchester also expressed his disbelief at the news.
“It was only last fortnight that we provided our town crier, Lord Joseph, with official congratulations for breaking the world record for loudest voice – to then hear the news of his passing … has been a great shock,” he said.
“May he rest in peace.”
Joe's funeral will be held on Friday August 14 at 11am, at Craig's Hill Chapel, 63 Middle Arm Road, Goulburn.
First published at Region, August 5, 2026
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