Just a couple of months ago, Canberra and Queanbeyan's honorary town crier Joseph McGrail-Bateup was on top of the world.
He was officially the loudest man in the world, setting a new Guinness World Record in May and making news around the globe.
Sadly, Mr McGrail-Bateup has died, just a few short weeks after achieving the world record.
His daughter Audrey, posted on Monday that Mr McGrail-Bateup died last Friday, July 31, at the age of 58.
"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 posted on Facebook.
"I appreciate your thoughts, prayers, and support during this difficult time. Details regarding the funeral will be shared when arrangements have been finalised."
ACT Opposition Leader Mark Parton echoed the thoughts of many by expressing his shock at Mr McGrail-Bateup's sudden passing.
"This has knocked me for six. I honestly have no words," Mr Parton said, on Facebook.
"This man was so full of life, and had so much to offer. I am devastated that he's gone. I can't quite believe it.
"Canberra will never be the same."
Canberra is a little quieter today without him, but his voice, spirit and contribution to our city will long be remembered.
ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr was saddened to hear about the passing of McGrail-Bateup.
"A familiar face to so many in our community, Joseph brought a sense of tradition, colour and occasion to countless celebrations and events across Canberra," Mr Barr said.
"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.
"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.
"My thoughts are with his family, friends and the many Canberrans whose lives he touched."
In May, Mr McGrail-Bateup broke the record for loudest shout by an individual (male) with a reading of 122.4 dB, which was said to be as loud as a chainsaw, a nearby ambulance siren or plane taking off.
He bellowed the word "Now!" to achieve the world record.
"My daughter and I worked together to find the best word to hit the decibels. The previous word was 'quiet' but that wasn't quite loud enough and we ended up settling for the word 'now'," he explained at the time.
Mr McGrail-Bateup attended a meeting of the Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council on July 22, just nine days before his death, to be congratulated by the mayor Kenrick Winchester and the other councillors.
Mr Winchester was also shocked by his loss.
"Joseph was a larger-than-life character, who brought an energy and passion to Queanbeyan-Palerang as a town crier. It was our pleasure to honour him at the council meeting recently, recognising his Guinness World Record for the loudest person," he said.
"On behalf of Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council, I pass on our condolences to his family and friends."
Mr McGrail-Bateup also held another world record.
In 2019, he set a new world record for shooting 10 arrows in under 60 seconds at the Tuggeranong Archery Club.
He was also involved in local theatre productions, including Dirty Dick's Theatre Restaurant, which played at venues including the Harmonie German Club.
Friends said he was also a magician and host of The No-Name Trivia Show, which started online during the pandemic and continued on afterwards.
Mr McGrail-Bateup was also a marriage celebrant with the business Married by Harry celebrations.
The owner, Harry Vines, said Mr McGrail-Bateup, his good friend, had been a celebrant at about 30 weddings over recent years.
"That's roughly 60 people who got to spend the happiest moment of their lives with him, and he made every one of them brighter with exactly the energy and character you described," Mr Vines said.
