Decide first what your council’s needs are

Clear expectations will ensure the best outcome for all

Town Criers were in essence the first mass social media sources so it would seem appropriate to use some of the modern equivalents to find your candidates.  Local radio may be able to play a part in promoting the concept and you could use a judge from the radio station to attract additional coverage of any competition and perhaps the outcome of the audition or competition.  Candidates could be supplied with a prepared cry – so all contestants are judged on the same words or they could be asked to demonstrate their ability to write their own cry.

• Candidates should be made full aware of Councils expectations for the role at the time of applying for the position.
• Consideration could be given to preliminary auditions before a public “cry off”.
• A panel of 3 judges should be used to determine a suitable candidate.
• Allow sufficient time for the successful contestant to prepare for any major activity.  i.e. best not to appoint a Town Crier a week before a major festival etc.
• Contact the AHGATC Membership Secretary for Judging packs.

The Appointment

Persons who take on the role of Town Crier generally do so out of a genuine connection with the community and wanting to promote the areas and its attractions.  The Ancient & Honourable Guild of Australian Town Criers recommend that wherever possible a long-term or lifetime appointment be made to ensure maximum engagement. That said, it is not uncommon for a probationary period of some duration to be completed before the appointment for life takes effect.  The appointment should be recorded in Council minutes and accompanied by a formal document or certificate of appointment.  The Guild can provide suggested wording for the certificate upon request.

When asking your Town Crier to appear at functions it is important to understand that the office of Town Crier is a non-partisan, apolitical and sectarian role.  Your Crier should not be making declarations that may be seen by a normal person as containing biased or controversial content.

Once a Crier is established in the community we recommend that Council encourage community groups to use the Crier’s services to help build the profile and experience of the Town Crier.  Ultimately this develops confidence and capability for an excellent contribution to your community’s overall social well-being.

Let your community know loudly and proudly that you are appointing an official Town Crier and what you want the role to entail.  Wherever possible make the presentation of the certificate of appointment at a public event.

A Town Crier is still not a common sight so they will be photographed often and can make a lasting impression on visitors to your region or when travelling for competitions in Australia or abroad.

Given the nature of many activities, your Crier will be involved in having a Working with Children check prior to the appointment is recommended.

Officially appointed Town Criers are eligible to apply for membership of the Ancient and Honourable  Guild of Australian Town Criers and compete in sanctioned competitions for awards including the title of Australian Champion.

• By tradition, the appointment is an honorary incumbency
• You may consider a probationary period before confirming the appointment
• Once established your Town Crier may be asked to perform for non-council events or functions such as fetes or charity fundraisers
• Large regions may consider the appointment of an assistant Town Crier
• It is quite common for the Town Crier’s partner to act in an unofficial capacity as a companion escort.