Whitby is looking for a new Town Crier and you can apply now
Published July 12, 2022 at 9:04 am
Oyez, oyez, oyez! Let it be known that the Town of Whitby needs a new Town Crier.
Have your friends told you to use your indoor voice? Do you like to be the centre of attention? Are you okay with wearing period costume? If you answered yes to these questions, Whitby has a job for you.
Whitby’s current crier, Fred Martin has retired after 36 years, and the town has put out a call for new Town Crier.
The job calls for someone who has a loud, clear cry to announce the opening of local events.
“You want to be passionate and you need that voice that’s going to reach out to everyone,” says Lara Scott, program manager for The Town of Whitby.
The Town Crier typically attends local events such as festivals, Christmas events, the opening of new businesses and government functions such as the inaugural meeting of a new council.
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While a strong voice is important, the town crier should also be community-minded, says Scott. After welcoming people to an event with his cry, Martin would circulate, meet people and pose for photos.
“The new person again, it’s the same role that they’re there to help the community in the celebration,” she says. “They are welcoming people whether it’s welcoming them to a new business or welcoming them to join an event.”
The Town is looking for a new Town Crier to attend local events, openings and more. A tradition dating back many years, Criers are known for their loud and clear ‘cry’ to spread local news. Oyez! Could you be the next Town Crier? Apply now: https://t.co/DBGLHGCMnr pic.twitter.com/ZWu8CTRWZR
— Town of Whitby, ON (@TownofWhitby) July 5, 2022
In the past, many Town Criers have been men but the job is open to anyone. Mandy Robinson has been the Town of Cobourg’s town crier for several years.
Those interested in the job should prepare a short video showing their best crier call. Then fill out the application online.
This is not a full-time job but the Town Crier is not a volunteer. The crier is paid for official in-person appearances.
When the application period closes after Aug. 19, a short-list of applicants will compete at Harvest Festival on Saturday, Sept. 17. A panel of community members will select the winner. Town Council will then appoint the official Town Crier for the Town of Whitby.
One of the first events for the new Town Crier will likely be the inaugural council meeting after the fall municipal election on Oct. 24.
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