Also known as the Norman Simpson Memorial Band, it is one of few community-based pipe bands in regional Victoria.

The band operates in memory of Norman Simpson, a local air pilot lost in World War II who's family "generously" donated funds shortly after the band formed.

The band engages with the community and has promoted St Arnaud when attending highland gatherings and other events in regional Victoria, Melbourne and interstate.

The current focus of the band is to continue its participation at local and nearby regional events, pipe band competitions within Victoria, and to compete at the 2020 Australian Pipe Band Championships in Maryborough.

Lin Postlethwaite is the pipe major and has been an active leader of the band for 28 years.

"The band was down to four members in 1991," he said.

"It looked like we could have folded. I got a rush of blood and said there could be school ages children who would like to play the bagpipes.

"I was awarded the opportunity to visit schools every couple of years and sharing our story."

The band was successful in enticing new, younger members through tuition.

"We don't hold all the students who come through and give it a go," Mr Postlethwaite said.

"We wouldn't be in existence if we didn't go out and promote ourselves.

"People don't get up out of their armchairs and say 'I would like to learn bagpipes or the drums'."

Mr Postlethwaite estimates it takes two years to produce a player to a competitive standard.

"It all depends on the ability and personal drive," he said.

"We have some great resources in terms of tutors available within the band.

"With the pipes, there are two aspects. You need to learn to play the music and you have to learn to blow properly.

"The pitch of your instrument relies on nice even pressure in your bag and blowing technique is terribly important."

To celebrate the band's 70th Anniversary and its history, it will host an event to put piping and drumming on public display in St Arnaud.

The band will host the 2019 Victorian Mini Pipe Band Championships on Saturday, October 12.

Festivities begin at 10.30am, which includes a street march, massed band and mini-band championship contest, culminating with a celebratory Ceilidh, a traditional Scottish Social Gathering, at the St Arnaud Sporting Club.

While you're with us, you can now receive updates straight to your inbox each Friday morning from the Stawell Times-News. To make sure you're up-to-date with all the news from across the Northern Grampians shire, sign up here.