Name: The Great Melbourne Bagpipe Bash
Start: 2025-11-12T06:30:00+11:00
End: 2025-11-12T07:15:00+11:00
Location: Corner of Swanston and Flinders Streets, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, Victoria 3000

Be part of a record-breaking moment at Fed Square!
As the city starts to rock and roll with AC/DC mania – Fed Square is calling all pipers across Victoria to come together on Wednesday 12 November to help smash the world record for the largest ever bagpipe ensemble!
Pipers will be able to pay homage to AC/DC’s iconic “It’s a Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock ‘n’ Roll)” music video – in a truly one-of-a-kind performance. Filmed on Swanston Street in 1976 for the ABC’s Countdown, it featured the band with late singer Bon Scott playing alongside three members of Melbourne’s own Rats of Tobruk Pipe Band – and went on to be an internationally iconic song and music video, with the bagpipe at the heart of its success.
Now, to create another memorable music moment, Fed Square is seeking 350 keen pipers to gather together and play the bagpipes en masse in melodious (or comedic) harmony.
What’s the challenge? The current world record is 333 pipers (Sofia, Bulgaria 2012) – and we know Melbourne can do it better!
All pipers, young and old, eager to be part of this unforgettable moment should register to download the sheet music and get practicing, to claim their place in history. You don’t need to be in a band to join in. Be it school bands, individuals or piping groups – we want you! So warm up the pipes, wear a kilt, school uniform or skinny jeans and get ready to make some noise.
To register to be a part of the ensemble – head to our website, via the 'Find Tickets' link (it's free!).
Download the pipe sheet music via our website. For anyone registered it will be emailed to you as well.
Schedule for the afternoon:
4.30pm: Arrival
4.45pm: Warm up bagpipes
4.50pm: Practice 1
5pm: Practice 2
5.05pm: Ready
5.10pm: Performance (live on ABC radio)
5.15pm: Finish
The Great Melbourne Bagpipe Bash is presented by Fed Square and supported by City of Melbourne and ABC Radio Melbourne.