The competition will be held virtually this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with clubs from Albury-Wodonga, Wangaratta and the Indigo Shire putting forward two members each.

Four speech categories will be contested today commencing with table topics, before moving into evaluation, international and humorous rounds.

Retired Border obstetrician Pieter Mourik is now the area director of the Toastmasters and will be the contest chair for the Zoom event.

The Toastmasters hold a special place in the Mouriks' heart, with Pieter's wife Libby starting the Albury-Wodonga club close to 20 years ago, before branching out to the Indigo Speakers.

"We do it once a year and it's a terrific event," Dr Mourik said.

"I can now put back into the club, because I've got a lot out of it."

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From the local competition, winners will then go on to contest regional and then district competitions.

Toastmasters originated in the US and recently reached 90 years, with members all over the world.

However, Dr Mourik admitted the concept can seem daunting for some.

"Public speaking is one of the top three in people's absolute fears. The others are financial ruin and death," he said.

Viewers can tune into the Zoom event to pick up some tips and tricks.

It starts at 9:45am on Saturday, with spectators asked to register via the Toastmasters District 73 web page under N29 area contest.