As a foremaist member, society meenister an ane time chairman o The Buchan Hertage Society, Rev Birnie wis aiblins tae pass on his learnin o Nor East history an culture, throw gien mony o his sermons in i’ doric an bein pairt o i’ biggin o The Buchan Festival. Rev Birnie wis a weel kent chiel in heritage circles in i’ local airt.