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EVENTS

We organise a comprehensive range of activities, including lectures, workshops, tours, and group meetings that are available to everyone.                                                  Additionally, we conduct exclusive free and discounted events for our members.

ONLINE DELIVERY: mOST events are delivered online using Zoom - CHECK DETAILS of In-person and hybrid offerings.

Online bookings can close early to support administrative requirements, however, late bookings may be made by calling the office during office hours on (02) 9247 3953 or sending an email to admin[at]sag.org.au.

With the exception of some events, usually those focussing on genetic genealogy where there may be privacy issues, most of our online sessions are recorded, so even if you cannot attend at the scheduled time you can still book and receive the recording.  The event listing will specify if the event is not being recorded.


If an event is listed as partially recorded (usually an event related to the use of genetic genealogy techniques) this means that any  presentations given as part of the event are recorded; discussions and sensitive case studies are not recorded. 


Most of our events are open to non-members as well as members. However, non-members will pay a bit more.

Registration types: The member category is used by members of the Society. Members must be logged in to make a booking.  Everyone else should book using the non-member category.

Multiple event registrations: Please see this link for how to register for two or more events and pay once online.

Details of the Friday Hang Out with the SAG and other member-only events can be found at: www.sag.org.au/Member-Area.

Upcoming events

  • Ancestry Tips: Season Ticket July - December 2024

    • 03 July 2024
    • 04 December 2024
    • 6 sessions
    • Via Zoom
    • 389
    Register

    Why not join Michelle Patient and her expert Ancestry guests on the first Wednesday each month for some tips, tricks and time for your questions on anything to do with the Ancestry website and the services it provides.

    The meeting dates covered by this ticket are: 3 July, 7 August, 4 September, 2 October, 6 November and 4 December.

    Are you struggling with a particular part of the Ancestry website? Is there a new feature or record set you would like to know more about? Questions for the Ancestry Tips session can be submitted in advance by clicking on this  link  https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/SAG_Ancestry_Tips_Advance_Question

     If you book part way through the season you will receive a link to the recordings of any sessions you have missed.

    Skill level: All     Presenter:  Michelle Patient (SAG member and Ancestry ProGenealogist contractor)


    Show details

  • Expression of Interest to attend Analysing your AncestryDNA Course

    • 09 July 2024
    • 9:00 AM
    • 31 December 2024
    • 5:00 PM
    Register

    This is an expression of interest only to assist us to gauge the level of demand for this course. We will contact you with further information when the next course dates are available. 

    Need help with starting to solve your DNA dilemmas? Have you tested with Ancestry DNA and want to understand how to work with your results?

    Join Christine Woodlands and other members of the SAG DNA Discussion Group for a 7 part course designed to assist you to understand the information you can glean from your Ancestry DNA matches.

    The program is delivered in four modules. We’ll see how brick walls can come crashing down by using a three prong approach to solving DNA dilemmas at AncestryDNA - grouping your matches, building research trees at Ancestry and using the 'What are the odds?’ tool at DNA Painter.  When participants are comfortable with the approach, they can apply it to the other testing sites and GEDmatch.

    This program is limited to 20 participants per course as this allows everyone to get the most out of the program.


    Show details

  • Expression of Interest to attend 2025 Optimising your DNA using Chromosome Analysis course

    • 09 July 2024
    • 9:00 AM
    • 31 March 2025
    • 5:00 PM
    Register

    This is an expression of interest only to assist us to gauge the level of demand for this course.

    We will contact you with further information about the registration process once we have a better idea of how many people wish to undertake the course. 

    Due to the advanced nature of this course a survey will need to be completed by prospective attendees to demonstrate their proficiency in the pre-requisites listed below. We will contact you about this when the EOI process has closed.

    Are you ready to take your DNA results to the next level using chromosome analysis? Do you have your DNA data at a site with a chromosome browser and want to understand how to work with your results?

    Join Veronica Williams and other SAG DNA Discussion Group members for a 10 part course designed to build on your existing knowledge of working with your DNA and develop your skills in chromosome analysis.

    The series is not suitable for beginners, it suits intermediate DNA researchers interested in learning more complex DNA techniques.

    The course consists of twelve sessions, made up of four lectures and eight workshops that will include case studies and opportunities for discussion. Whilst foundation concepts will be discussed in Module 1, later sessions will assume knowledge of those DNA concepts and tools.

    Sessions will likely be scheduled for Saturdays, over a three-four month period.

    To provide an indication of how the program is structured the 2024 course outline can downloaded and viewed by clicking here.

    Pre-requisites for participants: 

    • Competence in basic DNA analysis techniques as outlined in the section Starting to work with your DNA results - the basics
    • Have been working with their DNA results for over 12 months
    • Ability to work with spreadsheets, including basic formatting and data manipulation;
    • Priority will be given to those who have completed the SAG AncestryDNA Course

    The course will be presented online using the Zoom platform.

    This course will NOT be recorded.


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  • Expression of Interest to enrol in Diploma of Family Historical Studies (2025)

    • 10 July 2024
    • 5:00 PM
    • 31 December 2024
    • 5:00 PM
    Register

    This is an expression of interest (EoI) only to assist us to gauge the level of demand for this course with applications due by 28 February 2025 for the next intake. Applications forms will be issued following registration to this EoI.

    Once a member has completed the Certificate in Genealogical Research they have the option to take their studies further by enrolling in our Diploma in Family Historical Studies. The Diploma has been running since 1974 and enrolment is open to any member who completes the Certificate course at a credit level of 75% or higher. Requirements for the Diploma are the completion of a thesis (20,000 words) and a written examination -for more information see: https://www.sag.org.au/StudyOnlineWithUs.

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  • GROUP: Reunion and Mac Support Group

    • 18 July 2024
    • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Online via Zoom
    • 288
    Register

    For the July meeting, we will continue exploring some more of the new features in Reunion 14, highlighting the charts.

    We will ask members to share their own experiences with the latest update and discuss which features they have found useful and share how they are using them.

    Q&A

    Members can bring their own questions to the group or submit them in advance.

    Contact us at sag.renuniongroup@gmail.com or via SAG with feedback and questions

    Coordinators

    Danny O’Neill is with the Canberra family history group FHACT (aka HAGSOC) convening the Digital Asset Management group (DAMSIG) and Reunion and Macintosh Support User Group (RAMSUG). Main interests are in photography, scanning and book designing, and struggles to maintain a large garden. He is retired from careers as a photographer and film archivist, and enjoys helping people where he can. He looks forward to working with Dale and the team in restarting the Reunion group that includes Mac related support, but is not an expert.

    Dale Fogarty uses Reunion and a variety of other Mac applications, particularly Keynote, plus a range of other tools to organise, analyse and report findings for a number of genealogical and DNA research projects. Dale enjoys working collaboratively; open to exchanging information and ideas, as well as helping and learning from others. Current projects include a Kilkenny Project, a Fogarty Project at FTDNA and a Fogarty One-Name Study. Dale is also the convenor of the Irish Research Group at the Qld Family History Society.


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  • GROUP: Chinese Australian Research Interest Group

    • 20 July 2024
    • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
    • via Zoom
    • 481
    Register

    Guest Presenters: Douglas Lam and Natalie Fong

    Douglas and Natalie will be talking to the group about their journey's to discover the ancestral villages of their families and other genealogical discoveries along the way.

    Come along and join us as we research our Chinese Australian ancestors in a collaborative, friendly and engaging research group. Make sure you have your questions ready and also be ready to assist others if you are able to as this is the basis of what all SAG Groups are about - people helping other people with ideas and suggestions about their family research. 

    Skill level:  All, beginners welcome    

    Lead: Kam Louie


    Photo by Museums Victoria on Unsplash

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  • WEBINAR: Meet the Author - Marion and the Forty Thieves by Sarah Luke

    • 22 July 2024
    • 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
    • via Zoom
    • 434
    Register

    Join Sydney-based historian Dr Sarah Luke as she introduces her new middle grade children’s novel, Marion and the Forty Thieves.

    Marion and the Forty Thieves is based on Sarah’s research into Sydney’s Nautical School Ships Vernon and Sobraon which were anchored at Cockatoo Island between 1867 and 1911. She has previously published a full history of this school as Like a Wicked Noah’s Ark (Arcadia, 2020).

    Based on the life of Marion Neitenstein, daughter of the school’s principal, Sarah’s new novel offers an entertaining insight into this unusual nineteenth-century institution for neglected boys. Readers will embark on a thrilling journey through turn-of-the-century Sydney with Marion herself as the sole girl among a ship full of ragtag schoolboys. Marion's world takes a dangerous turn when she discovers a new student, Alexander Walker, planning to rendezvous with the notorious Forty Thieves gang. Determined to uncover their sinister plans, Marion fearlessly ventures into the treacherous Rocks neighbourhood at night…

    Featuring a strong female heroine and a diverse cast of characters, Marion and the Forty Thieves is set to captivate young readers with its blend of history, adventure, and intrigue. The book is accompanied by real photographs from the ship, portraits of Sobraon boys and images of Sydney street scenes from the era.

    Sarah is also holding a free in person meet the author event for children on 20 July at the National Maritime Museum in Sydney. Perhaps a fun school holiday activity for your children or grandchildren?

    More information about this event can be found by clicking here
    Show details

  • ONLINE: Virtual Library Session (23rd of July)

    • 23 July 2024
    • 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
    • Online via Zoom
    • 0
    Registration is closed

    ASK THE LIBRARIAN!

    Have you ever wondered what's inside the SAG library collection? Have you ever been uncertain on what to search for in the online catalogue?  What questions do you have about the library?

    The virtual library session is an opportunity to ask these questions and more to the SAG Librarian (Karlie Frelingos). If you have ever wondered about types of materials we have in the library or how to use the library catalogue this might be the session for you!

    This session will be online via zoom at 2:30pm - 3:30pm, Tuesday 23rd of July.  



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  • WEBINAR: Introduction to the SAG and Courses

    • 24 July 2024
    • 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
    • via Zoom
    • 482
    Register

    Are you a new member or interested in becoming a member?

    Have you been a member for a while but not really utilised our services?

    Are you feeling inspired to start some formal study in family history this year?

    Join the Society's CEO and other staff for a free online introduction and orientation session, as well as a guide through the course options available at the SAG throughout the rest of 2024. These include our Beginner’s Practical Introduction to Family History course, our existing suite of online courses on research methodolgy, the Certificate in Genealogical Research and Diploma in Family Historical Studies alongside our DNA research offerings. See this website for  information: https://www.sag.org.au/StudyOnlineWithUs

    This event will be held via the ZOOM Platform.


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  • Let's Talk About...DNA Surprises

    • 29 July 2024
    • 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM
    • via Zoom
    • 499
    Register

    Information on our July Let's Talk About... will be updated shortly.

    Do you have a question you are desperate to have answered? Why not submit it in advance. Click on the link to send us your question now https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/SAG-Talk-about-question

    NOTE: We will try to answer all advance questions that are submitted, however, at times the volume of questions received means this is not possible.

    Please note: Members will need to be logged into the website to register.

    This is an online session using the ZOOM platform.

    This webinar will be recorded, so you can either watch it live or watch it later.

    Show details

  • Family History Connect | Hints & tips for using the library catalogue

    • 30 July 2024
    • 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • SAG Family History Research Centre & Library - 2/379 Kent Street, Sydney NSW 2000
    • 0
    Registration is closed

    Family History Connect | Hints & tips for using the library catalogue

    Our 'members-only' series, Family History Connect, feature themed sessions focusing on particular areas of genealogical research.

    Sessions are generally facilitated by one of the Society’s wonderful volunteers and will take place in-person at our Family History Research Centre & Library. These sessions are open to all current members of the Society. 

    To celebrate Library & Information Week, SAG staff will host a special Family History Connect session: Hints & tips for using the library catalogue.

    Participants will be guided through the unique SAG library classification system, and will be shown how to best navigate the online catalogue and prepare for a visit. You'll also learn some helpful hints and tips to improve your catalogue search techniques.

    Limit of 10 participants. 

    This is a members only event that will take place in person at the SAG Family History Research Centre & Library.

    Bookings are essential for this session.

    This session will not be recorded.


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  • GROUP: AI & Tech Special Interest Group

    • 31 July 2024
    • 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Via Zoom
    • 459
    Register

    Join our newly formed AI & IT special interest group to discuss all things Artificial Intelligence and Technology related to Family History.

    Each session is made of a combination of these different segments (in order to try and encourage participation and sharing). These sessions are designed to be member driven so if you have something to share or a topic to be covered, please put it forward.  Any content e.g. AI, software, hardware, tools etc. can be slotted into these broad categories.

    • Latest Updates - Developments in AI, software and hardware
    • News and Views - Opinions, discussion points, recommended software/hardware
    • Quick Tips - 3 minutes or less
    • Show & Tell - like at school - share something you've done with AI or Tech
    • In Depth Focus - longer demonstration of tools, software
    • Helpdesk - problems and support, suggestions


    Skill level: All

    Group Leads: Andrew Redfern, Yvonne Masters, Sandy Pullen and Maureen Trotter 


    Show details

  • ONLINE: Virtual Library Session (1 August)

    • 01 August 2024
    • 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
    • Online via Zoom
    • 2
    Register

    ASK THE LIBRARIAN!

    Have you ever wondered what's inside the SAG library collection? Have you ever been uncertain on what to search for in the online catalogue?  What questions do you have about the library?

    The virtual library session is an opportunity to ask these questions and more to the SAG Librarian (Karlie Frelingos). If you have ever wondered about types of materials we have in the library or how to use the library catalogue this might be the session for you!

    This session will be online via zoom at 2:30pm - 3:30pm, Thursday 1 August.  



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  • GROUP: Legacy Software Users Group

    • 03 August 2024
    • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Via Zoom
    • 485
    Register

    Topic: Generating products – How to turn your family history data into stories, reports and other useful products.

    Our Legacy Group sessions are suitable for beginners and also experienced users. If you have been using Legacy for a while, bring along your tips to share with others in the group. This session will be recorded, so you can attend live or watch the recording later. Copies of the slides and some exercises to practice will also be provided.

    This session will be held online via the Zoom platform.


    Skill level: All     Convenor:  Danielle Lautrec


    Show details

  • 2024 August Certificate in Genealogical Research - Enrolment

    • 05 August 2024
    • 7:00 PM
    • 30 June 2025
    • 12:00 PM
    • Online
    Register

    The Society's Certificate in Genealogical Research is designed for those with more than three years family history research experience and who have gained at least some elementary research skills and a broad, even if basic, knowledge of resources available. To complete the coursework you are expected to extend your research beyond what can be found on the internet and to use local libraries and family history society collections, either in-person or remotely where possible. 

    The course consists of 8 assignments undertaken across a year. For each assignment you will be given the outline of what is required, together with some guidance to consider in preparing your submission. The assignments have been carefully selected to reflect the sorts of skills needed by genealogists and the course is essentially practical exercises in self-directed learning from experience.

    Full details from THIS LINK.

    The induction webinar will be recorded, so you can either watch it live or watch it later.

    Show details

  • WEBINAR: Mining the English Censuses: Beyond Discovering Your Family

    • 06 August 2024
    • 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
    • Via Zoom
    • 421
    Register

    Mining the English Censuses: Beyond Discovering Your Family

    We are all familiar with using the censuses as a source for our English ancestors. There we can discover a range of information including occupation, location, names of children, and movement around the county and/or country. However, a great deal more can be learned from these censuses.

    In this presentation we will explore how the censuses can be used to gather different kinds of information such as changes in locations over time, the spread of names in various area, and the predominant occupations in a given place and time. In particular ‘A Vision of Britain Over Time’ and ‘Histpop.org’ will be introduced and the many forms of census information, both micro and macro, available on these sites.

    Presenter: Yvonne Masters

    About the presenter:

    Yvonne has a background in education, both as a teacher, particularly of English and History, and as a university lecturer in teacher education. She has been researching her own and her husband’s family histories for over 40 years and, now retired, genealogy is her passion, making her question how she ever found time to work! After retiring, Yvonne decided to undertake study in the area of genealogy and family history and has completed the UTAS Diploma of Family History, the Pharos Intermediate Certificate of Family History, and also the suite of Pharos One Name Study units. She has also completed SAG’s Certificate of Genealogical Research and Diploma of Family Historical Studies. A member of SAG, as well as team member of the AI and Tech Special Interest Group, Genealogy SA, the Guild of One-Name Studies, the Society One-Place Studies, and the Isle of Man Family History Society, Yvonne is undertaking genealogy research across many areas.

    The illustration of a researcher looking through censuses was done via Bing Create.

     

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  • GROUP: The Writing Group August Meeting

    • 08 August 2024
    • 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
    • Via Zoom
    • 188
    Register

    Agenda for August Meeting

    Anthea Gupta will talk about writing for a family history website/blog. She will share her experience of building sites in Wordpress to share her research and her creative writing based on Family History. She will then facilitate discussion/ a practical workshop on how you’d design a blog/FH website (the conceptual planning, not the use of any particular technology). The session focuses on the process of writing for a FH website, and how that differs from writing for print publications. We will look at a range of FH website examples, and welcome you to share FH websites you like, and what you see as their strengths.

    About The Writing Group

    Are you interested in writing about your family history but need a bit more motivation or encouragement? 

    Come along to The Writing Group and work on your writing skills in a fun and supportive atmosphere. The group meets via Zoom on the second Thursday of each month and has a varied program of activities and speakers designed to help you progress your project/s - whatever style of writing you are interested in!

    In addition to the group meetings there is an optional forum utilising the Basecamp website where group attendees can discuss writing projects and share ideas between meetings. 

    Come and join us, new attendees are always welcome.

    Skill Level: All    

    Group Leads: Elizabeth Capelin & Emily Purser


    Each session will be recorded so you can join live or watch the recording later.

    Show details

  • GROUP: Family Tree Maker User Group

    • 10 August 2024
    • 10:30 AM - 3:30 PM
    • via Zoom
    • 284
    Register

    FTM User Group Sat 10 Aug 2024 "Double day" (am & pm) - single rego!

    Providing we have a minimum of 10 attending "in-person" it is planned to have a hybrid meeting for Sat 10 Aug 2024. The hybrid meeting takes place in a physical location AND as a live webinar. It has the advantage of the F2F (in-person) meeting & the different kinds of discussion that result when we have attempted "open mic" segments in Zoom webinars. Please remember, that SAG retains the right to change hybrid to webinar only.

    The F2F portion of the meeting will take place at the Library 2/379 Kent St, Sydney NSW 2000.

    This meeting has two 2-hour sessions with an hour break for lunch. Registration is for both sessions.

    PLEASE NOTE: the timings & content are subject to change.

    We, of course, are seeking both topics & presenters to schedule. Click here for the agenda.

    A previous FTM UG Spokt Hub post is the basis for presentation topics. The previous post has several links to possible presentation topics (and pending ones) and can be found here https://spokt.com/hubs/930941/posts/26542117

    Presenters should plan for 10 minutes before their allotted time is up to allow attendees to ask questions. Answers should be short enough to allow more than 1 question to be answered. Follow-up questions can always be posted on Spokt with a title similar to the title of the presentation.

    This group meeting will be recorded so you can join live or watch the recording later. In person attendees will also receive the recording.

    Skill level: All, beginners welcome     Convenor: Larry Czarnik

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  • ONLINE: Virtual Library Session (13th of August)

    • 13 August 2024
    • 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
    • Online via Zoom
    • 15
    Register

    ASK THE LIBRARIAN!

    Have you ever wondered what's inside the SAG library collection? Have you ever been uncertain on what to search for in the online catalogue?  What questions do you have about the library?

    The virtual library session is an opportunity to ask these questions and more to the SAG Librarian (Karlie Frelingos). If you have ever wondered about types of materials we have in the library or how to use the library catalogue this might be the session for you!

    This session will be online via zoom at 2:30pm - 3:30pm, Tuesday 13th of August.  



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  • WEBINAR: SAG Book Club/Meet the Author - Vron by Lee Boehm

    • 13 August 2024
    • 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM
    • via Zoom
    • 485
    Register

     

    Join us in our online book club event for an opportunity to meet the author, share ideas with other enthusiastic readers and gain new perspectives on our own family history research. This event is FREE for Society members - if you are not yet a member, we'd love you to join! 

    In August we are introducing Society member Lee Boehm & her second book, Vron.



    How does it work?

    SAG Book Club events are free to SAG members. Each event runs via Zoom for 1.5 hours. Sometimes we will be joined by the book’s author or another special guest, and sometimes we’ll have opportunities for small discussion groups to share our reactions and insights with fellow SAG members: www.sag.org.au/BookClub

    This event will be held via the ZOOM Platform.

    This webinar will be recorded, so you can either watch it live or watch it later.
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  • Family History Connect | Library Tour

    • 17 August 2024
    • 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
    • SAG Family History Research Centre & Library - 2/379 Kent Street, Sydney NSW
    • 9
    Register

    Join us for a small members-only guided tour of the Library where you will get an overview of the services and resources available. 

    It’s a great way to find out what we have if you are a new member, or haven’t used the collections for a while.  Once you’ve explored the highlights of the collections you can stay on to do some research and get assistance from our wonderful volunteers.

    These free tours are for members only and are held from 9.00am to 10.00am - before the Library opens. This way we have uninterrupted access to all areas of the Library.

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  • WEBINAR: Memorial Park Friends Groups (what they do in our parks)

    • 28 August 2024
    • 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
    • Via Zoom
    • 490
    Register

    In National Family History Month join us to hear about the wonderful work of the various volunteer groups involved in our memorial parks and cemeteries.

    Presented in collaboration with Metropolitan Memorial Parks this webinar will explore how historical and genealogical societies transform memorial parks into communal spaces that honour the past. Discover how these dedicated groups research and document history, restore historic sites, and collaborate with park management to plan engaging events which bring history to life, making memorial parks places of remembrance, education, and enjoyment.

    You may even discover  a group you would like to  join or contribute to in some way!


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  • COURSE: Beginners Practical Introduction to Family History

    • 30 August 2024
    • 9:00 AM
    • 31 August 2024
    • 5:00 PM
    • SAG Research Centre and Library, Level 2, 379 Kent Street Sydney
    • 14
    Register

    FACE TO FACE COURSE

    Would you like to investigate your family history but have no idea where to start or have you previously signed up to an online platform but felt overwhelmed by all the information available?

    The Society of Australian Genealogists, Australia’s oldest family history society, is excited to announce we will once again be holding a face to face intensive version of our "Beginners Practical Introduction to Family History” course at our library and research centre in Sydney as part of our  schedule of National Family History Month events.

    Over the course of two days you will learn about:

    • Key tools - family history software platforms, file organisation, research plans
    • Traditional records (document based) research – types of records, locating records
    • Electronic databases – Ancestry, FamilySearch, MyHeritage, Findmypast and more
    • Using maps in family history
    • Other resources such as Family History Societies, online forums and education options
    • Introduction to DNA research including legal and ethical considerations
    • Various ways to chart, share and publish your findings, including privacy and copyright concerns

    While the course will focus on records available in Australia, North America, the United Kingdom and Ireland we will also touch on locating records in other countries and the skills you will learn can be applied to researching ancestors from anywhere in the world.

    Lead Presenter: Vanessa Cassin, SAG Education Manager 

    Skill Level: Beginner

    Morning and Afternoon Tea will be provided.

    There will be a one hour break for lunch. Please bring your own lunch. There are also plenty of cafes close to the venue if you prefer to purchase something.

    To read SAG's Refund Policy for event registrations please click here

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  • GROUP: Irish Research Group

    • 03 September 2024
    • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • via Zoom
    • 482
    Register

    Topic: TBA

    If you would like to submit a question in advance click here. Please submit your question at least three (3) days before the event.

     All welcome.

    Skill level: All

         Group Leads: Kathleen Hackett, Alan Jones & Sally Skulte

    Image courtesy of Wikimedia Commons


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  • COURSE: Writing Family History Workshop with Dr Betty O'Neill

    • 06 September 2024
    • 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM
    • SAG Research Centre and Library, Level 2/379 Kent Street Sydney
    • 15
    Register

    FACE TO FACE WORKSHOP

    Join well-known family historian and published author, Dr Betty O’Neill for a one-day introductory workshop on Writing family history.

    Are you curious about your ancestors? Do you have a fascinating great-aunt you’d like to write about? Or maybe some lost relatives, secrets, lies or family mysteries to investigate? Betty’s questioning and researching turned out to be a bit of a detective story and yours could too! 

    We have also made Betty's book, The Other Side of Absence: Discovering my father's secrets, available in the SAG Bookshop at: https://www.sag.org.au/Sys/Store/Products/257411

    The workshop will be limited to 16 participants.

    Registrations close Wednesday 4 September 2024.

    Morning and Afternoon Tea will be provided.

     Please bring your own lunch. There are also plenty of cafes close to the venue if you prefer to purchase something.

    Click here for parking and accessibility information.


    To read SAG's Refund Policy for event registrations please click here

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  • GROUP: Scottish Research Group

    • 11 September 2024
    • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • via Zoom
    • 477
    Register

    Topic and County of interest : TBA

    The Scottish Research Group is an opportunity to meet with others who have ancestors from any of Scotland's counties from the highlands and Islands all the way down to the border areas, or just have a research interest in Scotland. Discuss research strategies and resources, and swap ideas and knowledge.

    This group is suitable for beginners through to those with many years researching experience. The research group meets about 3-4 times a year. You can become a member of the group just by attending our meetings. Newcomers are always welcome!


    Skill level:  All, beginners welcome    

    Leads: Diana Pecar, Elizabeth Gordon and Sally Skulte

    This session will be recorded for those who are unable to attend live.

    Show details

  • GROUP: The Writing Group September Meeting

    • 12 September 2024
    • 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
    • Via Zoom
    • 198
    Register

    Agenda for September Meeting

    Anne Blythe-Cooper will talk about her writing process, including for the novel "The Shape of Water", which “takes the brute facts of history and weaves them into a narrative thread that is no longer purely historical, but also not quite purely fictional. It focuses on the life of Sophia Degraves, wife to Peter Degraves, the founder of Cascade Brewery and one of Tasmania’s most prominent early entrepreneurs. Like many other historical wives living in the shadow of their husbands, Sophia has received little scholarly attention over the years. The Shape of Water sets about righting this injustice.”

    The Writing Group

    Are you interested in writing about your family history but need a bit more motivation or encouragement? 

    Come along to The Writing Group and work on your writing skills in a fun and supportive atmosphere. The group meets via Zoom on the second Thursday of each month and has a varied program of activities and speakers designed to help you progress your project/s - whatever style of writing you are interested in!

    In addition to the group meetings there is an optional forum utilising the Basecamp website where group attendees can discuss writing projects and share ideas between meetings. 

    Come and join us, new attendees are always welcome.

    Skill Level: All    

    Group Leads: Elizabeth Capelin & Emily Purser


    Each session will be recorded so you can join live or watch the recording later.

    Show details

  • GROUP: Reunion and Mac Support Group

    • 19 September 2024
    • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Online via Zoom
    • 298
    Register

    Topic for this meeting: TBA

    Reunion is a great genealogy program for Mac users that allows you to easily document and display information about your family. It features a navigable graphic Tree View in the form of an hourglass or ancestor chart, allowing you to navigate to everyone in your tree. It also has a variety of visually appealing, high quality charts and other useful reports, and an outstanding help manual.

    The group coordinators Danny O’Neill and Dale Fogarty aim to work collaboratively with its members on how to best use all the features of Reunion and how to resolve any Reunion or Mac-related issues that you may have. 

    Coordinators

    Danny O’Neill is with the Canberra family history group FHACT (aka HAGSOC) convening the Digital Asset Management group (DAMSIG) and Reunion and Macintosh Support User Group (RAMSUG). Main interests are in photography, scanning and book designing, and struggles to maintain a large garden. He is retired from careers as a photographer and film archivist, and enjoys helping people where he can. He looks forward to working with Dale and the team in restarting the Reunion group that includes Mac related support, but is not an expert.

    Dale Fogarty is a long-time user of Mac and Reunion, who is open to exchanging information and ideas to support our mutual enthusiasm for quality family history research, combining traditional genealogy and DNA approaches, and using a range of tools to organise, analyse and report findings. Dale enjoys working collaboratively, helping and learning from others. Dale is also the convenor of the Irish Interest Group at the Qld Family History Society.


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  • GROUP: DNA Research Group - Tools in Practice

    • 21 September 2024
    • 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
    • Via Zoom
    • 490
    Register

     Topic: TBA

    The DNA Research Group - Tools in Practice is a collaborative group designed to assist researchers with the analysis and interpretation of genetic genealogy results. 

    The group is designed to meet the needs of attendees with an intermediate level of knowledge of  genetic genealogy.

    Group Leads: Veronica Williams and Danielle Lautrec


    This session will be held online via the Zoom platform.

    Show details

  • GROUP: DNA Research Discussion Group

    • 21 September 2024
    • 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM
    • Via Zoom
    • 494
    Register

    Topic: TBA

    This session will be a facilitated discussion session. It requires pre-work by participants and information and discussion questions will be distributed before the meeting. All participants are expected to contribute to the discussion.

    Skill level: Advanced

     Facilitator: Sharon Watson

    Group Leads: Veronica Williams and Danielle Lautrec

    Please note: The topics and tools discussed at this group are pitched at an advanced level and the Research Discussion Group meetings are not recommended for those just beginning their DNA journey.

    This is an online session. It will NOT be recorded due to privacy reasons, so you should only book if you can attend live.

    Show details

  • COURSE: Beginners Practical Introduction to Family History

    • 26 September 2024
    • 14 November 2024
    • 7 sessions
    • via Zoom
    • 36
    Register

    Seven Part Online Course

    Would you like to investigate your family history but have no idea where to start or have you previously signed up to an online platform but felt overwhelmed by all the information available?

    The Society of Australian Genealogists, Australia’s oldest family history society, is excited to again offer our seven part online course “Beginners Practical Introduction to Family History.”

    Over the course of seven sessions (two hours per session) you will learn about:

    • Key tools - family history software platforms, file organisation, research plans
    • Traditional records (document based) research – types of records, locating records
    • Electronic databases – Ancestry, FamilySearch, MyHeritage, Findmypast and more
    • Using maps in family history research
    • Other resources such as Family History Societies, online forums and education options
    • Introduction to DNA research including legal and ethical considerations
    • Various ways to chart, share and publish your findings, including privacy and copyright concerns

    While the course will focus on records available in Australia, North America, the United Kingdom and Ireland we will also touch on locating records in other countries and the skills you will learn can be applied to researching ancestors from anywhere in the world.

    All sessions in this course will be recorded. If you are unable to attend live you will still be able to catch up with all the content.

    Lead Presenter: Vanessa Cassin, SAG Education Manager

    Skill Level: Beginner

    To read SAG's Refund Policy for event registrations please click here

    Show details

  • WEBINAR: First Look at AncestryDNA

    • 28 September 2024
    • 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM
    • Via Zoom
    • 25
    Register

    This session is ideal for people who are starting to work with their AncestryDNA test results. We’ll cover the reporting features for testers who don’t have an Ancestry subscription and then the additional features that come with subscriptions. Christine will share her "Top 10" techniques for working with AncestryDNA.

    Demonstrations and case studies will be featured in the session. There'll be plenty of time for questions. Reference material will be available after the session.

    Participants should have an understanding of the different types of DNA tests and how they can be used. This is covered in Beginners’ Introduction to DNA. When you register, we’ll send you a link to a pre-recorded webinar if you’d like a refresh.


    Skill level: Beginner

    Presenter: Christine Woodlands 

    Show details

  • GROUP: English Research Group

    • 28 September 2024
    • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • via Zoom
    • 481
    Register

    Topic and Focus Counties: TBA

    The English Research Group is an opportunity to meet with others who have ancestors from any of England's many counties, or just have a research interest in England. Discuss research strategies and resources, and swap ideas and knowledge.

    This group is suitable for beginners through to those with many years researching experience. The research group meets about 3-4 times a year. You can become a member of the group just by attending our meetings. Newcomers are always welcome!

    Convenors: Diana Pecar, Linda Radulovitch and Annesley Watson

    Skill level: All

    This meeting will be recorded so you can join live or watch the recording later. 

    Show details

  • COURSE: Writing Family History Workshop with Dr Betty O'Neill

    • 11 October 2024
    • 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM
    • online via Zoom
    • 16
    Register

    ONLINE WORKSHOP

    Join well-known family historian and published author, Dr Betty O’Neill for a one-day introductory workshop on Writing family history.

    Are you curious about your ancestors? Do you have a fascinating great-aunt you’d like to write about? Or maybe some lost relatives, secrets, lies or family mysteries to investigate? Betty’s questioning and researching turned out to be a bit of a detective story and yours could too! 

    We have also made Betty's book, The Other Side of Absence: Discovering my father's secrets, available in the SAG Bookshop at: https://www.sag.org.au/Sys/Store/Products/257411

    The workshop will be limited to 16 participants.

    Registrations close Wednesday 9 October 2024.

    Please Note: This workshop will not be recorded.

    To read SAG's Refund Policy for event registrations please click here

    Show details

  • GROUP: USA and Canada Research Interest Group

    • 19 October 2024
    • 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
    • via Zoom
    • 496
    Register
    Interested in Canadian or USA research? Have you any ancestors from this part of the world?

    Topic: To be advised

    Come along and join us as we research our USA and Canadian ancestors in a collaborative, friendly and engaging research group. Be prepared to introduce yourself and briefly talk about where your USA/Canadian ancestors are from and share with the group one burning question.

    Skill level:  All, beginners welcome    

    Leads: Thistle Anderson, Suzanne Hyde Larry Czarnik & Melissa Hulbert


    Show details

  • GROUP: Aotearoa New Zealand Research Group

    • 29 October 2024
    • 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Via Zoom
    • 464
    Register

    Topic: Papers Past

    Papers Past delivers digitised full-text New Zealand and Pacific newspapers, magazines and journals, books, and other documents, spanning 150 years. It is a rich resource for family history, full of people (maybe your ancestors?) and the events and places that shaped them. Come along to hear Jason’s best tips and tricks for exploring the site.

    About the Presenter:

    Jason Murphy works in the Digital Experience team at the National Library, one of several teams contributing to Papers Past. As Service Manager, Jason has the task of shaping the design and development of the website, with the help of a highly engaged community of users.

    Skill level: All    

    Convenor: Pauline Weeks


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  • GROUP: Genealogical DNA Analysis Tool (GDAT) User Group

    • 02 November 2024
    • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Via Zoom
    • 496
    Register

    Genealogical DNA Analysis Tool (GDAT) User Group

    If you already have DNA chromosome analysis skills and are using the GDAT database tool to manage your DNA information, you might wish to join our new user group.  SAG user groups are aimed at ‘members helping members’ so this is a collaborative working group aimed at sharing information and knowledge.  You must be a SAG member to join this group.

    Sessions will include a short presentation on a specified topic identified by the group, followed by discussion between group members, then round table Q&A regarding the product.  We will meet on Saturdays at 10.00-12.00 using the Zoom platform.  We won’t be recording the sessions, so you must attend live.

    Important things to note:

    1. Discussion will be focussed on utilising the GDAT software for DNA analysis;
    2. Members must have an understanding of the principles of chromosome analysis before joining the group;
    3. Chromosome analysis questions WILL NOT be discussed, except in the context of using the GDAT product.

    Pre-requisite Knowledge for using GDAT:

    1. Be computer literate;
    2. Have the ability to work with spreadsheets and large data sets;
    3. Have been working with DNA results at GEDmatch, FamilyTree DNA, My Heritage, or 23andMe for over 12 months;
    4. Understand the concepts of chromosome analysis and can apply them in practice, in particular:
      1. Be able to differentiate between shared matches and shared segments;
      2. Be able to interpret when matches are ICW on a segment;
      3. Understand triangulation concepts and how to identify Triangulated Groups at each DNA site.

    Before joining our user group, it is best if you have already:

    * Watched the video and undertaken all the tasks in the Quick Start Guide (Setting up) - https://sites.google.com/view/genealogical-dna-analysis-tool/home/video-tutorials#h.t5ehfiqzxea3

    * Read how the developer (Becky) approaches her DNA analysis, recognising the tool allows for multiple variations - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1iO5BceetmtucroYUJeyWsMSjslV4IQYH/view

    * Set up at least one profile, added a pedigree for that profile and have uploaded segment data from at least one DNA company, such as GEDmatch, FTDNA, 23&Me or My Heritage.  GEDmatch is probably the easiest to start with, utilising Tier 1 tools is recommended for the triangulation report  (but not essential).

    Any issues arising consult the user guide

    https://www.getgdat.com/home

    If it's not covered in the user guide submit the question for discussion at the next meeting by posting in the SAG GDAT User Group, or if the enquiry is more urgent utilise the Facebook GDAT User group https://www.facebook.com/groups/dnatool


    Skill level: Advanced DNA knowledge    

    Group Lead: Veronica Williams

     This session will not be recorded. Please only register if you are able to attend at the advertised time.

    Show details

  • WEBINAR: Beginners' Introduction to DNA

    • 02 November 2024
    • 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
    • Via Zoom
    • 499
    Register

    Receiving your DNA test results is an exciting time but it can quickly become confusing. This session will look at the different types of tests available, which one is right for you and which companies do these tests. We will look at some basics to help you understand and interpret your matches and there will be plenty of time for questions so you can start finding those new cousins!

    This is an online session using the ZOOM platform.


    Skill level: Beginners

         Presenter: Melissa Hulbert    

    Note: Members need to be logged in to the site to make an event booking.

    Show details

  • GROUP: Family Tree Maker User Group

    • 09 November 2024
    • 10:30 AM - 3:30 PM
    • via Zoom
    • 297
    Register

    Session Topics:  TBA

    This meeting has two sessions with an hour break for lunch. Registration is for both sessions.

    Join other users of this popular family history software program for insights, ideas and opportunities to share tips and ask questions.

    Bring your questions about using FTM and join Convenor Larry Czarnik and other group members as they lead you through the session.

    Each session includes time for questions and answers.

    Online attendees can register up until the start of the meeting.

    This group meeting will be recorded so you can join live or watch the recording later. In person attendees will also receive the recording.

    Skill level: All, beginners welcome     Convenor: Larry Czarnik

    Show details

  • GROUP: Legacy Software Users Group

    • 16 November 2024
    • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Via Zoom
    • 494
    Register

    Topic: Maintenance and problem solving – How to look after your family history database, fix errors in the data and improve the quality of your family information.

    Our Legacy Group sessions are suitable for beginners and also experienced users. If you have been using Legacy for a while, bring along your tips to share with others in the group. This session will be recorded, so you can attend live or watch the recording later. Copies of the slides and some exercises to practice will also be provided.

    This session will be held online via the Zoom platform.


    Skill level: All     Convenor:  Danielle Lautrec

    Show details

  • GROUP: Colonial Australia Research Group

    • 16 November 2024
    • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
    • via Zoom
    • 484
    Register

    Topic: Camels, pearls and grapes

    The Colonial Australia Research Group meets to discuss research on families living or arriving in Australia between 1788 and 1901.

    All are welcome to attend our meetings and contribute to our Research Guide.

    Skill level: All

    Group Leads: Lorraine Luks, Kristine Newton and Sharon Shelley

    This is an online session using the Zoom platform.

    This group meeting will be recorded so you can attend live or watch it later (or do both!) 

    Show details

  • GROUP: Irish Research Group

    • 19 November 2024
    • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • via Zoom
    • 492
    Register

    Topic: TBA

    If you would like to submit a question in advance click here. Please submit your question at least three (3) days before the event.

     All welcome.

    Skill level: All

         Group Leads: Kathleen Hackett, Alan Jones & Sally Skulte

    Image courtesy of Wikimedia Commons


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  • GROUP: Scottish Research Group

    • 26 November 2024
    • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • via Zoom
    • 490
    Register

    Topic and County of interest : TBA

    The Scottish Research Group is an opportunity to meet with others who have ancestors from any of Scotland's counties from the highlands and Islands all the way down to the border areas, or just have a research interest in Scotland. Discuss research strategies and resources, and swap ideas and knowledge.

    This group is suitable for beginners through to those with many years researching experience. The research group meets about 3-4 times a year. You can become a member of the group just by attending our meetings. Newcomers are always welcome!


    Skill level:  All, beginners welcome    

    Leads: Diana Pecar, Elizabeth Gordon and Sally Skulte

    This session will be recorded for those who are unable to attend live.

    Show details

  • GROUP: DNA Research Group - Tools in Practice

    • 07 December 2024
    • 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
    • Via Zoom
    • 496
    Register

     Topic: TBA

    The DNA Research Group - Tools in Practice is a collaborative group designed to assist researchers with the analysis and interpretation of genetic genealogy results. 

    The group is designed to meet the needs of attendees with an intermediate level of knowledge of  genetic genealogy.

    Group Leads: Veronica Williams and Danielle Lautrec


    This session will be held online via the Zoom platform.

    Show details

  • GROUP: DNA Research Discussion Group

    • 07 December 2024
    • 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM
    • Via Zoom
    • 496
    Register

    Topic: TBA

    This session will be a facilitated discussion session. It requires pre-work by participants and information and discussion questions will be distributed before the meeting. All participants are expected to contribute to the discussion.

    Skill level: Advanced

     Facilitator: Sharon Watson

    Group Leads: Veronica Williams and Danielle Lautrec

    Please note: The topics and tools discussed at this group are pitched at an advanced level and the Research Discussion Group meetings are not recommended for those just beginning their DNA journey.

    This is an online session. It will NOT be recorded due to privacy reasons, so you should only book if you can attend live.

    Show details

  • WEBINAR: The Future of Cemeteries

    • 11 December 2024
    • 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
    • Via Zoom
    • 491
    Register

    As family historians we know the value of cemeteries and memorial parks to our research. We are all concerned for the future of these places where our ancestors rest.

    Join us for an insightful webinar on the future of memorial parks, where we will explore critical issues shaping these spaces, delving into the importance of placemaking, death literacy and sustainability initiatives, to ensure that memorial parks remain relevant and valued community assets.

    Presented in collaboration with Metropolitan Memorial Parks. 

     

    Show details

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CONTACT US

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+61 2 9247 3953 Office            


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