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• Ancestry Tips: Season Ticket July - December 2024

  • Start
    03 July 2024
  •  
  • End
    04 December 2024
  •  
  • Schedule
    6 sessions
  • Location
    Via Zoom
  • Spaces left
    375

  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)

  
  

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

  • Start
    10 July 2024
  •  
    5:00 PM
  • End
    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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• SAG Library Day

  • Start
    19 September 2024
  •  
  • End
    12 December 2024
  •  
  • Schedule
    31 sessions

  The SAG Family History Research Centre & Library will is open on Tuesdays and Thursday each week, and the 1st and 3rd Saturday of each month from 10.00am - 4.00pm.*

  Members are welcome to use the library as part of their membership. Non-members pay a day fee on arrival. 

  Bookings to use the Library are not required. 

  For more info visit our info page here.

  Contact the Library on (02) 9299 5151

  
  

  

  The SAG Family History Research Centre & Library is a community space where we connect with researchers in person and online. It is the heart of our research support service joining together our experienced volunteers and staff with members and the public.

  Our collection is a treasure trove of resources for family historians and genealogists to learn from! Our dedicated family history library collection contains the Society’s print and electronic items which cover both Australian and international material (especially England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland). Our diverse collection includes BDM indexes, biographies, cemetery transcriptions, burial registers, local histories, parish registers, published family histories, shipping records and more!

  We provide access to the major commercial sites such as Ancestry, FindMyPast, The Genealogist, MyHeritage, British Newspaper Archive, Discovery (National Archives UK), Biographical Database of Australia and much more. We also have more than 2,200 electronic databases covering both Australian and overseas topics.

  We are also an 'affiliate library' of FamilySearch and have increased access to digital collections. 

  
  

  * The Library is closed Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday and public holidays except for organised events. Saturday dates do differ in January and December each year. 

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• COURSE: Beginners Practical Introduction to Family History

  • Start
    26 September 2024
  •  
  • End
    14 November 2024
  •  
  • Schedule
    7 sessions
  • Location
    via Zoom
  • Spaces left
    19

  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
  

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• WEBINAR: First Look at AncestryDNA

  • When
    28 September 2024
  •  
    10:00 AM - 12:30 PM
  • Location
    Via Zoom
  • Spaces left
    0

  Join waitlist

  

  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 have Ancestry subscriptions including ProTools and testers who don ’t have an Ancestry subscription. We’ll look at how to set up your Ancestry profile, tree and DNA test to get the best results. 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.

  You’ll have access to a 60 minute pre-recorded introductory session for two weeks prior to the session. Watching this prior to the session will ensure that you have the introductory concepts in place to get the most out of the session. It will be available to watch again for two weeks after the session.

  
  

  Skill level: Beginner

  Presenter: Christine Woodlands 

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• GROUP: English Research Group

  • When
    28 September 2024
  •  
    10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
  • Location
    via Zoom
  • Spaces left
    408

  Register

  

  Counties: Buckinghamshire and Derbyshire

  As usual, these short county presentations provide some general information about the county including the flag, its history and any flag or county day which is celebrated. Presenters should include a relevant and useful selection of sources (not expected to be exhaustive) that may be available for family history research in the county being presented.

  Topics: Religion in England and their effects on families throughout the centuries as well as what resources are available.

  We are very pleased to announce that Jenny Joyce will be giving us a talk on "The History of Non-Conformism in England".

  Protestant non-conformism refers to protestant religions which differ from the established religion. In the case of England, that is the Church of England. Over the centuries many different denominations have evolved, ranging from Anabaptists, Peculiar Baptists, Quakers, Wesleyan Methodists and many, many more. Each of these has slightly different beliefs and structures, and understanding the background to and the beliefs of this multitude of non-conformist churches can give us an insight into our ancestors' lives. Even if our ancestors were strict members of the Church of England, they will have had contact with non-conformists. Learning what records the various denominations kept can give us a new lead for our research, or prevent us looking for records that never existed in the first place.

  Jenny has been researching her family history for more than 40 years and has a deep interest in medieval English history and genealogy. Jenny is the founder and owner of Cite-Builder, the Citation Generator for Genealogists.

  Annesley Watson will present a Case Study from her research which will show how different religions affected families and the attitudes adopted by staunch members of the Church of England towards Catholics in the 1840s.

  Kerry Farmer will talk about what resources are available if you have an interest in the Anglican Church and Clergy from the mid 1800's and how this information may further extend your research.

  If you have a resource that you have found which you think may be of interest to other researchers along the lines of the church and the records (pre and/or post Civil Registration) perhaps you could email us with that information prior to the meeting and it can be consolidated into a handout - email diana.pec25@yahoo.com

  As a background to this meeting, we would suggest you watch a short 10 minute YouTube video entitled How Was the Church of England Established  Please disregard the American accent! The content and explanation is concise and easy to follow.

  Skill level: All

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

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• Let's Talk About...Using Maps in Family History

  • When
    30 September 2024
  •  
    7:30 PM - 9:00 PM
  • Location
    via Zoom
  • Spaces left
    411

  Register

  Join our panel of SAG CEO, Ruth Graham, Jeff Madsen, and Gill Blanchard for "Let's Talk About...Using Maps in Family History," an event dedicated to exploring how maps can enhance your genealogical research. Discover how historical and contemporary maps can reveal clues about your ancestors' lives, migrations, and communities. Learn about different types of maps, from parish boundaries to land ownership records, and how to use them to uncover hidden stories in your family history. 

  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.
  

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• ONLINE: Virtual Library Session (8 October 2024)

  • When
    08 October 2024
  •  
    2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
  • Location
    Online via Zoom
  • Spaces left
    9

  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 8th of October.  

  
  

  
  

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• GROUP: The Writing Group October Meeting

  • When
    10 October 2024
  •  
    10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
  • Location
    Via Zoom
  • Spaces left
    196

  Register

  

  At our October meeting we will be sharing Flash Stories (250-300 words) based on the topic:  Memories from our Childhood. 

  This is an exercise in writing, making every word count and painting a picture with vivid and illustrative words. 

  Your stories are prose of what is in our living memories (a particular place, a lifestyle or an event/drama) that we no longer experience today. This is an opportunity to record details from our youth that the following generations would not recognise.

  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.

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

  • When
    11 October 2024
  •  
    9:30 AM - 4:00 PM
  • Location
    online via Zoom
  • Spaces left
    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

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• A Day with Family Tree Maker and Family Book Creator

  • When
    12 October 2024
  •  
    9:30 AM - 4:30 PM
  • Location
    Corinthian Room, Sydney Masonic Centre, 66 Goulburn Street, Sydney, NSW
  • Spaces left
    93

  Register

  

  Join us for a day with Family Tree Maker and Family Book Creator.

  Featuring keynote presentations from two international speakers, Duff Wilson and Stefan Harms. These presentations will be on getting the most out of Family Tree Maker and Family Book Creator and what is coming in Family Tree Maker 2024 and Family Book Creator.

  SAG Member Lyn Hudson-Williamson will also be providing a presentation on aspects of using Family Tree Maker.

  The day will also include a Discussion panel with Duff and Stefan where the audience will be able to put questions they may have directly to our guest presenters.

  Click here to see the day's program!

  If you are interested in joining us for some post-conference food and drinks, please register here for the reception event!

  About the keynote presenters:

  Duff Wilson is Executive Director of Family Tree Maker and has been involved in the design of every edition of Family Tree Maker since 2004. He has three decades of software design and development experience working with products and people from many countries and cultures across the world. This broad but focused experience has given him tremendous respect for all people and the importance of making products that are crafted out of a deep understanding of their values, wants, needs, and capabilities.

  Stefan Harms, born and raised in a small town in the northern part of Germany, lives in Hamburg with his wife and has an adult daughter. Stefan holds a degree in Applied Computer Science and runs his own business as an independent software engineer. He became addicted to genealogy 25 years ago when he transferred his great-uncle's paper family history into a Family Tree Maker database. Stefan has helped thousands of FTM users publish their genealogy in professional-looking books after releasing the first version of Family Book Creator ten years ago. In his spare time, Stefan enjoys inline speed skating, travelling and, of course, genealogy.

  This event is in-person only and will NOT be recorded.

  Click on this link for SAG Event Refund Policy June 2021.pdf

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• GROUP: Chinese Australian Research Interest Group

  • When
    12 October 2024
  •  
    3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
  • Location
    via Zoom
  • Spaces left
    498

  Register

  

  There will be two presentations at the October meeting:

  Richard Horsburgh, who with his wife Siaoman Yen published South Flows the Pearl (Sydney University Press, 2022), an oral history book about 12 Chinese Australian families researched by Siaoman’s mother Mavis Yen, will speak on the topic “Down the Rabbit Hole: Research tips for writing your family history”. People with Chinese ancestors arriving in Australia prior to WWII may know very little about them beyond their Anglicised names. Richard will show that by making creative use of family photographs and documents, archival material, libraries and museums, and the work of other researchers you can build up a greater picture of the day-to-day life of your Chinese Australian ancestors.

  Brad Powe, an enthusiastic family and local historian, is Vice-President of the Chinese Heritage Association of Australia (CHAA), and has curated CHAA's Facebook page since 2013. The topic of his talk is “What’s This One Called? Excursions in Orthography and Transliteration”.  In researching Chinese Australian family histories it's important to understand the way people’s names have been written down, and the way in which vowel sounds have shifted over the years; recognising these shifts can help build connections and identify ancestral villages. Using examples from his family history back to the 1860s and archives, Brad shows how Chinese names have been written down and changed over time.

  Skill level:  All, beginners welcome    

  Leads: Kam Louie

  
  

  Photo by Museums Victoria on Unsplash
  

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• Conference Reception: A Day with Family Tree Maker and Family Book Creator

  • When
    12 October 2024
  •  
    5:30 PM - 6:30 PM
  • Location
    Civic Hotel, 388 Pitt St, Sydney NSW 2000
  • Spaces left
    45

  Register

  Join us for some post-conference food, drinks and conversation!

  Guests will be served some snacks and have access to the bar tab.

  Please register if you plan on coming, so we can confirm numbers with the venue.

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• TOUR: Rookwood Cemetery

  • When
    13 October 2024
  •  
    10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
  • Location
    Rookwood Cemetery
  • Spaces left
    13

  Register

  This is a walking tour through the heritage areas of Rookwood Cemetery, the largest in the southern hemisphere, and is hosted by the Friends of Rookwood. The cemetery has been operating since 1867, with over a million interments to this day. This tour provides a snapshot into Sydney’s 19^th century history, where you will hear a wide range of stories of those who have been buried here. Victorian funerary decoration and symbolism abounds in the area visited, and it includes many monuments moved from the Devonshire Street Cemetery. 

  Tour Leader

  Geoff Bovard, the tour leader, has been volunteering with the Friends of Rookwood for five years, and has been leading tours for the Friends for two years. He has been a SAG member since 2007, and is an active Assistant in the SAG Library, as well as the convenor of the Society’s IT Committee. His interests include Australian, English, Irish and Scottish family history.

  The Friends of Rookwood

  The Friends of Rookwood is a non-profit organisation with the aims of promoting the interests of Rookwood Necropolis; promoting public awareness of the social, historical and cultural aspects of Rookwood Necropolis and cemeteries in general; and raising funds and providing voluntary assistance for restoration projects within Rookwood.

  On the Day

  Tour attendees should meet at 10 AM at the café located on the corner of Memorial Avenue and Necropolis Drive, just inside the Strathfield Gates of the cemetery via Weeroona Road.

  Please note: Each tour lasts for approx. 3 hours and includes about 3km of walking. Participants should wear comfortable closed toe walking shoes (e.g. joggers or hiking boots) and bring a hat, sunscreen and water.

  Please register by 10:00 AM on Friday 11 October if you plan on attending.
  

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• WEBINAR: GEDCOM - Who, What, Where, When & How?

  • When
    16 October 2024
  •  
    7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
  • Location
    Via Zoom
  • Spaces left
    475

  Register

  Discover the essential ins and outs of GEDCOM files and their use in family history and genealogy.  Beginning with an introduction to GEDCOM—what it is and why it’s indispensable in genealogical research, the features of GEDCOM files will then be explained, along with what they do and don’t include.  Practical considerations of how to create and use GEDCOM files will also be explored as well as some possible future developments with regards to these file types.  This webinar is designed to assist beginning and experienced genealogists in understanding, using and making the best use of GEDCOM files.

  
  So, if you’re puzzled when someone says, “Download a GEDCOM” or not really sure how to “Backup your Tree to a GEDCOM file,” this webinar is for you.  Time will be allocated for questions as well to ensure you are comfortable in using this technology.

  About the Presenter:

  Andrew Redfern is known for his presentations at SAG and in many other forums, particularly around Colonial Australia and Artificial Intelligence.  His technology skills, along with his background in teaching work together to allow participants to explore concepts in creative ways, building their capacity as family historians.

  
  

  
  

  
  

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• WORKSHOP: Create an album using TROVE newspaper articles

  • When
    17 October 2024
  •  
    10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
  • Location
    SAG Research Centre and Library, Level 2, 379 Kent Street Sydney
  • Spaces left
    7

  Register

  FREE FACE TO FACE WORKSHOP

  Join us for a fantastic session of fun and learning during Get Online Week, a campaign aimed at supporting people to improve their digital skills and close the digital divide.

  Bring your own laptop and learn how to create materials using newspaper articles from TROVE. You'll learn how to take screenshots and manipulate graphics to begin to create an album of family history stories. Learning with others and guided by volunteers and staff, you will have the opportunity to get your questions answered.

  The emphasis will be on fun and building confidence in using technology. The event is suitable for beginners and experienced technology users and includes morning tea.

  Limited to 12 participants.

  Presenter: Andrew Redfern

  

  Skill Level: All

  
  

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• GROUP: USA and Canada Research Interest Group

  • When
    19 October 2024
  •  
    10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
  • Location
    via Zoom
  • Spaces left
    491

  Register

  Interested in Canadian or USA research? Have you any ancestors from this part of the world?

  Suzanne Hyde will deliver a presentation on the American Revolutionary War—Patriots and Loyalists records. Mel Hulbert will discuss how DNA can help with USA and Canadian research.

  During the meeting, we will have updates on new resources for the USA and Canada, several short presentations on a number of provinces/states and territories, an exploration of brick walls, and group discussions.

  The USA & Canada Research Interest Group is an opportunity to meet with others who have ancestors from any states or provinces in the USA and/or Canada or just have a research interest in these countries. It provides an opportunity to discuss research strategies and resources and to swap ideas and knowledge.

  This group is suitable for beginners through to those with many years of research experience. You can become a member of the group just by attending our meetings. Newcomers are always welcome!

  This session will be held online via Zoom

  Skill level:  All, beginners welcome    

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

  
  

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• Shut Up & Write...Family History October 2024

  • When
    19 October 2024
  •  
    3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
  • Location
    via Zoom
  • Spaces left
    497

  Register

  Join us for another SAG "Shut Up & Write" online session to support anyone with a family history writing project, including our active students. Hosted by SAG CEO Ruth Graham, we will put you through three to four 25-minute sessions of writing, short breaks and then a final discussion on your achievements across the group. This is not a course but a peer support session - you need to come to the meeting with your own writing tasks to do for yourself. The couple of hours is a way to connect with others and hear about some amazing projects they are undertaking.

  Be prepared to write! Here is some background on SU&W meetings - works in cafes as well as Zoom: https://thesiswhisperer.com/shut-up-and-write/

  
  

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• ONLINE: Virtual Library Session (22 October 2024)

  • When
    22 October 2024
  •  
    2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
  • Location
    Online via Zoom
  • Spaces left
    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 22nd of October.  

  
  

  
  

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• WEBINAR: SAG Book Club/Meet the Author - The Bermondsey Murder by Angela Buckley

  • When
    22 October 2024
  •  
    7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
  • Location
    via Zoom
  • Spaces left
    470

  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!

  We look forward to discussing The Bermondsey Murder with author Dr Angela Buckley.

  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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• GROUP: Aotearoa New Zealand Research Group

  • When
    29 October 2024
  •  
    2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
  • Location
    Via Zoom
  • Spaces left
    461

  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

  • When
    02 November 2024
  •  
    10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
  • Location
    Via Zoom
  • Spaces left
    492

  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

  • When
    02 November 2024
  •  
    10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
  • Location
    Via Zoom
  • Spaces left
    495

  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
• Family History Connect | Analysing your BigY700 Results

  • When
    05 November 2024
  •  
    11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
  • Location
    Online via Zoom
  • Spaces left
    4

  Register

  Family History Connect | Understanding your BigY700 Results - What is it telling you and what do you do next?

  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 however this particular session will be held online via Zoom. These sessions are open to all current members of the Society. 

  This session of Family History Connect | Understanding your BigY700  will be offered online via Zoom and facilitated by Society volunteer, Chris Hingerty. Limit of 6 participants. 

  By agreeing to be part of this session, you are aware that:
  

  • Participants will be asked to have a pre-session discussion with the facilitator by 23 October. 
  • This session is open to people who have already received their  BigY700 DNA test results, and want to discuss what the results are telling them and what to do next to achieve their research goals.
  • All participants must be prepared to share and discuss their results with the group.
  • Participants do not need to know how to read or analyse their results as this will be demonstrated during the session. 
  • There will be instructions at the session re how to log on to FTDNA, locate your results and how to share the screen on Zoom.
  • Participants will introduce themselves by responding to the following questions: Who did you test? What research question are you trying to answer i.e. why test?

  
  Please note that, due to privacy concerns, no recordings or screen shots can be taken during the session.
  

  Participants are strongly encouraged to view the recording available in the Members Area, Webinar Library, Using Y-DNA to Assist Your Research 23 Sep 2023 prior to the session, in order to benefit from and be able to contribute to the discussion.

  You can view other sessions in the Family History Connect series here.

  This is a members only event. Bookings are essential for this session. Please note this session will not be recorded. 

  

  
  

  If you would like to participate in an in-person session in Sydney in 2025, please let us know via this link. 

  Show details
• COURSE: Digital Skills for Family Historians

  • Start
    06 November 2024
  •  
  • End
    20 November 2024
  •  
  • Schedule
    3 sessions
  • Location
    SAG Family History Research Centre & Library Level 2, 379 Kent Street, Sydney
  • Spaces left
    3

  Register

  Digital Skills for Family Historians

  Three Part In Person Course

  For information about an online version of this course click here

  Are you looking to develop your technology skills around family history? This three-part course is designed to build upon key understandings and principles of family history research and show you how to interact with various platforms, websites and software to ensure you make the most of the tools available to you.

  In this hands-on course, you'll learn to:

  • Set Up Your Computer for Research: Learn how to organise your digital workspace for efficient and effective genealogical research.
  • 
    
  • Access Key Repositories and Record Sets: Discover where to find vital records and how to remotely access many of these resources.

  • Search Indexes Effectively: Master the art of navigating indexes to uncover the hidden details of your ancestors' lives.

  • Employ a Variety of Software: Gain skills in a variety of software packages, many of which you already have access to, in order to organise and manage your findings.

  Please note: You will need to bring your own device to this course as it  is hands using your own files. Please ensure the device is fully charged before you come.

  Using a case study approach, each session will demonstrate key skills in real-time, ensuring you gain practical experience. Our expert instructor will guide you through the process, providing ample time to address your own questions and work through any trouble spots.

  By the end of this course, you'll be equipped with the foundational digital skills needed to conduct thorough and organised family history research.  The course is aimed at foundation level, for those starting their research or those who perhaps feel overwhelmed with the amount of information available. 

  This course is limited to 12 participants.

  Registrations close Monday 4 November 2024.

  
  

  Presenter: Andrew Redfern

  Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate
  

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

  Show details
• GROUP: Family Tree Maker User Group

  • When
    09 November 2024
  •  
    10:30 AM - 3:30 PM
  • Location
    via Zoom
  • Spaces left
    289

  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
• ONLINE: Virtual Library Session (12 November 2024)

  • When
    12 November 2024
  •  
    2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
  • Location
    Online via Zoom
  • Spaces left
    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 12th of November.  

  
  

  
  

  Show details
• WEBINAR: Medals for Australians who served – from the Boer War to the Second World War

  • When
    13 November 2024
  •  
    7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
  • Location
    Via Zoom
  • Spaces left
    491

  Register

  Have you ever wondered about the military medals that your Australian ancestors received for their service in the major wars of the 20^th Century? 

  In honour of Remembrance Day 2024, Jo Callaghan will share a few of her family's military stories. The talk will feature medals and will include guidance on where and how to locate various service records, how to identify medals in the records, and how information in the service records can enhance your genealogical research.

  During this presentation there will be stories of service but not stories of war; Jo is not a military historian.

  About the presenter

  Jo Callaghan is a family historian with decades of experience and a keen interest in the wide array of medals given for Australian military service. Jo is a diplomate of the SAG Diploma in Family Historical Studies, and convenor of the Writers Special Interest Group at Family History ACT.

  
  

  
  

  Image courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

  Show details
• GROUP: Legacy Software Users Group

  • When
    16 November 2024
  •  
    10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
  • Location
    Via Zoom
  • Spaces left
    492

  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

  • When
    16 November 2024
  •  
    3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
  • Location
    via Zoom
  • Spaces left
    476

  Register

  Topic: Camels, pearls and grapes

  At our final meeting of 2024, we’ll look at micro migration - groups that either migrated or were brought to the colonies for their specific skills.

  Who were these groups?

  What did they do?

  Did they settle here permanently?

  What is their legacy?

  While we’ll focus on cameleers, pearl divers and vine dressers, our member contributions will encompass all sorts of micro migrations that came to make Australia what it is.

  Skill level: All

  Group Leads: Lorraine Luks, Kristine Newton, Sharon Shelley and Andrew Redfern

  This is an online session using the Zoom platform.
  

  
  

  Show details
• GROUP: Irish Research Group

  • When
    19 November 2024
  •  
    7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  • Location
    via Zoom
  • Spaces left
    490

  Register

  

  Please join us for the next meeting of the Irish Research Group on Tuesday 19^th of November from 7.00pm – 9.00pm (AEDT). Co-lead Alan Jones will present on County Antrim. Pauline Weekes, leader of the SAG Aotearoa New Zealand Research Group and member of the Descent editorial team, will present on Irish migrants who came to Australia and returned, focusing on the Gallagher family of Dungloe, Donegal. There will be a second ‘Favourite Irish Ancestor’ story, presenter 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

  
  

  Show details
• Family History Connect | Analysing your BigY700 Results

  • When
    26 November 2024
  •  
    11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
  • Location
    Online via Zoom
  • Spaces left
    6

  Register

  Family History Connect | Understanding your BigY700 Results - What is it telling you and what do you do next?

  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 however this particular session will be held online via Zoom. These sessions are open to all current members of the Society. 

  This session of Family History Connect | Understanding your BigY700  will be offered online via Zoom and facilitated by Society volunteer, Chris Hingerty. Limit of 5 participants. 

  By agreeing to be part of this session, you are aware that:
  

  • Participants will be asked to have a pre-session discussion with the facilitator by 7 Nov. 
  • This session is open to people who have already received their  BigY700 DNA test results, and want to discuss what the results are telling them and what to do next to achieve their research goals.
  • All participants must be prepared to share and discuss their results with the group.
  • Participants do not need to know how to read or analyse their results as this will be demonstrated during the session. 
  • There will be instructions at the session re how to log on to FTDNA, locate your results and how to share the screen on Zoom.
  • Participants will introduce themselves by responding to the following questions: Who did you test? What research question are you trying to answer i.e. why test?

  
  Please note that, due to privacy concerns, no recordings or screen shots can be taken during the session.
  

  Participants are strongly encouraged to view the recording available in the Members Area, Webinar Library, Using Y-DNA to Assist Your Research 23 Sep 2023 prior to the session, in order to benefit from and be able to contribute to the discussion.

  You can view other sessions in the Family History Connect series here.

  This is a members only event. Bookings are essential for this session. Please note this session will not be recorded. 

  

  If you would like to participate in an in-person session in Sydney in 2025, please let us know via this link. 
  

  Show details
• ONLINE: Virtual Library Session (26 November 2024)

  • When
    26 November 2024
  •  
    2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
  • Location
    Online via Zoom
  • Spaces left
    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 26th of November.  

  
  

  
  

  Show details
• GROUP: Scottish Research Group

  • When
    26 November 2024
  •  
    7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  • Location
    via Zoom
  • Spaces left
    489

  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: AI & Tech Special Interest Group

  • When
    27 November 2024
  •  
    7:30 PM - 9:00 PM
  • Location
    Via Zoom
  • Spaces left
    495

  Register

  

  Are you wanting to learn about some of the latest technology tools and AI approaches for Family History?  Wanting some tips and tricks for using different software? Join our bi-monthly AI & IT Interest Group Meetings.

  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
• GROUP: DNA Research Group - Tools in Practice

  • When
    07 December 2024
  •  
    10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
  • Location
    Via Zoom
  • Spaces left
    495

  Register

  Topic: Working with FamilyTreeDNA tools

  This session will explore the various tools available on the FamilyTreeDNA site for use with autosomal, Y-DNA and mtDNA. Members of the DNA Research Group will demonstrate how they are using the tools to enhance their research. Any Member who has a tool they would like to demonstrate should contact the convenors at least 7 days prior to the session.

  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

  • When
    07 December 2024
  •  
    1:30 PM - 3:30 PM
  • Location
    Via Zoom
  • Spaces left
    495

  Register

  

  Topic: Y-DNA case studies

   This session is a facilitated discussion session which will examine and discuss several Y-DNA examples to assess the results and explore ideas for further research. Information and discussion questions will be distributed before the meeting.  It requires pre-work by participants with all expected to contribute to the discussion. Members interested in presenting case studies should contact the convenors, or Christine Hingerty, at least 14 days prior the session.

  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
• ONLINE: Virtual Library Session (10 December 2024)

  • When
    10 December 2024
  •  
    2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
  • Location
    Online via Zoom
  • Spaces left
    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 10th of December.  

  
  

  
  

  Show details
• WEBINAR: The Future of Cemeteries

  • When
    11 December 2024
  •  
    7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
  • Location
    Via Zoom
  • Spaces left
    486

  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