Society of Australian Genealogists upcoming events

WEBINAR: Inside MyHeritage: DNA Tools & Techniques (15 April 2026)

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 01:00:00 GMT

Join us online for a special presentation by Daniel Horowitz, who will introduce the latest developments in DNA testing from MyHeritage.

In this session, Daniel will explain the use of DNA tests for genealogy. This webinar will provide an overview of the current DNA tools and services available through MyHeritage. Whether you are new to DNA testing or already using it as part of your research, this session will help you understand what these latest developments could mean for family historians and genetic genealogists.

About the Presenter

Daniel Horowitz is a genealogist and genealogy expert at MyHeritage, where he works with users and organisations around the world to promote family history research and the effective use of genealogy technology. Based in Israel, Daniel has been involved in genealogy for more than 30 years and has extensive experience in archival research, database development, and international genealogy collaboration.

A frequent speaker at genealogy conferences and society events worldwide, he is known for his engaging presentations and his ability to explain complex genealogy and DNA topics in clear and practical terms for family historians.

GROUP: DNA Research Group (AM) - Tools in Practice (02 May 2026)

Sat, 02 May 2026 00:30:00 GMT

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.

Tools in Practice sessions help members consolidate what they have learnt from recent DNA events when applying new tools and techniques in their research. Come along and share your experience with others, what you learned and tips for others getting started. Our more experienced members can also provide help if you need it.

If you have a specific topic you would like on the agenda or a DNA Story you would like to share, please contact the group leads at least one week before the session via admin@sag.com.au

Group Leads: Veronica Williams, Danielle Lautrec & Christine Woodlands

GROUP: DNA Research Discussion Group (PM) (02 May 2026)

Sat, 02 May 2026 03:30:00 GMT

DNA Research Group - Our Discussion Group is targeted at our more experienced DNA group members. The group is committed to providing leadership on DNA Practice in the society and keen to work with others to increased their shared understanding of the exciting field of genetic genealogy. Attendees are required to undertake pre-work for the discussion, distributed prior to each meeting.

Throughout the year group meetings will include:

Peer Review, via member case studies including analysis of documented evidence;

Brick Wall Analysis, via member case studies - ideas for future research;

Year in Review, plus scoping for future events;

Development of process documents to assist members with their research.

May's Meeting

Our May meeting topics are TBC

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

Facilitator: Sharon Watson

Group Leads: Veronica Williams, Danielle Lautrec & Christine Woodlands

IN PERSON: FirstLook@ DNA Testing & Results (09 May 2026)

Sat, 09 May 2026 00:30:00 GMT

This presentation was formerly known as 'Beginners' Introduction to DNA' and FirstLook@ Genetic Genealogy'.

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!

Want 1-on-1 help with your DNA Action Plan?

For an additional $10, you can book in a 20 minute, one-on-one session with one of our DNA volunteers where they will discuss your DNA research question with you and assist you to develop an action plan, focused on helping you solve your question.

Book 1-on-1 at 1.30pm

Book 1-on-1 at 2pm

Book 1-on-1 at 2.30pm

Your reservation code is located in your Event Confirmation email for FirstLook@ Genetic Genealogy.

Skill level: Beginners

Presenter: Melissa Hulbert

One-on-One DNA Research Action Plan Session (09 May 2026)

Sat, 09 May 2026 03:30:00 GMT

Need help deciding how to proceed with your DNA Research? Book a 20 minute, one-to-one session with one of our experienced volunteers to discuss your Action Plan.

Please note: You must be an attendee of the 'FirstLook@ DNA Testing & Results' lecture on Saturday 9 May 2026 in order to book into a one-on-one session.

A reservation code will be included in the Event Confirmation email for the lecture.

On the day, you will need:

An explanation of your DNA research question; and
Any accompanying information such as a simple family tree or any DNA information relevant to your research question

The above can either be emailed to admin@sag.org.au in advance or can be shown to the volunteer during the session

What will we do in the session?

We will discuss your DNA research question with you and help you develop an action plan focused on helping you solve your question.
Takeaway action plan.

What we will not do:

We will not confirm relationships. Why? This is a complex process often including reaching out to your match, something we cannot do in these short planning sessions.
We will not ask you for access to your account nor do any work within your account.

To read more about 'FirstLook@ DNA Testing & Results', click here

One-on-One DNA Research Action Plan Session (09 May 2026)

Sat, 09 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Need help deciding how to proceed with your DNA Research? Book a 20 minute, one-to-one session with one of our experienced volunteers to discuss your Action Plan.

Please note: You must be an attendee of the 'FirstLook@ DNA Testing & Results' lecture on Saturday 9 May 2026 in order to book into a one-on-one session.

A reservation code will be included in the Event Confirmation email for the lecture.

On the day, you will need:

An explanation of your DNA research question; and
Any accompanying information such as a simple family tree or any DNA information relevant to your research question

The above can either be emailed to admin@sag.org.au in advance or can be shown to the volunteer during the session

What will we do in the session?

We will discuss your DNA research question with you and help you develop an action plan focused on helping you solve your question.
Takeaway action plan.

What we will not do:

We will not confirm relationships. Why? This is a complex process often including reaching out to your match, something we cannot do in these short planning sessions.
We will not ask you for access to your account nor do any work within your account.

To read more about 'FirstLook@ DNA Testing & Results', click here

One-on-One DNA Research Action Plan Session (09 May 2026)

Sat, 09 May 2026 04:30:00 GMT

Need help deciding how to proceed with your DNA Research? Book a 20 minute, one-to-one session with one of our experienced volunteers to discuss your Action Plan.

Please note: You must be an attendee of the 'FirstLook@ DNA Testing & Results' lecture on Saturday 9 May 2026 in order to book into a one-on-one session.

A reservation code will be included in the Event Confirmation email for the lecture.

On the day, you will need:

An explanation of your DNA research question; and
Any accompanying information such as a simple family tree or any DNA information relevant to your research question

The above can either be emailed to admin@sag.org.au in advance or can be shown to the volunteer during the session

What will we do in the session?

We will discuss your DNA research question with you and help you develop an action plan focused on helping you solve your question.
Takeaway action plan.

What we will not do:

We will not confirm relationships. Why? This is a complex process often including reaching out to your match, something we cannot do in these short planning sessions.
We will not ask you for access to your account nor do any work within your account.

To read more about 'FirstLook@ DNA Testing & Results', click here

GROUP: GDAT Chromosome Analysis Group (16 May 2026)

Sat, 16 May 2026 01:00:00 GMT

If you already have DNA chromosome analysis skills and are planning to use the GDAT database tool to manage your DNA information, you might wish to join our GDAT chromosome analysis 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 3-4 times a year on Saturday mornings using the Zoom platform. We won’t be recording the sessions, so you must attend live.

Important things to note:

Discussion will be focussed on utilising the GDAT software for DNA analysis, incorporating new chromosome analysis techniques and tools.
Members must have an understanding of the principles of chromosome analysis before joining the group;
Basic chromosome analysis questions WILL NOT be discussed, except in the context of using the GDAT product.

Pre-requisite Knowledge for using GDAT:

Be computer literate;
Have the ability to work with spreadsheets and large data sets;
Have been working with DNA results at chromosome sites such as GEDmatch, FamilyTree DNA and My Heritage ideally for over 12 months;
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;

* Read how the developer (Becky) approaches her DNA analysis, recognising the tool allows for multiple variations - Becky's Process;

* Set up at least one profile, including having 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. 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 on Facebook. If the enquiry is more urgent, utilise the ‘Official’ GDAT Facebook User Group.

Skill level: Advanced DNA knowledge

Group Leads: Veronica Williams and Gail Bryant

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

GROUP: Tuesday Follow Up Group for Analysing your AncestryDNA Course (02 June 2026)

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 09:30:00 GMT

Ongoing forum for SAG members who have attended the Analysing Your AncestryDNA Course.

A series of meetings have been planned for participants of the 2022, 2023 and 2024 programs (and previous programs) who are interested in continuing to work with each other on developing their skill in "starting to solve their DNA dilemmas".

FOCUS OF SESSIONS: Changes to the AncestryDNA platform and participants sharing case studies with and without brick walls!

DURATION: 1.5 hours on Zoom on the first Tuesday of alternative months starting on 3 March 2026 from 7.30pm to 9pm - March, June, September & December.

COST: You need to be a current SAG member to be part of the group. The annual cost (on top of SAG membership) is $30 and this covers the 6 sessions.

PARTICIPANTS: Open to anyone who have attended the “Analysing your AncestryDNA” program and is a current member of the SAG.

Group Leader: Christine Woodlands

GROUP: Thursday Follow Up Group for Analysing your AncestryDNA Course (04 June 2026)

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 09:30:00 GMT

Ongoing forum for SAG members who have attended the Analysing Your AncestryDNA Course.

A series of meetings have been planned for participants of the 2021 program who are interested in continuing to work with each other on developing their skill in "starting to solve their DNA dilemmas".

FOCUS OF SESSIONS: Changes to the AncestryDNA platform and participants sharing case studies with and without brick walls!

DURATION: 1.5 hours on Zoom on the first Thursday of alternative months starting on 5 March 2026 from 7.30pm to 9pm - then June, September & December.

COST: You need to be a current SAG member to be part of the group. The annual cost (on top of SAG membership) is $30 and this covers the 6 sessions.

PARTICIPANTS: Open to anyone who have attended the “Analysing your AncestryDNA” program and is a current member of the SAG.

Group Leader: Christine Woodlands

GROUP: GDAT Chromosome Analysis Group (15 August 2026)

Sat, 15 Aug 2026 01:00:00 GMT

Important things to note:

Discussion will be focussed on utilising the GDAT software for DNA analysis, incorporating new chromosome analysis techniques and tools.
Members must have an understanding of the principles of chromosome analysis before joining the group;
Basic chromosome analysis questions WILL NOT be discussed, except in the context of using the GDAT product.

Pre-requisite Knowledge for using GDAT:

Be computer literate;
Have the ability to work with spreadsheets and large data sets;
Have been working with DNA results at chromosome sites such as GEDmatch, FamilyTree DNA and My Heritage ideally for over 12 months;
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;

* Read how the developer (Becky) approaches her DNA analysis, recognising the tool allows for multiple variations - Becky's Process;

Skill level: Advanced DNA knowledge

Group Leads: Veronica Williams and Gail Bryant

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

GROUP: DNA Research Group (AM) - Tools in Practice (22 August 2026)

Sat, 22 Aug 2026 00:30:00 GMT

If you have a specific topic you would like on the agenda or a DNA Story you would like to share, please contact the group leads at least one week before the session via admin@sag.com.au

Group Leads: Veronica Williams, Danielle Lautrec & Christine Woodlands

GROUP: DNA Research Discussion Group (PM) (22 August 2026)

Sat, 22 Aug 2026 03:30:00 GMT

Throughout the year group meetings will include:

Peer Review, via member case studies including analysis of documented evidence;

Brick Wall Analysis, via member case studies - ideas for future research;

Year in Review, plus scoping for future events;

Development of process documents to assist members with their research.

August's Meeting

Our August meeting topics are TBC

Facilitator: Sharon Watson

Group Leads: Veronica Williams, Danielle Lautrec & Christine Woodlands

GROUP: Tuesday Follow Up Group for Analysing your AncestryDNA Course (01 September 2026)

Tue, 01 Sep 2026 09:30:00 GMT

Ongoing forum for SAG members who have attended the Analysing Your AncestryDNA Course.

FOCUS OF SESSIONS: Changes to the AncestryDNA platform and participants sharing case studies with and without brick walls!

DURATION: 1.5 hours on Zoom on the first Tuesday of alternative months starting on 3 March 2026 from 7.30pm to 9pm - March, June, September & December.

COST: You need to be a current SAG member to be part of the group. The annual cost (on top of SAG membership) is $30 and this covers the 6 sessions.

PARTICIPANTS: Open to anyone who have attended the “Analysing your AncestryDNA” program and is a current member of the SAG.

Group Leader: Christine Woodlands

GROUP: Thursday Follow Up Group for Analysing your AncestryDNA Course (03 September 2026)

Thu, 03 Sep 2026 09:30:00 GMT

Ongoing forum for SAG members who have attended the Analysing Your AncestryDNA Course.

FOCUS OF SESSIONS: Changes to the AncestryDNA platform and participants sharing case studies with and without brick walls!

DURATION: 1.5 hours on Zoom on the first Thursday of alternative months starting on 5 March 2026 from 7.30pm to 9pm - then June, September & December.

COST: You need to be a current SAG member to be part of the group. The annual cost (on top of SAG membership) is $30 and this covers the 6 sessions.

PARTICIPANTS: Open to anyone who have attended the “Analysing your AncestryDNA” program and is a current member of the SAG.

Group Leader: Christine Woodlands

WEBINAR: FirstLook@ DNA Testing & Results (12 September 2026)

Sat, 12 Sep 2026 00:30:00 GMT

This presentation was formerly known as 'Beginners' Introduction to DNA' and 'FirstLook@ Genetic Genealogy'.

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!

Want 1-on-1 help with your DNA Action Plan?

Book 1-on-1 at 1.30pm

Book 1-on-1 at 2pm

Book 1-on-1 at 2.30pm

Your reservation code is located in your Event Confirmation email for FirstLook@ DNA Testing & Results.

Skill level: Beginners

Presenter: Melissa Hulbert

One-on-One DNA Research Action Plan Session (12 September 2026)

Sat, 12 Sep 2026 03:30:00 GMT

Need help deciding how to proceed with your DNA Research? Book a 20 minute, one-to-one session with one of our experienced volunteers to discuss your Action Plan.

Please note: You must be an attendee of the 'FirstLook@ DNA Testing & Results' lecture on Saturday 12 September 2026 in order to book into a one-on-one session.

A reservation code will be included in the Event Confirmation email for the lecture.

On the day, you will need:

An explanation of your DNA research question; and
Any accompanying information such as a simple family tree or any DNA information relevant to your research question

The above can either be emailed to admin@sag.org.au in advance or can be shown to the volunteer during the session

What will we do in the session?

We will discuss your DNA research question with you and help you develop an action plan focused on helping you solve your question.
Takeaway action plan.

What we will not do:

We will not confirm relationships. Why? This is a complex process often including reaching out to your match, something we cannot do in these short planning sessions.
We will not ask you for access to your account nor do any work within your account.

To read more about FirstLook@ DNA Testing & Results, click here

One-on-One DNA Research Action Plan Session (12 September 2026)

Sat, 12 Sep 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Need help deciding how to proceed with your DNA Research? Book a 20 minute, one-to-one session with one of our experienced volunteers to discuss your Action Plan.

Please note: You must be an attendee of the FirstLook@ DNA Testing & Results lecture on Saturday 12 September 2026 in order to book into a one-on-one session.

A reservation code will be included in the Event Confirmation email for the lecture.

On the day, you will need:

An explanation of your DNA research question; and
Any accompanying information such as a simple family tree or any DNA information relevant to your research question

The above can either be emailed to admin@sag.org.au in advance or can be shown to the volunteer during the session

What will we do in the session?

We will discuss your DNA research question with you and help you develop an action plan focused on helping you solve your question.
Takeaway action plan.

What we will not do:

We will not confirm relationships. Why? This is a complex process often including reaching out to your match, something we cannot do in these short planning sessions.
We will not ask you for access to your account nor do any work within your account.

To read more about FirstLook@ DNA Testing & Results, click here

One-on-One DNA Research Action Plan Session (12 September 2026)

Sat, 12 Sep 2026 04:30:00 GMT

Need help deciding how to proceed with your DNA Research? Book a 20 minute, one-to-one session with one of our experienced volunteers to discuss your Action Plan.

Please note: You must be an attendee of the FirstLook@ DNA Testing & Results lecture on Saturday 12 September 2026 in order to book into a one-on-one session.

A reservation code will be included in the Event Confirmation email for the lecture.

On the day, you will need:

An explanation of your DNA research question; and
Any accompanying information such as a simple family tree or any DNA information relevant to your research question

The above can either be emailed to admin@sag.org.au in advance or can be shown to the volunteer during the session

What will we do in the session?

We will discuss your DNA research question with you and help you develop an action plan focused on helping you solve your question.
Takeaway action plan.

What we will not do:

We will not confirm relationships. Why? This is a complex process often including reaching out to your match, something we cannot do in these short planning sessions.
We will not ask you for access to your account nor do any work within your account.

To read more about FirstLook@ DNA Testing & Results, click here

GROUP: GDAT Chromosome Analysis Group (21 November 2026)

Sat, 21 Nov 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Important things to note:

Discussion will be focussed on utilising the GDAT software for DNA analysis, incorporating new chromosome analysis techniques and tools.
Members must have an understanding of the principles of chromosome analysis before joining the group;
Basic chromosome analysis questions WILL NOT be discussed, except in the context of using the GDAT product.

Pre-requisite Knowledge for using GDAT:

Be computer literate;
Have the ability to work with spreadsheets and large data sets;
Have been working with DNA results at chromosome sites such as GEDmatch, FamilyTree DNA and My Heritage ideally for over 12 months;
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;

* Read how the developer (Becky) approaches her DNA analysis, recognising the tool allows for multiple variations - Becky's Process;

Skill level: Advanced DNA knowledge

Group Leads: Veronica Williams and Gail Bryant

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

GROUP: Tuesday Follow Up Group for Analysing your AncestryDNA Course (01 December 2026)

Tue, 01 Dec 2026 08:30:00 GMT

Ongoing forum for SAG members who have attended the Analysing Your AncestryDNA Course.

FOCUS OF SESSIONS: Changes to the AncestryDNA platform and participants sharing case studies with and without brick walls!

DURATION: 1.5 hours on Zoom on the first Tuesday of alternative months starting on 3 March 2026 from 7.30pm to 9pm - March, June, September & December.

COST: You need to be a current SAG member to be part of the group. The annual cost (on top of SAG membership) is $30 and this covers the 6 sessions.

PARTICIPANTS: Open to anyone who have attended the “Analysing your AncestryDNA” program and is a current member of the SAG.

Group Leader: Christine Woodlands

GROUP: Thursday Follow Up Group for Analysing your AncestryDNA Course (03 December 2026)

Thu, 03 Dec 2026 08:30:00 GMT

Ongoing forum for SAG members who have attended the Analysing Your AncestryDNA Course.

FOCUS OF SESSIONS: Changes to the AncestryDNA platform and participants sharing case studies with and without brick walls!

DURATION: 1.5 hours on Zoom on the first Thursday of alternative months starting on 5 March 2026 from 7.30pm to 9pm - then June, September & December.

COST: You need to be a current SAG member to be part of the group. The annual cost (on top of SAG membership) is $30 and this covers the 6 sessions.

PARTICIPANTS: Open to anyone who have attended the “Analysing your AncestryDNA” program and is a current member of the SAG.

Group Leader: Christine Woodlands