Society of Australian Genealogists upcoming events

GROUP: Aotearoa New Zealand Research Group (31 October 2026)

Fri, 30 Oct 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Topic: Researching the Wellington District

More information to follow.

Skill level: All

Group Lead: Pauline Weeks

GROUP: Scottish Research Group (07 November 2026)

Fri, 06 Nov 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Topics = FamilySearch Affiliate Library Edition with Lorraine

Folklores, Myths, Traditions & Superstitions with Diana

Lorraine will take us a journey through what you can find in the FamilySearch Affiliated Library records - available in the SAG Library at Kent Street in Sydney. This will be of major benefit to newer Scottish researchers as well as being a fabulous reminder to those more experienced researchers.

Diana has been looking into some social aspects of life in Scotland - things that shaped the lives of our ancestors. It won't be a "how to research" session but rather some interesting, weird, wonderful and at times downright terrifying folklores, myths, traditions and superstitions which made life difficult and intriguing and everything in between. There will be nothing about clans, tartans, haggis, or the Loch Ness Monster! But there will be a wee bit of AI included.

Plenty of time for questions so come along for the ride and learn about the FamilySearch records and the lives of our Scottish ancestors.

We will also ask you for your suggestions for topics you would like to see on the 2027 calendar. Give this some thought and come with your 'wish list ' - we will ask you to put this into the chat at the end of the session.

Come along and join us as we research our Scottish 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

Leads: Diana Pecar, Elizabeth Gordon, Sally Skulte & Hillary Lowden

GROUP: Colonial Australia Research Group (07 November 2026)

Sat, 07 Nov 2026 04:00:00 GMT

We’re talking about the 'Thrill of the Chase' at our next Colonial Australia Group meeting.

Over 2026 we've delved into the life of a Colonial Woman, the Colonial Secretary’s Papers and the Steps to Federation. These topics have provided context to the lives our ancestors led, and many more garden paths for us to waltz down in our research.

For our November meeting, we’re going to hear from some members about how they were inspired by our earlier meetings, what they've dug into since, and what finds they've made. While not all finds lead us where we hope, sometimes it’s simply the thrill of the chase!

Come along and join us as we research our colonial 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

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

GROUP: The Writing Group (12 November 2026)

Wed, 11 Nov 2026 23:30:00 GMT

Guest Speakers: Jill Trethewey (co-author of "The Women of Bridgwater")

Jill Trethewey has co-authored “The Women of Bridgwater” with Clare Spicer which has just been published in the UK. Jill is a member of the SAG Writing Group and will share her experience researching and writing the biographies. Volunteering remotely is a 21st century challenge but collaborating with her cousin Clare and their volunteer editors in the UK has been very worthwhile.

“The Women of Bridgwater” uncovers the town’s history from the 1760’s to the end of the Second World War through the lives of 65 women and girls buried in the historic Wembdon Road Cemetery. Their stories span every walk of life: from workhouse inmates and brickyard labourers to teachers, shopkeepers, suffragettes, midwives, entertainers and pioneering social reformers.

Many of the issues explored, such as life in the workhouse, how the different religions regarded women, infant mortality, domestic violence, the vulnerability of women servants and emerging careers are relevant to other parts of England, not just Somerset. Since many of our ancestors came from England, the book gives an insight into the attitudes and expectations that they may have either brought with them or were escaping. The book is published by The Friends of the Wembdon Road Cemetery, in Bridgwater, Somerset.

For those joining The Writing Group for the first time and who wish to join Basecamp, please contact SAG at: admin@sag.org.au

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

GROUP: Legacy Software Users Group (14 November 2026)

Fri, 13 Nov 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Topic: TBD

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 will also be provided.

Skill level: All

Convenor: Danielle Lautrec

GROUP: Family Tree Maker User Group (14 November 2026)

Fri, 13 Nov 2026 23:30:00 GMT

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.

Topics to be confirmed in due course

Attendees can register up until the start of the meeting.

Convenor: Larry Czarnik

Skill level: All - Beginners welcome

GROUP: GDAT Chromosome Analysis Group (21 November 2026)

Sat, 21 Nov 2026 00:00:00 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: AI & IT Special Interest Group (25 November 2026)

Wed, 25 Nov 2026 08:30:00 GMT

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 Special 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

GROUP: One Place Focus Group (26 November 2026)

Thu, 26 Nov 2026 08:30:00 GMT

Guest Speaker: Janet Few speaking on "Putting Your Ancestors In Their Place: 10 Steps to a One Place Study"

Do you have a place that calls to you? Is there somewhere special that has you asking questions about its history and the people who gathered there? Maybe you need a One Place Study!

Whether YOUR place is a town, village, street, or something altogether different like a lighthouse, a ship or a community hall, this focus group is for you.

Come along and join us as we talk about all things ‘one place’ in a collaborative, friendly and engaging group. Each session is a combination of different segments in order to try and encourage participation and sharing.

Session topics will include:

SAG News
What's new in the world of OPS (Education, events etc)
Show & Tell (Group Member showcase)
Tech & Tools for OPS
Q&A (All members)

As further session details are confirmed, they will be added here.

If you have something to share, a topic to be covered, or a question to ask please put it forward. Whether you already have a one place study or are just thinking about starting one, we would love to see you!

SAG Members can watch the recent Family History Connect | What Makes a Place? Rethinking Boundaries in One Place Studies session within the Webinar Library in the Member Area of the SAG website.

Skill level: All

Group Leads: Yvonne Masters and Gemma Beswick

GROUP: USA and Canada Research Interest Group (28 November 2026)

Fri, 27 Nov 2026 23:30:00 GMT

Do you have ancestors in Canada or the USA? Come and join us as we research our ancestors in this collaborative and friendly research group.

Blurb TBC

There will also be time to discuss research problems so bring your brick walls and questions with you!

Skill level: All, beginners welcome

Leads: Suzanne Hyde & Melissa Hulbert

GROUP: English Research Group (05 December 2026)

Fri, 04 Dec 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Topic: Brick Walls!

Do you have an English Brick Wall? We would love to hear from you for this meeting.

The procedure to submit your brick wall is set out in the Guide to Brick Walls - click here

We ask that your information be submitted by either Powerpoint (preferred option) or via a Word document - only one page/landscape - before Friday 20th November to diana.pec25@yahoo.com

We will have some "more experienced English researchers" to assist us with the brick walls. They will have the information prior to our meeting so they can offer assistance with looking at different ways to look at your ancestor, perhaps using different methods of research, or offering advice on other sources that may be available.

This is a great learning tool for EVERY researcher. Remember, if you pick up one little piece of new information or one new website, this will help you with your own research.

Everyone is welcome to attend and, as SAG Research Groups are collaborative, we ask that all attendees please help their fellow researchers by offering any suggestions you may have on how to progress a brick wall by contacting the member directly - all information will be available at the meeting.

Don't forget that if you can't make the meeting live, book in and receive the recording of the session where there should be lots of suggestions of where to find relevant resources to help with knocking down (or at least chipping at) your brick walls.

Come along and join us as we research our English 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.

Convenors: Diana Pecar, Linda Radulovitch and Annesley Watson

Skill Level: All

GROUP: DNA Research Group (AM) - Tools in Practice (05 December 2026)

Fri, 04 Dec 2026 23:30:00 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) (05 December 2026)

Sat, 05 Dec 2026 02:30:00 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.

December's Meeting

Our December meeting topic: Brick Wall Case Studies

Please note: The topics and tools discussed at this group are aimed at our more experienced DNA researchers. We do not recommend the Discussion Group for those just beginning their DNA journey.

Facilitator: Sharon Watson

Group Leads: Veronica Williams, Danielle Lautrec & Christine Woodlands

GROUP: Source Citations Group (09 December 2026)

Wed, 09 Dec 2026 06:00:00 GMT

Topic: Review Basics and Participant Case Studies

TBC

About the Source Citations Group

The Source Citations Group is for anyone who wants to learn how to generate citations to meet basic research needs and how to generate citations to meet standards for Diploma's and certificates for Family Historians.

The format is a two-hour practical workshop session with plenty of time for questions. Discuss the format of source citations, learn how to create them in family history software, online trees and publications or reports.

This group is suitable for beginners through to those with many years researching experience. The group meets every two months. You can become a member of the group just by attending our meetings.

Attend all six workshops, or just the ones that suit you!

Skill level: All

Group Leads: Danielle Lautrec & Lyn Hudson-Williamson

GROUP: Irish Research Group (10 December 2026)

Thu, 10 Dec 2026 08:00:00 GMT

County Spotlight - County Kerry with Bronwyn

Guest presenter: Alan Jones will provide an update on major changes to a range of Irish family history repositories

If anyone has a contribution that they would like Sally to share for snippets, please contact Sally or Kathleen via admin@sag.org.au.

Come along and join us as we research our Irish 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

Group Leads: Kathleen Hackett, Sally Skulte & Bronwyn MacLeod

GROUP: Indian & South Asian Research Interest Group (12 December 2026)

Sat, 12 Dec 2026 04:00:00 GMT

The Indian and South Asian Special Interest Group at the Society of Australian Genealogists is a place for Australians with South Asian heritage to explore their family history.

We welcome Australians whose ancestors hail from every corner of the South Asian diaspora. We share tips on research tools and methods to help trace your roots across borders, religions, and generations. Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, you’re here among friends.

Our focus is on practical help grounded in the genealogical method. No question is too simple or too complex. We’ve all been there, and we’re here to help. Your family’s story matters.

(South Asia includes Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka)

Group Lead: Rachel Croucher (assisted by Vanessa Cassin)