There are many reasons why we are interested in researching our family but everyone agrees it’s a fun, interesting (and often addictive) hobby! Join me and learn to start researching your family history from how to record your findings to drawing family charts. We also discuss what records are available to help in your research from birth, marriage, and death certificates to census, immigration, military records, and more. Many companies offer online databases and we look at these, including free as well as subscription options. Documenting our research is also important and we look at sources and citations and the difference between primary and secondary sources – what information is reliable and what may not be? How can we be sure we have the right ancestor and information? In recent years DNA tests have become very popular and we will discuss some of the basics of DNA and ways in which DNA can be used to help our research progress.

Course Outline:

• Before starting your research – some tips to get you off on the right foot.
• Where to begin researching your ancestors
• What records are available – e.g. Census', parish records, etc.
• How to use sources and citations to document your research
• DNA basics and how it can help with your research

Learning Outcomes:

• Understanding the basics for tracing ancestors
• Records and record sources for tracing ancestors
• Difference between primary and secondary sources
• How to correctly document research using sources and citations
• How to use DNA to help with your research

What to bring:

• Pen and notepad
• Any research you have done
• A coffee/tea mug
• Lunch

About the Tutor:

'Melissa’s background is in astronomy and physics and her day job is in this field. Melissa worked as an Assistant Editor on both Lab News and Today’s Life Sciences Magazines. She was also part of the ‘Science in the Pub’ team that won an Australian Eureka Award for Science Promotion in 2000. Melissa’s interest in genealogy/family history started at an early age and has grown over the years. She joined Botany Bay Family History Society and the Society of Australian Genealogists (SAG) in 2000, the SAG Board of Directors in 2015 and has recently been elected the first female President of the Society. She also serves on SAG’s Education and Finance Committees. Melissa is a regular presenter at SAG, a member of the TMG and DNA groups, and coordinator of the Beginners DNA group.'

Other Information:

• To ensure resources are ready for you at the start of your course, we ask you ideally enrol at least one week before the course commences.
• All courses need a minimum number of students to run ("we try our hardest to get those") . If your course does not have enough students it will be cancelled before the commencement and you will be informed.