Genealogy classes to be conducted at GSQ

What we cover in our classes

The essential guide to starting your family research

Introductory Course:- Presenters: Pauline Williams and Janice Wellard

• Introduction to Family History/Genealogy
• Building blocks of research –
• Civil Registration
• Census Records
• Parish Records
• Immigration

Presenters are experienced researchers and the focus is primarily on Australian and UK research, including Ireland and Scotland , using a wide range of resources, both on microform, CD and the internet. They are able to provide general guidance on researching in other countries. The notes are extensive and provide a valuable resource to refer to after the classes.

First offered in February, a second course will be offered in August 2009. Subject to demand the course may be repeated in October 2009.

Maximising the use of the internet for your research

Getting on-line and making the most of your Internet searching:- Presenter: Alison Williams

An increasing number of resources are being made available on-line. Some of these resources are available for free, others are by subscription or pay per view. This short course helps you to make the most of your internet searching. The presenter knows the best sites to use depending upon your area of research and can show you how to refine your searches before you pay any money. Alison has done most of her research on her UK and Irish ancestors over the Internet. As a high school teacher she has an engaging presentation style and is able to assist those who are not as experienced in using the Internet or computers.

Putting your research together for future generations

Writing your Family Story – in words and pictures:- Presenters: Pauline Williams and Janice Wellard

What do you do with all your research to make it available to your descendents? Most people are daunted by the idea of writing a book, but there are various options available to you to get started. Alternatively, if you are more artistically inclined, perhaps you would like to put together scrapbooks on individual ancestors or branches of the family. This course provides you with some practical strategies to get started. We also touch on privacy and copyright issues that need to be considered when producing a book. This course ties in well with GSQ’s Q150 Muster Roll project where we’re looking for short stories on families who were in Queensland between 1859 and 1901.

Choosing a family history program that suits your research needs

Choosing a Family History Program:- Presenter: Paul Mann

Paul is the Convenor of GSQ’s Computer Interest Group and once again he presents his session on choosing a Family History Program. Most programs have similar features but there are often differences in relation to layout, charting and reporting. Paul will demonstrate the similarities and differences of the two major programs in use in Australia : Legacy and Family Tree Maker. Paul regularly offers presentations on computer-related topics at meetings of the Computer Interest Group.

An introduction to making presentations and giving talks

Presentation Skills Workshop:- Presenter: Pauline Williams

GSQ regularly receives requests for guest presenters and speakers. Many people are nervous about giving presentations, even though they are very knowledgeable. This course is therefore primarily for GSQ members and others interested in presenting classes, seminars or giving other talks. We will look at planning and timing your presentation, various styles of getting your message across to different groups of people, including the pros and cons of Powerpoint presentations. Depending upon numbers there will be an opportunity to practice your new-found skills. This course will be offered twice during the year.

Tracing the Convicts in your Family

Do you have a convict in your family? Tracing your convict ancestors:- Presenters – to be confirmed

Many families used to hide the fact that they had a convict in the family; more recently this view has changed. There is a wealth of information available if you have convict ancestry. This program outlines the major sources available to tap into these and experienced presenters can help you. The Convict Connections Group also meets bi-monthly and all those with convict ancestors are welcome to attend.

Do you have a soldier in your family?

Tracing your Military Ancestors:- Presenters: To be confirmed

Do you have a soldier in the family? Maybe a sailor? This course provides you with the tools to research your military ancestors and the conflicts in which they served. Starting with the Boer War and then progressing through WWI and WWII. Many members have even traced the service records of their military ancestors prior to the Boer War. A wealth of material is available from archives and other repositories and a range of guest presenters is planned who will cover a various aspects of researching your military ancestors.

Treasures of the GSQ Library

Unlocking the Treasures in the GSQ Library:- Presenters: Elaine Lucas and Christine Smith

Over the years GSQ has developed an enviable treasure trove of print and microform materials relating to family history and genealogy. Whilst many members make significant use of the more familiar resources, there is a wealth of other materials which will help you with your research. Elaine and Christine will guide you through what is available. This course will also be offered during the week on a date to be advised.

Your ancestors’ Legacy

Did your ancestors leave anything behind? Using probate and land records to find out more about their life:- Presenter: Pauline Williams and others

Many researchers would be surprised to learn that their ancestors had sufficient property to leave to their descendents, but it wasn’t just the wealthy who made wills. Wills can provide a wealth of information, not only about the real property of your ancestor but also details of family members and relationships. This course shows you how to access probate and land records as a means of finding out more about your ancestors’ lives.

Did your ancestors make the news?

Using newspapers, gazettes and similar records:- Presenters: Pauline Williams and Janice Wellard