Society of Australian Genealogists upcoming events

Tracing Families Across the Americas: A Joint Meeting (27 June 2026)

Sat, 27 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Join members of our Caribbean & South American Research Group and USA & Canada Research Interest Group for a special joint meeting exploring family history research across the Americas.

From the islands of the Caribbean to the nations of South America, and from Canada to the United States, this session will highlight the diverse records, migration patterns, historical contexts, and research challenges that shape genealogical journeys throughout the region.

Whether your ancestors crossed borders, settled in multiple countries, or simply left clues scattered across the Americas, this meeting promises valuable insights, discussion, and inspiration for researchers of all experience levels.

Confirmed Speakers include:

African Diaspora expert Yetunde Abiola with "94% European and 6% African DNA - Tracing your African/ Caribbean roots"

Co-host of "Rediscovering Latinidad" genealogy podcast Edward Rueda with "Introduction to the Slave Societies Digital Archive"

Professional Genealogist Sarah Day with "Researching in Central and South America"

Everyone is welcome to attend and, as SAG Research Groups are collaborative, we ask that all attendees please help their fellow researchers by offering suggestions of how to progress their research or simply share any resources you may be aware of which may help.

Group Leads: Sally Byatt, Judy Charlton, Melissa Hulbert & Suzanne Hyde

Skill level: All

GROUP: The Writing Group (09 July 2026)

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 00:30:00 GMT

Guest Speaker: Terry Gatward

Our guest speaker, Terry Gatward, is a member of SAG, the President of the Manly, Warringah and Pittwater History Society, a presenter at History Society and Family History events, and is a One-Name Study researcher of the Gatward family.

Over the past ten years, Terry has written over 40 Family History Papers about interesting Gatward families and individuals, and these papers vary in size from a few pages to over 100 pages.

He now plans to create a paper called The Gatward Chronicles that will detail the breadth of his findings. Terry will talk about his writing methods and how he conducts his One-Name Studies. He would like to consolidate his stories to produce The Gatward Chronicles and is interested to engage with those who have written Family History Papers. From a group discussion, Terry hopes to receive insights and motivation to undertake this project.

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: Scottish Research Group (23 July 2026)

Thu, 23 Jul 2026 09:00:00 GMT

Topic = Brick Walls

Do you have a Scottish 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 Wednesday 1st July 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.

Skill level: All - Beginners welcome

Leads: Diana Pecar, Elizabeth Gordon and Sally Skulte

GROUP: AI & IT Special Interest Group (29 July 2026)

Wed, 29 Jul 2026 09:30:00 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 (30 July 2026)

Thu, 30 Jul 2026 09:30:00 GMT

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: Legacy Software Users Group (01 August 2026)

Sat, 01 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Topic: Charting, reports and lists

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: GDAT Chromosome Analysis Group (15 August 2026)

Sat, 15 Aug 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: DNA Research Group (AM) - Tools in Practice (22 August 2026)

Sat, 22 Aug 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) (22 August 2026)

Sat, 22 Aug 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.

August's Meeting

Our August 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

GROUP: Colonial Australia Research Group (29 August 2026)

Sat, 29 Aug 2026 05:00:00 GMT

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: English Research Group (03 September 2026)

Thu, 03 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Guest Speaker: Dr Caroline Adams

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: Chinese Australian Research Interest Group (05 September 2026)

Sat, 05 Sep 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Topic: TBC

Come along and join us as we research our Chinese Australian 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

Lead: Hilda Maclean

GROUP: Irish Research Group (09 September 2026)

Wed, 09 Sep 2026 09:00:00 GMT

Topic - TBC

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: 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: 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.