Embark on an ancestry adventure

22 May 2024

Uncovering your ancestry can be a thrilling and rewarding experience; an epic adventure to unravel the mysteries of your own personal history. Whether you’re inspired by a desire to connect with your roots, discover family stories, or satisfy a curious mind, genealogical research offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. However, the sheer volume of information available can seem a daunting task for some beginners. 

The first step in your journey begins with you. Gather all the information you know about your immediate family members, including names, birthplaces, and significant life events. Speak to relatives who might hold valuable insights and memories.

Make sure you keep meticulous records of your findings. Organise documents, photographs and family stories in a systematic manner. Digital tools like spreadsheets, genealogy software and online platforms can be immensely helpful in structuring your research.

In Australia, there are several websites you can use for ancestry research, each offering unique features and access to different records. 

National Archives of Australia: This is an excellent resource for accessing historical records, including immigration records, military service records, and government documents.

Ancestry.com.au: Ancestry has a vast collection of genealogical records, including census data, birth, marriage, and death records, military records, and more. It’s a subscription-based service but offers a wealth of information.

Findmypast.com.au: Similar to Ancestry, Findmypast offers access to a wide range of records, including census data, birth, marriage, and death records, military records, and more. It also requires a subscription.

Trove: A collaboration between the National Library of Australia and hundreds of partner organisations across the country, Trove is an incredible resource for historical Australian newspapers, photos, maps, diaries, letters, and more. It's free to use and can provide valuable insights into your family history. (trove.nla.gov.au)

FamilySearch: While not specific to Australia, FamilySearch is a free genealogy website maintained by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It contains a vast collection of global records, including Australian birth, marriage, and death records, as well as other genealogical resources. (www.familysearch.org)

State Archives and Libraries: Each state in Australia has its own archives and libraries that may contain valuable records for genealogical research. Examples include the State Library of New South Wales, State Library of Victoria, and State Records Office of Western Australia.

Remember to cross-reference information across multiple sources to ensure accuracy in your findings and remember, genealogical research is a marathon, not a sprint. Be prepared for dead ends, brick walls, and unexpected twists. Stay persistent, patient, and adaptable in your approach and you will reap the rewards. Happy hunting!