Delving into family history is now easier and more reliable thanks to developing technologies including interpreting DNA results.

Experienced genealogist Doug Morrison-Cleary will share how he uses deciphering DNA as a research tool to Newcastle residents when he presents How to Discover Your Ancestry during the Rest Assured free webinar on Wednesday 27 October from 5pm.

“Interpreting DNA has created a wealth of information confirming familial relationships, skeletons in closets, and connections between distant ancestors sharing names,” he explained.

“Add to this the ease of accessing digitised records from around the globe, along with utilising social media tools, the way we now find descendants dating back many generations has significantly transformed when compared to two decades ago.”

With more than 40 years’ research experience, Mr Morrison-Cleary has been involved in genealogical studies in Australia, USA, UK, Germany and the Czech Republic.

He is also a member of the Association of Professional Genealogist.

“Genealogy is important because it’s all about discovering and telling the stories of our ancestors,” he said.

“The more time you are able to put into it, the more conclusive the findings.

“Preserving our family tales through oral history recordings is useful and relatively easy, but when it comes to deep diving into old records, it can take hundreds of hours of work over decades – and that’s where getting some professional guidance can help to fast track the process.”

Mr Morrison-Cleary’s webinar presentation will also cover tips and advice on how to best undertake solo research, analysis, roadblocks, methods to preserve your past and where to find qualified assistance. 

“Whatever you decide to do, a great first step is to get those family tree conversations happening – and recorded – with the older members of your family now,” he said.

Rest Assured is a joint partnership project between Northern Cemeteries and Newcastle Compassionate Community.

The free public webinar series aims to provide a safe and supportive environment for people to discuss sensitive issues around death and dying, end of life planning and other death-related matters.

Registrations are essential and can be made at Eventbrite Rest Assured – How To Discover Your Ancestry, 27 October or email [email protected]

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