Announcements

Stephanie Ryan of the State Library of Queensland has provided new information regarding the recent upgrade of the indexes in One Search> advanced > family history indexes and the possibility of seeing the original records in the Parliamentary Papers.

 Her direct quote;

'it is now possible to connect, in many of them, to the original material, rather than having to go to the microfilm.

This means in the case of Persons called before Government Committees 1860-1920, that not only can you access the direct words of someone giving evidence and information about them, you may find nowhere else, but also you can pick up significant detail about places and events.

 For instance, a search for Barcaldine shows that there are 260 records for victuallers' licences, 1901-1914; 20 records for soldiers' portraits; 42 records for national service records and 11 records for a government inquiry. It is therefore worth adding the word 'inquiry' to 'Barcaldine' in the search box. The inquiry relates to the meat industry not just in Barcaldine but in other parts of Queensland. However, 4 people from Barcaldine gave evidence and, in the process, they let us know in their own words, about themselves and conditions in Barcaldine at the time.

 Apart from this convenient direct access and special personal and local information, the documents are keyword searchable - easier than a microfilm search.

 In relation to the extension of railways many people gave evidence for a specific route. This is an area in which I know Caloundra is interested so it is possible to explore beyond the names of those giving evidence to the conditions giving rise to the development of railways in a particular area.

 These family history records, for the most part, are significantly enhanced.'

Thanks to Valerie Thornton from History Queensland for passing on this information.

** EVENT OVER **

Where: Bundaberg Bowls Club Quay Street near old bridge

When: Doors open 6.30 Starts 7.30 sharp.

Cost: $5 per person. Max. 6 people per table.

Plus: Raffle & Cent sale.

Light refreshments served

There has been a letter sent to people regarding the postal bans and tariff changes in America. This will effect postage of the of DNA samples and/or results.

Please check with your local post office on the rules if you are sending thorough any test samples and/or receiving results with DNA testing companies. 

Alison Rogers was a long standing and beloved BGA member. Her funeral was held at 10am Wednesday 6th August 2025, at Des Allan's Funerals, Phiebe St, Kenginston Bundaberg Qld. She was put to rest with her husband in the Bundaberg Returned Services section in a private burial service.