Workshops booked but registrations still open for family history conference

The Orange cultural precinct is hosting one of the biggest events in the industry on September 22 to 24 when more than 300 family history enthusiasts are expected to converge on the city for a series of presentations, workshops and exhibitions.

Orange City Library is hosting the three day conference with events held in the library, Orange Civic Theatre, Orange Regional Museum and Orange Regional Gallery.

Orange City Council’s Director of Community Recreation and Cultural Services Scott Maunder said the conference was a great example of how the entire cultural precinct was being used to its full advantage.

“We have excellent facilities in the library, theatre, gallery and museum and it’s great they’re all in the same location,” Mr Maunder said.

“This conference is fantastic for the whole city as 300 delegates fill up accommodation rooms, eat at restaurants and cafes and shop in the CBD.

“Orange City Library has done a great job in convincing the conference organisers to host the event in Orange for the first time and we certainly hope it’ll be the first of many.”

Central West Libraries Manager Jan Richards said family history groups from across the country would be treated to a program of professional speakers that would explore the many ways of relating stories to ancestors.

“I am excited this year’s conference will be held in Orange because I am a very keen family historian,” Ms Richards said.

“We’re delighted to present a wide ranging program with experts in the fields of telling, recording and preserving your family history.”

“Highlights include the keynote address by William McInnes, exploring the stories of gaolbird ancestors, using food to tell the family story and dating family portraits using fashion.”

A Family History Fair, open to all, will be held on Friday 22nd September from 9am – 4pm at Orange City Library.

The Fair includes displays by family history societies from across the country as well as companies, which supply services to family history enthusiasts.

For more information and the registration form, please go to the website https://yourfamilystoryinorange.wordpress.com/