DNA Interest Group
This group was formed in 2016 by a small number of members interested in family history research using DNA analysis. The group has traditionally met from 1.30 to 3.30 pm on the third Thursday of each month in the Church Hall at St Marks Anglican Church, Bellerive. Participants are at different points in their journey in their understanding and experience of how DNA analysis can assist in family research. In a casual, unstructured manner the meetings are information sharing and Q and A sessions.
During the COVID-19 shutdown, face to face meetings were suspended but the group continued to meet by video conference using Zoom.
From 20 August we resumed meeting at St Mark’s Church Hall, Bellerive, at 1.30pm on the third Thursday of the month.
We aim to finish the formal part of the meeting by 3.00 pm to allow time to have a hot drink and (socially distanced) informal discussion after the meeting.
We will have to comply with the facility’s COVID-19 Safety Plan, which includes requiring two volunteers to wipe surfaces and vacuum the hall at the end of each meeting.
We ask that you BYO cup if you want a hot drink and each make a $2 (members) or $5 (non-members) donation towards the room hire cost.
Members - beginners or with some experiences to share - are invited to join the group at any time to learn or help lead. For further information please contact us.
Two introductory recorded seminars are available to members through the closed Facebook group. The first seminar is for those considering whether to undertake DNA testing and the second is for those who have just received their results and are ready to start making sense of them. New members are encouraged to view these before attending a meeting but new members are always very welcome!
In August 2022 our Convenor, Ros Escott, gave an entertaining and informative presentation as part of National Family History Month. She talked about her approach to using DNA to solve family history mysteries with a couple of real examples. It is highly recommended and may be viewed here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z55xePO1tb4&t=11s
