Aboriginal communities across the East Kimberley will have the opportunity to explore their family history at a series of free information sessions this September.
The Aboriginal History WA (AHWA) team from the state's Department of Creative Industries, Tourism and Sport, together with staff from the Western Australian Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages, will visit Halls Creek, Warmun, Wyndham and Kununurra from 8 to 11 September.
The sessions will introduce participants to WA Government records and other historical collections that can help them trace their family history. The resources include personal files, mission records, station records and other archival materials that may hold valuable information about individuals, families and communities.
Attendees will learn about AHWA's free family history research service, including how to apply for assistance and begin a family history research request. Registry staff will also provide information on obtaining birth, death and marriage certificates, identification requirements and other services available through the Registry.
Kimberley MP Divina D'Anna encouraged local residents to "take advantage of this valuable opportunity to access free, specialist support to explore historical records and learn more about their family history".
"For many people, these records can help uncover important connections to family, community and Country, shedding light on the stories, places and relationships that have shaped the East Kimberley and its people," she said.
The sessions are designed to help people access historical records, reconnect with family stories and gain a deeper understanding of their personal and community histories.
The free information sessions will be held in:
Halls Creek - Tuesday, 8 September, 10am-12pm (Child and Parent Centre, Duncan Highway)
Warmun - Wednesday, 9 September, 11:30am-1:30pm (Warmun Community Hall)
Wyndham - Thursday, 10 September, 11am-2pm (Ngnowar Aerwah Community Shed, 60 Great Northern Highway, Wyndham)
Kununurra - Friday, 11 September, 2pm-4pm (Kununurra Community Library, Corner of Coolibah Drive and Mangaloo Street)
WA Aboriginal Affairs Minister Don Punch said the sessions provide an important opportunity for Aboriginal families and communities in the East Kimberley to access specialist support and begin researching their family history.
"The AHWA team can assist people to navigate Aboriginal family history records and resources, explain the application process for family history research, and provide practical support to get started," he said.
"Anyone in the region who may be interested, or who knows someone who could benefit from this support, is encouraged to attend and speak with the team."
More about Aboriginal History WA is available online.
