As a genealogist with a forensic investigative background, my approach to genealogical research is deeply influenced by the investigative techniques I studied and practiced over nearly three decades in law enforcement. Through this website, I aim to share some of these methods and demonstrate how they can be applied to genealogical research.
I believe that the purpose of genealogical research goes beyond identifying ancestors and placing them correctly within a family tree. It also includes understanding how and where they lived and sharing research methods that may assist others in achieving similar results.
Professional Background
My forensic investigative experience spans almost 30 years with the New South Wales Police Force, where I investigated all types of crime, including homicide. This work provided me with extensive experience in:
- Evidence collection, analysis, and interpretation
- Preparation of statements and affidavits
- Court presentation of evidence in the Local, District, and Supreme Courts of New South Wales
Educational Qualifications
- Bachelor of Social Science (Criminology) – University of Western Sydney
- Graduate Certificate in Management Psychology – Charles Sturt University
- Certificate in Forensic Medicine and Crime Scene Investigation – Medical Register of Australia
- Graduate Diploma in Local, Family and Applied History – University of New England
- Graduate Certificate in Forensic Genetic Genealogy – University of New Haven (USA)
All qualifications are Australian based, except for the Graduate Certificate in Forensic Genetic Genealogy, which is from the United States.
Areas of Interest
- Australian colonial history
- Genetic genealogy
- Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy (FIGG)
- Genealogical research methodology
Memberships
- Association of Professional Genealogists (APG)
- Australian and New Zealand Forensic Science Society (ANZFSS)
- Australian Society of Authors (ASA)
- Don Dorrigo and Guy Fawkes Historical Society
- Fellowship of First Fleeters
- International Police Association (IPA)
- John and Mary Small Descendants Association
- National Genealogical Society (NGS)
- Society of Australian Genealogists (SAG)
- Royal Australian Historical Society (RAHS)
- Museums of History NSW (MHNSW)
