As the year draws to a close, we often reflect on the events during the year and start to think of what lies ahead. Like me, many of you have probably experienced the highs and lows that life can throw at us. The worst low was the death of a very close friend after a short but painful battle with cancer. The best high, and an ongoing joy, has been getting to know my new grandson who turned one in October. In between, I had the pleasure of buying a new red car – everyone told me that red cars always go faster. Unfortunately this red car was crawling along in heavy traffic on Kessels Road at Mt Gravatt and ended up being sandwiched by three trucks! Farewell red car number 1, aka Juno; welcome red car number 2, aka Trixie!!

Family history research and related activities have been fairly sporadic during the year. After a blogpost earlier in the year which mentioned my 3 x great grandfather, I received confirmation that my theory about his origins was most likely correct, from a researcher who had completed an in-depth study of the surname and its origins. He has provided me with detailed pedigree charts which I have started to analyse. Hopefully I’ll find some time over Christmas to continue with this. Another highlight included working with one of our members to develop a case study for a presentation on evidence and proof given at a GSQ mini-seminar in August. I also gave a presentation to the Redlands Genealogical Society Writing Group on strategies to start writing a family history.

I enjoy GSQs Writing Group and it continues to flourish. This is a collaborative group where members are able to share what they have written and feedback is welcomed. At each meeting we do a short writing exercise. At our last meeting in October 2016 we focussed on the 2017 topic for the Joan Reese Memorial Short Story competition “The ancestor I’d most like to meet and why.”   I think I’m correct in saying that all winners of the competition, except one, have been members of the Writing Group, which is a great outcome. The competition closes in May 2017 and I encourage all members to enter. Non-members are also welcome to enter on payment of a small fee. Details can be found in the December issue of Generation and will be available on the website.

2016 has been a busy year for GSQ: it unveiled its new premises at 25 Stackpole Street in Wishart at the beginning of the year. The relocation sadly resulted in the loss of some long-time members who found it difficult to get to Wishart. On the other hand, the change in location has resulted in new members who appreciate especially the availability of on-site parking. We have held Open Days, a Family History Fair, continued with the variety of special interest groups, and offered a range of education sessions, seminars and mini-seminars, either at Stackpole Street or at Queen Alexandra Centre at Coorparoo. Members visiting Stackpole Street for research or some other activity have appreciated the purchase of more comfortable seating.  2017 offers the prospect of a brand-new website as well as other initiatives. Do come and visit us and see how we can help you with your research.

Has 2016 been a good year for you? In the hustle and bustle of getting ready for Christmas it would be worthwhile taking a few moments to reflect on what the year has brought you – both the positive and the negative. This is not the appropriate place to talk politics, but 2016 has been an interesting year, hasn’t it, and I wonder what 2017 will bring. On a personal level, what are you looking forward to in 2017 – New Year aspirations sounds much more positive than New Year resolutions.

I wish you all a Happy Christmas and hope the New Year brings you joy and perhaps a break in a persistent brickwall.

Until next time
Pauline