Hi Liza, Don't worry we all have 'L' plates on, can never stop learning!! Perhaps some names, dates and areas for your research may help?? I have the BDM's from NSW on CD. They aren't that much different to what is on offer on-line, but occasionally you just may turn up some new information. If you have one person you are certain of, then you may find you have to purchase certificate/s for that individual - it may tell you something about parents, place of birth etc. Would be pleased to help if I can. Lesley Anderson Heathcote, Victoria. --- Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com). Version: 6.0.491 / Virus Database: 290 - Release Date: 18-June-2003

Hello Listers, There is no really cheap way to get the information except from the relevant certificates. Short cuts can be: (1) post the names on the mail lists and possibly someone may already have the certificate and be willing to provide the information (being careful of copyright laws) (2) if the certificate is Pre 1856 for NSW then the microfilm copy of the register is available at many libraries and family history societies - contact your nearest to ask if they have them. You can read the films yourself and decide if the entry is the right one. (contact me off list and I can give you an address for a genealogy library that has the pre 1856 records, however, you will have to contact them by snail mail (no internet connection), you will get a handwritten copy of the entry only and a small donation for paper and postage would be appreciated. (3) contact an accredited transcription service - look at the websites for http://www.joymurrin.com.au/ and http://www.marbract.com.au/ both sites have contact addresses on site and both services can check if part of the information is known - at a cheaper cost which is often then offset on the full cost if the certificate is obtained. Look at the charges of each agent and look at the information provided for the fee and decide which will give you the better service. (4) if the area is known, write to the local churches as they sometimes have copies of the registers (offer a donation) or you may have to write to the Archives Office of the relevant church - for example the Goulburn Church of England Parish is covered by the Diocese Archives in Canberra. If you write to the church ask where the older church records are sent for storage. Good searching, regards Carole in Newcastle.