Hi Lesley, Sorry I didn't answer all of your question in my return email. John Minton was my g/grandfather. On his death certificate his father's name is given as Michael Minton. No mother's name. John's place of birth is Collingwood. I believe this could be Collingwood near Mudgee or there was a property down near Yass that was named "Collingwood" . I know that it is not Collingwood Victoria as I have investigated all the possibilities. I am looking at all the Michael Minton's I can find to either find a connection or eliminate. Given the country areas where John grew up I think a parent with a convict background is possible. Regards Elaine