Family History ACT at Heritage Symposium
24th August 2025
By Engagement Committee
The ACT Region Heritage Symposium 2025 was a resounding success, bringing together historians, heritage advocates, and members of the community to explore this year’s theme: A Future for the Past. Held at the ANU Forestry Building on Saturday 2 August, the event created conversations around how we preserve not just our places - but the people, memories, and stories behind them.
Among the contributions was a presentation by President of Family History ACT Dr Michele Rainger, titled Giving Voice to the Past: Preserving People, Not Just Places. Michele reminded the audience that while buildings and landmarks anchor us in history, it is the lives and legacies of individuals that give these places meaning.
She shared the story of FHACT member Ian Mackay and his creative design of the Pearly Griffin. This story, drawn from Honour Your Ancestors – published by Family History ACT and available through our online bookstore - offered a vivid illustration of how a narrative can enrich our understanding of place.
Michele also highlighted Family History ACT’s ongoing contribution to the Canberra Tracks project on behalf of ACT Heritage. Canberra Tracks is a network of heritage signage that incorporates eight self-drive routes leading to many of Canberra's historic sites. Family History ACT developed content for the signage that brings to life the stories of ACT Pioneers by providing photos, videos and information in a way that increases the engagement and interest of the audience in Canberra’s unique heritage.
These efforts ensure that heritage remains accessible, engaging, and connected to the lives of real people, past and present.
The symposium featured a diverse program of speakers and sessions, from Dr Amy Mosig Way’s keynote on community driven archaeology, to discovering heritage in Mugga Lane and the preservation of Canberra’s mid-century history.
Importantly, the event marked a strong and visible presence for Family History ACT, reinforcing the vital role genealogists and family storytellers play in shaping a richer, more inclusive heritage landscape.