This video is designed as an accessible companion for on-site visitors, it presents a self-guided walking tour of the Inverell Cemetery. The tour invites visitors to explore the cemetery at their own pace while discovering the stories of individuals, families, and community figures who played an important role in Inverell’s history. Through selected graves and memorials, the video highlights early settlers, notable residents, and changing burial practices, offering insight into social life, faith, and remembrance in the district. The cemetery is presented not only as a place of rest, but as a valuable historical record that reflects the development of Inverell over time. This self-guided tour encourages reflection, respect, and a deeper understanding of the people commemorated within the cemetery grounds, preserving local history for future generations.

Inverell District Family History Group

The Inverell District Family History Group is a volunteer-run community organisation dedicated to researching, preserving, and sharing the family and local history of Inverell and the surrounding district.

Established in 1984, the Group supports family historians, researchers, students, and members of the public who are interested in discovering personal connections to the past or learning more about the rich history of the Inverell region. Just as importantly, the Group provides a friendly and inclusive place for people who are simply curious about history or looking to become involved in a meaningful community activity.

What We Do

Research & Historical Records

The Group maintains an extensive and growing collection of local historical resources, including:

• Family histories and genealogical research

• Cemetery records and burial indexes

• Newspapers, maps, and archival documents

• Photographs and local memorabilia

• Records relating to Inverell residents who served in World War I and World War II

Members and volunteers assist both locals and remote researchers in tracing family connections, interpreting records, and uncovering stories connected to Inverell and the wider district.

Digitisation, Preservation & Photo Services

A key part of the Group’s work is preserving fragile historical material for future generations. This includes:

• Scanning and digitising photographs and documents

• Digital restoration and enhancement of damaged images

• Colourisation of historical photographs

• Creating secure digital archives while protecting original items

These services help ensure that important personal and community histories are not lost to time.

Publications, Projects & Community History

The Group actively contributes to documenting and sharing Inverell’s history through:

• Research publications and booklets

• Cemetery and memorial projects

• Heritage documentation and interpretation

• Collaborative projects with local organisations and community groups

These projects help make local history accessible, accurate, and engaging for the wider community.

Meetings, Outings & Events

The Group holds regular meetings where members share research, learn new skills, and hear guest speakers. In addition, the Group organises:

• Cemetery tours and heritage walks

• Group outings to historical sites

• Special events and commemorations

These activities offer opportunities to learn, socialise, and explore the district’s history together.

Everyone Has Something to Contribute

You don’t need to be an experienced family historian to be part of the Group.

Many members joined simply because they enjoy history, stories, photographs, or community involvement. Others arrived with no research experience at all and gradually developed skills by volunteering alongside others.

If you enjoy:

• Listening to stories and asking questions

• Organising information or photographs

• Learning new computer or research skills

• Helping people find answers

• Being part of a friendly, community-focused group

…then you already have skills that can help.

Learn as You Go

Volunteering with the Group is a chance to learn in a relaxed, supportive environment. Members and volunteers often gain experience in:

• Family and local history research

• Archival handling and preservation

• Digitisation and photo restoration

• Using historical databases and online research tools

• Contributing to publications, exhibitions, and community projects

There is no expectation to “know everything.” Skills are shared, questions are encouraged, and learning happens naturally through participation.

A Welcoming Community

Some people join to research their own family history. Others come for the social connection, the learning opportunities, or simply to contribute to preserving Inverell’s past.

You are welcome to:

• Attend meetings or outings with no obligation

• Volunteer as much or as little time as suits you

• Observe first and become involved when you feel comfortable

At its heart, the Group is about people helping people — sharing knowledge, preserving memories, and ensuring local stories are not lost.

Visit Us

The Group operates from within the Inverell Shire Public Library and welcomes both members and visitors during opening hours. Whether you arrive with a detailed research question or simply curiosity, you will be warmly welcomed.

A message to visitors

You don’t need experience — just curiosity.

Some of our volunteers joined because they enjoy IT or working with computers. Others were drawn in by an interest in photography, scanning, or restoring old images. We also welcome people who enjoy writing, storytelling, or journalism, helping create articles and items for our newsletter and publications.

Whatever your interests — technical, creative, research-based, or social — there is likely a place for you within the Group. Many volunteers discover new skills and interests simply by being involved.

If you’re not sure what you’re looking for in a group, but enjoy learning, contributing, and being part of a welcoming community, we encourage you to give us a try.