How it works
Hands-on-History Experiences are weekend-long events in regional Australia, built around a local story and the people who know it best.
Friday is a half-day workshop for local heritage groups. Saturday is a full private day — talks, guided experiences, behind-the-scenes access and good food — for a small group who've come to get closer to a place and its past.
The next one will be announced soon.
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The Discovery Day
Next event coming soon
A full day of private, curated experiences in Wagga, guided by people who genuinely know this place and its past.
Our guest historian will lead the group through the story across the morning, revealing the records and sharing his perspective on what the case tells us about Australia at the time. After a private lunch, guests choose from curated 90-minute afternoon experiences. The day closes with cocktails and canàpes, joined by the expert guides and guest historian.
Program
Next event program coming soon
Price
New event details coming soon
Meet our guest family historian
Announcement coming soon
Choose your afternoon
On Saturday afternoon, choose from 90-minute experiences, each guided by a local expert. Groups are small and each experience offers a different way into the area's past.
New event announcement coming soon
About Family History Holidays
Family History Holidays started with five suitcases of old papers found in a grandmother’s garage. It’s run by Kate Shilling, a tourism industry professional with more than 25 years’ experience developing products and partnerships across regional Australia. Kate lives on Wiradjuri Country near Wagga Wagga and her family has been in the Riverina for generations.
Hands-on-History events are a new way of connecting curious people with the real stories of regional Australia.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a family connection to the location to attend the Discovery Day?
No. Some guests will come with a clear link to the Riverina. Others will come because the story is genuinely gripping, or because they have a hunch worth following up. The day is designed to be worthwhile either way.
Will this help me research my own family history?
The Discovery Day is not a personalised genealogy research session. It is a day alongside one of Australia’s leading family historians, access to experts and archives you wouldn’t normally reach and a clear starting point if you want to continue your own research. You may leave with more questions than you arrived with. You’ll also leave knowing who to ask.
Is the Workshop only for members of heritage groups?
No. The $30 rate applies to members of local history groups. Anyone interested in attending can register at $50 per person.
What's the cancellation policy?
Tickets are non-refundable. Travel insurance is recommended.
What if I have accessibility needs?
We welcome participants with accessibility requirements and are committed to making our events as inclusive as possible.
As this event includes visits to a range of heritage venues, accessibility may vary between locations. Participants are encouraged to contact us prior to booking to discuss any mobility, medical, dietary or other access requirements so we can advise on suitability and make appropriate arrangements where possible.
Hands-on-History Experiences: New date coming soon
Questions? Contact Kate: kate@familyhistoryholidays.com.au