Published 27 August 2026
Every family carries a story that's never quite been settled. Maybe it's the medals in a drawer nobody's ever asked about. Maybe it's the ancestor who "made a fortune on the goldfields", or the uncle who died in the war with no headstone anyone's ever found. Maybe it's a family surname nobody's traced, or a rumour about a relative that's been repeated for generations without anyone confirming it's true.
From today, you can finally do something about it.
Bunbury Museum, in partnership with the Australind Family History Society, is officially opening submissions for Family Myths & Trees - a project inviting the public to bring their family history questions to a team of expert family history researchers.
How it works
It's simple. Between 27 August and 30 October 2026, anyone can submit a question about their family history - a specific ancestor, an event, a family myth, or a research gap you've never been able to close on your own. Volunteer researchers from the Australind Family History Society will then investigate submitted questions, using genealogical records, archives, and other historical sources. Participants whose questions are researched will receive the findings in both printed and digital form, to keep.
Some participants may also be invited to share their story live as part of a storytelling evening held during next year's Heritage Month (18 April–18 May 2027).
Who can take part
The project is open to everyone, and there's no cost to submit a question. And while we love our own local history, your question doesn't have to be about Bunbury or the South West - it can be about a family story from anywhere in the world.
Because research is carried out by dedicated volunteers with limited capacity, not every submission may be able to be researched. The number of questions we can take on will depend on volunteer availability during the research period - so if you've got a question, don't wait until the last minute.
Family history doesn't always come easily, and it can include difficult subject matters. The Museum and the Australind Family History Society will handle every submission and finding with care, and participants are welcome to discuss how their story is presented, including whether or how it's shared publicly.
How to submit
You can submit your question in whichever way suits you best. A digital form can be completed on this page; download the printable form and email it to museum@bunbury.wa.gov.au; or pick up a paper copy in person at the Bunbury Museum, the Australind Family History Society, or Bunbury/Withers Libraries.
Ready to solve that family mystery? Submissions are open now. Whether you're chasing down a wartime mystery, trying to prove a family legend, or simply want an expert's help getting unstuck on your own research, this is your chance.
For more information, contact the team at museum@bunbury.wa.gov.au.
Family Myths & Trees is a joint project proudly brought to you by Bunbury Museum and Heritage Centre in collaboration with the Australind Family History Society.