Her most recent discovery was a broken headstone belonging to her great-great-great-grandfather James Timmins.

The Cranbourne resident says that 168 years ago James, his wife Julia and their four daughters and son moved from Liverpool to Melbourne.

"Another daughter was born six months later, and James worked shipping goods to Tasmania. In 1844 the Timmins family settled in Port Albert (in Gippsland).

"Since then the family has spread all over Gippsland and beyond."

The Cranbourne genealogist is hoping to find out more about her ancestor by having a family reunion, inviting anyone related to the Timmins line, including members of the O'Meara, Martin, Kilmartin, Shiells and Henry families.

Jenny has spent more than 20 years researching her family tree. "It's like a puzzle with a need to find the missing piece. When you find a new family line you can often add another 50 people.

"Recently I discovered a convict. James' daughter in-law, Margaret, who is my great-great-grandmother - her father could have been the convict. The family never spoke about this, so I can only rely on what is written."

Jenny says if people want to trace their family roots, the best place to start is with themselves.

"Work backwards. By the time you reach the great-great-grandparents, you'll have 16 lines to investigate."

Jenny, a life member of the Narre Warren and District Family History Group, says the group's research room at Narre Warren library holds valuable data.

The Timmins Family will hold a memorial ceremony for James Timmins at Alberton Cemetery, at 10.30am on November 1. Details: Jenny Hayes, 5991 4499, or Brae Timmins, 56623092.

For information on the Narre Warren Family History Group, visit http://home.vicnet.net.au/|nwfhg/ research%20room.html