"The Fellowship of First Fleeters is for those people whose ancestors arrived in Port Jackson, Sydney on January 26, 1788 on the First Fleet," Pauline said.

"Most people who join the fellowship are elderly and cannot travel to Sydney, so the fellowship board decided to establish chapters in as many areas in Australia as possible. "There are now 17 chapters where descendants of first, second fleet and friends interested in Australian history meet." 

There are no chapters between Coffs Harbour and Newcastle. Pauline would like to change this and make the fellowship more accessible to those in the local area.

"The fellowship would like to establish a Mid North Coast chapter as there are quite a few members in this area and I am sure there are lots more First Fleet ancestors out there who we would like to welcome into the fold." 

The Mid North Coast Chapter would cover Stroud, Gloucester, Wingham, Taree, Forster Tuncurry, Wauchope, Port Macquarie and surrounding areas.

Being a part of the chapter allows you to attend meetings with interesting speakers and outings.

You do not need to be a direct descendant to join the chapter, although, to officially join the Fellowship of First Fleeters you need the direct descendant connection. 

As part of the Fellowship of First Fleeters you get an official member's certificate, a monthly copy of the magazine Founders and any updated details on the life history of your descendant. 

Pauline would like anyone interested in joining the chapter to contact her on 0488 416 211.

The Fellowship of First Fleeters is inviting all First Fleet descent and those interested in Australia history to a meeting to discuss the formation of First Fleet chapter on the MNC at Taree Library, Victoria Street 2pm Tuesday, April 14.

If enough interest is expressed this will start the balling rolling on beginning the Mid North Coast chapter. 

For those interested in joining the official Fellowship of First Fleeters and the chapter, before contacting Pauline you need to know the name of your descendant who arrived on one of the 11 boats of the first fleet. 

If you have a suspicion, it's time to talk to family, get out the history books and find a name.