Hi Amy.
Although this is an old thread, I hope that you get a notification of a new reply.
Firstly, let me introduce myself; my name is Rupert and I live in Perth WA with my wife Amanda. We emigrated from the UK and have been here for 8 years now.
Earlier this week myself and my wife were speaking to my mum in the UK and the conversation got round to how my wife jokingly tells people that my Great Grandfather was an Australian from Bendigo and that I’m just returning to my roots. This led to my mum asking if I could find any more about her Grandfather Henry James Sawers.
A quick Google search brought me here! My mother (Ann) is the 4th daughter of Norah Crehan (born Sawers) who was the daughter of Henry James Sawers and Ann Sawers (born Berry). Mum told me how her mum used to tell her about how her dad came from Kangaroo Flats in Bendigo.
I’ve got to say that the research you have done is fantastic and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed reading about the Aussie side of the family.
I’m not sure if I can give you anymore information in your research but if you have any questions, I can ask the folks back home. One thing I did find out that you may not be aware of was that Henry met Ann in the Seamen’s Hospital in Salford, this would tie in with him working on ships.
Anyway, just thought I’d say hi and thanks for all the hard work you did.