I have always been very interested in my family heritage, born from my parents delight
in telling us many stories from their childhood, I guess. There were many family
get-to-gethers during my growing up years and then a 'fourth cousin' started family
reunions on the Simpfendorfer side and wrote up a lot of the history. So I always knew
where my Dad's mother came from and had a great desire to visit her homeland (which I
finally did in 2006). It was wonderful meeting with relatives in a tiny village called
Brettach in Southern Germany. 
My mother's family had been well researched, so I knew the Graetz and Ross side of my
family history and am thankful that someone has documented all of it.
I have always been curious about the Schmidt side of my ancestry, but didn't know
where to start in finding out more. One night, in 2007 I had a phone call from a man
called Doug Jones! He said "I think I may be related to you, my grandmother was a
Schmidt" .... and that got me excited! After many emails and info via Doug and other
older cousins who had memories and photos, we were able to piece together lots of
relevant information. Also I found out that another cousin was researching the Schmidt
ancestry as well and we have been able to share information. Later in 2008 we had a
mini reunion here in Yackandandah and I finally got to meet 3 long lost rellies - Doug,
his wife Elaine and daughter Michelle. 
Needless to say we are still trying to find other members of the Schmidt family. 
I hope you enjoy what I have put together.