Dr Helen Dehn is originally from Melbourne, where she worked as a property manager. She moved with her husband to Beremboke in 1985 and commenced studies at the University of Ballarat, gaining degrees in librarianship, literature and history. Researching Ballarat and its social history led to an interest in family history, particularly among families who immigrated to Victoria during the1850s. Now in her 60s, Helen holds a voluntary position as research convenor for the Ballarat & District Genealogical Society Inc., a position allowing her to combine her research interests and provide assistance to other family researchers.