Hi Wendy

I assembled some other clues today and then forgot to hit 'Post' so it is still on my work computer...rather than keep you in suspense, I will, from memory, suggest you check out a couple sites

take a look at PRO Vic "outward passengers' and you will see a Mr CHIDGEY sailing to NZ 1878 - aged 38

"RINGAROOMA," for New Zoaland, on THURSDAY, July 31, at 2 p.m

did you find the advertisement in NZ that Cornelius posted twice saying he will not be responsible for any debts incurred by Lydia Ann??

Also, in Archway NZ, there is a file about the family - could be just their passenger arrival details, but you can order them

There is also a book wrtten that includes 4 branches - its available in NZ

http://thecommunityarchive.org.nz/node/83106/collections
he might have had access to letters etc - which may shed some light on CC


also - have you visited the Christchrch cmetery site?

I don't know if you have this:

Surname: CHIDGEY
First name(s): CORNELIUS
Date of death: Sunday, 11 April 1909
Cemetery: Linwood
Date of burial: Tuesday, 13 April 1909
Block number: 31
Plot number: 50
Age: 91 years
Address: 28 CALEDONIAN ROAD
Occupation: RETIRED
Place of birth: ENGLAND
Years in New Zealand: 41
Comments: Died: Hypertrophy of Perocline gland

Surname: Chidgey
First name(s): Saidee
Date of death: Tuesday, 23 November 1971
Cemetery: Memorial Park
Date of burial: Friday, 26 November 1971
Block number: 6
Plot number: 48
Age: 93 years
Address: [For privacy reasons this address is not displayed]
Occupation: Widow
Place of birth: Mosgiel, NZ
Years in New Zealand: 93

Fred Worseldine was a convict who later moved to Vic and became a coach builder - he died 1892

cheers
Jocelyn