Does anyone know what fault 1044 means whilst synching my iPhone 3 GS with iTunes on my Macbook Pro?

Do you mean 1004?

If so, check this link.

http://support.apple.com/kb/TS3694#error1004

Error 1004, 1013, 1638, 3194: These errors may be the result of the connection to gs.apple.com being redirected or blocked. Follow these steps to resolve these errors:

1. Install the latest version of iTunes.
2. Check security software. Ensure that communication to gs.apple.com is allowed. Follow this article for assistance with security software. iTunes for Windows: Troubleshooting security software issues.
3. Check the hosts file. The restore will fail if there is an active entry to redirect gs.apple.com. FollowiTunes: Advanced iTunes Store troubleshooting to edit the hosts file or revert to a default hosts file. See section "Blocked by configuration: (Mac OS X/Windows) > Rebuild network information".
4. Try to restore from another known-good computer and network.
5. If the errors persist on another computer, the device may need service.

I find nothing about error 1044 with the link provided and with an internet search.