Daniel James Mahony

Daniel James Mahoney (1878–1944), was an Australian scientist in the field of geology and petrology. He was a specialist in the Victorian Mines Department, undertook research in Cambridge and was director of the Museum of Victoria from 1931 to 1944.

Early life and education

Daniel James Mahoney was born on 25 March 1878 in East Melbourne, Victoria. His parents were Irish-born Daniel Mahony, who was mayor of Fitzroy, and Catherine, née Finnigan. Mahoney was educated at Downside School, Somerset, England, and then Xavier College in Melbourne. He studied at the University of Melbourne and was enrolled at Ormond College from 1898. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in 1904 and a Master of Science in 1906 in geology. Professors J. W. Gregory and E. W. Skeats were his supervisors. Mahoney filled in for Gregory in 1902–04, demonstrating in geology. In 1912 he deputised at the University of Adelaide for Antarctic explorer (Sir) Douglas Mawson. He completed several bibliographies as editor in the department. and President of the Royal Society of Victoria in 1939-40 and retired from the Museum on 31 July 1944, but died soon after at the Melbourne Club of peritonitis from diverticulitis on 27 September 1944. Forty-one friends subscribed to install a memorial plaque at the museum which was unveiled May 1945.