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William James Mahon (c. 1909–1967)

The unexpected death last Wednesday of Miners' general secretary, Bill Mahon at the age of 58, came as a sad shock to miners and his many friends throughout the labor movement.

Bill Mahon, a quiet but thoughtful man, was a firm believer in socialism and was a dedicated supporter of the peace movement.

He had been re-elected unopposed as general secretary of the Miners' Federation since taking office in 1958 and was also a member of the ALP's NSW executive for many years.

He began as a miner at Pelaw Main in the South Maitland field at the age of 14, became secretary of that lodge in 1944 and later vice president of the Federation's Northern District.

Miners' general president, Mr. Wally Smart, said "Bill's death was a tragic blow to the Federation. He will also be sadly missed as an administrator, negotiator and advocate."

Original publication

Additional Resources

  • photo, Tribune (Sydney), 10 June 1964, p 6
  • photo, Tribune (Sydney), 14 July 1965, p 10

Related Entries in NCB Sites

Citation details

'Mahon, William James (c. 1909–1967)', Obituaries Australia, National Centre of Biography, Australian National University, https://oa.anu.edu.au/obituary/mahon-william-james-31946/text43107, accessed 8 October 2024.

© Copyright Obituaries Australia, 2010-2024

Life Summary [details]

Birth

c. 1909
Yackandandah, Victoria, Australia

Death

7 December, 1967 (aged ~ 58)
Kogarah, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

Cause of Death

heart disease

Religious Influence

Includes the religion in which subjects were raised, have chosen themselves, attendance at religious schools and/or religious funeral rites; Atheism and Agnosticism have been included.

Occupation
Key Events
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Political Activism