Angus Mackay (15 August 1834 – 8 February 1910) was a journalist, trade commissioner, agricultural researcher and lecturer, and a member of the Queensland Legislative Assembly.

At some time he had been a bridge worker in London, a compositor for the New-York Tribune, an overseer for a cotton plantation in Georgia, US, and with the NSW Department of Agriculture.

[15][2][16] Leaving in January 1876, he was tasked with promoting Queensland mining and industry, and authorised to purchase labour-saving and other devices at the Exhibition.

[2] Exhibits included 200 specimens, 3 feet (0.91 m) long and 6 inches (150 mm) square, of Queensland timber, and ores such as tin and copper.

[17] A NSW orchardist and businessman attending the Exhibition in July observed:[18] Mackay returned in February 1877 to a warm reception and praise.

[20] He also made notes about constructing low-cost railways across Queensland, and tabled a report to government in March 1877;[21] reviewed the lines from Rockhampton to the Comet River;[22] and continued in his persistent views when a politician, which were credited with informing the public.

[23][4] Having lived in the electoral district of South Brisbane for sixteen years, and after waiting for the dissolution following the death of sitting member T. B. Stephens MLA, he came forward as a candidate in October 1878.