The Society succeeded the
Entomological Society of New South Wales, founded in 1862 which folded in 1872, with
James Charles Cox as its first president.{{Australian Dictionary of Biography The establishment of the Society was largely due to the dedication and financial support of its first President,
Sir William Macleay.
Joseph James Fletcher was director and librarian (this title was afterwards changed to secretary) from 1885 and edited 33 volumes of the
Proceedings of the society. In September 1882, a fire destroyed the library and a part of the scientific material of the society. The efforts of William Macleay made it possible nevertheless for the society to continue its activities. ==Macleay bursary==