The Dictionary of Australasian Biography/Bennett, David
Bennett, David, was born in Dundee in 1830, and apprenticed to Messrs. Kimmond, Hutton & Steel, mechanical engineers in that city. He decided to emigrate, and landed in Melbourne early in 1856. Mr. Bennett entered Langland's Foundry, where he remained many years. He took an important part in support of the Eight Hours Movement, initiated by his fellow-countryman, James Galloway, in Melbourne (1855), and in promoting the Association of Engineers (1858), of which for twenty years he acted as secretary. Mr. Bennett was also one of the founders of the Trades Hall; and for many years acted as honorary secretary to the Trades Hall Council. To this body he was appointed paid secretary in 1888.