Alfred Wilton Bennett was born in 1866 and already had 30 years experience as an officer when he was appointed to command the 29th Battalion on July 22nd 1915. At that time he was living in Neil Street Ballarat with his wife Elizabeth. On November 10th 1915 he embarked on the Ascanius but it would seem he was not suited to command in France. On November 19th 1916 he relinquished command and was transferred to England. In January 1917 he left England for return to Australia, a note against his embarkation record declaring him ‘Unsuitable’. His appointment was terminated on April 4th 1917. He died in September 1940 aged 81.
Tree No 3263
His son Rae also served in the AIF and is honoured with a tree in the Avenue (Tree No 228).