With ANZAC Day approaching later this month, we reflect on the role that camels have played in supporting ANZACs and the Imperial Camel Corps.
ANZAC Day, held on 25 April, marks the anniversary of the Gallipoli landings in 1915 and is a time to honour the courage and sacrifice of more than 102,000 Australians who gave their lives, and over 1.5 million who served in conflicts and peacekeeping missions.
While many are familiar with the stories of the Light Horse Brigade, few know about the camels and the brave soldiers of the Imperial Camel Corps. Raised in 1916 and attached to the Anzac Mounted Division, this remarkable unit relied on over 3,800 camels to traverse the harsh desert landscapes of the Middle East. These incredible animals carried soldiers, ammunition, water, and supplies—allowing the Corps to operate independently for days in extreme conditions.
Camels were uniquely suited to desert warfare: resilient, sure-footed, and far less fazed by gunfire than horses. A single handler could manage up to 16 camels, making them invaluable in battle logistics and mobility.
The Imperial Camel Corps fought valiantly alongside the Australian Light Horse in iconic battles such as Romani, Gaza, and Beersheba, and even supported operations with Lawrence of Arabia's guerrilla forces.
Though the Corps was disbanded in 1918, its legacy endures. In just two years, it served in more areas than any other unit in the Middle East campaign, leaving behind stories of grit, endurance, and a deep bond between soldier and camel.
As Australia’s largest camel farm and dairy, we at Summer Land Camels are proud to honour the legacy of these noble creatures and their vital role in our history this ANZAC Day.
Lest we forget. 🐪