LEST WE FORGET – ANZAC Day Service at The Canopy

Published on 25 April 2025

Today, close to 1,000 people gathered at The Canopy to mark ANZAC Day in Lane Cove — a moment to reflect, remember, and honour those who have served.

This year’s keynote address was delivered by Don Mills, who shared the story of his grandfather, Major Ernest Henry Whitford Mills MC and Bar — known simply as Harry.

Born in 1896 in Willoughby, Harry Mills enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force in 1915 at just 19 years old. He later joined the Imperial Camel Corps (ICC), a specialised force that operated in the harsh desert conditions of Egypt, Sinai and Palestine. His service took him to Cairo, Jerusalem, Beersheba and beyond, where he led troops through intense battles and was twice wounded in action.

Harry was awarded the Military Cross twice — one of only 170 Australians in WWI to receive this distinction. His leadership during heavy combat, including at Mussallaba Ridge in 1918, was praised in official military records for its courage and decisiveness.

Following WWI, Harry returned to Sydney, later serving again in WWII, this time in New Guinea leading a pack horse transport unit through treacherous jungle terrain. He retired from the army at 48, having given decades of service to his country. He remained in the local area upon his retirement, living in Lane Cove until he passed away in 1972.

Mr Mills shared personal reflections of his grandfather’s quiet resilience and enduring love for poetry. His address ended with a special acknowledgement to all veterans present at the ceremony.

We thank Don Mills for his heartfelt tribute, and to all who joined us today in honouring the ANZAC spirit.

Lest we forget.

Harry (centre) with Staff Officers from the Imperial Camel Corps somewhere in the Middle East