I am back and am reading properly, not just skimming :D
So, here's the first thing that jumps out at me - about the sanctuary and the approach to WW II
"Fight for King and Country" - and as they were part of the then British Empire, they didn't have a choice! Same with India.
As was South Africa and its participation - pushed by Gen Smuts caused an even bigger rift between Afrikaners (Dutch) and English. The former were more inclined to support the Germans - that is an interesting bit of history to read when you are so inclined. And yes, the involvement of the Aus (and Anzac) armed forces in various conflicts is little known - I heard about some from a longtime Aus colleague who worked in the diplomatic corps and then for the Uni I worked with. Very interesting.
Those gardens are beautiful. I love it that they commemorate the people who looked after them. My Dad ran a botanical garden in Grahamstown for most of my childhood and into my adult life - so about 20+ years. Nothing in those gardens to remember him, or his predecessors by. He was the last and the property has now been sold to Rhodes university.
I suspect you will keep posting - you have folk following you who want to know and, more to the point - you like doing it!
Here's to the next one!
Cheers
Fiona