History we should all know

An early departure had us arriving in Cowra ready to check out the Japanese Gardens. Well worth the entry price, we even hired the audio guides. Spectacular is the only word for it; we have been before but it was just beautiful, a sunny day, manicured lawns and people scattered around all enjoying the vista. The small peace bell had a beautiful tone that you could feel inside your chest - very much like chanting meditation in yoga. We took lots of photos and came out quite relaxed and zen like.

Up to the lookout for lunch and then we headed into town to sound the large peace bell, the only one in the world that is not in a capital city.

Across the road to the Art Gallery and the National Photographic Portrait exhibition - some excellent photos and a wide variety of subjects.

Cowra is a neat, tidy, clean and well loved town and all around are strong links to Japan. There was a POW camp here during WW2 with prisoners from Japan, Formosa, Korea and Malaysia. They also had lots of Italian internees. The Japanese prisoners rioted and over 300 suicides or were killed. A part of Australian history not commonly known or discussed much. The town has built strong relationships with Japan and has done much to heal both sides, a Japanese Cemetery is beautifully kept and shows respect from both Australian and Japanese citizens.

A fascinating, interesting and educational day.