For this reason alone I might have flown or swum to Perth to ask to ordain as an anagarika there! Ajahn Brahm, like most heroes, took action when others would not and accepted the consequences. In the end, he's more supported than ever.To be honest, at the beginning I was going to steer clear of it due to the bhikkhuni controversy.
James, I wish you the best, but be mindful that Ajahn Brahm is on the leading edge of what I feel is the next wave in the Thai sangha, that being full support of women in the Sangha. As you know from his Dhamma talks, he's a progressive force. You have a rare opportunity to train with someone who represents the new wave, and I hope you see this as rarefied air, and not a hindrance. Anumodana!