Here's another idea Crash. Try to get intouch with someone from BAS (Brisbane Astronomical Society, there are a couple of members here who are also BAS members) and find out when they are having their next viewing night. You'll get the opportunity to look through a pretty good range of scopes.
I think they might even have a dob or two, you know something in the 12" to 14" range. Now that would be really worth looking through.
Then you'll be really hooked.
I do agree with John though. 10" is a pretty heavy scope to lug around. And for you starting out, the difference between an 8 and 10 won't be that noticable. If you really enjoy an 8", don't forget that xmas is not really that far off.
Besides some amateur astronomers seem to sell and upgrade scopes on a regular basis (Hi Tony) so you might be able to sell your 8" (assuming you get one of course) and pick up a 10" at a cheaper price later on.