Hi Drew,
to IceInSpace! Great to have you here.
Where abouts in Sydney are you?
Digital imaging certainly is a huge learning curve. I've been doing planetary imaging for a few years but have also just started dabbling in DSO imaging with my 350D and an ED80. It's a different beast, that's for sure. A whole other learning curve to start on.
Don't hesitate to ask any questions and I look forward to your contributions.