[PeterM]

Gotta speak out here, for those who think dealers in Oz are making a killing then why not open your own store.
Simple fact is much of the argument falls around the exchange rate with simply no idea of the true transport, import costs etc. Then add local warranties etc.
Sure I work in the industry that's no secret but I tire of the continual overpricing nonsense I read. Dealers in Oz are here to make a fair living, they provide the touchy feely stuff and free advice that some use to their advantage before sometimes buying elsewhere, that's ok nobody is twisting anybodys arm. And then of course when something goes wrong with equipment bought elsewhere (usually overseas) they often become the first call for help.
Many dealers often support the many events around Oz with substantial sponsorships for raffle prizes, great advice and hands on viewing of new equipment.

In general in over 30 years of buying locally I have found Australian dealers provide a great resource and service.

As an example of high overseas postage costs I recently ordered a 250gig hard drive of data. for US $219 to complement a very well known planetarium programme I had just downloaded. At about the size of a small box of tissues the real postage costs to that seller to send by 7-10day delivery? $95US dollars! So go figure.

PeterM.