aaw you guys are amazing - I knew you would help me out but this has been overwhelming. Thank you so much. I have jotted down all the suggestions and will enjoy checking out all the links in the next couple of days.
Woody - I'll be at the Floriade for sure; one of the reasons I go at this time of the year. Want to meet up?
Pepita - you're right the fabric colours are very bright - on my first visit I was astonished and thought I can't do anything with these, but several visits later and I have made some Aussie quilts now.