Why not go to the PI?
Joel,
If you live in Australia, why not take a short vacation to the Philippines? I have been there many times, and the cuemakers work in the heat with simple machines, yet their cues are stunning. I am sure you could take a short vacation and pay one of these cue makers to show you the basics. After that, it is creativity and quality control. Now I am not a cue maker, but I am a woodworker. I have ordered Chris's books and learned from them. Still, if I were in your shoes, the PI is the place to go. When you finish your work for the day in the PI, you will find your share of heaven at night also. Enjoy life my friend, it is the perfect solution for you. If you want some further info on where to go, etc. just let me know. Regards,
Rod.