Ah - Oz - welcome to the land of creatures that'll kill you; no matter how many legs they do (or don't) have. That reminds me of a funny story - but I digress.

Most common hole dwelling arachnids in Oz are the Funnel Web, Trapdoor and Mouse spiders. All can be fatal - of course!

And now the funny story....was at Rottnest Island (19km off the coast of Perth) a couple of weekends ago. Went for the bus trip around the island tour - it doubles as a shuttle bus service for the various beaches and residential areas around the island - as well as a sightseeing opportunity. A large party of young Japanese tourists disembarked at one of the popular beaches....their leader, the last off, turned to thank the driver. The driver replied, "Thanks mate, be careful of the sharks", closed the door and drove off. Those of us inside were in stitches with his (arguably mean) trick; playing upon the fears of visitors to our shores. I don't think there's been a shark attack at "Rotto" in white history.

stales