I'll second Checkboards reccomendation for solid advice.
Whilst I have never dealt with him personally, I have bumped into a couple of his groups moving about the country.
If anyone knows about getting foreign short stay pilots airborne in this country its him. Don't know how helpfull he will be, but its a dam good doorway to stick your head in.
Cheers
Jas
PS...don't worry about using a float ticket here ROFL!!