I know it's not exactly applicable but I recently spent a month flying out on the West Coast, excellent fun.
However two points I'd like to mention from previous comments:
Rory5: never heard of that one and I went 500nm from base!
PeteB: lifetime endorsment? You sure? Mine cost AU$70 and was valid for a month (length of stay). As I recall there was another certificate available but it cost a lot more that $50.
Having said that, at the end of the day it's very easy to convert what-ever CASA ask for, exchange rate is excellent as is the flying and the scenary!
Enjoy
smithgd