wish I could do the same with spiders
steve,
You wouldn't like Oz then.
When I lived there, I had a wonderful book called Things That Sting. Spiders and snakes featured very prominently! Even the vegetation is out to get you - beware of the Gympie Stinging Tree.
Andy,
It sounds like Redcliffe is a nice place, but I wouldn't fly with too many instructors, nice as they are. Try to pick one who you get on well with. That way he/she will fly with you more often and be more familiar with your skills and will be able to ensure that you are progressing.
I'm pretty sure incipient spin is the term in the US as well. Important to practice and actually quite fun once you are used to them.
Remember to look outside and enjoy the scenery and the sensation of flying. That will help with combatting the fear and sweaty palms.