Looking for a gold detecting trip

Hi All, I'm In perth for 3 weeks in january (from the uk, wife's Ozzy) and then possibly coming to WA in may/june for an 8ish week trip...and i want to go on a gold prospecting trip..!!!!...So..do I go with an company...seek out a prospecting buddy who has plenty of experience and willing to show a pom the ropes...or join a club and hope there is a trip in the time i'm over....???
Also i'm looking to get a secondhand gpx 4500 and get it upgraded by detectormods.....your thoughts please.....also also....can anyone recommend a good place for secondhand detectors.....Good detecting group to join, Perth based...???
Anyone up for a beer in January...!!?

Good luck with your trip to Aus, the GPX4500 is a great detector as it is, I think it would be a mistake to get something as good as this "modified" by anyone, but the choice is yours.

Most of the Minelab dealers in Aus will have second hand gpx4500's for sale, just check their web sites.

I agree with AU the 4500 does not need modifying for WA conditions ,it will do just fine-Dragon

Totally agree with above comments, one of the best machines on from the 2100.

Don't take this the wrong way, but best of luck finding someone who wants to go out in January. It's too bloody hot.
Your other option is best. It's cooler.
Keep in touch for the May/June time frame.
Cheers
Cliff

I wasn't very clear in my earlier post....not looking for a trip in January, might look for a second hand gpx 4500 in January though.....

Will be keeping an eye out for trips in may to July...

Hi Bluebenz,
My advise: As previously stated, the 4500 is a super detector, leave it in tact. Any mods would also lose warranty, not to speak of the reluctance by Minelab (manufacturer) to even work on future repairs.
 By the way, Finders Keepers here in Kalgoorlie are presently running a Xmas special for $ 3 300.-
 Only buy from authorised dealers. Of course the choice is yours alone.
 Good wishes,
Steady Eddie

Thanks for the advise...appreciated, just been looking at the price in the uk...at  the moment a DISCOUNTED gpx 4500 is the eqivelent of 5300 Australian dollars,,,,wozers..!!! looks like a bargain could be had if I got one when I come over in January...anyone know if there are usually January sales on detectors..???

At the moment Finders keepers in Kal have them on special for $3200.
http://www.finderskeepersgold.com/minelab-gpx4500.html

Hi bluebenz1
Re the Finders Keepersgold price at Kalgoorlie you could probably put a deposit on one, pay balance and pickup when out in January, new machine with warranty is always good.
Or maybe try Reeds Prospecting in Perth to see what there offering.

I have found them both good to deal with in the few times I've dealt with them.
Cheers,
salt-d