Bob,
Exchange rate is only part of the problem. I understand that ocean freight rates have taken off as well. The exchange rate with AUS since I bought my Stubby last year has gone up about 6%. Know Terry Daniels who sold VB-36 and Vicmarcs has mostly stopped importing iron too. I'm sure that John, Terry, and others will pick up again when either the dollar gets stronger or the AUS manufacturers cut their prices to stay competitive.
You get to the $6,500-7,000 level and you can start calling Mr. Nichols to make you a custom machine.
Mark Mandell