Thanks for the reply Wes

Ok so i think i've worked out what im going to do, for now im going to buy one r/c, and i think it will be the Slash. then assuming i stay interested in r/c (i have a problem of getting in and out of hobbies, so my partner is happy for me to get one, then assuming im still into it a few months down the track, she is very happy for me to really get into it).....so assuming im still into it, then i will buy a bandit.

I think for now i will keep it stock, as its fairly expensive as it it (AUD $500-$600), i think its about an additional AUD $250 for a brushless motor + i need a new ESC dont i?......as for the upgrade to brushless, does it still retain its water proof capabilities? or are these compromised?
The motor replacements in your bandit, over how long a time have you changed 3 motors? and how much do you actually use your bandit? are we talking a couple of sessions? or we're talking months of intense operation?
do you race it? or just bash?

Given that i will keep the Slash standard, would it be of benefit atleast getting LIPO batteries? will this give me much better run times? and slight power increase? or im better just doing as you have and buy a few NiMH batter packs?

Rookie question, but whats a wheelie bar? is that the additional little wheels on a bar attached to the back of the car?

so your suggesting, if i later buy a Bandit VXL, im able to swap the motors over and ESC (so the little one can use the bandit) eventually i can then upgrade both to Brushless?

When it comes to charging your batteries, generally speaking how long does one set take? and can it be charged in a car as well as at home? does it take long?

is there any certain brand or brands of batteries that i should perhaps stick with? i have no idea about r/c batteries, as in what are the big brands, what are the best brands...

any ideas on recommended places to buy from in Australia?

Thanks again for all the info, i really do appreciate it.
Martin