Not sure where this should be put (in the politest sense)..

I was up in Shanghai for a couple of weeks and I took one of my bodhrans with me so I could get to some sessions.

When I got back to Perth Customs relieved me of my drum. I have asked about this and there are new rules in place in WA concerning any instruments with untreated skins. Escpecially with the fear of equine diseases. I did point out that it was goat and not horse...

It has now gone off to to be gamma irradiated at a cost of A$60 and a 6-8 week wait. I will also have to get it tagged and get a letter to carry with me to say it has been treated.

Looks like gamma irradiation is better than a smokey pub and spilt beer in killing any nasties..

So if you are coming to Aus and you have any hand drums check first or it may not be allowed in, particularly hard if you are just visiting.