Shame the dollars don't stretch to a Commodore centrecab Jay, they are nice looking beasts and locally made.
I also agree about reconsidering the 'glass option. I originally had a alloy CC for the reasons you mention - hitting stuff and running up onto the beach. Realistically running your boat onto the beach is a serious pain and once i'd done it once or twice i avoided it like the plauge - incoming tide it just keeps washing up, rocking back and forwards and getting smashed, outgoing tide you strand it and have to wait around to refloat - which is a long process in itself.
As for hitting stuff...well ok, it saved me that once with an unforseen piece of reef
but other than that i think the glass benefits are worth it.
As also mentioned still consider an import from the states - if you can find the right boat you will get a lot more boat for your dollar and it's not as hard as it seems. If you need an tips or advice on that option PM me.