Victoria Reefers?

[apepper]

Hi all,

I'm new to the area, new to the forum and new to the hobby (or is it obsession) so I don't think I'm quite ready for club meetings yet . I could use a little local advice though. This may not be the right thread but since this is the closest thread to a Victoria club forum here goes.

I am currently in the planning stages of my first reef tank and have been reading as much as I can (mostly internet a few books also). I have lots of questions but I will start with some simple ones.

Are there any local stores (LFS) that are worth dealing with or do most people deal with the stores on the mainland or mail order? Where is the best place to get a few good pieces of live rock (or is this just hit and miss)?

I was thinking of starting slow with just a few good pieces of live rock a few critters and maybe a fish or two. I am being given some equipment (never been used) but I am not sure yet what all is included other than a 45 gallon tank and accessories. Any helpful advice for a beginner would be appreciated. As I have specific questions I will post them.

Sorry for hijacking this thread, just seemed like a good place to introduce myself.

Alex