Hello Fred, and welcome to the forum from a fellow Aussie. Just as a relief from those difficult days you have been experiencing take a break and enjoy your iPad. It could easily end up a huge distraction from the other two
You've come to the right place to enhance your enjoyment of your iPad. You are among iPad enthusiasts here, where you will find a number of knowledgeable people happy to assist with any questions you may have.
Also join in the various discussion sections within the sub-forums where you will meet people from different parts of the world, in a membership approaching 300,000. Many questions to do with the iPad have been asked and answered, so take advantage of the forum Search facility.
And of course read the forum rules fully to appreciate the high standards under which this family-friendly forum operates.
There is lots of good advice and info on here plus plenty of members all too willing to help with any problems.
Remember, search is your friend. If you can't find the answer you need and you post a question then give as much info as you can to help members help you i.e. iPad 1 or 2, etc. and iOS version and name of app if the problem is with a specific app........and please don't forget to read the forum rules http://www.ipadforums.net/forum-rules-help-info/2119-forum-rules-everybody-please-read.html
If you have other Apple products or are interested in other Apple kit then why not join our sister forum too at http://www.appleforums.net/ and for iPhone users, come and join in the discussion over at http://www.iphoneforums.net