BritishJohnny, you should address the imbalance in your abilities, bouldering v5 and leading grade 17 eh what?! In this country our ethic doesn't require the use of ropes for cosmetic purposes only, our gear is good and you might be able to lead climbs up to the route equivalent of v5, ie grade 26!! Or at least have fun falling / trying.
Winter is a prime time to visit the North facing (sunny) crags in the Blue Mountains / Wolgan Valley, particularly the Coal Mines and Coke Ovens :-)
cheers |