Hi Skinslapper,
I just had a look at some sticks I did not see before, here at my local music shop in Auckland NZ. (musicworks)
They were Aquarian sticks, called graphite lights, they come in the 5A and 5B size. there is also a power-sleeve variation, you can have a look at them at the aquarian website.
I tried them (the lights) and I found them surprisingly good.
I do not use nylon tips, but as you do use nylon tips this might be the answer for you.
I do not know if you can get them "over the ditch" but I think it might be worth a try. If you cannot get them, I am sure that I can facilitate something from here.
I think the price here in NZ was in the low $30ties, but I have to check.
Quite a bit of money for one pair but hey, if they going to last it's worth it.
Cheers and happy drumming,
Harry