This is exactly what I did - it was really easy. The only drawback is that it takes time (probably about 3 weeks from when you first order it through the forwarding company), but that didn't really bother me, given the shipping times from the US anyway. You give them your address and transfer them the money (I used internet banking in cash). They give you a quote based on their exchange rate.
My new gaucho is currently waiting for me at the PO - can't wait til Monday when I pick her up!
Re: you questions about customs, it appears that I didn't have to pay any... I'm not sure if the PO will charge me on behalf of customs, but the tracking number tells me that the bag is already at my local PO and went through customs no problems. I have heard that sometimes customs will let items valued over $1000 slide - it's just the luck of the draw, really.
If you really want this, do it now, cos eluxury has free shipping and I used free shipping a few weeks ago too - it saved me about $70 AUD!