Surfer Steve is an online book that is helpfull -
www.surfersteve.com/cgi-sys/suspendedpage.cgiEasiest way to shape a blank is to get them computer cut - I know it's cheating but unless of course you have the time to learn shaping it's a time (and money) saver (15 min not 15 hours). Al Bean Surf Designs in Yallingup has a AKU Shaper machine so if you design it he might cut it for you.
I found EPS easier to handle than PU - the PU really needed kids gloves and didn't like being moved around while unglassed the EPS didn't care. Though the EPS does require an extra skim coat.
Shapers Australia and Foam e-z (US) are on-line website that sell all the board building supplies you might need. I'm sure there's a couple local shops in WA but don't know what they are - Summit composites does fabric and resins though.
Fins/systems are dime a dozen but some are easier to install than others and a trim router helps. Easiest install (IMO) are Probox - templates come with it and it's pretty hard to stuff up. The new FCS system might be easier than the old plug one but I found for DIY the plug system was a royal pain in the a$$.
Good luck