IMC: a viable race to travel to?

I am just wondering whether IMC is worth is for me. I am thinking of racing '06 or '07 Northern Summer as a pro, and am thinking about my race plans.

I did the race in 2002, and for me it is up there with IMNZ as my favourite IM race. Th ebike course actually makes the race a test of strength rather than drafting.

But…

I live in Australia, so therefore to do this race is a major deal for me.

What is the deal with tacks on the road. Imagine travelling around the world just to get a bunch of flats!

Is the size of the race getting ridiculous?

Any opinions?