i called a few service places today. they can't get the part for 2-5 working days, which puts it neatly after easter weekend, then, they couldn't fix it for a few days anyway, which puts it close to the end of april, just when i return from my trip.
so, with a little googling, i've seen a few posts on forums saying the thermistor isn't hard to replace..
i go to jaycar and buy 2, i figure if i install 1, i may as well install a spare in case i have the same issue in the future.
$1.35 each..
i open the case up from around the compressor, and start cutting into the insulation of my $1200 fridge.. a little nervous now, but i take about 4 inches of insulation away until i found the white case of the fridge inner. i wired up the thermistors and ran them back to the circuit board. filled the hole i cut out with foam insulation from a can.. and now i'm just waiting for the oil to settle so i can test it.
Dan