Welding cast iron - Western Sydney

[calais]

G'day all,

My brother and I have been become somewhat collectors of cast iron potbelly stoves in the last few years and are keen to restore a few of them to their former glory.

Unfortunately with some of the bits and pieces we have, there are small cracks or missing tabs etc which prevent us from putting the units to use. I understand that because of the brittle nature of cast iron, I'm unable to just drill and weld as normal. Ive read its the carbon content being almost 10 times that of conventional steel, and the need to preheat and carefully weld in 'cool' conditions?

Might anyone know of someone who specialises in repairs to such metals who can assist? Aesthetics of any repair is somewhat important when they often become centrepieces.........

Cheers and thanks in advance.