i got my Passport back!! in 10 days!! i was so sure (and worried) that they probably returned it due to some missing information or some error, but no, my visa got stamped in 10 days - i just can't believe it! (it was received in AUD on Sep 30th and AUD sent it back to me Oct 11th)
The Wait is Over! Canada here i come!!!
Thank you everyone on the forum for the advice, support and constant encouragement. This forum is truly a great resource for not just information but for those looking for some sort of hope.
I plan to leave early next year. Good luck all of you! and Goodbye for now!