Thanks guys.
the wood's pretty dry. I took it inside Saturday night to make sure.
I think the flue is open,
as the smoke rises when newspaper pages ignite and go VERY hot. (not hot enough though, aye

)
I was using a Bic lighter so much that it heated up and blew the spring.

Must have had it on for 10 minutes trying to ignite stubborn chip splinters.
I understand that extra paper will obstruct airflow, so I've been scooping out the ashes from failed attempts.
I remembered last night that charcoal BBQ briquettes have fluid on them, made for instant light and last a long time. I picked up some organic ones that are supposed to be good for "very hot cooking temps" on clearance at Coles. Will see how that goes.
I'm down a lighter, so I bought a proper BBQ lighter with a flex head.
I figure the main issue with me getting a fire lit is this is a metal fireplace with small openings and "Smart Burn" gadgets, rather than a fire out in the open like a campsite, where low oxygen is almost impossible.
WA cold?
Actually it's been great weather the last few days.
I think the weather's been reaching 20-22 C with nights around 8-10 C.
My house is 22 C in the daytime and 16 C when I get up, just keeping the windows shut.
It's a minor irritation more than anything else.
BUT... If we get a rainy, sunless day at 17/8 C (typical winter day here)
then the house will really chill, and indoor humidity will be very yucky.
I'd like to be able to have a fire for those days to keep indoor humidity down.