William77,
You just got some really good advice, everyone told you that the mechanic almost certainly lied to you.
It almost certainly hasn't thrown a piston.
There are heaps of mechanics in Shepparton, if you don't get another opinion, you are crazy.
From what I just read, you just decided to go back and buy the VE engine from the same mechanic who just almost certainly lied to you. n
Borrow a car for a few days, take your time otherwise, you will get taken advantage of.
A good honest mechanic is hard to find, good luck.