I am a little confused. Here in the US, the Inter 17 was introduced in 2000, but you say yours is a 1997 or 1998 model. The US single-handed version is different than the Aus double-handed Inter 17.

The US version has decks that can be removed to access the inside of the hull. The decks have the non-skid. The US version has drain plugs. It sounds like you have the Aus Inter 17, which is different than the boat I am familiar with.