That is awesome news! Congratulations.

As far as the deck, I've never built a raised platform. I helped Mikey and Drew build theirs. They used pipe as posts and built a plywood/2X4 deck. They covered it with Carpeting to give it a really nice finished look. We've seen three "big" guys on that deck. (I'm talking about over 700lbs on th hoof )

Most are made of steel frame with plywood decking. Aluminum weighs less, it's more expensive though and most people have a hard time getting good weld penetration.I've seen everything from PVC tubing to 4X4'sfor posts. Most use plywood for decking but I've seen expanded metal and Fiberglass grating used for flooring.

If you ever get a chance, check out Mark's boat. He did a real nice job on his deck and he's not too far from you.