“..Diner plate sized spiders..”
It sounds like you were referring to the dreded
Hunstman Spider, native of Austrailia. I hope never to see one in person. I’m curious, but not THAT curious.
Speaking of Austrailia, I am reminded of actress Nicole Kidman. Back in July of 2018, she was interviewed on the Today Show, asking about that time she captured a large Tarantula in a big glass jar after seeing it near a swimming pool he children were using. There are even Youtubes about it. So, she captures the spider, and knelt down beside her, humanely RELEASING the insect to crawl for another day!
One of the most dangerous spiders in the world the Brown Recluse.
We have them here in NJ.