Spider wasp venom provides a unique avenue for treating central nervous system (CNS) conditions, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Our study focuses on uncovering bioactive molecules with therapeutic potential from spider wasp venoms. With approximately 5,000 known species, spider wasps intrigue us as they induce pain and temporary paralysis. Notably, certain spider wasp toxins exhibit modulation of voltage-gated sodium channels, which are vital targets in the human brain. To explore venom composition and structure, we are using a traditional venomics approach but also generating new techniques to leverage collections specimens from the Australian National Insect Collection comprising over 12 million specimens. An innovative technique has been developed to extract venom genes from museum specimens using short-read whole genome sequencing, potentially eliminating the need for fresh tissue samples. We are also pioneering a targeted capture approach to assemble genomes from specimens with degraded DNA. Moreover, we are exploring the potential of museum specimens for proteomics analyses of venom reservoirs. These strategies hold promise for identifying novel drug candidates from hundreds or even thousands of species. Our venomics analyses have produced annotated transcriptomes from tens of spider wasp species, revealing numerous toxin transcripts. Mass spectrometry analysis of venom samples from a subset of species has unveiled close to 100 individual proteins, including representatives from novel toxin families. Additionally, we have synthesised a set of these peptides to perform ion channel and GPCR assays. Finally, we are currently assembling the first ever spider wasp genome with venom genes annotated. Our research contributes significantly to CNS drug discovery and addresses the urgent need for effective treatments targeting CNS conditions. Spider wasp venoms offer tremendous potential as a rich source of bioactive molecules, with the potential of improving the lives of individuals afflicted by these debilitating diseases.