why this forum?

[Timbo]

hi, just wondering why this forum was started. dont want to cause trouble or anything, but really, why? as far as i see it, it's in direct competition to patrol4x4, it has the same content. but patrol4x4 has got history, its got most of the answers there already. having multiple forums on the same topic isnt really helping anyone, it would be much better off having everyone helping in 1 spot. but now youve got a few knowledgable people here and a few there, whats the point of that?

ps- im talking about tech, not chit-chat.

I'll try and answer your question.

There is a lot of bitching and carrying on over on the other Patrol forum. Frankly, I know a lot of people were sick of it. Nissanpatrol.com.au tries very hard to be a family friendly site without the elitist jerks that tend to pop-up on Patrol 4x4. We also try and be as "beginner" friendly as possible. Someone asks a question which seems quite obvious to others, doesn't really need to be met with "USE THE SEARCH NOOB" or other derogatory remarks. It's nice if everyone uses the search feature, sure, but there is a mature way to go about telling someone.
I've noticed people here to say, "Try the search mate.. but here's your answer anyway".. this kind of mentality is what I think this forum is about.

As for having answers in both forums.. where is the actual problem? I'm confused. More resources for everyone is a good thing. Both sites don't share every single piece of information. You will find something new on either site and you can bounce between them. Sometimes you might ask a question on one site and not receive a reply. So if there was only one site, you're stuffed. Also, if something happens to one of the sites, people can jump on the other one for a browse. I don't see the harm.

People stay here because we're a friendly bunch and are willing to help. We have a wide age range here and I think that simply strengthens this site. I haven't see one bad post on this forum yet (apart from a few spammers, but AB fixed them good and proper.) Everyone tries to be constructive instead of flaming someone for their lack on knowledge.

The best part about this site, people meeting each other and having a good time. We've had a couple of forum meets in Vic so far and I'm sure there have been or will be some in other states. We are planning a big forum meet up in a yer or two which we hope many members will rally for and come along. This is the kind of community we seek to build here and I believe it's coming along nicely.

You will always have people who are one-eyed. Look at Collingwood supporters lol! People will either come and stick around, or they'll leave. We have people signing up everyday and many of them stay and become an active member. What AB has done with this forum is truly remarkable in my opinion. I was on Patrol 4x4 for quite a while and I never felt as comfortable there as I do here. The site has grown pretty big in a relatively small time frame which goes to show you that there was/is plenty of room for 2 patrol sites.

Lastly, there is far more to this site than "Tech". People come for the Tech but stay for the "Chit-chat" too.

Cheers