As a newbie I must say that yes, I have done a lot of lurking. Before I got the kit I searched the forums for comments on the types of equipment and reviews available. Then I did some training and now I'm looking at the marketing. (although not relishing the legwork with flyers) So it's taken me 6 mths to get up and running during which time I couldn't contribute on a professional level and didn't feel the need to post some inane comment like 'Hi there!'. So having soaked up loads of info on this forum, and others, does it make me a threat to the local established CCs? Possibly, but I doubt it - not for a couple of years , anyway. (It's OK Colin, you can keep the Oven cleaning!!) But hey, that's business. Would a paid-for forum have changed anything? Of course not. I would have paid and still mined the info. But hopefully I can contribute more in the future once experience is gained.
BTW If you think newbies are a threat now, wait till the Council/ NHS/ MOD et al start making their staff redundant - no point putting that cash in the bank at the mo'.