No doubt - being relatively new to the area (3 years), I have trust issues too. I've learned a lot since rekindling my interest in shooting.
About the Crumlin comment and all that, I've met some nice people there. I'm starting up on trap sometime soon so I'm sure I'll take some ribbing from the "experts" and the million dollar gun guys. I could care less. It just gives me more motivation to kick their butt on the trap field. I'd just rather join a club a 5 minute drive from my house than one 45 minutes away.
Anybody who bashes on a newbie needs an attitude adjustment. New shooters are the only hope our shooting sports have. Get as many women as you can out there especially.