I just subscribed to the newsletter a few weeks ago and found that I have exactly the same gripes as you. Now when I see the newsletter I tend to delete it without reading, but if it was a little easier to read I'm sure I would.
I found your blog through entrecard and have been reading for a week or so. I live up in in Yeppoon, QLD. I hope you can drop in there on your drive up the east coast, as it is a very nice place :)