| I also don't use the group webpage as it is easier to just look at new emails in inbox. Also phone beeps notification when received. I would however visit a proper forum such as used in SA ,  boatdesign etc. They are easier to visualise the threads and posters. The extra features of profiles, points scored by user and so on add a bit of fun to joining.

Doug, please look at this link. Its kinda boring and plain, but if you imagine it as a boat forum, I think it has all those things you suggested were fun.

https://lists.mailman3.org/archives/

This one is extra boring, as they have set it to no pictures at all, but I am told it can host pictures and videos just fine.

Please let me know what you think, compared to SA and its brethren.