I taught myself both planes and Choppers and didn't destroy that much but I am sure that I would have destroyed a lot less if I had used modern techniques to learn (Like instructors and buddy boxes). I guess that I didn't learn too good because after 25 years of flying RC (Well there was a couple of very extended breaks in between) I still crash the darn things occassionally

I personally find large choppers easier to fly than small planes and large planes easier to fly than small choppers but they all still have "Imperfect landings" occassionally. Anyone can teach themselves anything - it's just how efficient the learning is that makes the difference.

I would think that near Brissy there would be a few clubs - try the MAAA website for Qld links to clubs near to you.

The nose dive in Miamizfinests report sounds like a classic stall to me something that may or may not have happened with an experienced assistant (Windy conditions?).