Thanks for your comments, Leche and Phillrow.
The poll question received 268 responses which were divided almost 50%-50%. (It has now been replaced.) I guess part of the answer might depend on who you consider to be "beginners" - that in itself could be a poll question!
I am sorry, Leche, that the question upset you or made you feel unwelcome. Perhaps I should give you some context. It arose in response to conversations both here on the Forum, and face-to-face at milongas, regarding the poor floorcraft observed at many milongas, as well as the observation that practicas seem to be scorned by the Sydney dance community. Just look how few practicas are listed on the calendar, compared to milongas - and the milongas are almost invariably better attended.
So, to everyone out there, I ask: Why is that? Do dancers not want to improve? Or do they think that the milonga floor is the place to work on their tango? What's your understanding of the purpose of and the difference between the two types of event?
On a personal note, I hugely appreciated the generosity of more experienced leaders who offered to dance with me when I was starting out, and I do try to repay it in kind. I am more than happy to dance with a leader who only knows how to walk forward and do a side step, so long as it's done with the music and with the line of dance. Only practice will create improvement. However when leaders are still coming to grips with basic steps, floorcraft and musicality can be neglected, which can make it unpleasant and even dangerous not only for them and their partner, but also for other dancers on the floor. My level of leading falls into this category - I am definitely an abject beginner at leading - so I don't try it at milongas, for everyone's sake! What I need is to practise more, whether privately or at practicas.
Phillrow mentioned aiming to dance at milongas within 3-6 months of starting tango, and to me that sounds like a sensible goal for most regular class attendees. Till you're ready, by all means come to milongas; you will be welcomed! I'd encourage everyone to come along, to get to know people, and learn by watching, absorbing the feel, and talking to people about tango.
Rachel