Dan, SAU has always been welcoming of other import owners, I can't see that changing with the SAUWA club, but obviously our emphasis will be more towards Skylines.
You need a leak-down kit, most major mechanics will have one, it pressurises the cylinder and looks at how much air flows past the piston, provides a much better indication of ring-land/piston damage. Should be about $50-70.
Yes there will be a membership fee, how much has yet to be decided, but it will filter out the people who are just forum users from those who want to actively participate in club activities:D