Don't expect support-contract-like behaviour from a list - remember they're volunteers, there's no "SLA" and they don't work for you.
Ah, the old "bad behavior exists, therefore your example must be of the bad behavior"!
No.
I've (repeatedly) seen people go on to these lists, ask a polite question, and receive STFU NEWB or analogue response very quickly.
Generally, the more difficult the question the more likely it is to receive this response.
Ever wonder why Stack Overflow is so popular? Volunteers there get imaginary internet karma points and so have incentive to answer questions.
You usually get a better answer at Stack Overflow than from the official lists.
But few businesses want to rely on a software plan that begins "And if there's a problem, we know this INTERNET FORUM..."
Investors will panic and flee the room, with good reason.