No worries......I'm guessing that was the nationals that was prodominately rained out in November 2011 in Victoria, and most likely you haven't raced the car since, given where you live. So perhap under some true race/track conditions these pads will come to life.

As for the stripping issue I would suggest with some confidence and evidence that it is limited to a few kits only, with the vast majority running without issues.

I would also suggest with some confidence and evidence that Mugen are more than happy to assist drivers with resolving any issues if your kit is not as expected.