The repeater hasn't gone anywhere. If you need to make a test transmission, make it once and identify when you do it. If you are unsure how well you are making the repeater, kerchunking it tells you nothing, all it tells you is that you had enough signal to at least tickle the repeater squelch. If you are really interested in knowing how well you are making the machine, ask for a signal report. Most newcomers to the hobby, and even those who have been around a while, appreciate constructive criticism.
Amateur radio is a self-policing radio service.
Unfortunately, not all newcomers have been fortunate to have an elmer show them the ropes. On the other hand, there are a lot of new licensees that sound more professional and courteous than some that have been licensed a year or more, so I can't attribute all of the operating maladies to lack of experience. It should be understood that users' transmissions are monitored by various means. If you are uncomfortable with having transmissions monitored or recorded, either audibly, digitally, or electronically, then you shouldn't use the system. It is no secret that there are monitoring systems in place, and that the control operators do pay a lot of attention to what goes on.