Aussie Bob, for what it's worth where I learnt to fly and am still a flying member of the aero club students are taught the importance of brevity on the airwaves and only making necessary calls. There is also a note in ERSA reminding visitors of this and that the only recommended call is when turning base.
I'm not sure if (as a flying school) we are unusual in this regard or even 'old school' but, like you, I have observed many, many pilots both 'at home' and at other airfields around the traps blathering on. Particularly RAA and glider pilots!
Also, I can't help but think that many younger pilots (like myself) are watching plenty of flying videos on YouTube from American pilots. Most yanks seem to love giving a call for ever leg of the circuit it would seem, and I wonder if people are watching this and thinking this is the best way to do things.