Your interpretation of s10 just isn't correct - you are still found GUILTY, it's just that the magistrate doesn't proceed to a CONVICTION. Those two are different things.
you didn't 'get off'. a s10 means that the offence has been proven, but the magistrate does not proceed to a conviction. but because of the bond, if you...
No you will not have a criminal record, as you didn't commit a criminal offense. all the court can do is acquit, or convict and vary the penalty if it sees fit.
no, you can also be disqualified from driving without going to court. and you can have a period of suspension altered by a court (but not lower than the minimum period).
Bad advice. The best OP could get is a reduced fine. The mandatory suspension period for this offence is 6 months. The magistrate cannot reduce the suspension period below this.
thats terrible mate - you seem to be approaching it in a pretty commonsense way though - your fault for leaving your car there, but you didn't deserve anything beyond a fine/towing fee.