forum software I currently use has within the category area (not the main topics) for G-Forum it would be with the time / date / right arrow (to last post) and extra bit of information -- the last poster's name.
So, yes, the last poster in the forum "home" page.
I wonder though if this forum still is a little rough on remembering where you've been? Like with wwwthreads if you back click to the main topic areas it knew that you had clicked through on some links (ie, in the links area).
Also, If I don't use the forrum for an hour or so it forgets that I'm still logged, on top of, it doesn't remember that I was logged in if I disconnect and reconnect to the net.
I really don't like cookies but saving myself from loggin in for the "rest of the year" would be nice.
openoffice + gimp + sketch ...