Could an admin please do one of the following:
a) Enable the search function for people who haven't signed into the forums, or
b) Modify the sticky locked post to advise visitors that they must register and log in prior to using it?

Option a) would be preferable option of the two, as it would lessen newcomers from feeling that they "might as well" make a post about their issue since they had to create an account.

However, option b) is a good substitute, as those that are new won't necessarily notice the presence of the Search function upon logging in.