Thanks for your replies. As for this patch issue, I discovered that if I don't run the game directly and instead run the multiplayer server, I can download the patch there and connect. Awesome new levels by the way, especially 'mountain X'. Beautiful terrain. So yeah, that's got it working.
Still can't download black dawn however. By the way, Thanks Rypel for the heads up. that's some great news. Can't wait to see the final product. this game is already my favourite multi of all time. Hands down.