As mentioned OQB out of action due to hitting some severe turbulence. Sunday and Wednesday flights subbed for 787 (Sunday being a double 787) and retimed to morning departure.
Also additional QF17 added for Thursday to manage overflow.
There should be no reason why if one person from a travel party does not check in the rest are denied boarding. Life happens. Which is why when you check in you have an option to select the pax to check in. Don’t think you should have problems.
Some crew don’t notice the difference (the side green light position when doing cabin final check). But some do - I got told a couple of times to put it back upright.
OT: I was one of those people in my teens. But not anymore, now love cilantro/coriander. So unless our genes alter as we get older, I am not sure I am buying the gene theory. But an interesting fact…
I suggest you call and ask again, or submit another request. Hint that you are aware of other members with 31 Aug anniversary who got the gifted SC expiration reversed.
I have seen the lounge at standing room only, quite a few times, including one a few weeks ago on QF11. Always good to have a drink there with my partner as we both prefer window seats otherwise.
OP was travelling business, so business /premium check-in is always manned and at that time of the day usually no line. I am surprised OP didn’t go there.