Let's be really clear about this thread. It's the usual suspect QF bashing.
For someone who won't touch QF with a stick, they have an awful lot to say about the airline.
Notwithstanding some of the issues raised by other members, who are 100% correct, this is just another opportunity to bash. There is an almost purposely vague story so that no one can give a factual response or explanation. It has become all assumptions. I suspect any full fare passenger would have shown, even without kicking off, disappointment to the crew (and rightfully so), but they fact they just up'ed and moved is already showing red flags. I've been flying a long long time, and I guarantee, even the most friendly, understanding passenger in the world, would not go "Oh, I've been downgraded, oh well, I'll move, I'd hate to cause a delay". NOT HAPPENING. And certainly not in Australia - we ain't shy to speak up if it doesn't pass the pub test.
Then we have assumptions like QF staff are entitled. I suspect the Pilot, if we go down that path it was a pilot, was probably at the gate waiting to see what was happening and just got a boarding pass (because you can't get past the gate without one). They would have been none the wiser as to what was happening onboard. They might have said oh don't worry, if they actually knew, but as usual, we are lumped into being entitled.
To the OP - we get it, YOU HATE QANTAS. Move along.