Mr Joyce didn't come across as being all that likeable in the interview, IMHO.
The guy who was representing the pilots (I forget his name) came across as a far more straightforward individual, and the points he made were quite valid.
I'm a self-confessed union hater - not least because I dislike the way unions and their officials behave, and working in the transport industry, there are very few situations in which I personally believe a strike is the answer. Admittedly though, if I ever became unhappy with my pay or conditions I'd talk with my feet and find an employer that met my expectations better.. I'd never participate in a strike, regardless of the reason/s for striking.
This is one of the few instances where I can understand the strike action - the staff have genuine concerns that need to be addressed. Sure, everyone understands the old profitability versus warm fuzzies argument, but surely Qantas' Aussie image is large part of the profitability of the whole brand? I'll admit that knowing there's an experienced Aussie pilot at the controls is part of what leads me to choose Qantas time and time again (and even on Cathay I'm always happy to hear an Australian accent over the PA from the coughpit). Perhaps it's irrational, but I'm sure I'm not alone in this sentiment. I think it might be time for a compromise - for the sake of the staff, the customers and the brand.
Could some one please explain how 2 free Y+ tickets per year and other perks will give pilots job security? 
