Probably the wrong forum...
I must admit I find the whole seniority / bidding arrangement to be quite a unique process (I mean across industry as opposed to just within the airline biz).
I'm surprised that the unions don't take on a more paternal approach and push for a fairer bidding system.
I remember not so long ago flying SYD-NRT and there was clearly no distribution of age / experience - all the crew were mid to late 40's (I'm not ageist, just an observation, so no flying off collective handles) and there was one crew member that was so awful that my partner and I actually hoped we wouldn't have to deal with him.
He couldn't be bothered with the safety demo and it was only half completed - just clearly didn't want to be there.
On the other hand, I've only flown to NRT once so this was probably a one off, but I've flown the LAX and LHR milk run plenty of times and usually found the crew to be friendly, accommodating and willing to help. Mind you, I'm a pretty easy pax, I don't ask for anything, and I say please and thank you!
Anyway, like I say, I'm surprised that the union is not more supportive of a more equitable bidding system!