There is value in being a LongHaul International Airline Pilot, and only Qantas Mainline gives you the Choice (i know Jetstar have 787’s but to get there is virtually impossible). I know many will say they don’t care, but they are also the ones that say they will get experience and then go to emirates/Qatar etc………
If you don’t want to be a SO, you can still go to QF, clench your teeth and enjoy the experience until you can go to SH and be home every night. Then, in 15 years when the kids couldn’t give a rats if you’re there or not anymore, you can go to LH and enjoy the perks of that lifestyle. With the other outfits, you can’t. Pretty simple. Best of luck.