Cloud Nine, I like your theory. I am on the Melbourne list for Qantas recruitment not MAM. I marked on the application I was happy with longhaul flying. I was talking to a techie friend today and he was saying a few more big aircraft, I think 747 were on there way, as well as some 737. Maybe a qantas employee could confirm that. It so yes long haul will need crew. If they don't recruit off shore.
Keep posting and we will see some pattern I am sure.