Overbank, the best source of info is the web site and ex RAAF mates here in the sand. Similar background to you and the experience has been good for me.
Muttley, I can only agree with your thoughts ref Sinbad. Quite why someone not in EK employment feels the need to comment, in detail and incorrectly, on T&Cs is beyond me.
However, as with many things here the law is not always transparent. The law is not the same for visitors and residents and as a resident you do require a licence to drink. This has been tested by many EK crew. Just because they donīt strictly enforce the law doesnīt mean they will not if you give them a reason.... Given that the licence now costs nothing, what`s the issue.