The MEL basing for S/Os stopped several months ago. All current S/Os are (and I assume all new TSOs will be) based in SYD. Commuting's a no-brainer apparently.
Commuting is not a "no-brainer". As a junior SO it can very expensive and very difficult. Rumored figures for new hires to the A330 are around 40. They have already started 15 or so. Assuming no cadets (there seniority outstrips everyones), then if you join in about 2 or 3 courses you will only be 15-20 from the bottom. This is best case. At 15 from the bottom you will be a "Rotator", will not be able to choose your trips and will cop a standby here and there. It will not be easy commuting for the first year or two.
I have a start date and correspondence for the 21st of sep. Everyone on here is talking about the next course being the 24th of sep. Just curious to know how many others have a start on the 21st as well? or is the first day, a friday more a meet and great and the offical duties start on the 24th?
If the last course is anything to go by, those that started Friday went to the A330, those that started Monday went to the 400. The 744 is the better plane for pay and conditions, it is rumored that the company starts the A330 TSO's a day or two earlier to give them seniority on the 744 guys - think of it as a consolation prize! Your first day includes getting your pass, uniform and books. You normally knock off by 11am.