hey Futureflier as far as I know they will let you know when they are recruiting for Syd because it is your first preference But will only email you for them. but who really knows how the recruiting system works!!
When you apply to specific bases you don't have to fill out a whole new application, just a couple of questions and pay a fee, so your general application is still used in this process.- does that make sense?
My only advice is to check the website often and you never know what might turn up-I ended up applying for Newcastle!
good luck!