United is part of the Star Alliance. But most airlines in the US have employee travel agreements with airlines that are partners in the other "alliances" (oneworld, skyteam). I had no idea that QF employees do not get a reciprocal benefit on United? Why would they let our people travel on their planes unless they were getting something in return?
Is Virgin Blue a member of any of these partnerships?
Back to the original topic, I know Delta has expressed interest over the years in a trans-pacific route. Perhaps the newly merged DL/NW will do something about it.