One reason for the 'positive spin' in every article (It annoys me too and is the main reason why don't subscribe to any australian aviation mags) is access.
If GT was to write an article that was highly critical of Qantas do you think they would invite him back next time they introduced a new aircraft type or product? No, they only want positive images of their brand in the news.
A journo who didn't tow the line would soon be on the outer- no invites, no press releases, no access and probably no job.
This is the reason why we only hear the fluffy stories of Aussie Soldiers doing good (never bad) in the 'ghan and why Qantas trimming staff and aircraft, without criticism, is the way AJ is returning the airline to "winning form".