Al E Vater is correct, it was common practice with both TAA and Ansett, but done with humour and some sledging, and was usually was due to the "Great Australian Air Race" and was part of a normal days flying, and anybody who has seen a AN aircraft pushing back and actually taxing with his steps still retracting (like a giant indicator) will know what I mean, anything to get the nod first. Don't believe it is still going on. Surely.