Multiple sources (some of them reputable, some of them not) suggesting that the recruiting may start again towards the end of this year. Those who have done the interviewing in the past are being sounded out as to their availability/ willingness to be involved for mid to late this year. Of course, it could be to just update the hold file for intake to start next year.
You can pick up a F/O 737 Perth base within a few years of being in. Many are bypassing that. 737 SYD takes a while longer. There are certainly some who prefer the LH award but given there's been no movement on the 767 for 18 months and most A330 F/O slots in that time have gone to conversions rather than upgrades it's a bit hard to say that many are holding out for the A330.
Lifestyle is a personal taste, visiting exotic places vs home most nights. Jetlagged vs waking up at normal hours feeling fine.
Normal hours on shorthaul routes? I've not many many who 'feel fine' with multiple 0500-0700 sign ons!
