jetbest
yeah buddy, missing important occasions and home family time is why airline pilots, especially longhaulers earn good bucks generally.
We all miss out on the things you mention - the argument is why a QF pilot thinks he needs to be paid more than a singair/thai/china/NZ pilot to suffer the same lifestyle problems.
If it sucks being away from home, will more money really help. And if more money aint forthcoming, then aint market forces speaking to you?