I would still consider joining QF if it was available, it is one of the only airlines in OZ with a commutable roster that would allow me to move out of Sydney and back into a regional town. If I was to get bored of sitting in the back I could always hire a C172 on my days off and go for a Jolly. As for the pay, an SO with Qantas makes more than I do now as a Regional Captain and that's more than enough to live comfortably in the country.