I would guess that ops' reference to 8-day trips is probably to do with the LGW-TOB/GRA schedule which strts in May (I think). This will be on the 747-200, so you won't be doing that! Australia has been on and off for years. I'm not holding my breath. A340 now has one schedule out of LGW (PHC), but all pilots (744 and 340) are based at LHR. It's up to you which airport you park at; I have passes for both.