Just as an extra thought, the 777-200s that EK are about to phase out in Dubai, would make excellent transcontinental aircraft for the Australian Coast to Coast network. And they owe nothing. Configured in a two class cabin, with Emirates on board service standards and airport lounges, it would make a killer product.
The 77Es are not an excellent product for trans-continental. They are too heavy, witness the number of Asian airlines who have ditched their 777s for A330s for regional operations. The A332s are the better option and EK have plenty of them too but like the 77Es, they need a major refurb.