Yes, I can believe that Clare.
Back in de days, (late '67) I worked for a well known aero club at Archerfield, and they had a couple of FK-27 FO's working 'honorary'.....
Something about getting 'in command' hours if I recall.....
Poor ole muggins like moi was to be 'stood aside' when these guys were 'on duty', as I was paid by the flying hour plus a small retainer, and said 'gentlemen' were 'FREE'.......
That's when I went 'West'......
No cheers then.....nope ....none at all...
So, in reality, not much change, is there..??