Clement, you are absolutely right that Cathay has better service than Qantas both in the air and on the ground. No offence but Qantas is getting to be like United an AA in terms of service, though they aren't as bad (yet) Cathay's service is 10 times better with food, and general friendlness of crew.

As for earning miles and the program in general, I am also new to it having moved to Hong Kong recently but so far I have been satisfied with the treatment I have had minus a few long drawn phone calls with the staff.