Guys,

so my bet is now on a AA award seat opening up 2-3 days before departure and then going SYD-LAX-SFO.
Of course I will also try to "request" once again the direct flight (QF73) about a week before the anticipated flight.
I am "hedged" with a paid but cancelable booking on another carrier in Y - but hope to catch one award seat.

Thanks for your insights and help - really appreciated and once more the proof of a great community and a great forum here at FT.