Two things that come to my mind are:

1. Why wouldn't BA buy it and operate LHR-SYD direct? They already have the 777 in their fleet and would kit it out in the standard 4 class config or 3 class (no Y). QF could then code share on the daily flights which would be in addition to the QF A380 services. Seems to me like a bit of a BA thing to do.

2. QF could use such a plane on other routes. SYD- Frankfurt, SYD- Zurich, SYD/MEL to Dallas or perhaps SYD-JFK.

Apparently AA *really* want QF to start flying into Dallas instead of adding new LAX services.

SYD- Frankfurt has been doing very well for QF as of late and SYD- Zurich would give QF a one stop to anywhere in Europe via new OW partner elect Swiss, with far less back tracking and the ability to avoid LHR.

As for the hubbing thing in SIN, unless QF buy an Asian airline to hub into what is the point? I know as a PAX I would rather one stop in Australia than have a pointless stop in SIN. If someone else is going to offer a non stop, I will take it.

Having just done SYD to ZRH via all places with an airport and a Qantas Club (HKG-BKG-HEL) the whole transit thing has grown very tired.

anyway, just my 5c worth (or should I say 3pence?)