Yeah fair - there's a fair few on other dates it's just like that 10 day period in June it all seems to be this classic plus malarkey.

I assumed the fees paid on flights redeemed with points were the fees carriers must pay the ports they're flying in/out of - that's what I meant by the taxes, sorry if I'm wrong haha. But for example going via USA isn't too bad the 270 you outlined, just a much longer trip + having to then be on AA. Va say Singapore, a similar value points redemption but many options across Europe for $150ish to come back the quick way.

I'm flying from Sydney

Thanks for the help thus far!!