Skywards redemptions on Virgin Blue

[Flashback]

I noticed this just then, when on the Citibank website; but have now found an existing thread:
http://www.frequentflyer.com.au/community/citibank-rewards-program/emirates-citi-platinum-15287.html

Anyway, of interest is the following:

Freedom to redeem Skywards Miles on flights with Emirates and their partner airlines, including domestic flights with Virgin Blue starting 1st December 2008

 

[beardoc]

The interesting thing here will be the rate for redemptions - I'm about to book flights for a friend on Emirates, with the aim of running up Velocity points (0.5 points per mile in discount economy) which will give her an added bonus flight in Australia. (just under 11,000 Velocity points - enough for a one way SYD-BNE or SYD-MEL not including taxes)

But if she was to keep the points in Skywards and redeem for a flight directly, I wonder if I'll be able to get a better deal on that Virgin Blue flight.

 

[dajop]

Full details of the Skywards/Virgin Blue partnership can be found here.

Skywards award rates on Virgin Blue similar to QF award rates with some exceptions.

 

[drron]

And a glaring anomaly in their geography-
Brisbane & South QueenslandBrisbane, Gold Coast, Hervey Bay
North QueenslandCairns, Maroochydore, Rockhampton, Mackay, Whitsunday Coast

 

[Mal]

Does anyone know how much $$ in taxes/charges will apply for these redemptions? Does Emirates apply Fuel Surcharges on partner awards?

 

[moa999]

Anyone got any further thoughts on this.

About to book a Syd-Christchurch trip on DJ/EK and wondering which program I should post to.
Minimal points and no status in both