Looking at a map, the distances seem roughly equivalent.
But the Hong Kong to London Flight was west to east while a SYD-LHR flight is east to west. At certain times of the years, the head winds going east to west can greatly decrease range.
And do what else? The zoo in the winter? The art exhibits? The bowling allies? The bars? Yea, right.
I have been to two Super Bowls and partied in 2 more cities where I couldn't get tickets when I was was working and making some good money.
Not this time.