55 days to go.
From the Gold Coast, there's good news and bad news. The good news is the $5/day freeplay is back (if I book a room with them). The bad news is for the relevant period, it's not a comp, it's $19/night weekdays for a non-renovated room, $29 for a renovated room. Plus their $3/night Echelon Holding Pattern Tax. So, reluctantly, I have decided to pass on their generosity.
So for 11/9 and 11/10, I have chosen the Imperial Palace. I hear some of you snickering, but I stayed there before and thought it was OK. Besides, it's $20 a night - $45 total for the two days with taxes - which gives me extra bankroll to do more foolish things. This, however, may not be the final answer on where I stay. Watch this space for more details. Maybe.