Most Airlines including Qantas have introduced new restrictions on Fishing equipment.
Fishing Equipment
To be accepted for carriage, they must be protected in a PVC cylinder with screw ends, which can be obtained from a local fishing store, or in PVC plumbing or electrical tubing. Fishing rods must not be strapped to suitcases and the length can not exceed 277cm (109in) on Qantas operated services.
If the fishing equipment and your checked baggage exceed your checked baggage allowance, airport excess baggage rates apply. For example, if your baggage allowance is one piece and you are travelling with a bag and a fishing rod, this will amount to two pieces and you will need to pay for the additional piece.
I Think you will find your 2 piece 8'6'' popping rod will be to long to go as checked baggage and will have to be sent cargo.