You know my opinion. Mongoose Randonneur for what you want... a disposable, cheap bike for a one-off trans-Am trip that is well equipped for what it is; Fuji Touring, based again on value for money; then the rest because of cost that you can save for beer. Really, is $1100 for the retro look of the Surly worth it? How serious about cycle-touring are you going to be AFTER you finish this ride?
REALITY CHECK!!!
There are precious few Australians on this forum who can offer you advice. I am one...