Thanks for the replies guys.
ZK-NSJ
Good "weight" idea but if stored outside could get wet and set and also "leakage" is a problem.
Critical Mach
Fuel works a little in the 717 but not enough. I've flown 83/87 as well and the foreward aux tank was ideal for ballast fuel but no such luxury in the short range 717.
Master Green
Good in principle but loading in and out would give the bag snatchers the woops plus a little too big for the aircraft I think.
Ozgrade 3
We're from the same area - I hear that you are now Ozgrade 2 - well done!! The water bottle idea is a good one but having trouble with bottles breaking lose and also leakage so trying to improve the system to make it Murphy proof. I often thought one of those roadside barriers put in empty, strapped down and filled with a big hose would work but the filling/emptying worries me a bit.
StressFree
Your idea may be the way to go and matches the IATA recommendations - what sort of material were the bags made of?? - hessian or something like that I guess.
Thanks again all - I'll let you know what we come up with and how it works.
Diesel Man
"Weather is here - wish you were beautiful"