I am in the same postion as you Tiram. I got my PPL last year and currently have 65 hours. I also have a degree in Aeronautical engineering.
I got through to the Group Stages on their last scheme and at that point I only had 2 hours flying. After not getting any further I deccided it was about time I got my PPL thinking it would be an advantage.
It seems that anything over 45hrs is too much no matter what other qualifications you have.
It is quite annoying but I guess thats life and Airline Appointments were probably told a max number of flying hours to look for and if the candidate is over they are not through. I guess you just have to pick yourself up and carry on trying!
The best of luck to all of you have got through.
Aerfungus