Zoomy,
I'm not in the know but I'd hazard a guess at the following (based on previous posts from others):-
"cadets" are cheaper to employ than experienced people like you;
those cadets are likely to be around longer unless they want to pay out their bond;
it appears as though there is actually a surplus of FOs anyway;
it appears as though REX wants to establish a flying training school for trainees from overseas; no requirement for experienced aircrew.
Also, bear in mind that some of us with stuff all experience and a willingness to learn (and were willing to pay for the privelege too) have been completely ignored. Don't feel bad about it. I think of it as a blessing in disguise.
I could be completely wrong about all of that but I will watch to see how it all pans out. Good luck with it all.
Cheers,
Cn