Roger, that's the current policy now anyway so I don't think that will change the loads significantly. The routes up for tender that Qantas would be looking at for the Q400's (ABA & ESP) wouldn't be classed as mining Centres so the fly-in/out charters are minimal anyway. GEL is becoming more mining orientated now with the mid-west iron ore but rumours are it will become a jet route anyway.
However, increased competition and the subsequent air war would more than likely increase the loads to the ports.
Did anyone think that QF link ordered these additional 400's to replace their 300's on eastern states routes? We may then see some 300's in Perth operated by Cobham for Qlink. Cobham already operate 300's and have their association with Qlink so the transition would be simple.