Mince, of course no company would sink 100 million into just screwing over a few pilots. But if the rumour is true, no way will they use east coast crews on this, other than for the obvious start-up check and training. Driving down aircrew (not just pilots) costs is very much part of the QF game plan. Lemel's excellent analysis on their other reasons for interest in Network is probably very close to the mark. Having that ramp space is a very big factor.
Adding RPT to a hi-cap AOC is not difficult if the basic company structure is sound. If not, I guess that's where some of the 100 mill will go.