Only 2 years 6 months for first job.
Today I got word that I will start training next week for my first flying job. It's only casual at first and doesn't pay much but it is a flying job.
I must have made a a few hunderd phone calls and about as many emails and even a trip up north (which was fruitless). But it paid off and now I feel that all the time, money and effort may be worth it after all. To everyone else out there don't give up, you will succeed eventually.
I didn't pay for ICUS or 206 time or anything else I was asked to do by some employers.
I will say that companies seem more willing to speak to me now than they did 12 months ago so I think the job scene is starting to improve.
Good luck to everyone still looking and be persistent.