Finished CPL in Sept 1991. Did it modular (although, there was no other real choice in Australia when I started. The QF scheme started afterwards).
No jobs because of the Dispute.
Completed an instructor rating in 1992 and got part time work immediately. (At the school where I did the CPL). (300 hours)
Headed "north" to the Kimberley in February 1994. Got a full time job flying in June 1994.
Which lead to a twin job in 1996 (1600 hours) which lead to a turboprop job (3300 hours) in 1999 and another in 2000. (4300 hours)
Then left Australia in 2001.
Completed conversion of ATPL in 2002 which lead to a turboprop job in 2002. (4500 hours)
Got a jet job (finally) in 2005. (5100 hours)
Command 4 years ago. (6100 hours)
There are easier ways, but the trip was well worth the ride.
There are many who dismiss single engine bush flying, I drew a lot on that experience during the command upgrade sim checks.