Also leaving bags behind. Another ill conceived plan by those that don't understand performance verse obstacle gradients for a twin engine aircraft limited by second segment capability at relatively high density altitude airfield with a destination that is notorious for extended traffic delays. In other words not enough grunt!
The 717 is well capable of doing the job. e.g. they depart Alice all year around with temps well above Canberra's, same or higher elevation, fly 1100nm with holding fuel for weather and traffic as well as 100kt headwinds at times, its not an aircraft issue.
If you limit your landcruiser to the same horsepower as a suzuki swift in an attempt to conserve fuel and costs, you probably won't tow much of a boat. In other words go back to Qlink management and ask why?
The aircraft is capable of lifting 125 pax bags + freight and hold for hrs out of Canberra.
I thought those big 21K engines would do the job
They would, and I suspect after a couple of stops at Willi sone one might rethink their decision.