Sort of agree with you Keg, those that have been doing industry placement with QLink or Jetstar or some other job that keeps them flying should have the earliest opportunity. Unfortunately there were a number through choice decided not to continue flying, which to me shows little motivation towards the actual job, these are the cadets that shouldn't be given the earliest opportunity, they have the wrong motivation for the job, and will end up being one of those cadets that gives the rest a bad name.
Don't get me wrong, most are very capable, motivated operators. Good luck to everyone applying!, as someone else said will be nice to see some new faces around the place (...that don't have grey hair!!)