As a captain at Jetstar I'm certainly astounded at how many FO's have expressed an interest in going to Qantas. The young twenty something cadets, to some degree I can understand but it seems everyone I fly with is talking about at least putting in an application. Can't help but think many will not display the drive that will be expected at the interview given the step back in role.
I guess the age of the guys in the left seat at Jetstar is in no small part a factor on top of the slow down in expansion. Sort of a double edged sword. I feel pretty lucky to have got in to Jetstar when I did.
As for Qantas not hiring guys from Qlink around 07/08, I was there and there were plenty of guys that I used to work with that got the nod at that time.
Great news Qantas is hiring again and I wish all those who get in great success. Even for those that do not get in, if there is further demand for skilled pilots within our industry then we all benefit come EBA negotiation time.