Does QLink have the required process in place to eventually upgrade these trainees to command positions?
Fairly sure they had that in place before Rex did. They can even do ATPL check rides now.
A 150 CPL pilot with IR and ATPL theory could start at QLink and in 5 years be in the left seat, likely less if they try hard to find hours (not hard up North). QLinks training department is good at what they do, and most have the experience of training the previous generations of trainees.
I really really really hope there is no maximum hour limit. I'm also keen to here from any ex cadets or current insiders that might have an answer to that.
Cadets or Trainees? QLink doesn't have a Cadet program, it ran a babysitting program for Qantas's Cadets for about 8+ years.
Previous trainees have been dropped into lower courses than their hrs would have suggested. So yes it has been possible to be a trainee when you were close to Direct Entry, or 'in-between' the 2 options.