SYD-DRW distance (in AM) is 1,962nm. Tu-104V's range is 1,923nm. Not enough to go the distance.
Convair 440's range (with PW R-2800-CB17 engines) is 2,088nm. That was enough... but you got rid of it. :shock:
Be warned: if you try to buy another 440 to cover that route, make sure you don't get the one with "Pratt & Whitney R-2800-CB16" engines, as this version can only go up to 1,928nm.