Hi Leesails. The time you choose to go north is the time most people choose to sail south. The constant southeast trades that blow from about Gladstone to Cape york ease in November-December and allow a few Northerlies to blow in. The Northerlies are usualy light and engines get a workout more than sails.
There have been seasons recently where the Northerlies didnt turn up and bashing south was the only option. This would suit you if youre sailing north.
Keep an eye on early Cyclones and be aware of boltholes to tuck into if one should appear
Smell the roses along the way, There are many.