We want to do a downwinder from Gladstone to Bowen via the islands in April on trailer sailer. Return via train. Is this too close to cyclone season? We can't do May. Alternatively what are the odds for good southerly wind in June? We have previously done 1770 to Lady Musgrave and Fitzroy Reef with no dramas. Any advice appreciated. Thanks.

Try September, there its a reason the Gladstone Race is at Easter.

How quickly do cyclones appear? They don't just appear without warning do they? It's not like you're going to be 300 miles offshore although it sounds like your trailer won't be handy.

Not really the cyclones that are problem but the ridges which can bring up to 40 knots in the squalls and these are very hard to forecast accurately ahead of time particular north of Double Island Point.
Later in the year the weather more stable up that way.

Thanks Lydia. Great info. Just trying to avoid using that dirty word (motor)

April definitely out. It seems the likelihood of wind with a Northerly component increases about 20% by August. June looking good.