Cairns to Atherton

The Palmerston highway would be the easiest on you and your vehicle.

You can go the Kuranda way.Check your rear vision mirrors and use the low lanes. The upgrades have made it easier and hopefully you dont have a heavy van being towed by a diminuative vehicle which causes much angst to fellow road users. Not steep, just winds a lt and really it will only take you about 1/2 hour over the worst of it. Roadworks will hold you up near Koah and further to Mareeba. Good luck.

Don't even think of taking the Gillies Highway.

The Gillies is by far the shortest. Just take your time and respect those behind, watch the temp gauge and all is well. I found take one gear lower whilst a bit slower much easier on motor.
Good practise for Tassie.

Neil