Annastacia Palaszczuk might have won three elections in Queensland, securing her position as a Labor legend, but deep down she knew that her time was up.

Plagued by issues that have haunted her nine-year-old government, including the health crisis, youth crime and integrity issues, Palaszczuk’s resignation is confirmation a fourth term would have been a bridge too far – even for a leader who believes she has a special connection with Queenslanders.