Paul Jacob withdraws from Townsville mayoral race, putting family first

A former Townsville City Councillor has made the difficult decision to withdraw from the city’s mayoral race after a heartbreaking turn of events. See what prompted his decision.

Former councillor Paul Jacob has ended his campaign to become the next mayor of Townsville. Picture: Evan Morgan

Putting family first, former-Townsville City Councillor Paul Jacob has abruptly pulled the pin on his campaign to become the city’s next mayor.

Less than a month ago, Mr Jacob officially declared his intention for the mayor of Townsville in the March 2024 local government election, and to recruit like-minded ratepayers to his team.

Mr Jacob revealed on Tuesday morning that he needed to be at home to support his wife of 50 years, Christine, who was experiencing health troubles.

“Unfortunately, my wife’s had a heart condition for over a year now. It’s put her in hospital twice, but she’s just gotten over Covid,” Mr Jacob said.

“She’s a nurse at the hospital and I’m really concerned for her welfare.

“I’ve got to dedicate most of my time to looking after my wife. She’s fine now, but things can change at any time, unfortunately.”

Paul Jacob had intended to campaign on a platform of ‘transparency and accountability’. Picture: Evan Morgan

Mr Jacob said running for mayor would be a full time job over the next year, something he couldn’t do when his “number one priority” was looking after his wife.

He intended to continue chipping away in the background on his passion projects, including writing letters to the editor, and gathering together a Townsville Community and Ratepayers group to discuss council issues.

“I’ve still got great concern for council. I’ve spoken to quite a few people about getting together and just discussing ratepayer issues in Townsville,” Mr Jacob said.

“It’s just an ongoing thing. There’s about four or five people that I’ve spoken to, and I’m still trying to get us together to have that meeting.

“But this (health issue) has put a minor complication in that for the time being.”

Townsville Mayor Jenny Hill confirmed in February that she was throwing her hat into the ring in the quest for a fourth term at the helm of the city.

No other challengers have stepped forward but councillor Fran O’Callaghan, who was in the midst of a cancer battle, said she was considering a mayoral tilt.

Originally published as Paul Jacob withdraws from Townsville mayoral race, putting family first