Ipswich's planning and development committee chairman Andrew Antoniolli is leading the count in Saturday's byelection to choose the city's newest mayor to replace Paul Pisasale.

While his main rival and acting mayor Paul Tully made a strong comeback, Cr Antoniolli finished the night 3646 votes in front. Seventy-five per cent of the vote had been counted.

Strong contender Cr Andrew Antoniolli and wife Karina vote early on Saturday. Credit:Alli Grant

The vote for a new mayor is being held because Mr Pisasale resigned on June 6 and faces charges including extortion.

As voting closed for the night to choose the city's new mayor, Cr Antoniolli, who has 34.72 per cent of the vote, is still leading in the byelection.