Tim Nicholls has emerged from the Liberal National Party spill as the new Queensland Opposition Leader.

Mr Nicholls defeated Lawrence Springborg 22-19 in the second round of votes, LNP whip Ian Rickuss said outside the partyroom meeting, which was called by outgoing opposition leader Mr Springborg to end months of speculation.

Tim Mander was eliminated in the first round with 10 votes.

• Shaky start to Turnbull’s campaign
• No bail for “teen terror plotter”
• Final Trump challenger exits

Mr Rickuss said the majority was big enough to put leadership rumblings to bed.

“It shows the quality of the candidates running, we had three exceptional candidates, and they will really be able to hold the ALP to account now,” he said.

“It is always difficult in these situations, you are voting against friends, or for friends.”

Nanango MP Deb Frecklington was elected unopposed as deputy leader, with John-Paul Langbroek stepping down.