Always your mum - Mother's Day 2026

Mother’s Day doesn't always look like the same experience for everyone.

While many will spend the day celebrating with their children, for families with a missing loved one, it can be a painful reminder of absence, of an empty seat at the table, a call that hasn’t come, and a love that continues without answers.

As part of our “Always Your Mum” campaign, we reached out to Liza, the mum of Jacob Partridge, and asked her a few questions about who her son is, beyond a photo, beyond a headline, and beyond the word “missing.”

This is Jacob, in his mum’s words:

“Who is Jacob, what does he love, and what are some of the things that make him uniquely him?

Independent, resourceful, and full of heart, Jacob is known for a kind and caring nature with a thoughtful, level headed approach to life. With a cheeky grin and an easy-going vibe, he's super friendly, loves a good chat with anyone, and has a soft spot for animals. Always approachable and positive, Jacob brings warmth, curiosity, and good energy wherever he goes.

Jacob is all about the outdoors and a life well lived. He loves music festivals, camping under the stars, and spending as much time outside as possible. From motorbike rides through the bush to exploring new places, he’s always chasing the next adventure. Jacob is focussed and determined with his fitness and personal health, an interest he shares with his younger brother. Jacob also loves his car and takes real pride in it, looking after his things meticulously and treating what he owns with care and respect.

Do you have any favourite memories of being Jacob’s mum, or stories you would like to share?

Jacob found independence so early in life — around 19 months old — when his brother and best friend, Ben, was born. From that moment on, Jacob never wanted attention or fuss, never wanted to be a burden or cause a moment of trouble. Even as a toddler, Jacob amazed me every single day. Milestones were met almost before I had time to catch my breath, as if Jacob was quietly saying, “I’ve got this.” Everything felt easy, natural, and calm.

Watching that quiet strength and self confidence grow, I kept waiting for the hard stages — the tantrums, the testing years — but they never came. No terrible twos or threes, no difficult phases. Just a small person with a strong sense of self, determined to do everything independently.

Bedtime stories were a favourite. When he began to learn to read, Jacob reached for Dr Seuss — even though it was tricky for a kindergarten child, he would sit down and give it a go anyway. He would sound out the first page or so before I would take over. One of our favourites and one that summed up Jacob's easy independent attitude was Oh! The places you'll go!: 
"Today is your day
You're off to Great Places!
You're off and away!
You have brains in your head.
You have feet in your shoes.
You can steer yourself
any direction you choose.
You're on your own. And you know what you know.
And YOU are the guy who'll decide where to go."

(Seuss, Dr. (1990). Oh, the places you'll go!. New York, NY: Random House.)

The poem is still fitting for me. I feel I'm in the waiting stage:
"Everyone is just waiting.
Waiting for the fish to bite
or waiting for the wind to fly a kite
or waiting around for Friday night
or waiting, perhaps, for their Uncle Jake 😢
or a pot to boil, or a Better Break"

Are there any other words you would like to share?

Jacob, I miss you every day. Not a day goes by without you in my thoughts. I love you to the moon and back, infinity times over, with a heart that is shattered and aching — but loving you just as fiercely as ever.”

Jacob is deeply loved. He is missed every single day. And no matter how much time passes, his mum is, and always will be, his mum.

This Mother’s Day, we honour mothers who are waiting, hoping, and loving without falter.

With heartfelt thanks to Jacob’s loved ones for trusting us with their words and helping us share who Jacob truly is.

You can find Jacob's profile here.

If you have information that may assist police to locate Jacob please call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.