Veteran Broadcaster Reverend Jay Bacik Dies at 82

Veteran radio presenter Reverend Jay Bacik died on Friday, aged 82.

Reverend Bacik was widely known for his years behind the microphone on 2GB and 2CH in the 90s and early 2000s, in addition to his religious ministry and community work.

Across years of presenting, he developed a reputation as a warm, energetic and often humorous broadcaster. 

His death was confirmed by  Opposition Leader Kellie Sloane on Wednesday.

Sloane told 2GB host  that she was deeply saddened by the news.

'He was a larger-than-life character. He would bring people into a cause with great passion and he was impossible to say no to,' Sloane began.

She added Reverend Bacik was renowned for his 'cheeky sense of humour' and that she would fondly remember his 'absolute passion and care for people.' 

Over his long radio career, Reverend Bacik frequently filled in for fellow broadcaster Reverend Bill Crews, becoming a trusted voice for listeners and a regular stand-in on air.

His long-time radio colleague Reverend Crews also paid tribute, reflecting on both his professionalism on air and Bacik's generosity behind the scenes.

Reverend Bacik was a regular fill-in host across 2GB and 2CH, where he and Reverend Crews shared duties speaking to listeners about faith, life and community issues. 

Crews said Reverend Bacik would often encourage him to take time off and offered to guest host his radio program in the interim.

'He would ring me up and say, "when are you going next? Take time off",' he said.

Throughout his tenure, he interviewed many of Australia's most famous people, including then-Prime Minister John Howard in 2000. 

Reverend Crews described him as a 'remarkable character' who was always looking to help those in need.