Growing up Mike Bailey was pretty much part of the family to me, coming on the ABC each night to tell us about the weather. He was a trusted, familiar voice.

I was sad to learn of his passing this week, aged 71.

Mike joined the ABC in the 1960s as a cadet, and after a period working for other networks returned to ABC Sydney as a weather presenter in 1984. As well as being the trusted source of information on the weather, Mike loved politics and sport.

In 2007 my family and I were proud to campaign for Mike when he ran for Labor in North Sydney, giving Joe Hockey an almighty scare.

In 2011 Mike was appointed the chairman of Wests Ashfield Leagues Club, where he was a passionate, bold and much‑loved advocate for community sport. As chairman, Mike made an indelible mark on our local community and the outpouring of love from across the inner west is a testament to just how much he was loved and respected.

I send my deepest condolences on behalf of the inner west community to his wife, Helena; his son, Michael; and his extended family.