The Australian karting community is in mourning following the passing of junior driver Joseph Bianchini yesterday, after a short illness.
We send our heartfelt condolences to Joseph’s family and many friends.

Statement from Karting Australia
It is with great sadness that Karting Australia shares the news of the passing of New South Wales junior driver Joseph Bianchini.
Joseph, 13, was transported to Griffith Base Hospital in the early hours of Saturday morning after experiencing a sudden deterioration in his health. Later that day he was flown to Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick where he sadly passed away on Monday, August 18.
Joseph was a familiar and much-loved young competitor in our sport, racing in the Cadet and Junior categories across the country. His energy, passion and friendly nature touched many within the karting community.
On behalf of everyone at Karting Australia, and the broader karting community, we send our heartfelt condolences to Adrian, Maria and Allegra along with the extended Bianchini family and friends during this very difficult time.
Details of Joseph’s funeral arrangements will be shared once they are available.

Tributes
Matt McLean
My little Joseph. Spending your last few days by your side up until your final moments was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do. I feel so honoured to have been there with you and to have shared so many special moments together over your life. Words cannot explain how much this hurts, and I just thank you so much for always demonstrating the importance of looking out for those around you with complete and utter selflessness.
This has left a crater in my heart, but I feel far more complete having had you in our lives even though for such a short time. It’s only been 12 hours and I just miss you so much already. I’m so proud of the young man you had become, and making you proud has always been, and will remain, a priority of mine. Such a gifted boy taken too soon. I love you Coyote, fly high. #josephb3159

Griffith Kart Club
Words cannot express the loss. Griffith Kart Club has lost another part of its heart and soul.
The Bianchini family is part of the very fabric of this Club, both in the past and present. Joseph’s cheeky smile, sportsmanship, kindness, speed and most of all the respect he had for everyone both on and off the track is something that is admired and an example for all.
To Adrian, Maria, Allegra, and the extended family and friends our heart goes out to you all.

Matt Payne
I’ve shed many a tear in this little man Joseph’s memory today and for Maria, Allegra and Adrian. I was struggling to think of how I might pay tribute to him until I was walking behind a guy today who had this on his jumper:
“Good times aren’t just moments, they’re stories we carry with us. Laughter shared, adventures lived and memories made – every day is a chance to create something unforgettable. Embrace the good times proudly and live like every moment matters.”
I think that sums up Joseph and his family.
It was the serendipity I needed and I hope all of our community that is crying tonight that you can take some solace from that.
The young man was remarkable. Joseph would always make a beeline to shake your hand, say hello, look you in the eye to ask how you were in the paddock.
He was inquisitive – asking me about my processes and how I went about what I do.
Intelligent, talented and with a lot more to give. This is so shit.
My love to Maria, Allegra and Adrian – and his close knit community of competitors and friends. I’m here for you if you need me.
Fly high and keep the right foot buried little man. Love you all. MP
Lee Hannatschek
Some days there are no words – today is one of those.
Joseph was a polite and kind young man with so much still to live for, and so much more to give. His infectious smile, love for racing and the friendships he built along the way left a mark on all of us in the karting community.
He will be deeply missed. My thoughts are with Adrian, Maria and Allegra along with the extended Bianchini family and their many friends at this heartbreaking time.

