The Frank Montagnese Foundation (FMF) is proud to announce its continued sponsorship of Team Sicilians, led by John Mantello, as they gear up for the 2025 Variety Bash. Set to take place from 8 to 17 August, this year’s Bash marks a special milestone as Variety celebrates 50 years of supporting Australian children in need.
The Variety Bash is Australia’s longest-running charity motoring event, combining adventure, community spirit, and impactful philanthropy. Participants embark on an unforgettable journey in creatively themed cars, travelling through some of the nation’s most remote and scenic areas. Along the way, teams deliver grants and life-changing equipment to children who are sick, disadvantaged, or living with disabilities.
A Unique Adventure: Hamilton to Darwin
This year’s Variety Bash is dubbed the “Outback Odyssey,” stretching from Hamilton in regional Victoria to Darwin in the Northern Territory. Over ten days, participants will navigate outback tracks and visit rural communities and local schools. The trip includes grant presentations directly to the children, providing tangible assistance where it’s most needed.
Throughout this extraordinary adventure, dedicated mechanical and medical support crews will ensure the journey remains safe and enjoyable, allowing participants to focus fully on making a positive difference.
Meet Team Sicilians & John Mantello
Leading Car 686 – fondly known as The Sicilians – is team captain John Mantello. Renowned for their infectious enthusiasm and commitment, Team Sicilians has been a standout presence in previous Bash events, notably winning the prestigious Dick Casey Memorial Award in 2024.
For 2025, Team Sicilians aims to raise $18,000 to directly support Variety’s crucial initiatives.
Frank Montagnese Foundation will be making a donation towards this target.
The team eagerly anticipates meeting the children who benefit from these funds, which provide essential equipment and programs, significantly enhancing their quality of life.
Why the Frank Montagnese Foundation Supports the Bash
At FMF, our mission revolves around backing initiatives that deliver measurable and meaningful impacts to communities. By sponsoring Team Sicilians, FMF directly offsets operational and event costs. This approach ensures public donations go straight to Variety’s critical programs, maximising the benefit for children in need.
The Foundation’s partnership with Team Sicilians is a reflection of our shared passion for improving lives and supporting local communities, aligning seamlessly with Variety’s mission to empower children.
Impact by the Numbers
The impact of the Variety Bash is significant and tangible:
- Last financial year, Variety directly assisted 17,010 Victorian children.
- Variety Victoria granted over $1.29 million to support essential children’s programs and equipment.
- Since the inception of the Bash in 1985, over $30 million has been raised.
Reflecting on 2024’s Success
In 2024, The Sicilians participated in a memorable nine-day journey from Swan Hill in Victoria to Airlie Beach in Queensland. The event collectively raised an outstanding $1.6 million, with Team Sicilians earning recognition through the Dick Casey Memorial Award for their spirit, fundraising efforts, and community involvement.
How You Can Support in 2025
Supporting Team Sicilians and Variety is easy and impactful:
- Donate Directly: Visit Team Sicilians’ fundraising page to contribute. Every donation helps children reach their potential.
- Share Their Story: Spread the word through your networks to amplify the fundraising effort.
- Corporate Sponsorship: Businesses are encouraged to explore sponsorship opportunities, reinforcing their community support and corporate social responsibility.
Join Us in Making a Difference
As Team Sicilians and FMF gear up for this epic journey, we invite everyone to become part of the excitement.
