The Western Pigeon Federation (WPF) and the wider pigeon racing community are saddened to hear of the passing of Nick Ciancio.
Nick’s love of pigeons began as a young schoolboy in 1958 alongside Laurie Moore and Bruno Pace (GMPF). What started as a childhood interest quickly grew into a lifelong passion, and the friendships formed during those early days remained with him throughout his life.
During the 1970s, Nick began racing actively with Newport in the Western Pigeon Federation, where he came under the guidance of Hilary Ashley. Not long after, he met Kevin O’Sullivan. Their friendship became one of the defining partnerships in Nick’s pigeon racing journey, sharing not only an incredible depth of pigeon knowledge but also a lifelong bond that extended into their family lives.
Nick enjoyed many memorable results over the years, with some of his proudest achievements including:
• 2nd Federation – 700 miles
• 1st Federation – National
• 1st Federation – Tasmania
• 2nd Federation – 500 miles (a particularly special result to him)
• 4th Federation Average during the powerful Keilor era of the late 1980s
From the early 2000s, Nick’s son Matt joined him in racing, and the two formed a partnership that continued right through to the end. Together they shared many memorable moments, including recently winning Bird of the Year in the Western Pigeon Federation and she proudly holds the front cover of our 2025 year book.
Nick remained passionate about his pigeons all his life and was famously like a kid in a candy shop on race day; a joy he carried right to the very end.
Here is a photo of Nick proudly holding the Coombah Federation winner in 2022.
While Nick may no longer be with us, his son Matt carries on in their winning tradition and success, continuing the Ciancio family name in the sport they both loved.
The Western Pigeon Federation community extends its deepest condolences to Matt and the entire Ciancio family. Nick will be fondly remembered as a dedicated fancier, loyal friend, and valued member of the pigeon racing family. Rest in peace.