Our Instructors

A philosophy we share at Shinbukan, is similar to that of Okinawa, Japan (Moai/模合). We are united by our common purpose to learn together through mutual respect. We have individual strengths and weaknesses which are valuable lessons for one another, should one wish to see it.

All instructors are MAIA accredited with WWCCs.

Saito William Kazuo Crando Shinbukan Trophies

10th Dan Soke

Kazuo Saito

"If you can master suffering, you can master life."

Founder of Shinbukan in 1978.

7th Dan Shihan

John Dalmedo

"The more I learn about karate, the little I know!"

50 years of Goju Karate training and one of the first Shinbukan students in 1979

5th Dan Shihan

Darren

"Teach the new generation, to in turn, teach the new generation."

35 years of teaching and live-in student of Saito Soke

6th Dan Shihan

Roberto

"Everyone, create your own reason to progress."

Dedicated Ninjutsu instructor with a passion for youth development.

5th Dan Shihan

Peter

"Students should leave their ego as learning happens when the mind is free."

30 years of teaching experience, a spiritual pursuer of depth, art and simplicity.

Eric Hong shinbukan Judo Ninjutsu instructor Sydney

5th Dan Shihan

Li-Huan

"Life can be determined in an instant."

30 years of Judo, Kendo, Karate and Ninjutsu experience. Seasoned competitor/ex-fighter.

5th Dan Shihan

Jai

"Tradition nurtures discipline. I incorporate Karate, Ninjutsu and Judo to create a well-rounded martial artist."

30 years of Judo, Karate and Ninjutsu experience. Ex-USYD Judo club.

5th Dan Shihan

Hien

"Ultimately, your spirit and will is more important than technique."

40 years of martial arts experience. Iaido practitioner and instructor.

5th Dan Shihan

Hiroaki

"Watching and learning is more effective than being spoonfed information."

Japanese kata-enthusiast karate-ka with 20 years of karate experience in Japan.

3rd Dan Shido-Shi

Bryan

"Focus, find an opportunity and strike."

25 years of combined experience in Karate, Taekwondo and Iaido.

2nd Dan Shido-In

Daniel

"Discipline measured in years equals progress."

Kata and Bunkai enthusiast, supplemented by interests in body mechanics and functional mobility and strength training.

2nd Dan Shido-In

Navin

"Strong mind, strong body. Strong body, strong mind."

15 years of martial arts experience, including USYD Judo club. An excellent listener and observer.

2nd Dan Shido-In

Harrison

"Build strong children to minimise fixing broken adults."

Personal trainer, HSC English coach and an aspiring teacher.

Shodan

Kylar

"Do or do not - There is no try" (Master Yoda)

10 years of training with Shinbukan and a dedicated instructor for the beginner kids karate class.

Japanese Cultural and Martial Arts Academy since 1978

'a slice of 20th century Japan in modern Australia.'

Our Instructors