INTRODUCTION TO THE BALLARAT KARATE CLUB

WELCOME TO THE BALLARAT KARATE CLUB – The B.K.C. was established in 1965 by club founder Barry Govan and operates as a non-profit organization. The club teaches the traditional style of Okinawan karate called SHORIN RYU. (Shorin Ryu Matsumura Seito) It’s origins developed some 200 years ago with the B.K.C. dedicated to preserving the original system as taught by Grand Master Hohan Soken (1889 – 1982) and Grand Master Fusei Kise 10th degree black belt, Okinawa, Japan.

The Australian Co-Director is HANSHI BARRY PACKHAM 9th degree black belt.
The Australian Co-Director and Chief Instructor is HANSHI WAYNE REDDROP 8th degree black belt.

The philosophy and training principles are based on learning and practicing traditional karate and kobudo as a way of life and as a method of conditioning the mind and body through continued and disciplined practice. Training in karate provides a pathway to improving ones health and fitness. Further attributes are the development of good character, attitude, respect and to be able to defend oneself against an attack.

The club has a number of qualified master ranks and black belt instructors who freely give their time teaching both adults and juniors. There is also a branch dojo in near by Daylesford. Between the two dojo’s one has the option of training five days a week if they so desire.

THE TRAINING SYLLABUS IS DIVIDED INTO SECTIONS KNOWN AS THE FIVE PILLARS.

01. KIHON – Basic training and practice of karate fundamentals.
02. KATA – Traditional form of practice utilizing a full range of attacking and defensive techniques.
03. KOBUDO – The teaching and preserving of ancient Okinawan weapon forms.
04. TUITE – A comprehensive system of street self-defence utilizing pressure point strikes and joint locks.
05. KUMITE – Free sparring contest.