International Okinawan Goju Karate-Do (IOGKF) is a sports club located in Canberra, Australia. It is the largest traditional Okinawan Karate organisation in the world and is committed to preserving the intangible cultural treasure of Okinawan Goju-Ryu Karate-Do. The club is under the leadership of World Chief Instructor Tetsuji Nakamura Sensei, who holds an 8th Dan. In Australia, the Chief Instructor is Brent Pawlik Sensei, who is a 6th Dan and studied under Chris Larken Sensei before moving to Okinawa, Japan.
IOGKF Australia was established in 1979 with authorisation from Master Morio Higaonna Sensei. The club has a strong history of teaching IOGKF in Australia. The club welcomes anyone interested in starting their journey in IOGKF to experience the power of Traditional Karate. The club has various dojo locations across different states in Australia, including New South Wales, ACT, and South Australia.
In New South Wales, there are three dojo locations: Newcastle (Garden Suburbs), Lake Macquarie (Charlestown), and Sydney. The Newcastle and Lake Macquarie dojo's head instructor is Brent Pawlik Sensei, while the Sydney dojo is led by Simon Beaumont Sensei. In ACT, there are two dojo locations: Mura (Hall), led by John (Sam) Steggall Sensei, and Chifley, led by Jean Pretorius Sensei. In South Australia, there is one dojo located in Adelaide (Medindie) led by Enoch Yong Sensei and Ryan Burnell Sensei.
IOGKF also organises national events for its members. Further information about these events can be found on the IOGKF website. If anyone wishes to contact a specific dojo or instructor, they can find the relevant contact information on the IOGKF website.
IOGKF emphasises traditional karate and provides a complete system that includes kicking, striking, locks, throws, and ground techniques for self-defence. The club places significant focus on breathing, personal health, and wellbeing. Training in traditional karate is considered an art that can be practised for life. Students have the opportunity to study under experienced instructors who have trained in Okinawa, Japan, under the guidance of masters such as Master Morio Higaonna Sensei and Master Katsuya Yamashiro Sensei.
The Newcastle dojo is led by Alan Westbury, who holds a 4th Dan, while Ryoko Pawlik, a 1st Dan, serves as the Kanchou (Leader) in the Charlestown dojo. Additionally, there are assistant instructors at the Charlestown dojo, including Mark Harden, who holds a 4th Dan, and Kallan Mitchell.
For further information about the club, its dojo locations, events, and resources, individuals can visit the IOGKF website. The website also provides contact information for any inquiries. IOGKF Australia is dedicated to promoting traditional Okinawan Karate and offering individuals the opportunity to learn and practise the art of Karate.