Aikido Brisbane Aiki-Kai, established in 1992, is a traditional Aikido dojo located in central Brisbane. As a non-profit organisation, they welcome beginners, new members, and visitors from other dojos to join their community. Aikido, a non-competitive and non-aggressive martial art, was developed by the late master Morihei Ueshiba, also known as O Sensei. He dedicated his later years to creating an art that allows individuals to defend themselves without causing unnecessary harm.
Aikikai, the worldwide organisation led by the grandson of Aikido's founder, oversees the activities of Aikido Brisbane Aiki-Kai. The club is affiliated with Aikido Shinryukan in New Zealand through their Chief Instructor, Nobuo Takase Shihan (7th Dan), ensuring that their students can undertake internationally recognised gradings. This affiliation also connects them directly to Aikikai Hombu Dojo in Tokyo, Japan.
Aikido Brisbane Aiki-Kai boasts a group of experienced senior instructors, with two 6th Dan, one 5th Dan, four 4th Dan, and six 3rd Dan instructors. These instructors possess a wealth of knowledge and have taught Aikido in Australia and various parts of the world.
For beginners, Aikido Brisbane Aiki-Kai offers a dedicated programme to help newcomers get started on their Aikido journey. The programme provides guidance, instruction, and support for beginners to develop a strong foundation in this martial art.
Chief Instructor Chris Seto-Payne (6th Dan) started his Aikido training in Brisbane and has also demonstrated Aikido during the World Combat Games in Beijing. He has conducted seminars in New Zealand as well. Additionally, he works as an acupuncturist and massage therapist outside the Aikido dojo.
Mark Pearcy (6th Dan) began his Aikido journey in the UK under the guidance of esteemed teachers such as Chiba, Kanetsuka, and Tamura Senseis. After relocating to Australia, he trained under Sugano Sensei and currently trains with Takase Sensei. Mark also teaches the Monday and Thursday evening Beginners' classes. In his professional life, he is an Emeritus Professor of Biomedical Engineering at QUT.
David Hall (5th Dan) started his Aikido training in California in the mid-1980s and has been instructing since 1995. He has had the privilege of studying under esteemed instructors like Shibata Sensei, Kanai Sensei, Sugano Sensei, and now Takase Sensei. Outside the dojo, David works as an organisational psychologist and leads the Sunday morning classes.
At Aikido Brisbane Aiki-Kai, the core philosophy is encapsulated by the words of O Sensei, “True Victory is Victory Over Oneself. ” They believe in the transformative power of Aikido, fostering personal growth and self-improvement through the practise of this martial art.
To get in touch with the team at Aikido Brisbane Aiki-Kai, interested individuals can email brisbaneaikikai@gmail. Com or visit their dojo located at Emmaus Centre, 347 Given Terrace, Paddington, Queensland.