Budokai Australia is a sports club based in Adelaide, South Australia, that specialises in Comprehensive East Asian Fighting Systems. The club is the umbrella organisation for the practise and dissemination of several Asian fighting arts passed down from Chinese and Japanese masters. Led by Chief Instructor Bill Fettes, Budokai Australia offers training in various disciplines, including Aikido, Taiji chuan, Xingyi chuan, Bagua zhang, as well as traditional Japanese weapons such as Shindo Muso ryu Jodo, Kasumi Shinto ryu Kenjutsu, Isshin ryu Kusarigama jutsu, and Toda-ha Buko ryu Naginata Jutsu.
In addition to martial arts training, Budokai Australia also offers specialised programmes such as Self Defence for Women and Control Techniques for Police and Security Officers. The club aims to teach traditional concepts and ways that not only keep students healthy and fit but also help them understand other cultures and develop regimes to maintain their health well into old age. Bill Fettes, the Chief Instructor, considers himself a perpetual student and has been on a martial arts journey for over 50 years. He started with Aikido and Karate in 1969 and has since studied various disciplines during his travels to Asia, including Taiji chuan, Xingyi chuan, Bagua zhang, and Shaolin chuan.
With his extensive background and experience, Bill Fettes brings a wealth of knowledge to Budokai Australia. He has also served as a Police officer for 19 years, confirming the efficiency and effectiveness of the techniques taught by his teachers in the modern policing world.
Budokai Australia offers a comprehensive timetable for training sessions. Aikido classes are held on Mondays from 7-9pm, with a special Self Defence for Women class from 7-7:45pm. Simplified Taiji chuan, Yang Taiji chuan, Chen Taiji chuan, Xingyi Chuan, Bagua Zhang, and weapon training (swords, sticks, sickles and chains, halberds) take place on Tuesdays from 7-9pm. On Saturdays, there are sessions focused on Shindo Muso ryu Jodo, Uchida ryu Tanjo Jutsu, Kasumi Shinto ryu Kenjutsu, Isshin ryu Kusari Gama Jutsu, and Toda-ha Buko ryu Naginata Jutsu from 9am to 12pm, with an additional Toda-ha Buko ryu Naginata Jutsu session from 10-12pm.
Budokai Australia welcomes individuals of all ages and skill levels to join their classes. With a strong emphasis on traditional teachings and a commitment to wellness and cultural understanding, Budokai Australia provides a well-rounded experience in East Asian fighting arts.