South West Goju-Ryu Karate-Do Association Inc – Bunbury is a prominent sports club located in Bunbury, Western Australia. Led by Chief Instructor Alan Burdett, an 8th Dan (Kyoshi-Shihan) black belt holder, the club offers training in the traditional Goju style of Karate.
The club's headquarters is situated at the RSL Hall on Spencer Street in Bunbury. Training sessions are held on Mondays and Wednesdays, with separate timings for juniors (6PM to 7PM) and seniors (7PM to 8. 30PM).
Alan Burdett, with his vast experience in various martial arts, including Ju Jitsu, Judo, and Weapons, dedicated himself to the Goju style of Karate in 1969. He earned his 1st Dan Black Belt in 1971 and later travelled to Japan in 1974 to train under Master G Yamamoto, achieving the rank of 3rd Dan.
In 1976, Alan established the South West Goju Ryu Karate Do Association due to the increasing number of clubs and dojos operating under his guidance. The association received recognition from the international karate community when it became a part of the IKGA (International Karate Do Goju Kai) under the Yamaguchi banner in 1981.
Alan's commitment to personal growth and excellence led him to travel to Japan multiple times, where he obtained his 5th Dan from Goshi Yamaguchi, the Chief Instructor for the IKGA. He has also attended numerous seminars and training camps in Australia, Europe, and England, solidifying his knowledge and expertise in traditional and sports karate.
The South West Goju Ryu Karate Do Association takes pride in its dedicated instructors and students, all of whom have been personally trained and have completed the National Coaching Accreditation Course recognised by the government. The club's growth and success are credited to Alan's administrative skills, teaching ability, and forecast of creating a strong group of instructors and students.
The Bunbury club/dojo boasts a roster of talented students, both junior and senior, and benefits from the assistance of senior black belts who assist in coaching. These experienced 4th Dan black belts possess extensive knowledge of various martial arts.
For those interested in contacting South West Goju-Ryu Karate-Do Association Inc – Bunbury, they can do so by phone at 0437 052 877 or via email at alan. Burdett@email. Com. Additionally, the club can be found on Facebook for further information and updates.
Interested individuals can also find relevant links on the club's website, including links to IKO Goju Ryu Tokyo, WA Karate Federation, Department of Sports & Recreation, World Karate Federation, and Australian Sports Commission – Coaching Development.