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Jason Gray, the Chief Instructor at Omoikiri Budo Kai, has dedicated around 40 years to the study and mastery of martial arts. With an impressive background in multiple disciplines, Jason holds a 6th Dan Black Belt in Omoikiri Budo Kai and has achieved black belt levels in various freestyle Karate styles as well as Muay Thai. His expertise spans across traditional and contemporary forms of martial arts, blending technical skill with deep-rooted principles of discipline and respect. 

For more than 25 years, Jason has been teaching in the local communities of Maldon and Castlemaine, where he has become a respected figure in the martial arts scene. His approach to teaching is grounded in fostering both personal growth and martial excellence. As a Certified Member of the Dai Nippon Butoku Kai, Jason is recognized for his formal qualifications in Training and Assessment, ensuring that his teaching methods are both effective and adaptable to students of all ages and skill levels. He also holds a Diploma in Sports Coaching with a specialization in Martial Arts, a Senior First Aid certification, and a current Working with Children Check, underscoring his commitment to safety, professionalism, and child development in his classes.

Omoikiri Budo Kai, the martial arts association founded by Jason, is based in Central Victoria and includes clubs in Castlemaine, and Bendigo. The name "Omoikiri Budo Kai" is deeply meaningful, derived from three Japanese words: **Omoikiri**, which translates to "with all one's strength (heart)" or "try as hard as you can"; **Budo**, meaning "martial arts" or "fighting arts"; and **Kai**, which means "association" or "club." Together, these words form a powerful philosophy: "With all one's heart, martial arts club." This ethos lies at the core of everything Jason and his academy strive for — encouraging students to be the best they can be, not just in martial arts but in all areas of life.

Jason’s teaching philosophy emphasizes self-improvement, discipline, and personal growth. The Omoikiri Budo Kai program is designed to help students incorporate these values into their daily lives, no matter their martial arts ability. The goal is not only to develop skilled martial artists but also to foster individuals who are resilient, respectful, and committed to being their best selves. Jason believes that martial arts can have a transformative impact, instilling confidence, focus, and perseverance in students, all while ensuring they enjoy the learning process. His classes prioritize effort, progress, and fun, creating a supportive environment for all students.

Beyond his role as an instructor, Jason has been an active and long-time supporter of the **Fight for Life** seminars, an initiative that raises awareness and funds for important causes through martial arts events. His dedication to these efforts is widely appreciated, reflecting his broader commitment to using martial arts as a platform for positive change.

Jason Gray's extensive experience, coupled with his passion for teaching and community engagement, has made him a pillar in the martial arts world of Central Victoria. Under his guidance, Omoikiri Budo Kai continues to grow as a martial arts community where students of all ages and backgrounds can learn, grow, and strive to be their best, both on and off the mat.

Louis Zimmer is a highly dedicated and fully qualified Personal Trainer with an extensive background spanning over 4 years in the dynamic Fitness Industry. Having nurtured an innate affinity for sports and recreation throughout his life, Louis's journey seamlessly transformed into a fervent pursuit of helping others actualize their fitness ambitions. His unwavering passion for guiding individuals along their fitness odysseys has made him an indispensable partner in their pursuit of healthier lifestyles and personal goals.

A prominent figure in the fitness realm, Louis Zimmer's career is marked by an inspiring blend of expertise, commitment, and compassion. His journey took shape through a meticulously curated educational path, where he earned his Certificate 3 & 4 in Fitness from the esteemed Onfit Training College. This comprehensive program seamlessly merged in-person and online studies, allowing Louis to acquire a well-rounded foundation that combines both theoretical knowledge and practical application.

Louis's professional approach is characterized by his unparalleled dedication to each individual he assists. His profound understanding of the physical, mental, and emotional dimensions of the fitness journey empowers him to tailor personalized strategies that resonate with his clients on a profound level. He believes that success is a collaborative effort, and his coaching style reflects this belief through his supportive, motivating, and empathetic interactions.

With a genuine ardor for celebrating milestones, no matter how small, Louis Zimmer possesses an innate ability to infuse positivity into every step of the fitness journey. He has mastered the art of crafting realistic goals, while instilling the discipline and drive necessary to achieve them. Clients under Louis's guidance not only witness transformative physical changes but also experience a newfound confidence that transcends into all facets of their lives.

Beyond his role as a Personal Trainer, Louis continues to immerse himself in the ever-evolving fitness landscape, staying abreast of the latest trends, research, and innovations. His commitment to professional growth mirrors his commitment to his clients' growth, ensuring that he remains a beacon of inspiration and a catalyst for positive change.

In essence, Louis Zimmer embodies the synergy of passion, expertise, and guidance, inspiring everyone fortunate enough to cross paths with him to embark on a holistic journey toward improved health, vitality, and self-discovery.

Kristy Kirkwood 5th Dan Karate 


Kristy (Shihan) is a dedicated martial artist and the esteemed owner of Karate One NSW, a renowned martial arts school, a position she has held with pride since 2009. With a passion for martial arts that ignited in 1992, Kristy has dedicated over three decades to honing her craft and sharing her expertise with others.

Kristy's journey in martial arts has been marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence, culminating in her attainment of the prestigious 5th Dan in 2022, a testament to her unwavering dedication and skill in the discipline.

As both a practitioner and an instructor, Kristy is committed to fostering a supportive and empowering environment for her students. She is deeply invested in their growth and development, constantly seeking innovative ways to help them unlock their potential and reach their personal and martial arts goals.

With her wealth of experience, unwavering dedication, and boundless enthusiasm for martial arts, Kristy Kirkwood continues to inspire and empower all those who walk through the doors of Karate One NSW.

Master Bren Foster, a highly talented and dynamic martial artist, holds an impressive 7th Dan in Taekwondo and is also a black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. His extensive martial arts journey encompasses a multitude of disciplines, including a 1st Dan in Hwrando and Hapkido. Bren's dedication to martial arts began at the tender age of 6, where he embarked on a lifelong quest for excellence and mastery.

Bren Foster's relentless pursuit of martial arts proficiency led him to explore various disciplines beyond Taekwondo and Jiu Jitsu. He delved into the realms of Thai Boxing, freestyle wrestling, and knife fighting, further expanding his repertoire of combat skills. Notably, Bren Foster also ventured into the world of bodybuilding, showcasing his physical prowess by securing victory at the Australian Bodybuilding Championships early in his career.

Throughout his martial arts journey, Bren Foster has accumulated an astonishing collection of over 150 first-place medals. He has fearlessly competed in over 200 matches across diverse disciplines such as Taekwondo, Kickboxing, and full-contact Karate. Beyond the realm of competition, Bren captivates audiences with his unique style of board breaking and acrobatic martial arts performances. Renowned as one of the most sought-after martial arts performers, he has garnered magazine headlines such as "Superkicker" and "Australia's Most Electrifying Martial Artist."

The accolades continue to pour in for Bren Foster, as he has emerged victorious in the prestigious "Australian Martial Arts Spectacular" for two consecutive years. This esteemed professional event brings together Australia's elite martial artists to showcase their skills and compete at the highest level. His remarkable contributions to Taekwondo have been acknowledged with an induction into Blitz magazine's Hall of Fame as the Taekwondo Instructor of the Year. Currently, Bren owns and operates the Elite Martial Arts and Fitness Centre, a thriving martial arts facility and gymnasium.

In addition to his mastery of the martial arts, Bren Foster has also honed his craft as a classically trained actor. He dedicated three years to studying acting at the University of Western Sydney, immersing himself in the art of performance. Passionate about his chosen path, Bren further refined his acting skills at the Actors Pulse, enriching his repertoire over two years of part-time study.

Bren's acting career has flourished in Australia, featuring prominently in numerous television dramas, including "Sea Patrol," "The Strip," "East West 101," "Review with Myles Barlow," and the iconic series "Home and Away." He achieved critical acclaim for his role as "Jamal," a compelling character in the critically acclaimed Australian feature film "Cedar Boys," where he was praised by Empire Film magazine as a "born star" for his captivating portrayal of a criminal attempting to guide his younger brother away from a life of crime.

Recognized for his martial arts prowess, Bren Foster ventured beyond Australia's shores, captivating audiences on an international scale. He worked with The Discovery Channel, showcasing his skills on the television show "Extreme Martial Arts," and collaborated with the National Geographic Channel for the feature-length documentary "Fight Science," where his martial arts abilities were put to the test against scientific analysis. Bren's involvement as a series regular in subsequent "Fight Science" episodes further solidified his reputation as an expert in the field.

Continuing his artistic journey, Bren Foster embarked on American film projects, delivering standout performances in "Bad to the Bone," where he portrayed the lead character "Donner Bone Mason," and "War Flowers," where he shared the screen with acclaimed actors Christina Ricci and Tom Berenger, assuming the role of Confederate Sergeant "John Ellis."

Currently, Bren Foster and his wife Chelsea, along with their two children, operate Elite Martial Arts and Fitness in Sydney Australia. www.elitema.com.au 

**Shihan Doug Turnbull** is a highly respected martial artist with over 50 years of experience, holding a 7th Dan Black Belt in Kyokushinkai Karate (KIKO) and a 5th Dan Black Belt in Okinawa Koburyu Kobudo (traditional weapons). As the President of the Kyokushin International Karate Organisation (KIKO), Shihan Doug has become one of Australia’s most prominent instructors, renowned for his expertise, leadership, and long-standing contributions to the martial arts community.

Shihan Doug began his martial arts journey with a deep passion for Kyokushin Karate, a discipline known for its rigorous full-contact style. His dedication to the art led to the establishment of his dojo in Marrickville in 1982, which has since become a cornerstone of Kyokushin Karate in Australia. Over the decades, thousands of students have trained under his guidance, and many of them have gone on to become accomplished martial artists in their own right. His dojo remains a vital part of the community, offering not only martial arts instruction but also a positive environment for personal growth and development.

As an instructor, Shihan Doug is known for his unwavering commitment to teaching traditional martial arts values, including discipline, respect, and perseverance. His approach to Kyokushin Karate extends beyond the physical techniques, emphasizing the importance of mental and spiritual growth in the martial arts journey. This holistic approach has shaped the lives of countless students, who credit Shihan Doug with instilling in them the principles of Bushido—the martial way of life that blends physical prowess with moral integrity.

In addition to his role as a teacher, Shihan Doug has been a pivotal figure in the competitive Kyokushin Karate scene. He has participated in almost every major Australian Kyokushin tournament as either a judge or referee from 1981 to 1995, contributing significantly to the growth of the sport in the country. His judging and refereeing expertise was also recognized on the international stage, where he officiated at major global events, including the 1st IFK World Championships in Moscow in 1997, the 3rd IFK World Championships in London in 2005, and the Junior World Tournament in Greece in 2015.

Shihan Doug’s skills as a martial artist extend to both kumite (sparring) and kata (forms), where he has competed and won first place in numerous State and National tournaments. His success as a competitor further solidified his standing in the Kyokushin community, where he is respected not only as an instructor but also as a formidable athlete.

In addition to his Kyokushin achievements, Shihan Doug is a highly skilled practitioner of Okinawa Koburyu Kobudo, holding a 5th Dan Black Belt in this traditional weapons-based martial art. His proficiency in both Karate and Kobudo gives his students a well-rounded martial arts education that combines hand-to-hand combat with traditional weapon techniques.

Shihan Doug's commitment to martial arts extends beyond the dojo and tournament arena. His recognition within the broader martial arts community is evidenced by his accolades, including being voted Best and Fairest Official for NAS (National All Styles) NSW in 1999 and 2000, as well as his accreditation as a Level 4 referee with NAS in 2005. These accomplishments highlight his integrity, fairness, and dedication to upholding the highest standards in martial arts competition.

Looking forward, Shihan Doug Turnbull remains dedicated to the continued growth of Kyokushin Karate and KIKO. His mission is to foster a spirit of unity within the martial arts world, combining the competitive aspects of Karate with the deeper spiritual and philosophical elements of the martial way. Through his teachings and leadership, Shihan Doug aims to demonstrate to the broader community the transformative power of martial arts—how it can cultivate physical strength, mental resilience, and moral character in individuals, ultimately benefiting society as a whole.

Shihan Doug Turnbull’s legacy as a martial artist, teacher, and leader continues to inspire future generations, ensuring that the spirit of Kyokushin and the values of the martial arts will thrive for many years to come.

In Memoriam: Senior Master Bob White - A Legacy of Excellence in Karate

Senior Master Bob White, who departed from this world 2023. His journey through life was nothing short of extraordinary, a testament to the indomitable human spirit, and it is with great reverence that we reflect on his remarkable life and legacy.

From a young age, Bob White's heart was captured by the art of Karate. It was a passion that ignited his spirit and drove him toward a lifelong pursuit of excellence. His story, as detailed in his book, "Life in Session" - The Senior Master Bob White Story, is a chronicle of resilience, triumph, and the pursuit of greatness. Over two decades, Bob White established himself as a formidable force in the world of Karate, making his mark in top tournaments across the United States.

But the most formidable battles Bob White faced were not fought in the ring; they were against the relentless adversaries of alcoholism and, later in life, two devastating forms of cancer. "Life in Session" became an international bestseller, offering an unfiltered glimpse into the life of a man who defied overwhelming adversity to become the highly respected and beloved coach he is today.

In a pivotal decision, Senior Master Bob White chose to forgo a promising career in professional baseball and devoted over five decades to the enrichment of American Kenpo. He achieved numerous victories in state, national, and international fighting championships, leaving an indelible mark on the tournament circuit. As a member of the undefeated National All Star Black Belt Team in 1973 and 1974, he showcased his exceptional skills. As an instructor and mentor, he consistently nurtured some of the world's most exceptional karate fighters.

Bob White's Karate Studio, a sanctuary of martial arts excellence he founded, has been a breeding ground for world champion fighters. In the 1990s, his students secured the title of Black Belt Grand Champions at the International Karate Championships year after year. Bob White and his beloved wife, Barbara, extended their expertise through seminars across the United States, South America, and Europe, enriching countless lives with their knowledge of Kenpo.

Bob White's influence extended to the silver screen as well, with his appearance as a referee in the original "Karate Kid" movie, and his support in the subsequent adaptations. Over 50 of his students featured as tournament competitors in these iconic films.

In partnership with a dedicated team from BWKS, Senior Master White and Barbara organized the annual Bob and Barbara White Invitational karate tournament. This event raised funds for the noble cause of Royal Family Kids, providing weeklong camps for abused and neglected children. Since its inception in 2005, the tournament has raised over a million dollars for RFK, touching countless young lives in need. It has also spread awareness of RFK within the global Kenpo community, encouraging involvement and contributions from around the world.

In recognition of his profound expertise and contributions, Bob White achieved the rare distinction of a 7th Degree Black Belt from Senior Grand Master Ed Parker in the 1980s, the highest rank ever conferred by Ed Parker. He was inducted into numerous Hall of Fames and served as the keynote speaker for the master's Hall of Fame in Southern California in 2012. A momentous occasion occurred on March 24th, 2018, as Senior Master White was bestowed with the esteemed promotion to the rank of 10th Degree Black Belt, an honor he had respectfully declined for 25 years. With this title, he held the esteemed designation of "Senior Master," a reflection of his exceptional contributions to the world of Karate.

Senior Master Bob White leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire generations of martial artists and those who have been touched by his wisdom and compassion. He was not only a martial arts icon but a symbol of perseverance and dedication in the face of adversity. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Our thoughts and condolences go out to his family, friends, and the vast community of martial artists who mourn the loss of a true Karate legend. Rest in peace, Senior Master Bob White, your spirit will continue to guide us all.