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Emma, an exceptional swimmer, dove into the world of swimming at the tender age of 6. Her talent quickly propelled her onto the national stage in 1996 when she participated in the Commonwealth Games Trials as a remarkable 13-year-old. While swimming remained her primary focus, Emma also showcased her abilities in squad basketball for over 6 years. In her younger years, she dabbled in gymnastics and participated in little athletics, competing in state-level competitions. However, it became evident that Emma's true calling lay in the water, where she solidified her place in Australian swimming for an impressive 8 years.

Throughout her career, Emma left her mark on various prestigious events, including the Olympic Trials, Pan Pacific Games, National and State Championships, and local meets. Her accomplishments include numerous gold medals and record-breaking performances in Gippsland, Victorian Country, and Victorian competitions. Emma proudly represented Victoria from the age of 10 to 21 and earned medals at the Pan Pacific Schools competition. She also reached the finals at the national level and was a member of the Telstra Skins Australian development team. In 1996, Emma was recognized as the Gippstar of the year.

In 2004, Emma completed a Bachelor's degree in Nursing, Medicine, and Health Science, specializing in Nursing with Honors. Although she initially deferred her medical studies, Emma later pursued studies in Chinese Medicine and Mineral Therapy. She maintains an unwavering commitment to expanding her knowledge and expertise to positively impact her patients and clients. Currently, Emma is furthering her studies in Nutrition and Dietetics, embracing her lifelong passion for health, medicine, and fitness.

During her teenage years, Emma gained valuable experience working in medical suites and nursing homes. Post-graduation, she transitioned to major city hospitals, where she contributed her skills in emergency departments, intensive care units, and operating suites. Emma's swimming career came to a halt due to a shoulder injury and subsequent operation, prompting her to shift her focus to university studies, global travel, and starting a family.

Soon, Emma's love for sports reignited, leading her to embrace Martial Arts in the forms of Aikido and Wing Chun Kung Fu. Passionate about addressing the rising physical and emotional violence against women, Emma endeavors to create an empire that supports, educates, and trains women and children in self-defense, self-worth, and awareness. Her ultimate goal is to empower individuals and reduce incidents of abuse and bullying. Emma's EmPower programs are now being delivered across Victoria, reaching schools, corporate entities of all sizes, and government bodies. Through these initiatives, she aims to help individuals develop their own strength, improve their health and fitness, and find support and nurturing on their personal journeys, while simultaneously pushing back against all forms of abuse, danger, and bullying.

Mark ‘The Hammer’ Castagnini is Founder and Head Instructor of Hammer’s Gym and is one of the most highly respected names in Australian Muay Thai Kickboxing. Mark began his martial arts training under Shihan Emin in Kyokushin Karate. His competitive nature lead him to kickboxing and then Muay Thai kickboxing. Castagnini’s fight career peaked in 1995 when he won the World Kickboxing Association (WKA) Australian Cruiserweight Muay Thai title against Romolo Pio. 

In the same year Mark won the National All Styles Victorian Black-Belt Championship, which he won again in 1998. Mark has been appointed the VAMAA (Victorian Amateur Martial Arts Association) Vice President, which is a Victorian Government recognised association. Castagnini regularly travels to Thailand under the umbrella of the World Muay Thai Council (WMC). His trips allow him to keep up to date with the latest training methods and bring back the improvements to share with Hammer’s Gym’s students. In 2006 Mark received an award from the president of the WMC for his dedicated promotion of Muay Thai in Australia. As well as this he also was given the award for the development and popularization of Muay Thai in Australia. 

Mark has been an ongoing ambassador for the sport and continues to receive recognition from the WMC. Mark has many years experience working in the martial arts industry. He was previously general manager for Blitz Publications which produces the “International Kickboxer”, which was named the best fight magazine in the Oceania by the WMC. As well as this Mark hosted his own show on Fox Sports called “Hammer Time”

**Shihan Peter Volke** is a prominent figure in the world of full contact karate, holding the esteemed title of 7th Dan Black Belt. His journey in martial arts has been defined by a deep commitment to excellence, both as a champion fighter and a dedicated instructor. 

Shihan Volke's fighting career is marked by numerous accolades, showcasing his prowess and determination in the ring. His experience as a competitor has equipped him with unique insights into the strategies and mental fortitude required to succeed in martial arts. This firsthand knowledge allows him to effectively train champions, guiding students not only to achieve their physical potential but also to cultivate the discipline and resilience necessary for personal growth.

As the Director of the **Australian Branch of the Shinkyokushin Organisation**, Shihan Volke plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of karate in Australia. His leadership is characterized by a clear vision for the organization, focusing on the development of its members and the promotion of traditional karate values. Under his guidance, the Shinkyokushin Organisation has experienced significant growth, attracting new students and fostering a vibrant community of martial artists.

Shihan Volke’s teaching philosophy is rooted in a traditional approach that emphasizes respect, discipline, and hard work. He believes in a no-nonsense training environment that balances rigor with compassion, ensuring that every student feels supported on their journey. His classes are known for their grounded yet nurturing atmosphere, where students are encouraged to push their limits while receiving the guidance they need to thrive.

Throughout his career, Shihan Volke has remained dedicated to improving the lives of his students. He recognizes that martial arts extend beyond physical training; they offer invaluable life lessons that can empower individuals in various aspects of their lives. By instilling values such as perseverance, respect, and humility, he aims to equip his students with the tools they need to succeed both on and off the mat.

With a passion for martial arts that spans decades, Shihan Peter Volke continues to inspire the next generation of karate practitioners. His unwavering commitment to the principles of karate and his ability to connect with students make him an iconic figure in the martial arts community, respected by peers and students alike. Whether in the dojo or at competitions, Shihan Volke's influence is felt widely, ensuring that the legacy of Shinkyokushin karate continues to flourish in Australia.

Mr. Joseph Walker has always been known as Joey Walker is the Grandmaster of the Kifaru Karate Jitsu organization. 

Grandmaster Joey Walker is a retired Police Lieutenant from the Reno Police Department and he has served with distinction as Watch Commander, Detective Sergeant in Internal Affairs, Instructor to Defensive Tactics Instructors, Honor Guard and DARE officer. He has served in the Dignitary Protection unit, providing sole responsibility for the safety of President Gerald Ford, Merle Evers-Williams, Bernice King and Martin Luther King III. Mr. Walker has received numerous advanced law enforcement credentials from the FBI, LAPD, Los Angeles Sheriff, and developed, with FBI approval, the Washoe County School District’s School Violence Preparedness program. Master Joey Walker has extensive martial arts training and holds two World Championship Karate titles. He has served as an expert witness in Martial Arts and Use of Force cases in both Civil and Criminal cases. 

Mr. Walker provides outstanding instruction in the martial arts, with a unique perspective on the true practical applications in the use of force. Joey Walker’s interest in the Martial Arts began from watching the television series The Green Hornet starring Bruce Lee whose fighting style captured his interest. Joey started training in Shotokan Karate and Tae Kwon Do in December of 1970. In 1971, Joey Walker met and began training with Alexander Archie who taught classes in a friend’s living room and at that time taught under the banner of Shudo-Kan Karate. From that time forward, Joey became a loyal and consistent student of that discipline. It was Archie’s belief that students should have the opportunity to incorporate any practical movement from any system. Alexander Archie frequently took his top students to other schools and disciplines to measure their skills and abilities and to see what if anything those other disciplines had to offer. 

Joey Walker quickly rose through the ranks and by 1974 attained his 3rd Kyu Brown Belt. It was at that time that Joey was introduced to Master Byong Yu of the Moo Duk Kwon Tae Kwon Do system. All of the advanced belts directly under Alexander Archie began periodic training under Master Yu. Joey also met a musician and martial artist named Chip Steen (then a student of Steve Sanders of the B.K.F.) who instructed Joey when Chip’s band “The Checkmates” came to the Reno/Lake Tahoe area. By June of 1975, Joey achieved his first degree Blackbelt in Shudo-Kan Kifaru Karate. Having heard of the reputation of the Black Karate Federation from Chip Steen as well as watching their tournament Karate champions, Joey Walker was very anxious to train with members of the system. 

In July of 1975, Joey travelled to Los Angeles, California to train with the founders of the B.K.F., Steve Sanders and Donnie Williams. In May of 1977, Joey attained his first degree Blackbelt in Tae Kwon Do and Chinese Kenpo from Master Donnie Williams. To this date, Joey maintains a close and personal relationship with Master Steve (Sanders) Muhammad and Master-Pastor Donnie Williams. Joey Walker began his tournament career on a less than consistent winning record. From principles learned from Alexander Archie, Stanford McNeal, Steve Sanders and Donnie Williams, Joey has won numerous State, National, and World Karate Championships competing against and beating Tournament champions and personalities: Alvin Prouder, Billy Blanks, Johnny Gyro, Mel Cherry, Mark Foster, Luther Secrease, Tony (Satch) Williams, George Chung, and Danny Bonaduchi. Joey has written his newest book, Shots Fired under the name Joseph B. Walker. This survival guidebook delivers techniques and tactics that will help you survive an active shooting.

Mike Flanagan, a 7th Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo, is a distinguished figure in the martial arts community. With a deep passion for Taekwondo and a commitment to excellence, Mike has built a remarkable reputation both as an instructor and a mentor. Together with his business partner, Matthew Chugg, he co-founded Flanagan Chugg Taekwondo, a renowned Taekwondo school that has made a significant impact on the martial arts landscape in Tasmania.

Mike's journey in Taekwondo began many years ago, fueled by a desire to master the art and share its benefits with others. Over the years, he has honed his skills and risen through the ranks to achieve the prestigious 7th Degree Black Belt. His expertise and dedication to the martial art have earned him widespread respect and admiration within the community.

In addition to his accomplishments in Taekwondo, Mike is also a beloved secondary school teacher. His dual roles as an educator and martial arts instructor have allowed him to positively influence the lives of countless students. However, it is through Taekwondo that Mike has made the most profound impact. His dedication to changing lives through martial arts is truly commendable. He believes in the power of Taekwondo to instill discipline, confidence, and resilience in his students, and he works tirelessly to create an environment where these qualities can flourish.

The success of Flanagan Chugg Taekwondo is a testament to Mike's vision and hard work. Under his leadership, the school has expanded across Tasmania, establishing multiple branches that cater to a growing number of students. The popularity of their programs is a reflection of the high standards they uphold and the genuine care they have for their students' development. Mike's heartfelt mission to run a world-class Taekwondo program is evident in every aspect of the school, from the quality of instruction to the supportive community they have built.

What sets Mike apart from other coaches is not just his technical proficiency in Taekwondo, but also his unwavering commitment to his students' personal growth. He goes beyond teaching the physical aspects of martial arts, focusing equally on the mental and emotional well-being of his students. This holistic approach has resulted in a nurturing and empowering environment where students of all ages and abilities can thrive.

Mike Flanagan's legacy in the martial arts world is one of dedication, excellence, and genuine care for his students. Through Flanagan Chugg Taekwondo, he continues to inspire and transform lives, making a lasting impact on the martial arts community in Tasmania and beyond.

Robert Sullivan stands as an extraordinary figure in the realm of martial arts, holding the distinguished rank of 8th Dan in Karate. His life's work and dedication to the martial arts have left an indelible mark on the world, and he is the revered founder and Chief of Go Kan Ryu Karate International, known as Kancho Robert Sullivan.

Kancho Robert's journey in the martial arts commenced in 1964, where he embarked on a path that would ultimately lead him to extensive training in both the Shotokan and Goju Kai systems of karate. His passion for martial arts transcends the physical aspects of the discipline, driven by the belief that traditional karate possesses the transformative power to change lives for the better.

In 1984, with two decades of teaching karate under his belt, Kancho Robert made a pivotal decision to establish Go-Kan-Ryu karate. Initially envisioning a modest karate club, he soon realized that teaching karate would become his life's vocation. What began as a humble endeavor has since flourished into a global phenomenon, with tens of thousands of students worldwide benefiting from the teachings and philosophy of Kancho Robert Sullivan.

For Kancho Robert, the essence of karate extends beyond the dojo; it is a force that brings people together, creating a sense of unity and camaraderie. His organization, Go Kan Ryu Karate International, feels like one big extended family, a testament to the sense of belonging and support it provides to its members.

Throughout his illustrious career, Kancho Robert has witnessed countless individuals facing challenges and hardships. Many have turned to karate and the GKR family for solace, guidance, and strength. Through their training, they have found a path towards physical and mental well-being, often bolstered by the unwavering support of fellow students and instructors.

The global COVID-19 pandemic presented an unprecedented challenge to the martial arts community, but Kancho Robert Sullivan and the GKR organization rose to the occasion. Recognizing the need to keep both mind and body active during lockdowns, they swiftly adapted to offer online classes that delivered a full curriculum and live training sessions. The GKR family remained connected and engaged, supporting one another during a time of fear and uncertainty.

Kancho Robert's vision and dedication have transformed GKR from a one-man organization into a global phenomenon. His belief in the power of martial arts to foster personal growth and resilience has resonated with countless individuals. Through the diversity of instructors and the new online platform, he envisions that people will emerge from the challenges of COVID-19 even stronger, armed with the lessons and support of the GKR family.

In conclusion, Kancho Robert Sullivan's lifelong commitment to the martial arts, his creation of the Go Kan Ryu Karate International organization, and his unwavering belief in the positive impact of karate on individuals' lives stand as a testament to his extraordinary contributions to the world of martial arts and the well-being of those he has touched.