Doug Turnbull

**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.