Gary Oliver

Meet Gary Oliver, a highly esteemed martial arts sensei hailing from Central Victoria. With over 50 years of experience, Gary has become a prominent figure and positive influence in the lives of hundreds of loyal students. Holding an impressive 6th Dan in Karate (Shorin Ryu) and 5th Dan in Kendo, Iaido, and Kobudo, his expertise spans multiple disciplines.

Gary's martial arts journey began in 1964 at the Ballarat Judo Club in Victoria, Australia. Displaying rapid progress, he achieved 1st Kyu twice during his junior ranks when grading to Shodan was not permitted. At the age of 13, he took on the role of Judo instructor and even secured victory in the Ballarat Junior Judo Championship in 1968.

In 1969, Gary embarked on formal training in Karate under the guidance of Sensei Wayne Williamson, obtaining Shodan in Sei Ku Kai, a Shotokan derivative. His dedication led him to attain Nidan in 1975 in Shorin Ryu Matsumura Seito, studying under the tutelage of Soken O Sensei and Fusei Kise. Gary's unwavering loyalty to the federation he belongs to, the Kenshin Kan, resulted in his promotion to Rokudan in 2005.

Over the years, Gary has ventured to Okinawa and Japan on multiple occasions, immersing himself in the teachings and warm hospitality of both Hanshi Sei and Kaicho. In addition to Karate, he has also honed his skills in Iaido and Kendo, achieving the esteemed rank of Godan in both disciplines. Notably, he served as the President of Victoria Kendo Renmei, Australia's largest State Kendo Association, for a decade. Even today, Gary continues to compete nationally and internationally, showcasing his prowess. In 2005, he secured third place in his division at the Australian Kendo Championships and achieved second place in the National Open kata division in 2008.

Currently, Gary imparts his knowledge and expertise in Karate as a dedicated instructor in Maryborough, close to his home. His exceptional contributions to the field were acknowledged in 2019 when he was appointed as the Director - Australia Branch by Hanshi Sei Fusei Kise and Kaicho Isao Kise, further solidifying his standing in the martial arts community.