Pablo Cardenas

Pablo Cardenas is a highly esteemed Sifu specializing in Wing Chun Kung Fu, a martial art renowned for its efficiency and effectiveness. His journey in Wing Chun was forged under the tutelage of the legendary Grandmaster William Cheung, a mentorship he proudly represents in the North Queensland region.

For over a decade and a half, Sifu Pablo has been a dedicated pillar of the Townsville community, selflessly offering his expertise in martial arts. Since 2005, he has been instrumental in teaching traditional Wing Chun Kung Fu, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) to eager students seeking both physical fitness and self-defense skills.

As the founder and principal instructor of UMF Academy, formerly known as NQ Wing Chun Kung Fu Academy, Sifu Pablo Cardenas has harnessed his passion for martial arts and transformed it into a beacon of learning and discipline for his students. His journey in the martial arts commenced at the young age of 14, and since then, he has remained unwaveringly devoted to its practice and principles.

Beyond his martial arts expertise, Sifu Pablo's life has been marked by remarkable service to his country. In 1984, he enlisted in the Australian Regular Army, embarking on a distinguished 21-year military career. His dedication and skills led to his selection for an exchange program with the UK Ministry of Defence and deployment to East Timor as part of the UN peacekeeping task-force.

Throughout his military service, Sifu Pablo Cardenas had the unique opportunity to train with various elite military units worldwide, including the US Army, US Marine Corps, and the Gurkhas. Remarkably, he continues to serve the Australian Army as a reservist while devoting himself full-time to instructing at UMF Academy.

Sifu Pablo's profound understanding of martial arts and military life has empowered him to make a lasting impact on the lives of hundreds of students who have passed through his school. His mission extends beyond physical training, as he is deeply committed to the holistic development of his students—physically, mentally, and morally.

In every facet of his life, Sifu Pablo Cardenas exemplifies dedication, discipline, and a tireless commitment to nurturing the potential within his students and enriching his community. His enduring legacy as a martial artist, military veteran, and mentor continues to inspire and transform lives.