Paul Starling

Hanshi Paul Starling, 8th Dan in Goju Ryu Karate, is a prominent figure in the history of Australian martial arts, revered not only for his exceptional physical abilities in the Goju Ryu system but also for his leadership and role in the development of Karate in Australia. His dedication to the art began in 1963, when, as a teenager, he started training under Merv Oakley, the founder of Goju Kai in Australia. At the time, qualified instructors in the country were rare, and even fewer were legitimately graded to the level of an instructor, making Paul's early years of training both unique and challenging.

In 1970, Paul Starling made his mark on the international stage by becoming the first Australian karateka to compete in a Karate World Championship, which took place in Tokyo, Japan. His team faced off against the undisputed favorites, Japan, and Paul's performance at this inaugural event left a lasting impression as he remained undefeated. His success during this critical period of Karate's global rise further cemented his reputation as a martial artist of exceptional caliber.

A milestone in Paul's career came in 1973 when he became the first Australian and the only Caucasian to graduate from Gogen Yamaguchi’s prestigious Japan Karate-do College. This was no ordinary achievement—graduating as a Shihan (Master) from such a respected institution marked a significant moment in his career and for Australian Karate as a whole. His close training relationship with Gogen Yamaguchi, one of the most revered figures in Goju Ryu Karate, solidified Paul’s expertise and commitment to the art. His training in Japan under Yamaguchi further deepened his knowledge of Karate’s techniques and philosophies, making him a true pioneer for bringing authentic Goju Ryu back to Australia.

Paul Starling’s influence extended beyond the dojo and into the realm of popular culture when in 1983, he was selected to portray a Karate instructor in the classic Australian film *The Coolangatta Gold*. His performance was highly praised, with respected reviewers from *Variety* magazine describing his portrayal as both commendable and convincing. This role not only showcased his acting abilities but also introduced the martial art of Karate to a broader Australian audience, further elevating its status in popular culture.

Many of Paul’s students have gone on to achieve great success, becoming national and international champions in their own right. His dojo has produced numerous Australian state and national champions, as well as internationally recognized instructors who carry forward his teachings. His legacy, however, is not just in the medals and titles won by his students but also in the values, discipline, and dedication that he instilled in generations of martial artists.

Hanshi Paul Starling remains a beloved and influential figure in the martial arts world. His contributions to the growth of Karate in Australia, his remarkable achievements on the global stage, and his role as a teacher and mentor have left an indelible mark on the world of Karate. He continues to inspire martial artists around the globe with his profound knowledge of Goju Ryu, his commitment to the development of the art, and his unwavering dedication to his students and community.