Meet Our Instructors

Shane has been training in karate since 1975, bringing decades of experience and insight to his practice. He has competed in six Soke Cups and values the depth of knowledge and application taught by Sensei Noonan, believing there is always something new to learn at every level. Through his training, Shane has developed a strong belief in perseverance and the rewards of both physical and mental hard work. Outside the dojo, he enjoys football, surfing, and the gym, and counts beef stroganoff among his favorite meals.

Nick Onie is an experienced instructor with strong competition credentials, a community-focused mindset, and a balanced teaching style shaped by years of training and tournament experience.

Ray has been training in karate since 2011, using it as a way to improve focus, relieve stress, and stay fit and energized. He enjoys the constant challenge of learning something new in every class, keeping his training both engaging and rewarding. Outside the dojo, Ray is a wine enthusiast and devoted foodie—using karate as his secret weapon to maintain balance and wellbeing.

Christine has been training in karate since 2012, using it as an opportunity to focus, strengthen her body, and sharpen her mind while setting aside other pressures. Outside the dojo, she enjoys bushwalking and spending time by the water.

Dean has been training in karate since 2010 and values the way training constantly pushes him past his limits. He has represented the dojo at the 2023 Soke Cup and trained at the Sohonbu in 2024. Dean enjoys the supportive environment at TKI, where everyone pushes each other to improve, and credits karate with teaching him that what once seemed impossible can be achieved through persistence and effort.

Mya has been training in karate since 2013, bringing passion, dedication, and strong values of patience, perseverance, courage, and resilience to her teaching. She has competed in three Soke Cups and continues to grow both as a martial artist and coach. For Mya, Tasseikan is a home away from home and her happy place. She values the friendships and camaraderie built through training together and is committed to creating a supportive environment where every student can thrive.

Jasper started his karate journey as a Little Dragon and has grown into an accomplished competitor and instructor, training since 2013. His achievements include three Soke Cups in 2017, 2019 and 2023, Sohonbu Kumite Training in April and October 2024, a Spirit Award at the 2017 Soke Cup, Team Kata shields at the Tassei Cup, and podium finishes across QLD, NSW and Tassei tournaments in both kata and kumite. Jasper values the constant support and guidance karate has given him, helping him grow in all areas of life

Mathias has been training in karate since 2010 and has represented the dojo at the 2023 Soke Cup as well as Sohonbu training in 2022. He enjoys the challenge of kata and kumite and believes karate has taught him the meaning of self-determination, along with the importance of helping others develop that same quality in themselves.

Tristan has been training in karate since 2009 and has built strong experience across kata, kumite, and kobujutsu. His competition highlights include the 2019 Soke Cup in Canada, the 2023 Soke Cup in Japan with 1st Place Kyu Grade Kata Men’s Open and 3rd Place Kobudo Men’s Open, and four weeks of Sohonbu Kumite Training in April 2024. Tristan values the persistence and endurance karate develops through both community support and the challenges of grading, international competition, and teaching others.

Jackie brings patience, perseverance, courage, and resilience to every class. Training at Tasseikan has shaped her into not just a skilled martial artist, but also a mentor who values camaraderie and community. She loves helping students grow, celebrate their achievements, and find their own “home away from home” on the mat.

Ethan’s love for kumite drives his teaching, fueled by his belief that to excel, you have to be obsessed with what you do. Off the mat, he’s famous for making a mean mac and cheese—his ultimate comfort food.

Max loves the friendships formed through training and the excitement of learning new techniques and applying them in competition against skilled opponents. Under his Sensei’s expert guidance and mentorship, he has gained the skills and confidence to succeed at the highest international level. His training has strengthened his discipline and focus, qualities that positively impact all areas of his life. When he’s not on the mat, Max enjoys a hearty plate of steak and vegetables, fueling his passion for performance and life.

Karate has taught Phoebe the power of hard work, discipline, and consistency from a young age. Since starting in 2011, she has competed in events including Gold Coast Nationals, Tassei Cup, and Lithgow Tournaments, with podium finishes across kata, group kata, and kumite, as well as Sohonbu Training experience. Phoebe values karate as both a place to escape outside stress and a space for continual learning, growth, and passing knowledge on to others.

Karate has helped Kate grow stronger both physically and mentally, giving her passion, drive, and motivation. She trains under the world-class guidance of Noonan Sensei, who is highly knowledgeable, clear, and patient, and enjoys being part of Tasseikan’s supportive, judgement-free community. Kate loves matcha!

Training at TKI has given Jamie a space to grow stronger in both body and mind, learning patience, resilience, and focus. Inspired by a supportive community, Jamie pushes past limits while enjoying a place to breathe, reset, and grow. Jamie loves Aussie cars!

Gaia has been training in karate since 2015, developing a strong foundation in hard work and dedication. Through her journey, she has learned that full commitment—both mentally and physically—leads not only to growth in karate but also to positive changes in everyday life. She believes the discipline and strength gained through training build resilience, focus, and confidence. As an instructor, Gaia encourages her students to persevere, showing them that with dedication, there are no limits to what they can achieve.

Madeleine’s favorite part of training at Tasseikan is the friendships she has gained through the dojo community. Since beginning karate in 2016, she has earned placings in kobujutsu at the 2023 Soke Cup, medals at Queensland tournaments, multiple Tassei Cup wins in both kata and kumite, and the title of Overall Tassei Cup Female Teen Champion in 2022. Training has taught her self-discipline and the importance of never giving up on reaching your full potential.