About us
About us
The best martial arts academy
Nippon-Den Kempo Junseikan International Karate Club is a not for profit organisation which has been going for approximately 40+ years. Nippon–Den Kempo Junseikan International is the result of more than forty years of constant training within the Goju Ryu style.
There have been many wonderful Japanese Masters from various Goju–Ryu organisations that have contributed to the development of our Club over this period. The most important contribution to our club development was Tomoharu KISAKI Sensei (9 Dan), the Master of the Goju–Ryu Yuishinkan Dojo of Osaka, Japan.
In 1984 our instructor, John INGHAM, went to Japan for the first of many trips to extend his karate knowledge and trained in the Yuishinkan Dojo. John was then invited by KISAKI Sensei to study kata with him in private lessons. The kata training John received was the same as KISAKI Sensei was taught by Chojun MIYAGI Sensei. This private training continued until KISAKI Sensei’s death in 1996. KISAKI Sensei was a direct student of Chojun MIYAGI Sensei, the founder of Goju Ryu Karate–Do. KISAKI Sensei was a real Master of Goju Ryu Karate–Do.
Our club is fortunate to have a direct line from Chojun MIYAGI Sensei to Tomoharu KISAKI Sensei, to John INGHAM Sensei and now to Glen van Boven Sensei.
Nippon-Den Kempo Junseikan International Instructors have great knowledge and understanding of the Goju Ryu Style and believe that their knowledge can be passed on to you as a new member of Junseikan. We take pride in showing our karate knowledge to fellow students and work hard to help our students feel confident with their learning.
Why choose us
Benefits of learning martial arts
We hope your journey with Nippon-Den Kempo Junseikan International Karate Club is a positive one. We are a fun family club that welcomes diversity among its students. We promise to strive for a positive learning experience and guide you through karate with encouragement and effective training that will not only enhance your active lifestyle but show you true defensive tactics that are effective in an everyday experience.
Maintain stamina
Increase strength
Self defense
its cool
Junseikan karate
Meet our instructors
Our Dojo Instructors have great knowledge and understanding of the Goju Ryu Style and believe that their knowledge can be passed on to you as a new member of Junseikan. We take pride in showing our karate knowledge to fellow students and work hard to help our students feel confident with their learning.
Glen van Boven – 7th dan black belt
Director – Junseikan
Glen van Boven is a 7th Dan Black Belt in Goju Ryu Karate, recognised as a 5th Dan in the AKF (Australian Karate Federation) and 5th Dan in the JKF (Japan Karate Federation) with 33 years of dedicated training. He has trained exclusively in the western suburbs area and has travelled to Japan on countless occasions to train with some of the most influential and knowledgeable Sensei’s form around the world, while also contributing to the success of the multiple dojo’s within Junseikan. He now serves Director of Nippon-Den Kempo Junseikan International. With 33 years of experience as a student and Instructor Glen brings exceptional technical skills and a deep understanding of Goju-Ryu learning to his karate instruction. His extensive insight of techniques enables him to create a disciplined yet supportive training environment, helping students of all levels develop their skills and confidence in Goju Ryu Karate.
Mark Stephens – 6th dan black belt
Chief Instructor – Junseikan
Mark Stephens began his karate journey in 1987 at just six years old, training at the Yuishinkan Dojo in Werribee under John Ingham Sensei. His early training was hard, tiresome and rigorous, consisting of demanding two-hour sessions twice a week, with gradings overseen by Taniguchi Sensei from Osaka, Japan. In 1996, Mark had the incredible opportunity to travel to Japan and compete at the JKF Gojukai Championship—an experience that was both challenging and character-building. Like many dedicated martial artists, his path was not without its struggles, and there were times he stepped away from training. However, his passion for karate always brought him back, reinforcing his resilience and dedication to the art. Returning to training alongside Glen Shihan as an assistant instructor at the Tarneit Dojo, Mark embraced a new chapter of his karate journey—this time with his wife and two sons joining him as white belts. A few years later, he and his family relocated to regional Victoria, where he established the Trentham Dojo from the ground up. Over the past decade, building and leading this dojo has been one of the most rewarding aspects of his martial arts career. Teaching and guiding students in their development, while instilling confidence, discipline, and perseverance, has deepened his understanding of karate. Now, with over 30 years of experience, Mark remains as passionate as ever, believing that he is only just beginning to truly understand karate.
George Sarlos – 3rd dan black belt
Kew East Dojo
George Sarlos is a 3rd Dan Black Belt in Goju Ryu Karate with 11 years of dedicated training. He has trained predominantly at the East Doncaster and East Kew dojos while also contributing to the North Balwyn dojo. He now serves as a senior instructor at the East Kew dojo. With 37 years of experience as a secondary school educator, George brings exceptional communication skills and a deep understanding of adolescent learning to his karate instruction. His extensive teaching background enables him to create a disciplined yet supportive training environment, helping students of all levels develop their skills and confidence in Goju Ryu Karate.
Martyn Young – 3rd dan black belt
Kew East Dojo
Martyn Young is a 3rd Dan Black Belt in Goju Ryu Karate with 16 years of dedicated training. He has trained extensively at East Doncaster dojo, as a student and as head instructor for 4 years and has played a key role in supporting and mentoring students at Nth Balwyn and East Kew.
Martyn brings 20 years of Management experience in the IT industry developing professionals and guiding them in their careers and as a senior instructor, Martyn is committed to sharing his deep knowledge of martial arts while fostering a supportive learning environment. His years of experience have given him a strong ability to guide students of all levels, helping them refine their technique, build confidence, and develop a lifelong appreciation for Goju Ryu Karate.
Melissa Keeble – 3rd dan black belt
Tarneit Dojo
Melissa Keeble is a 3rd Dan Black Belt in Goju Ryu Karate, with 7 years training at a different karate club, before her heart found Nippon Den Kempo Junseikan, and has enjoyed another 13 years of training. She has trained at the Truganina Dojo, as a student and now as instructor assistant. She has played a role in mentoring new black belts and instructors and given support and encouragement to the students.
Melissa has worked in animal welfare for over 25 years, and work as a mentor and guide for the new staff. She has done voluntary work for the army cadets at Werribee secondary collage and now helps with the Werribee LIONS club. She has good patience, which helps with the training of the younger students.
Bradley Vogele – 3rd dan black belt
Tarneit Dojo
Bradley Vogele is a 3rd Dan Black Belt in Goju Ryu Karate with over 15 years of dedicated training with Junseikan. He started his karate journey in Werribee in 1998 and for the last 3 years, he is now the head instructor at the Tarneit Dojo. Bradley is a committed member to the Junseikan Goju Ryu Karate club and has extensive knowledge of self-defence martial arts. His years of experience have given him a strong ability to guide students of all ages and skill level on their own karate journey, helping them build a strong foundation while refining their technique, developing their skill and confidence.
Michelle Raffaele – 2nd dan black belt
Tarneit Dojo
Michelle Raffaele has been training with Tarneit Dojo since 2014, and has since channelled all her effort into obtaining her black Belt, second Dan. Michelle lives a busy and fun life with her husband and four children, and when she isn’t training, she works as a canteen manager at a primary school in Point Cook. Growing up, Michelle didn’t have the freedom to experience hobbies that other children could experience, and it wasn’t until her children found a passion for karate, that her own love for the discipline was ignited. Through training in self defence and other skills karate instills, michelle has been able to not only grow as an individual and gain confidence, but also help others find their own passion and pass on her knowledge to her students. She hopes to continue contributing to the supportive and positive environment at the Dojo, for many years to come.
Jonathan Stephens – 1st dan black belt
Trentham Dojo
Jonathan Stephens began his karate journey at just five years old, training at Tarneit Dojo under Glen Sensei and his father, Mark Sensei. Alongside his family, he dedicated himself to training, attending regularly, and always striving to improve. Inspired by the determination of his younger brother, Jonathan continuously pushed himself to be faster, stronger, and the best martial artist he could be. As his family moved to regional Victoria, Jonathan continued his karate journey at Trentham Dojo, where he naturally emerged as a leader among his peers. Many students looked up to him for guidance and support, and he took on this role with humility and dedication. Now, with 13 years of training, Jonathan remains an integral part of Trentham Dojo. He continues to train consistently, serving as a role model for younger students and helping new members learn the art of Goju-Ryu karate. His passion, discipline, and leadership make him a valued member of the dojo, and his karate journey is far from over.
Kristopher Stephens – 1st dan black belt
Trentham Dojo
Kristopher Stephens began his karate journey at just five years old, training at the Tarneit Dojo under Glen Sensei and his father, Mark Sensei. From the very start, he demonstrated a strong commitment to his training, attending regularly, giving his best effort, and pushing through challenges with perseverance. As his family relocated, Kristopher continued his training at Trentham Dojo, where he naturally stepped into a mentorship role. Many beginners looked up to him for guidance and support, and he embraced the responsibility of helping others develop their skills and confidence. Achieving his 1st Dan Black Belt was a significant milestone, and one of the highlights of his journey was traveling to Japan for the Junseikan Karate Camp in Osaka. There, he had the incredible opportunity to learn authentic Goju-Ryu karate under Yuki Sato Sensei—an unforgettable experience that deepened his understanding and appreciation for the art. Now, with 12 years of training, Kristopher remains as dedicated and consistent as he was in the beginning. As a black belt in the Trentham dojo he continues to refine his skills while inspiring and guiding his many peers in the dojo. His passion and perseverance are a testament to his commitment to the martial arts, and his journey is only just beginning.
Rohil Prasad – 1st dan black belt
Tarneit Dojo
Rohil Prasad holds the rank of Sho dan-Ho and has been training in Karate for 13 years, with 9 years of experience in Goju-Ryu Karate. He actively trains at Tarneit dojo, refining his skills and mentoring fellow students.
For Rohil, Karate is more than just a martial art—it is a way of life that promotes discipline, respect, and personal growth. He believes that training in Karate builds both mental and physical strength, helping students develop confidence, resilience, and focus that extend beyond the dojo. As both a student and an instructor, Rohil brings a unique perspective to training, understanding the challenges and aspirations of those learning Karate. He is passionate about helping others grow, ensuring that students not only learn self-defence but also cultivate discipline, respect, and perseverance in their daily lives.
Olivia Ross – 1st Dan Black Belt
Tarneit Dojo
Olivia is 15 years old, with nearly 9 years of dedication and hard work in karate and has honed her skills through discipline and perseverance. She earned her Sho Dan Ho Black Belt in karate after traveling to Japan to train and complete her grading. Despite her young age, she balances her passion for karate with the demands of high school, proving that her commitment to excellence in both academics and karate is unmatched.
Krishav Prasad - 1st Dan Black belt
Tarneit Dojo
Krishav’s journey as a Shodan Ho black belt is an example of determination and perseverance. Starting at a young age he trained tirelessly for years to receive his black belt, mastering not only just techniques but also discipline and resilience. As a student and an instructor Krishav inspires others with his passion and expertise showing the spirit of leadership. His ability to guide and support his students shows his outstanding teamwork skills and a positive and empowering environment. Krishav’s journey reflects a balance of strength, perseverance, and dedication to continue growing as a person. As both as a leader and as a friend, he continues to make an impact, demonstrating that true success lies in helping others succeed alongside him.
Andrew Ross - 1st Dan Black belt
Tarneit Dojo
Hello, my name Andrew, I have been practicing karate for over eight years, honing my skills and discipline through consistent training. Currently, I train at Tarneit Dojo, where I continue to develop both my technical abilities and my understanding of karate’s deeper principles. I am proud to hold the rank of Sho Dan Ho, a testament to my dedication and hard work in the art. A major highlight of my journey was traveling to Japan, where I had the opportunity to train at the heart of karate’s birthplace. This experience not only deepened my appreciation for the martial art but also enhanced my commitment to continuous growth both as a practitioner and as an individual.
Kobi van Boven - 1st Dan Black belt
Tarneit Dojo
Theo Nikolakakis - 3rd Dan Black Belt
Tarneit Dojo
Janine Warwick- 2nd Dan Black Belt
Tarneit Dojo
Montana Vogele-Cowie - Sho Dan Ho
Tarneit Dojo
Kayley Hobbs- Sho Dan Ho
Tarneit Dojo
Devansh Chorera - Sho Dan Ho
Tarneit Dojo
Praneeth Chappidi - Sho Dan Ho
Tarneit Dojo
Arnav Jayaganesh - Sho Dan Ho
Tarneit Dojo
Billy Anaba - Sho Dan Ho
Tarneit Dojo
Sandra Stephens - Sho Dan Ho
Tarneit Dojo
Madelene Sutton - Sho Dan Ho
Tarneit Dojo
Ken Prior - Sho Dan Ho
Tarneit Dojo