About South Burnett Karate Association
South Burnett Karate Association (SBKA) has been operating since 2014 and is a grass roots provider for mixed martial arts, including coaching for competitors, training for coaches and referees and the hosting of competitions, workshops and seminars.
With strong ties to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and a commitment to inclusion and diversity, SBKA seeks to make a difference in the lives of our local community through physical activity and its impacts on mental health and fitness.
Our association has been very successful over the years in its training and development program. We have produced many local, state, national and world champions in martial arts. This has been thanks to the skill and dedication of our volunteers in coaching. All our staff work on a volunteer basis and donate their time and energy into player development.
We will continue to develop, promote and grow our association through good management planning and through the assistance of our volunteers and sponsors.
To learn more about our programs and service offering, please visit the links below.
Office Bearers
President - Geoff French
2014 - Current
Geoff has been SBKA President since 2014. He has passion and a dream to deliver training and development to children and adults who live in disadvantaged areas such as rural and remote Queensland. Mr. French has been a director of business since 1994, and has over 35 years of industry experience. Selected as a development coach for the Sydney 2000 Olympics for Tae Kwon Do, Mr. French is now the State Arbitrator for referee, official and volunteer development officer for the National Sports Karate Association (NSKA) in Queensland.
“I believe that our sport helps develop the mind and body of our members either young or old. It creates community and builds friendships. Competition is a healthy way to develop skills and abilities to grow as a person, not just as an athlete.”
Secretary – Kelly Douglass
2014 - Current
Kelly has been training in Martial Arts since 2009, and is a 2nd Dan Black Belt.
She has been the secretary of SBKA since its inception in 2014, and is passionate about getting people access to Martial Arts training and competition.
Kelly is a Level 2 referee, and frequently can be found at competitions officiating and coaching.
Treasurer – Jolene French
2016 - Current
Jolene is a 2nd Dan Black Belt, training in Martial Arts for 10 years. Newly appointed to the Treasurer role, Jolene has been involved in SBKA since 2016, fundraising and coaching, as well as competing herself.
She is now a Level 3 referee, dedicated to giving back the support shown to her as a competitor, and is excited about training up the next generation of referees from the younger ranks.
Our Vision
Inclusivity
Junior and senior players of all cultural backgrounds, sexes and abilities are encouraged to participate in martial arts at the level that best suits their needs and abilities.
Fair Play
All competitors compete in a manner that is safe, fair and friendly.
Volunteers
Volunteers are developed to increase their skills
Respect
Our association supports a welcoming, inclusive and respectful culture.
Our Values
Cultural diversity, respect and inclusion
No politics within the organisation
Players are protected by boundaries, authority and social responsibilities
Everyone feels welcome
Players are mentored to enjoy the sport and excel at their own level
The committee and volunteers support our sport
A competitive and well-run competition circuit
Our members have fun!