After more than eight years, Tamborine Mountain Martial Arts has finally found a permanent home.
Until now, TMMA has operated from the Showgrounds, which, while successful, had its constraints, said instructor Shaun Kennedy.
“At the Showgrounds, we had to set up for each session, but with our new dojo at 39 Main Street, we now have a permanent home for our mats and training equipment.” he explained.
“We already have strong local support so that gives us hope that the new centre will enable further growth.”
TMMA is led by Cameron Quinn, one of Australia’s leading Kyokushin Karate instructors.
The seventh dan black belt has dedicated himself to the discipline since he was 12 years-old. In 1976, at just 17, he travelled to Japan to train under the legendary Mas Oyama for a year.
That decision 50 years ago led Cameron to work alongside Oyama as an interpreter for almost two decades.
Cameron is also a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
As a result of his experience in both stand up and grappling, he was one of Australia’s most sought-after MMA officials.
Since 1994, he has refereed and judged in both Australia and internationally, including at UFC.
“Our dojo at Tamborine Mountain is a joint venture between Shaun and myself,” Cameron said.
“I’ve been training Shaun for eight years, during which he’s progressed from white belt to nearly earning his black belt in Kyokushin Karate. He is also progressing very well in jiu-jitsu.“
The new dojo in Main Street offers training in both Kyokushin karate and Brazilian Jiu jitsu.
Cameron said martial arts training helps both physically and mentally, including improving mobility, flexibility and health.
“Training teaches us to understand and push our limits. It’s also excellent discipline for kids.”
He continued, “We offer the opportunity to compete in tournaments or members can just come along to train.
“Competing is a lot of fun and it helps in many ways. Kyokushin tournaments are full-contact so they help develop a disciplined confident approach to life in general.
“Members become part of our family and enjoy training in a strong dojo alongside new friends.”
