Samurai Karate Sunshine Dojo — Victoria
4/180 Fairbairn Rd,
Sunshine West VIC 3020
Self Defence and Martial Arts Classes in Sunshine
Samurai Karate is a traditional Martial art well designed to meet the needs of our modern world. From a solid foundation springs a wealth of physical and mental abilities that will serve you and your child throughout life! Our martial arts academy has stood the test of time, serving the community for over 40 years and contributing to the development of thousands of students over the years.
Samurai Karate Sunshine welcomes families and adults from across the Western suburbs. Whether you’re searching for martial arts for kids in Sunshine, karate for children Sunshine families trust, or a well-established karate Sunshine club for adults, our dojo blends traditional Shukokai discipline with real-world self-defence.
Welcome to Our Sunshine West Dojo
Located conveniently at 4/180 Fairbairn Rd in Sunshine West, our dojo is a thriving hub for martial arts within the vibrant local community. We pride ourselves on providing a welcoming environment for families across the Western suburbs to learn focus, discipline, and self-defence. We know it can feel a little intimidating jumping right into a class, which is why we invite you to come in for some private lessons with no obligation to join. Our dedicated instructors will teach you basic skills, answer all your questions, and even fit you out in your own uniform to get started. If you have friends or family in nearby areas, we also have excellent facilities at our Caroline Springs Dojo and Kensington Dojo.
Led by Shihan Darren Olsen, Australia’s Head National Coach, Samurai Karate is widely regarded as the best karate club Sunshine families have trained with for over 40 years. If you’re comparing the best martial arts club Sunshine has to offer, we invite you to visit and try a private lesson for yourself.
Karate Programs for All Ages & Karate Fit for Women
In our Sunshine classes, you or your child will experience a dynamic program designed to channel energy and focus in a supportive, friendly environment. We offer specialised classes including Little Samurai (ages 4-7), Juniors (ages 8-15), and Adults (ages 16+). Additionally, we feature a unique KARATE FIT program specifically tailored for women. With time and consistent practice, students enjoy the fruits of their training, obtaining various levels throughout their development. The skills developed here will transfer into success in everyday life. To learn more about how martial arts transforms lives, check out our guide on the benefits of joining a martial arts academy.
LITTLE SAMURAI | 4-7
Our Little Samurai program is one of the most popular choices for martial arts for kids in Sunshine, introducing ages 4-7 to basic movement, listening skills, and fun in a safe, structured environment.
JUNIORS | 8-15
Junior students build on foundational skills with karate for children. Sunshine families rely on us, developing focus, coordination, and confidence through our karate club for kids as they progress through grading.
ADULTS | 16+
Our adult classes offer fitness, stress relief, and practical self-defence, a key reason Samurai Karate is considered the best karate club Sunshine has for grown-up students too.
KARATE FIT | Women
Karate Fit is our dedicated women's program combining fitness, self-defence, and confidence-building a unique offering that sets Samurai Karate apart as the best martial arts club Sunshine women have access to.”
Why Local Families Choose Our Sunshine Karate Club
Situated at 4/180 Fairbairn Rd, Samurai Karate Sunshine has become the best karate club Sunshine families have trusted for over 40 years, led by Shihan Darren Olsen, Australia’s Head National Coach. Many consider us the best martial arts club Sunshine has to offer, combining traditional Shukokai discipline with genuine self-defence skills for every age group. From martial arts for kids in Sunshine through to our dedicated Karate Fit program for women, every student trains within a supportive, Western-suburbs community. If you’re comparing kids karate classes in Sunshine, we invite you to book a private introductory lesson and experience Samurai Karate Sunshine for yourself.
OUR INSTRUCTOR
Shihan Darren Olsen
Shihan 7th Dan Kyoshi, Australian Chief Instructor
Karate Australia Head National Coach for International Pathways
Karate Victoria Senior State Coach
Philosophy & Mission
My passion for Karate comes from a lifelong journey of self-realisation through self-development—balancing the three pillars of growth: mental, physical, and spiritual.
From this, my mission has become clear: to serve others by improving all aspects of the human experience through Karate. I aim to teach not only technique, but life skills—guiding students toward confidence, resilience, self-awareness, and personal growth.
By using Karate as the foundation, my goal is to have a positive and lasting impact on as many people in the community as possible, supporting each individual on their own journey of self-realisation.
Nori Miki
5th Dan
Read full bio
5th Dan in Rocky Ryu (Goju/Shito ryu style) and 2nd Dan Japan Karate Federation.
Started training when I was 3 in my Fathers dojo in Kyoto japan. My father was an 8th dan in JKF.
When I was in grade 2 you won National Kata championship. 5th Dan in Rocky Ryu (Goju/Shito ryu style) and 2nd Dan Japan Karate Federation.
1st place Japan’s Nationals in the 16-18 year old Kata division and 2nd place in the 19-22 year old Kata division,
1st place Kata in the Asia/pacific Games in Singapore and also in the Shito Ryu World Championships in Italy.
In Japan’s National team for 3 Years.
State Kata Coach for 2 years
Training since 1974 and teaching since 1986.
Love helping people develop, especially in preparation for kata competition.
5th Dan
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The first time I tried karate I was 4 years old, I always wanted to be a black belt like my dad sensei Darren Olsen, but when I got to the door of the class and the rest of the class looked back at me, I started to cry and wouldn’t go in. It wasn’t till 1997 when I was 9 that my mum told me it was about time to give it another go.
Sunshine dojo was located sunshine station at the time, and when I started my training there my dad had me train under his other instructors at first, Senseis Frank, Franka and Claudio.
- Who you have trained with
I have always trained at Sunshine Dojo under my father Sensei Darren Olsen, but he has always encouraged me to train under others to further my learning.
Wasn’t long before Sensei Darren had me training with his instructor Sensei Paul Mitchell, he even sent me to Sensei Pauls Dojo in Croydon every Friday to train for 2 years
I then trained with the AKF Victorian and National team where I was exposed to a lot of great instructors, people like the late Allen Murdoc. It was though the AKF National team I got my first taste at training with a world champion, Junior Levfer
Thomas Olsen
4th Dan
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I started karate in 1997 at 5 yrs old, training at my father’s club in sunshine, across the road from sunshine train station.
My latest grading to date (2018) was my third dan grading in 2015 under Hanshi Paul Mitchell and Jun Shidoin with Kawata Sensei in Japan in 2015
I have done lots of competitions within Australia and around the world taking me to many different countries including Czech republic, Malaysia, Germany, Jakata, Japan, USA Open at Ceasars Palace and Morocco. My greatest achievements are coming first at the Czech open in 2011, third at the German open in 2011 and top 8 at the world championships in Morrocco.
I love doing karate it has taken me all around the world and has helped me prosper in other areas of my life through the lessons I have learned inside the dojo, I love teaching now, to help the students at Samurai Karate gain the experiences, lessons and knowledge that has helped me throughout my life so far.
Zach
2nd Dan
Started Karate – March 2000
Involved in teaching since 2004 (assisting juniors). Teaching my own class since 2010.
Karate Achievements:
Previous club World Cup Kata champion
Competing in Montreal Canada Series A
Runner up JKA Nationals kumite (open weight category)
Love about Samurai Karate – I love that the club has an ongoing connection to traditional karate. We focus on all elements of training. The instructors are all approachable and continue to focus on how to improve not only technical understanding but background planning to ensure the club can be most effectively operated for its members. It is such a privilege to teach and train alongside such respected, honest and inspiring martial arts practitioners.
Love about teaching: Seeing people come together on a consistent basis to dedicate themselves on improving something is very special. To improve in martial arts you have to have patience and learn to work through setbacks to really develop something special. It is very much a privilege of passing on what I have learnt over the years to those that are dedicating such energy to themselves. I love seeing others achieve their goals, gradings, tournament success, more power in a technique, remembering a kata, the list goes on. We are all on a journey of learning and developing ourselves and our karate together; I will give what I can. Samurai – One who serves.
Andrea
INSTRUCTOR
Began karate in Colombia in 2001 at the age of 8. Trained in Goju Ryu for 6 years, followed by 10 years of Shotokan style. Currently, I practice Shukokai style (shit-ryu) at Samurai Karate, where I achieved the rank of Shodan black belt in 2023.
Andrea represented the state at the national level, winning multiple titles in both Kumite and Kata, also represented my country internationally, competing in South American, Pan American, and Central American tournaments, where I earned a bronze medal. Additionally, I assisted my sensei in running classes, especially for beginners.
I joined Samurai in 2018 as part of the reception team. Soon after, I began training there as well. Samurai Karate quickly became my second family. I love training and working here. Everyone supports each other and helps one another become the best versions of themselves. We push each other to get to the next level as a team, not just as individuals. Our club embodies love, friendship, discipline, hard work, and respect. This philosophy is what I want to transfer to the kids in every class. I love helping them achieve their goals, witness their growth, and develop new skills.
The Samurai team has been there for me through thick and thin. They celebrated my victories, including becoming the Victoria State Team Champion in Female Kata Senior (with a state title in 2022, Australian Open silver and bronze medals, and a national bronze in 2022). But their support goes beyond trophies. They’ve also been there for me during challenging times, including injuries, mental hurdles, and personal crises. I’m incredibly grateful to be part of a club that values its members as whole people.
Cindy
INSTRUCTOR
Benjamin
INSTRUCTOR
Kha
SUB-INSTRUCTOR
Tri
SUB-INSTRUCTOR
Khoi
SUB-INSTRUCTOR
Darcy
RECEPTION
Emily
RECEPTION
VIDEOS
TESTIMONIALS
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Sunshine Dojo – VIC | Timetable
Select the Group tab to view the timing information you need.
JUNIOR TIMETABLE
Monday
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NOVICE (8-13yrs)
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( White , Red & Yellow )
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Little Samurai (White to Red)
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( 4-7 yo, White to Red )
DOJO 2
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Little Samurai (Red to Orange)
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( 4-7 yo, Red to Orange )
DOJO 2
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INTERMEDIATE
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( Orange, Green & Blue )
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SENIOR
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( Purple , Black & Brown )
Tuesday
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Junior Tournament Class
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Thursday
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NOVICE (8-13yrs)
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( White , Red & Yellow )
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Little Samurai (White to Red)
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( 4-7 yo, White to Red )
DOJO 2
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Little Samurai (Red to Orange)
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( 4-7 yo, Red to Orange )
DOJO 2
Friday
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INTERMEDIATE
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( Orange, Green & Blue )
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SENIOR
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( Purple , Black & Brown )
Saturday
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Little Samurai (White to Red)
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( 4-7 yo, White to Red )
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Little Samurai (Red to Orange)
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( 4-7 yo, Red to Orange )
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NOVICE (8-13yrs)
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( White , Red & Yellow )
-
INTERMEDIATE
-
( Orange, Green & Blue )
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SENIOR
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( Purple , Black & Brown )
ADULTS TIMETABLE
Tuesday
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NOVICE/INTERMEDIATE
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( White to Purple / 4th Kyu )
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SENIOR
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Thursday
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NOVICE/INTERMEDIATE
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( White to Purple / 4th Kyu )
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SENIOR
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Saturday
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NOVICE/INTERMEDIATE
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( White to Purple / 4th Kyu )
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SENIOR
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HOLIDAY TIMETABLE
Tuesday
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NOVICE
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( White , Red & Yellow , Dojo 1 )
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Little Samurai (White-LS Red)
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( 4 - 7 yrs, White - LS Red - Dojo 2 )
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Little Samurai
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( 4 - 7 yrs, Red to Orange, Dojo 2 )
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INTERMEDIATE
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( Orange, Green & Blue , Dojo 2)
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SENIOR
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( Purple, Brown & Black , Dojo 2 )
Thursday
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NOVICE
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( White , Red & Yellow , Dojo 1 )
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Little Samurai (White-LS Red)
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( 4 - 7 yrs, White - LS Red - Dojo 2 )
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Little Samurai
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( 4 - 7 yrs, Red to Orange, Dojo 2 )
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INTERMEDIATE
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( Orange, Green & Blue , Dojo 2)
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SENIOR
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( Purple, Brown & Black , Dojo 2 )
Tuesday
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NOVICE/INTERMEDIATE
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( White to Purple )
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SENIOR
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Thursday
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NOVICE/INTERMEDIATE
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( White to Purple )
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SENIOR
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where are your martial arts classes located?
Our Sunshine karate club is located at 4/180 Fairbairn Rd, Sunshine West VIC 3020, serving families across Melbourne’s Western suburbs. We also operate multiple dojo locations across Victoria, including Caroline Springs and Kensington, so a Samurai Karate dojo is likely convenient for your family. Sunshine remains one of our most established martial arts locations; Sunshine residents have relied on it for decades.
Q: Do you offer a free trial for new students?
Yes, Samurai Karate Sunshine offers a free, no-obligation private introductory lesson for every new student. This gives you or your child the chance to try a class, meet our instructors, and ask questions before committing to our karate club. It’s the easiest way to see if martial arts for kids in Sunshine or our adult and Karate Fit classes are the right fit for your family.
Q: What age can my child start karate?
Children can start karate for kids in Sunshine from as young as 4 years old in our Little Samurai program (ages 4-7). Junior classes then continue the journey for ages 8-15, building focus, discipline, and coordination through structured, age-appropriate training. Whether your child is a complete beginner or ready to progress in grading, our Sunshine karate club has a class suited to their stage.
Q: What style of karate do you teach?
Samurai Karate Sunshine teaches traditional Shukokai Karate, a Japanese style known for speed, powerful technique, and highly practical self-defence application. This makes it suitable for kids building coordination and confidence, as well as adults and women in our Karate Fit program seeking genuine, real-world self-defence skills. Our curriculum follows the same internationally recognised standard taught across all Samurai Karate dojos in Victoria.
Q: What are the benefits of joining your martial arts academy?
Joining our Sunshine karate club builds confidence, discipline, coordination, and motor skills for kids, while giving adults a fantastic workout alongside stress relief and essential self-defence skills. Our Karate Fit program adds a women-focused option combining fitness with practical self-defence. Many families choose martial arts sunshine classes specifically for this well-rounded, multi-generational approach.
Q: Do you use weapons in training?
Beginners at our Sunshine dojo focus entirely on foundational empty-hand techniques stances, strikes, and blocks — before any weapons are introduced. Advanced students may later progress to traditional Kobudo (weapons training) as part of elite-level development. This ensures every student builds a strong technical foundation before advancing further.
Q: How much do the karate classes cost?
Pricing at Samurai Karate Sunshine depends on your training frequency and age group. We recommend starting with our free introductory lesson or current $49 special, after which our team will walk you through a detailed membership breakdown tailored to your goals. There’s no pressure to commit; you can decide once you’ve experienced a class firsthand.
Q: Do you offer kids karate classes in Sunshine?
Yes — Samurai Karate Sunshine runs dedicated kids karate classes in Sunshine across age-banded groups from Little Samurai (4-7) through to Juniors (8-15). Each class focuses on discipline, coordination, and age-appropriate self-defence in a safe, supportive environment in the Western suburbs.
Q: What makes Samurai Karate the best karate club in Sunshine?
We combine over 40 years of traditional Shukokai teaching, led by Shihan Darren Olsen, Australia’s Head National Coach, with a genuinely local, community-focused dojo in Sunshine West. Unlike many clubs that focus purely on fitness, we place equal emphasis on discipline, confidence, and real self-defence for kids, adults, and women through our dedicated Karate Fit program.