INSTRUCTORS
Our instructors are true masters of their craft, passionate about teaching and bringing a wealth of experience from both Australia and abroad. With diverse backgrounds and perspectives, each instructor offers unique insights, enriching the learning experience for our students. This collective expertise makes our teaching team stronger and more dynamic than any single individual could provide.
Led by Joe Thambu Shihan, our technical expert, whose vast teaching experience, technical mastery, and unwavering dedication to the art guide and inspire our instructors. Enrica Cheung Sensei serves as the Dojo-cho (head of the dojo), having spent many years training under Joe Thambu Shihan. Deeply immersed in the traditional dojo environment, she has refined her skills through both teaching and practice, both locally and internationally.
Joe Thambu Shuseki Shihan
Founder Aikido Shudokan Australia/ International
1961- Present
Joe Thambu Shuseki Shihan is a distinguished martial arts instructor and the founder of Aikido Shudokan in Melbourne, Australia. He began his Aikido training at age 11 under his uncle, Thamby Rajah Sensei, in Seremban, Malaysia, and also practiced Kendo and Shindo Muso Ryu Jodo during his teenage years. In 1978, Thambu Sensei earned his Shodan and moved to Australia at 19, where he established Aikido Shudokan in 1980.
To deepen his Aikido knowledge, Thambu sensei travelled to Japan in 1983 to train at the Yoshinkan Honbu Dojo, later establishing a permanent home for Aikido Shudokan in Australia upon his return. Throughout his journey, he has trained under notable Aikido instructors, including Shihan Goshi Yamaguchi, Shihan Morito Suganuma, and Shihan Shigenobu Okumura, as well as Inoue Kyoichi Hanshi, Thamby Raja Sensei and Gozo Shioda Kancho. Thambu Sensei has built a substantial international following with Aikido Shudokan International, conducting seminars and workshops around the world. Recognized for his technical expertise and teaching abilities, he received the title of Shuseki Shihan from the International Martial Arts Federation (IMAF) in 2009 in acknowledgment of his significant contributions to the martial arts community.
At Aikido Shudokan, you’ll learn from top tier male and female instructors who are not only masters of their craft but also passionate mentors. With a wealth of experience, they are committed to inspiring and empowering you on your Aikido journey. Join us to train with the best and take your skills to the next level!
Joe Thambu Shihan
8th Dan
Enrica Cheung Sensei
6th Dan
Fulori Smith Sensei
5th Dan
Alia Nicholls Sensei
4th Dan
Bart Lea Sensei
4th Dan
Rodney McLeod Sensei
4th Dan
Adam hoddinott Sensei
3rd Dan
Motivation
Push yourself
beyond your limits
As you practice Aikido, you’ll improve your overall fitness—developing strength, flexibility, and coordination
