More than 100 martial arts enthusiasts from the Blue Mountains and Lithgow area will gather at the KCC Conference Centre in Katoomba on Saturday, August 20 for a seminar on Jeet Kune Do – a martial art made famous by film star Bruce Lee.
The seminar will include live demonstrations of Jeet Kune Do and techniques used in movie fight scenes. It will be hosted by Australian President of the Martial Arts Industry Association and world authority on Jeet Kune Do, Walt Missingham.
The seminar will also be used to deliver an important message to parents, students and venue providers to check their instructor is accredited by the Martial Arts Industry Association or Australian Sports Commission.
Leura based martial arts instructor Chris Traish endorsed the key message of the seminar, stating “learning a martial art is a great way to keep fit, develop discipline and learnt how to defend yourself. However like any sport there can be risks if it not taught by an accredited instructor.”
“Every year we hear about dozens of scams or people claiming to be qualified instructors. These people not only damage the reputation of our sport but also put at risk the safety of their students,” said Mr Traish
“All accredited instructors have to pass NSW Government working with children checks, undertake ongoing training and meet the strict industry standards.”
“We currently have five accredited martial arts instructors in the Blue Mountains and Lithgow area, so there is plenty of choice for people wanting to learn this great sport,” Mr Traish Said
Walt Missingham endorsed Mr Traish’s comments but also encouraged venue providers to play a role in protecting students.
“Organisations such as councils, schools and churches who rent venues can also play a role in keeping our students safe by checking martial arts instructors, they hire halls to, are accredited,” he said.
“To assist the local community, the Martial Arts Industry Association has produced an information kit which we will be sending to all venue providers in the Blue Mountains and Lithgow area this week.”
People can find out if an instructor is accredited by contacting Martial Arts Industry Association on 8736 1229 or downloading the APP available on the website www.maia.com.au.
