In 1970, two independent Shotokan Karate groups joined together to form one united body. The Australian Shotokan Karate Association (ASKA), later to change their name to JKAA. The purpose of this alliance was to affiliate to the Japan Karate Association (JKA), and obtain the service of a suitably qualified instructor from Japan. This union involved myself with two dojos in Brisbane (Inala and West End), and a group from Sydney with a dojo at the Souths Juniors Rugby League Club. Membership to the JKA Japan was granted in 1972. Sensei Takahashi was contracted and arrived in Australia in August 1973.

The first registered club in Queensland was West End, followed by Inala. Before Sensei arrived in Australia I actively travelled throughout Queensland promoting JKA and soliciting clubs to join our association. Among the Clubs that joined at this time included Bundaberg, Rockhampton, Gladstone and Beenleigh. There were also dojos established in other areas of NSW and in Adelaide SA. After Sensei Takahashi arrived in Brisbane in 1973 the growth in these established clubs was immense, also during that time dojos were formed in Melbourne and Mildura. In August, 1974, Sensei established a full time dojo in Fortitude Valley (an inner suburb of Brisbane) and took up residence with his family with the intention of a commitment to the development of JKA of Australia. This dojo remained in operation for approx. 2 years, however, due to personal commitments in Japan, Sensei Takahashi had to return home.

Although Sensei was living in Japan he wished to maintain his commitment to Australia during his vacation time twice yearly for extended visits to conduct training and grading seminars. Over the years JKA has continued to grow with dojos established in WA and more dojos in the other states. Our first international representative team travelled to Japan in 1977 with 13 members spending 3 weeks training and competing. Dragon Spoljanic finished fourth in the kumite event, an outstanding accomplishment for a kyu grade.

In 1986 we changed our name to JKAA, and  held our first National Seminar and Competition in Sydney. Sensei Nakayama made his first visit to Australia which was a great privilege for JKA Australia, and also in 1988, to celebrate Australia's Bicentennial year, we hosted the Shoto World Cup.  What a privilege and honour for JKA Australia.

Over the years many people have contributed to the growth and development of JKAA. These dedicated members include Al Davis, the late Jeff Green, Sensei Nishimura, Bob Hedger, George Karasterios, Alex Fedotow and many more. In recent times our Association has been most privileged to have the support of Mr and Mrs Takeji Miura, the Honorary President of JKA Australia in Japan.  In 2002 he presented JKA Australia and New Zealand  with special ceremonial flags. 

I am also very proud to have been a part of this development of JKAA. As we look to the future I’m sure the same dedication by our new Administrators will see the continued growth of JKA in Australia, as well as the continued support of Sensei Takahashi for many years to come.

By Mike Connolly (5th Dan)