Welcome to Bayside Seido Karate Dojo
Traditional Japanese Karate in Bayside
Trusted since 2003 — Confidence, Discipline & Resilience for All Ages
About Bayside Seido Karate Dojo
Established in 2003, Bayside Seido Karate has been a place of growth, discipline, and personal transformation for students of all ages and backgrounds in the Sandringham community. We provide a place of growth, discipline, and personal transformation for children, teens, and adults, grounded in the traditional values of Japanese karate
Our mission:
To develop confident, resilient individuals through traditional Japanese Seido Karate — where character, strength of mind, and physical capability grow together.
Meet Your Head Instructor
Jun Shihan Darek Lebek — 6th Dan Black Belt
With over 40 years of martial arts experience, Jun Shihan Darek Lebek has dedicated his life to the study, practice, and teaching of traditional Japanese karate.
Beginning his journey in 1986, his training has taken him across continents and into the heart of Seido Karate’s international lineage. Unlike many schools, Jun Shihan Darek personally teaches the majority of classes — including beginner and children’s sessions — ensuring students receive expert guidance from their very first lesson.
He is known not only for technical excellence, but for his calm, supportive teaching style and deep commitment to developing strong, confident, and ethical individuals through karate.
Direct International Lineage
Jun Shihan Darek has trained at the Seido World Headquarters (Honbu) in New York and in Japan, under the direct guidance of:
- Kaicho Tadashi Nakamura — Founder of Seido Karate
- Nidaime Akira Nakamura — Successor and Chief Instructor
This direct lineage ensures authentic instruction rooted in Seido’s traditional values and philosophy.
World-Class Mentorship & Senior Lineage
Jun Shihan Darek Lebek’s development has been shaped by long-term training under highly respected senior instructors, reflecting both depth of study and continuity within the Seido tradition.
In South Africa, he trained for many years under Sei Shihan George Wong, developing a strong technical foundation and disciplined approach to traditional karate.
Since relocating to Australia, Jun Shihan Darek has continued his senior training through regular travel to Christchurch, New Zealand, where he studies under Eiko Hanshi Ranzie — one of the world’s most senior Seido instructors and a globally respected martial artist.
In addition, his broader development includes seminars and training with leading figures in world karate, including:
- Shihan Hirokazu Kanazawa — direct student of Gichin Funakoshi, the father of modern karate
This combination of direct senior mentorship, international travel for training, and exposure to world-class instructors has shaped a teaching approach that balances tradition, precision, and a modern understanding of movement, learning, and personal development.
Real-World Self-Defence Experience
- Personal safety and awareness
- Decision-making under pressure
- Practical application of traditional techniques
A former professional self-defence instructor for the South African Police Force, Jun Shihan Darek brings rare real-world insight into:
This experience adds depth and relevance to his teaching while maintaining Seido’s non-violent, ethical foundation
Professional Coaching Background
A lifelong educator, Jun Shihan Darek began his teaching career as the youngest regional Sailing Instructor at age 16. This foundation gave him an advanced understanding of:
- Biomechanics and body mechanics
- Sports science and injury prevention
- Effective coaching and skill development
These principles are seamlessly integrated into his karate instruction.
Experience & Achievements
- Graded personally under Kaicho Tadashi Nakamura and Nidaime Akira Nakamura at Seido Honbu, New York
- Competitor at the New York World Tournaments (1996, 2006, 2016)
- Australian SOGO Champion (2013) — Overall National Champion in Kata, Kumite & Breaking
- World Tournament Success — 1st Place Kata (New Zealand, 1998); Member of the winning International Team (New York, 2006)
- Decorated national competitor and instructor in South Africa
- Regularly invited to demonstrate and train in Japan, honouring the art’s traditional roots
“Life is a path of continuous learning.”
— Jun Shihan Darek Lebek
This ongoing commitment to senior training reflects the core Seido belief that mastery is never finished.
Martial Arts as Therapy
A Commitment to Empowerment
Since 2013, Jun Shihan Darek has been a leader in government-run martial arts therapy programs. He specialises in teaching life skills to disadvantaged and special-needs youth. These programs use karate drills to improve:
- Mental and emotional resilience.
- The ability to make positive choices under pressure.
- Kindness toward self and others.
- Goal setting and personal commitment.
Senpai Sher-lene Lebek – 3rd Dan Black Belt
Assistant Instructor · Dojo Administrator
Senpai Sher-lene Lebek is a key member of the leadership team at Bayside Seido Karate. A 3rd Degree Black Belt and Assistant Instructor, she also serves as Dojo Administrator, playing an essential role in maintaining the welcoming, organised, and family-focused culture of the dojo.
She began her martial arts journey in 2006, joined Bayside Seido Karate in 2009, and was promoted to 3rd Dan in March 2021. Senpai Sher-lene has also represented the dojo in competition, including 2nd place finishes in Sandan Kata and Weapons Kata at a Wellington tournament.
With a professional background in veterinary medicine, education, and design, she brings care, discipline, and calm leadership to every aspect of dojo life.
Nidaime, Kaicho, Jun Shihan Darek and Senpai Sher-lane
Our Training Philosophy
At Bayside Seido Karate, we believe that karate is more than kicking and punching — it’s a way of life.
We focus on:
- Discipline, respect, and mental clarity
- Strong fundamentals before sparring
- Mind-body integration through meditation and technique
- Family-friendly training where parents can join children’s sessions
We honour the global Seido tradition of cooperation, not competition, rooted in respect for others and oneself.
What Our Students Say
“The community has been a wonderful influence on our son’s life — teaching focus, strength, and respect in a supportive environment.”
— Merran B., Hampton
“Unlike many other styles, Seido’s inclusivity and philosophy of ‘spirit before technique’ make everyone feel part of a family.”
— Mike P., Sandringham
Take Your First Step
Whether you’re new to karate or returning after a break, your journey begins here.
No experience needed — friendly, supportive, and obligation-free.