7th Dan Shotokan Karate Master

Sensei Trevor Roberts

Early Training & Influences

Coaching & Leadership

Transition to Australia & Founding of SKB

For more than five decades, Sensei Trevor Roberts has lived and breathed Shotokan Karate. His journey from England to Australia reflects a lifetime of dedication, discipline, and contribution to the art of karate.

Sensei Trevor began his karate journey in 1972 in England, training under Sensei Gerry Breeze (9th Dan) within the Karate Union of Great Britain (KUGB). His formative years were marked by rigorous training sessions that often extended beyond scheduled times. As a member of KUGB, he had the privilege of training with renowned Shotokan masters such as Sensei Hirokazu Kanazawa, Sensei Keinosuke Enoeda, Sensei Tomita, and Sensei Kawasoe.

An avid competitor, Sensei Trevor represented the Kanku Karate Club, frequently securing medals in various tournaments.

In 1981, Sensei Trevor immigrated to Australia, initially training with the Japan Karate Association (JKA). By 1985, he joined Shotokan Karate International Australia (SKIA). Following the passing of Sensei Nowak in 1988, he co-founded Shotokan Karate Budokai (SKB) alongside Sensei David Booth. SKB is affiliated with the Queensland Karate Association (QKA) and is recognized by the Australian Karate Federation (AKF) .

As Chief Instructor, Sensei Trevor established a full-time Honbu Dojo in Brisbane, offering comprehensive training programs for individuals, families, and groups.

Sensei Trevor’s contributions extend beyond instruction:

Queensland Kata Coach for a decade.
Australian Oceania Kata Team Coach in 1996.
Mentor to numerous State, National, and International competitors.
Current Papua New Guinea Head Mentor Coach, conducting training camps and seminars.
Transitioned to a National Referee and served as President of the Queensland Karate Association.

His mentorship has been pivotal in the growth of karate in regions like Papua New Guinea, where he endorsed Julius Piku as the Head of Shotokan Karate Budokai (SKB)

🇵🇬 Mentorship and Coaching in Papua New Guinea

In 2012, Sensei Trevor was invited by the President of the Papua New Guinea Karate-Do Federation (PNGKF), Carl Mari, to assist in establishing and developing a national karate squad.

Over the subsequent three years, he played a pivotal role in preparing the team for the Pacific Games, implementing structured training programs and enhancing the athletes’ understanding of World Karate Federation procedures and rules. His efforts culminated in the PNGKF team achieving a remarkable ascent from previous standings to securing third place at the Pacific Games, with several athletes earning gold and silver medals.

Beyond athlete development, Sensei Trevor conducted numerous seminars and training camps across PNG, focusing on kihon (basics), kata (forms), kumite (sparring), and pressure point techniques. He also facilitated sessions on performance coaching, judging, and refereeing, contributing to the professional development of local instructors and officials.

His commitment extended to mentoring coaches, including Sensei David Wallace, Sempai Willie Leslie, and Sempai Bernard Soari, enhancing their skills in kata, speed, fitness, and video analysis.

Leadership and Legacy

In recognition of his significant contributions, Sensei Trevor endorsed Julius Piku as the new Head of Style for the Shotokan Karate Budokai (SKB) in PNG. Piku, a decorated karate champion and the most capped PNG Karate elite athlete, has been instrumental in promoting karate both nationally and internationally. His appointment signifies a new era for SKB in PNG, continuing the legacy of excellence established under Sensei Trevor’s mentorship.

Sensei Trevor’s enduring involvement in PNG’s karate scene underscores his dedication to fostering growth, discipline, and excellence within the martial arts community.

Ongoing Community Impact

🎗️ Advocacy for Male Breast Cancer Awareness

In late 2023, Sensei Trevor Roberts received a diagnosis of invasive carcinoma after discovering a lump beneath his nipple—a revelation that came as a profound shock to the seasoned karate master. With over 50 years dedicated to Shotokan Karate, the diagnosis underscored that breast cancer is not exclusive to women. Determined to transform his personal challenge into a beacon for others, Sensei Trevor became a passionate advocate for male breast cancer awareness.

He began sharing his journey publicly, emphasizing the importance of early detection and challenging the stigma surrounding male breast cancer. His story was featured in the Ipswich Hospital Foundation’s “Go Pink – For the Boys” campaign, where he urged men to remain vigilant about their health and to seek medical advice upon noticing any abnormalities.

Furthering his advocacy, Sensei Trevor spoke at the IHF Go Pink Breakfast, using his platform to educate and inspire others. His commitment to raising awareness has been instrumental in highlighting that breast cancer can affect anyone, regardless of gender, and that early intervention is crucial.

Through his resilience and dedication, Sensei Trevor continues to break down barriers, fostering a more inclusive understanding of breast cancer and encouraging men worldwide to take proactive steps in monitoring their health.

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