History of Zen Do Kai
From Melbourne 1970 to Wolf Clan today
The Beginning
On 1 June 1970 in Melbourne, Bob Jones and Richard Norton left Tino Ceberano’s Goju Kai dojo to create something entirely new — a martial arts system built for the real world. Originally developed for the security and nightclub industry, Zen Do Kai was designed to be practical, effective and adaptable from day one.
The name “Zen Do Kai” loosely translates to “the best of everything in progression” — a philosophy that has guided the system for over half a century. At its core is a thirteen-form curriculum, symbolic of the thirteen major positions of Senjo, compatible with Sun Tzu’s Art of War.
Key Figures
The people who shaped Zen Do Kai into what it is today.
Soke Bob Jones
Founder of Zen Do Kai. Recognised as the father of Australian Kickboxing. Created the Bob Jones Martial Arts (BJMA) organisation, now the largest martial arts organisation in Australasia.
Richard Norton
Co-founder of Zen Do Kai. 10th Dan Black Belt. Internationally renowned film actor and stunt coordinator who brought global recognition to the art. Passed away in 2025.
Kyoshi Brad Ross
Chief Instructor, BJMA East Coast. Maintains standards and oversees grading across the eastern states, ensuring the integrity and quality of Zen Do Kai instruction.
A Living System
Zen Do Kai has never stood still. Its defining strength is the willingness to evolve.
- 1970s–80s Rapid growth across Australia. ZDK becomes the dominant force in Australian martial arts.
- 1990 Muay Thai formally introduced to the curriculum — knees, elbows, Thai pads become integral to training.
- Late 1980s–90s Ground fighting techniques adapted after the emergence of Gracie Jiu Jitsu and the rise of mixed martial arts.
- Philosophy “If it works, use it” — practical, adaptive, evidence-based.
Today, Zen Do Kai combines karate, boxing, Muay Thai, grappling, weapons and self-defence into a comprehensive fighting system that remains true to its founding principle: the best of everything in progression.
Body, Mind, Spirit
The three pillars of Zen Do Kai training, symbolised by the candles of the Senjo ceremony.
Body
Physical conditioning, technique and fitness. Represented by the red candle of the Senjo ceremony. The foundation upon which all martial arts skill is built.
Mind
Strategy, awareness and mental discipline. Represented by the gold candle. The ability to read situations, remain calm under pressure, and make sound decisions.
Spirit
Character, respect, perseverance and inner strength. Represented by the blue candle. The quality that separates a martial artist from a mere fighter.
The Senjo ceremony is central to Zen Do Kai practice. It honours the thirteen-form curriculum — each form aligned with one of the thirteen major positions of Senjo, drawn from principles compatible with Sun Tzu’s Art of War. This connection between ancient strategy and modern martial arts is what gives ZDK its depth beyond physical technique.
Way of the Warrior
Zen Do Kai training is grounded in the Bushido code — the seven virtues that define the warrior’s path.
- Gi 義 Rectitude, Justice, Integrity
- Yu 勇 Courage, Bravery
- Jin 仁 Benevolence, Charity, Humanity
- Rei 礼 Respect, Etiquette, Courtesy
- Makoto 誠 Honesty, Truth, Sincerity
- Meiyo 名誉 Honour, Glory, Prestige
- Chugi 忠義 Loyalty, Devotion, Harmony
Organisation
The BJMA operates through a structured hierarchy that maintains quality and standards across all affiliated dojos.
- Soke Bob Jones — Founder
- Chief Instructor Kyoshi Brad Ross — BJMA East Coast
- Family Heads Kyoshi level — 5th Dan and above
- Clan Heads Renshi / Sensei — 3rd to 4th Dan
- Club Instructors Sempai — 1st to 2nd Dan
Wolf Clan — Ranelagh, Tasmania
Wolf Clan was founded in 2020 by Renshi Mat Woolley (4th Dan Black Belt), bringing Zen Do Kai to southern Tasmania. Training takes place at Ranelagh Soldiers Memorial Hall — a traditional community hall with polished timber floors and a vaulted ceiling that has become home to a growing crew of martial artists.
As part of the BJMA East Coast family, Wolf Clan upholds the standards and traditions of Zen Do Kai while building something uniquely its own. The club welcomes all ages from 8 to 80+, from complete beginners to experienced martial artists, all training together on the same mat.