What’s happening
GKR Karate Capalaba will host a free community self-defence class on Saturday, October 25, from 1.00 pm to 3.00 pm at 12/172 Redland Bay Road, Capalaba. The class is part of the club’s second annual Stop Domestic & Family Violence Purple Belt Campaign, a national initiative raising funds for RizeUp Australia. The session will teach situational awareness, de-escalation, and basic self-defence techniques suitable for all ages.
Why it matters
The event supports a national effort to raise awareness about domestic and family violence while providing the community with practical skills to stay safe. The Purple Belt Campaign also raises funds to assist RizeUp Australia in its programs that help victim-survivors rebuild their lives.
GKR Karate instructor Gavin Samin said, “As a community, we’re committed to raising awareness of critical issues like domestic and family violence in a safe and supportive environment. Our students understand that true strength comes from protecting others, not harming them. Our club brings people together to contribute to meaningful change, and the response from our students and their families has been amazing.”
By the Numbers
• In 2024, GKR Karate clubs across Australia collectively raised $80,000 for RizeUp Australia through the Purple Belt Campaign, demonstrating strong community support.
• Around 1 in 4 women and 1 in 8 men in Australia have experienced domestic or family violence, underscoring the importance of awareness and prevention efforts like this initiative.
• GKR Karate has more than 40,000 active members across Australia, New Zealand, and the UK who are backing this year’s campaign to raise funds and awareness for RizeUp Australia.
Zoom In
Throughout October, GKR students and instructors nationwide will wear purple belts and campaign t-shirts during regular classes. All proceeds from these items will go to RizeUp Australia, helping fund their rapid response, youth support, and housing programs.
Zoom Out
The Purple Belt Campaign is part of a month-long initiative involving GKR Karate clubs across Australia. It encourages students to use their martial arts training to support meaningful community causes and highlight the importance of collective action against domestic and family violence.
Local Impact
The Capalaba community is invited to attend the free class and learn valuable self-defence techniques while supporting RizeUp’s mission. The event provides a safe, inclusive space for learning and reflects GKR Karate’s commitment to community wellbeing.
RizeUp Australia CEO Nicolle Edwards said, “We are deeply grateful for the powerful support of GKR Karate and their incredible community as they step into Purple Belt Month. Domestic and family violence is devastatingly pervasive, touching lives in every suburb, every town, every community. That’s why this initiative matters so much, not only for the funds it raises, but for the vital awareness and advocacy it brings. Through the support of GKR, we can say ‘yes’ more often—yes to setting up safe homes, yes to creating new beginnings, and yes to standing beside families as they rebuild. When voices come together, as GKR has done, we shine a light into the darkness and remind those impacted that they are not alone.”
What to look for next
Community members can register for the free self-defence class at www.gkrkarate.com/freeseminar. Purple belts and campaign merchandise are available for purchase at go.gkrkarate.com/sdfvaus, with all proceeds going directly to RizeUp Australia.
