INSTRUCTORS FROM OUR ACADEMY

Eduardo Dias, a 5th-degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, wearing a Garra BJJ gi and black belt, standing confidently at the Garra Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy.

Eduardo Dias - 5th Degree Black

Kelvin Grove

  • "There are many paths to practicing Jiu-Jitsu. Some train for competition, others for fitness, weight loss, or personal growth. Whatever your reason, Jiu-Jitsu builds confidence, fosters social connections, and empowers individuals.

    I believe in supporting every journey and creating an environment where we uplift one another. In Jiu-Jitsu, no one succeeds alone. Together, we help each other overcome challenges and achieve greatness."

Jason Miller - Black Belt

Lawnton

  • “I've been involved in martial arts for a long time, starting my BJJ journey under Eduardo Dias. As a Third Degree Black Belt, you'll often find me training or instructing at Garra Lawnton. I'm also a brown belt in Judo and won a bronze medal at the Osaka Open in Japan as a green belt.

    Beyond BJJ, I run my own gym, offering Personal Training, Judo, Muay Thai, group fitness, and specialized takedown coaching for Junior and Senior Rugby players. I actively compete and have won gold at the Pan Pacific Championships in Melbourne. Training with top BJJ Black Belts in Brazil has helped refine my skills.

    At Garra Lawnton, we support NDIS participants and accept Get Started Vouchers for new members!”

Anton Minenko - Black Belt

Kelvin Grove

  • I am a BJJ Black Belt and seasoned competitor, having earned my Black Belt in 2018 after an extensive career in Jiu-Jitsu and grappling competitions across Australia. At 21, I became the youngest BJJ Brown Belt at Garra and have since dedicated myself to the art as both a competitor and instructor, known for my attention to detail and technical expertise.

    I believe in the power of solid fundamentals, allowing me to adapt to all situations. Over the years, I have achieved significant success, including multiple state, national, and international titles. My most recent milestone was winning the Black Belt Division at the 2018 National Championship, establishing myself as one of Australia’s top competitors.

    With a passion for continuous growth and excellence, I strive to share my knowledge and experience, helping students and athletes refine their skills and reach their full potential.

Lucas Sakae, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instructor at Garra Academy, wearing a white gi and smiling confidently.

Lucas Sakae - Black Belt

Kelvin Grove

  • I am a BJJ black belt and coach at Garra BJJ headquarters, where I teach various classes, including kids, ladies-only, beginners, and mixed belt sessions. While I currently work as a Site Engineer, my passion for Jiu-Jitsu remains a significant part of my life.

    I believe Jiu-Jitsu extends beyond sport and competition—it is a means to cultivate values, discipline, and personal growth. At Garra, we focus on developing individuals both on and off the mats, fostering respect, human connection, and continuous self-improvement.

    As the Head Referee of QLD and a seasonal competitor, I provide valuable insights to those looking to compete or train for the lifestyle, helping them navigate their Jiu-Jitsu journey with purpose and dedication.

Maartin Froneman - Black Belt

Darra

  • I am a BJJ black belt and coach at Garra BJJ headquarters, where I teach various classes, including kids, ladies-only, beginners, and mixed belt sessions. While I currently work as a Site Engineer, my passion for Jiu-Jitsu remains a significant part of my life.

    I believe Jiu-Jitsu extends beyond sport and competition—it is a means to cultivate values, discipline, and personal growth. At Garra, we focus on developing individuals both on and off the mats, fostering respect, human connection, and continuous self-improvement.

    As the Head Referee of QLD and a seasonal competitor, I provide valuable insights to those looking to compete or train for the lifestyle, helping them navigate their Jiu-Jitsu journey with purpose and dedication.

Phillip Graham - Black Belt

Darra

  • I am a BJJ Black Belt with over 15 years of martial arts experience, having trained in various disciplines before fully committing to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu over a decade ago. My journey has taken me across the world, where I have trained, competed, and gained valuable perspectives in places such as Ireland, America, the Philippines, the UK, and Australia.

    I firmly believe that inside the heart and mind of every child is a champion, and that every child deserves the opportunity to achieve greatness. As Thomas Carlyle once said, "Nothing builds self-esteem and self-confidence like accomplishment." Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu provides a unique sense of achievement, helping children develop resilience, confidence, and discipline like no other sport.

    With extensive experience coaching both adults and children, I am committed to creating an engaging and supportive environment that empowers students to reach their full potential through Jiu-Jitsu.

Michael Pegg - Black Belt

Nambour

  • I am a BJJ Black Belt, having trained in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu since 2006, and was awarded my Black Belt by Prof. Eduardo Dias in 2018. Beyond Jiu-Jitsu, I am also an Accredited Exercise Physiologist, specializing in sports-specific strength, conditioning, and rehabilitation to help athletes take their game to the next level.

    For me, Jiu-Jitsu is more than just a martial art—it’s a lifestyle that enhances every aspect of life. As an instructor, I am dedicated to helping students develop their skills, improve their physical performance, and build resilience both on and off the mats.

    I also offer private one-on-one training sessions by appointment for those looking for a more personalized approach to their Jiu-Jitsu and fitness journey.

Brendan James - Black Belt

Kelvin Grove

  • I am a 1st Degree BJJ Black Belt and Level 2 Coach (AIS – Australian Jiu-Jitsu Federation) with a lifelong passion for martial arts. Over the years, I have trained in multiple disciplines and remain dedicated to coaching and sharing the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

    I take pride in helping students unlock their full potential, regardless of age or physical ability. Watching them discover their untapped capabilities through Jiu-Jitsu is incredibly rewarding. My teaching emphasizes patience, resilience, and technical growth, both on and off the mats.

    I currently teach morning classes on Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, and I am available for private one-on-one or small group training (2-3 people).

    Beyond Jiu-Jitsu, I enjoy traveling, playing music, cooking (especially BBQ), going to the beach, paddleboarding, skateboarding, camping, and spending time with family.

Fred Perrini - Black Belt

Kelvin Grove

  • I am a BJJ Black Belt, having trained in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu since 2006, and was awarded my Black Belt by Prof. Eduardo Dias in 2018. Beyond Jiu-Jitsu, I am also an Accredited Exercise Physiologist, specializing in sports-specific strength, conditioning, and rehabilitation to help athletes take their game to the next level.

    For me, Jiu-Jitsu is more than just a martial art—it’s a lifestyle that enhances every aspect of life. As an instructor, I am dedicated to helping students develop their skills, improve their physical performance, and build resilience both on and off the mats.

    I also offer private one-on-one training sessions by appointment for those looking for a more personalized approach to their Jiu-Jitsu and fitness journey.

Kris Lane - Brown Belt

Kelvin Grove

  • I am a BJJ Brown Belt, and Jiu-Jitsu has played a vital role in shaping my discipline, physical and mental well-being, and life beyond the mats.

    Teaching Jiu-Jitsu is a privilege, and I am truly grateful for the opportunity to share the skills and knowledge I have gained with others. My goal is to help students grow, both technically and personally, while fostering a strong and supportive community.

    OSS!