Inducted into the A.M.A.H.O.F. (Inc) and W.K.U.H.O.F. for 2024
Continual Excellence and Service to the Australasian Martial Arts Community
Website: LifeMartialArts.com.au
Graham McDonnell is a martial arts collector who enjoys training in various systems and styles for both practical application and personal enjoyment. He began his martial arts journey in 1986 with Shotokan Karate and, after a decade of dedication, achieved the rank of shodan. His quest for growth led him to Zen Do Kai under the Bob Jones Corporation, where he trained for over 20 years and attained the rank of Shihan 5th degree before exploring other martial arts systems.
In 1998, Graham became a full-time martial arts instructor under Sean Allen of Allen’s Martial Arts, an AMAHOF Hall of Fame recipient. Over the past 26 years, he has accumulated over 50,000 hours of full-time martial arts teaching, inspiring thousands of families.
Graham is married to Deanne, his partner of 27 years, and is a proud father to three children. He enjoys gardening and involves his children in harvesting fresh vegetables to cook together.
His martial arts experience is extensive and includes:
- Holding a 6th Dan in Freestyle Martial Arts (Freestyle Karate)
- Being a 5th Dan in Zen Do Kai Karate with Bob Jones Martial Arts
- Earning a 6th Degree as a Muay Thai Trainer with the World Kickboxing Association
- Achieving instructor levels in Krav Maga under Tactical Krav Maga and Level 1 in Kalah, an Israeli combat system
Graham serves as the head Close Quarter Fighting (CQF) instructor for various industries, including the military, WA police, and the education aviation sector. He also owns and operates International Defensive Solutions, a company that provides services to these clients. Additionally, he holds a purple rank in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, a red shirt rank in Kali Silat Evolution, and ranks in Arnis and Kombatan.