Bega Valley Shire Council mayor Michael Britten took part in a first-aid ceremony and also helped with the launch of the club’s defibrillator. 

Karate instructor Andy Zarins said the club had been able to purchase the equipment with help from Southern Phones and the council. 

“The Candelo Karate Committee were delighted to be successful in their grant application for the purchase of the life-saving machine,” Zarins said. 

“While the Karate Club hopes there is never a need to use the defibrillator, it is reassuring to know that the club now has it available in the case of an emergency.”

Zarins said the purchase was telling of the dojo’s dedication to safety and wellbeing of students in Candelo, Bega and new Eden dojo. 

First aid trainer Malcolm Lucas also attended the event to present certificates to trainers who took part in courses. 

Mayor Britten congratulated the club on its acquisition of the defibrillator and those who took part in first aid courses for their efforts in maintaining safety. 

Zarins said the club was delighted to uphold high levels of student safety, but also boasts fully qualified coaches. 

“Along with the first aid qualifications, Kokoro Kai Goju Australia Bega and Candelo Dojos also have trained Level one coaches with the National Coaches Accreditation Scheme,” he said. 

Fifth dan black belt Shihan Rob Graham is also a qualified level two coach.

Mayor Britten and Mr Lucas were also privy to a training session with some of the dojo’s junior students. 

“There were many smiling faces as the kids met the mayor for the first time,” Zarins said with a laugh. 

“The dojos sincerely thank Mayor Britten and Malcolm Lucas for giving up their time to support and officiate for our club.”

For more information about training with KKGA contact Shihan Robert Graham on 0427 945 930.