Shihan Denis Purvis, 7th Dan, mentored Sensei Luke in Hayashi-ha Shitoryukai Karatedo from the age of 11 until Sensei Luke attained his 3rd Dan. Shihan Purvis has had a remarkable martial arts career, contributing foundationally to the growth of karate in Australia.

He began his martial arts journey in judo at Fremantle PCYC in 1958, achieving his 1st Dan in 1961. After joining the Australian Army, he expanded his training into Shotokan and Kyokushinkai Karate. In 1964, he opened his first dojo in Perth, Western Australia, laying the groundwork for a lifetime dedicated to martial arts.

In 1969, Shihan Purvis travelled to Japan to train as an Uchi Deshi (live-in student) under Sosai Mas Oyama, founder of Kyokushin Karate. During this intense period, he reconfirmed his 3rd Dan twice in a single week—an extraordinary achievement involving 60 consecutive fights. His dedication was later recognized when he attained his 6th Dan in 1990 and 7th Dan in 1998 under Soke Teruo Hayashi.

Beyond his personal accomplishments, Shihan Purvis played a pivotal role in shaping the karate community in Western Australia. He co-founded WSKF Australia and mentored many karatekas during their formative years, including Sensei Luke. Now retired from active teaching, Shihan Purvis continues to serve as an advisor to our academy and to Sensei Luke, supporting the development of Karatedo and preserving its traditional values.