Meet our Instructors
Decades of experience. A shared passion for Aikido.
At Brisbane Aikikai, we're fortunate to have a dedicated team of volunteer Senseis who bring decades of experience, knowledge and passion to the mats.
Our instructors have trained and taught across Australia and internationally, learning from some of Aikido's most respected teachers. Each brings their own perspective and teaching style, united by a commitment to traditional
Aikido and helping others grow through practice.
Whether you're stepping onto the mats for the first time or have been training for years, you'll find experienced, supportive instructors who generously share their knowledge and love of Aikido.
Chris Seto-Payne
6th Dan | Chief Instructor
Chris began his Aikido journey here in Brisbane and has since taken his experience internationally, including performing demonstrations at the World Combat Games in Beijing and teaching at seminars in New Zealand. Outside the dojo, Chris works as an acupuncturist and massage therapist. Classes: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday mornings.
Mark Pearcy
6th Dan
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David Hall
6th Dan
David began training in California in the mid-1980s and has been teaching Aikido since 1995. Throughout his journey, he has studied under Shibata, Kanai, Sugano and Takase Senseis. Outside the dojo, David works as an organisational psychologist. Classes: Sunday mornings.
Patrick (Paddy) O'Regan
5th Dan
Paddy began training at Brisbane Aikikai in 2000 and has remained a dedicated student of Chris Seto-Payne Sensei and the dojo's senior instructors. He has trained under Sugano Shihan and continues his development under Takase Shihan, regularly travelling to learn from senior Aikido instructors. A lifelong learner, Paddy focuses on strong foundations, ukemi (the art of receiving techniques safely) and developing a resilient, fit body for both training and everyday life. Classes: Tuesday evenings and selected children's classes.
Kit Barker
4th Dan
Kit began practising Aikido in the UK in 1993 with the British Aikido Federation, training under the late Minoru Kanetsuka Shihan (8th Dan) and Alex Megann Sensei (6th Dan Shidoin). He moved to Australia in 2006 to take up a position at the University of Queensland and has been part of Brisbane Aikikai ever since. A law professor by profession, Kit enjoys walking in the hills and tinkering with things he's just broken when he's not on the mats. Classes: Wednesday evening and Sunday morning (Weapons)
Luke Pearcy
4th Dan
Luke began practising Aikido in 1994 at just nine years old, learning under the guidance of his father, Mark Pearcy Sensei. He continues to support new members as they begin their Aikido journey, helping beginners build confidence and develop their skills. Outside the dojo, Luke works as a plaintiff personal injury lawyer. Classes: Monday evenings.