Four Decades of Experience. One Grounded Approach to Training.

Steve is the Founder and Chief Instructor of Coastal Edge Filipino Martial Arts. With more than 40 years of martial arts experience, he brings together deep technical knowledge, practical real-world insight and a calm, approachable teaching style that helps every student feel welcome.

A Skilled Instructor Who Puts People First.

When you walk into Coastal Edge Filipino Martial Arts, the first thing you are likely to notice about Steve is his calm confidence and genuine warmth. He has the experience to challenge seasoned practitioners, but he also understands how important it is for a complete beginner to feel safe, respected and supported from the moment they step onto the mat.

Steve began training in 1980 and has spent more than four decades learning, teaching and refining practical martial arts. His background spans Filipino and Korean martial arts, modern combatives, military service, security operations, workplace training and community care.

That breadth of experience shapes every class. Training is practical without being intimidating, disciplined without being rigid, and grounded in the belief that progress looks different for every student.

At Coastal Edge, you are not just learning techniques. You are joining a community led by an instructor who genuinely cares about your progress, your wellbeing and your journey.

Experience Behind Every Lesson.

Steve brings together technical skill and lived experience, giving students a training environment that is practical, inclusive and grounded in responsibility.

A Lifelong Commitment to Martial Arts.

Steve has dedicated his adult life to developing practical, culturally grounded self-defence systems. His teaching combines the discipline and depth of traditional martial arts with modern, adaptable applications that make sense in the real world.

His experience covers stick, blade, impact tools, close-range tactics and empty-hand self-defence. Rather than teaching techniques as isolated movements, Steve helps students understand timing, distance, movement, decision-making and the principles that connect one area of training to another.

He is equally committed to honouring the lineage and cultural roots of Eskrima, Arnis and Kali, ensuring students understand that Filipino martial arts are more than a collection of techniques. They are living traditions shaped by history, resilience and community.

Real-World Knowledge, Applied Responsibly.

Steve served in the Australian Army as both a Medic and an Instructor. This experience strengthened his understanding of leadership, risk management, emergency response, communication and the importance of remaining calm when circumstances become unpredictable.

He later worked as a licensed Security Officer and Industry Trainer, including time with one of New South Wales’ leading Registered Training Organisations. His professional background gave him direct insight into situational awareness, conflict, safety, legal responsibility and the practical application of defensive skills.

This does not mean Coastal Edge is built around fear or aggression. It means students are taught with honesty. Skills are placed in context, safety is taken seriously and self-defence is always connected to judgement, restraint and responsibility.

Teaching Philosophy.

Traditional Discipline. Modern Practicality.

Steve’s teaching style is clear, patient and direct. He breaks skills into manageable steps, explains the purpose behind each movement and gives students the time they need to build confidence before increasing complexity.

Beginners are never expected to know what they have not yet been taught, while experienced practitioners are given the detail and challenge needed to continue developing. The aim is not to rush students through techniques, but to help them build reliable skills they can understand, adapt and use responsibly.