San Chi Kai first developed in South Australia in 1972 when three Senseis (Stewie Lomax, Tony Abela and Mick Deridisi) first decided to pool their knowledge and create a new style.

Kaicho Malcolm Lomax, who was then teaching on his own, was approached to join the newly formed style of Karate. He had received extensive training in various Martial Arts styles but was predominantly a Kung Fu stylist, at this time he went to Europe to further his knowledge. Sensei Lomax moved to Tasmania, Sensei Abela to Werribee and Sensei Deridisi to Northcote in Victoria, to open schools. The original school in Millicent South Aust. was closed. In 1975 Sensei's Abela and Deridisi ceased to train and at this time Sensei Stewie Lomax asked Kaicho Lomax, then a second degree in the new style, to accept the role of leader of the style.

The style continued to grow, but faced problems in the Kata area as the forms used were all Goju or Zen Do Kai based. At this time Kaicho Lomax moved to Hong Kong to continue his training in Ma'Chung Lama Pei (Lama Kung Fu). He had previously trained in Hung Gar Kung Fu. After significant training he developed the forms used in the San Chi Kai system from 1975 until 1989- He was also promoted to head of the Ma'Chung Lama style in Australasia.

The early forms were based on Karate technique, with the later forms (i.e. above 5th Kyu) based on the animals of Lama Kung Fu. Animals accepted into the new system were: PUMA, COBRA, LION, DRAGON, PANTHER, and TIGER. Further technique was also taken from the CRANE and BEAR. The techniques of the Puma are unique to San Chi Kai, this is why it has been adopted as our symbol and is worn by all students regardless of the Shinobi group they belong to.

In 1978 the first national headquarters was opened in Ringwood. As Kaicho was continually overseas, Sensei Phil Davies was promoted to head of Australia for this period. San Chi Kai continued to expand with schools opening in Perth, Queensland.

Contact: email kaicho@sanchikai.com