Founder and Chief Instructor
Sifu Gabe Nicklas
Sifu Nicklas was born in the midwest USA and dabbled in several martial arts, without ever really finding the right fit. Eventually he made his way to San Diego, California, and found White Dragon Martial Arts, headed by 6th generation Master Nathan Fisher and very quickly realised he had found what he had always been looking for. Sifu not only learned Kung Fu and Tai Chi at White Dragon, but also went through an internationally recognised instructor training program. Moving to Australia, Sifu eventually found a suitable location and founded Black Lion Martial Arts in 2009, and has been teaching students of all ages, fitness, and experience levels from the greater Brisbane, QLD area since then.
Over 25 years teaching Choy Li Fut Kung Fu and Yang family Tai Chi Chuan as part of the Plum Blossom Federation under Grandmaster Doc Fai Wong and Master Nathan Fisher
What We Stand For
Our Values
Positive Attitude
Learning how to approach even hard tasks with a positive attitude is critical in a world full of challenges.
Respect
Respect for one's self and others is foundational to understanding our own place in the world.
Health
Your health is more valuable to you than any amount of treasure or accomplishments.
Discipline
Having self discipline is key to driving ourselves towards that next goal in our lives.
Responsibility
Ultimately we are responsible for the outcomes we create for ourselves and those around us by the choices we make.
Humility
When we can defeat the grip of Ego over our choices, we make rational decisions that make our lives improve dramatically.
Martial Ability
Achieving the highest level of martial ability engages our brains and bodies in growth and confidence building.
Martial Spirit
This is the structural key to any growth as a person. The ability to push ourselves harder today than yesterday.
Humour
It is so important to our mental, physical, and emotional health to just have fun!
Community
Feeling like you are a part of a community that sees you and includes you is one of life's greatest gifts. And how you give back to that community is the mirror that reflects your character.
Got Questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
Our Mission
Black Lion strives to enrich the lives of students through the world class teaching of traditional martial arts, building confidence mentally, physically, and emotionally, to improve the community for all.