Welcome to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Darwin — the Northern Territory’s premier and pioneering Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy.
What started off as a couple mates that trained in traditional Jiu Jitsu and Karate getting together. With some old Tatami mats that were almost thrown out by the old Nightcliff Fitness Centre chucked into the back of a Land Cruiser we had ourselves a make shift training space. We would set up the mats at each another house and basically try to submit each other with very simple skills set, we did not know much-this was around 2003
Some of us continued this journey in to “not so casual” Saturday sparring sessions which included MMA, training out of the Marrara Judo club. Training intensified to incorporate striking with the ground work.
With no prior competition experience, we took a leap of faith and entered the QLD championships in Brisbane. Not only did we adapt quickly but achieved remarkable success — sparking a deep passion that led to the creation of Darwin’s only Jiu Jitsu comp team.
We developed quickly and moved to our next location at the PCYC-around 2007. These early days of early development were tuff; the training sessions were hot and sweaty in the open spacing of the large shed. However this provided the perfect conditions to prove our skills and techniques. We had many early Jiu-Jitsu practitioners that would contribute their own individual style. These helped us all learn different game techniques. We focused on bring your own style to the game. Some of these early practitioners have gone on to open their own gyms.
Continuing along our Jiu-Jitsu journey we become the first affiliated academy under Professor Peter de Been. Under his instruction Chris and Luke earned their prestigious black belts, a testament to our foundation in excellence. From this enduring legacy, Darren made history as the Northern Territory’s first home-grown white-to-black belt practitioner. Our Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu linkage speaks for itself :
Mitsuyo Maeda-Carlos Gracie, Sr- Carlos Gracie, Jr-Peter de Been
As the first Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy in the Northern Territory, we’re proud to have pioneered the art in the region. Our commitment has opened incredible opportunities, from hosting the NT titles at scenic Mindil Beach to securing a Northern Territory Government grant to bring the prestigious AUSCUP to the Darwin Convention Centre. Above all, our greatest pride comes from introducing countless people to jiu-jitsu and supporting their journeys.
Today, under the guidance of these black belts and a team of seasoned coaches, we offer classes almost every day for all levels — from beginners to advanced practitioners. Whether you’re starting out or refining your skills, you’ll find a welcoming home here.
Join us and become part of our continuing legacy.