Naracoorte’s Peter Anderson is set to represent Australia — and his hometown Naracoorte — on one of the biggest martial arts stages in the world.

In a remarkable achievement, Peter has been selected as a judge for the prestigious IKO Matsushima World Karate Championships in Maebashi, Japan, this November.

A long-time karate practitioner and respected local instructor, Peter’s journey from Naracoorte dojo sessions to the global stage is a story of passion, discipline, and perseverance.

“It’s a huge step in my karate journey and I’m really honoured to be able to be a part of it,” he said.

Peter’s achievement is not just personal — it’s a proud moment for Naracoorte and an inspiring example for young athletes chasing their sporting dreams. Peter also encouraged anyone in the Limestone Coast who’s interested in learning karate to reach out.

“We have multiple dojos in the Limestone Coast, so if anyone is interested in karate, they are welcome to contact me if they would like to know more,” he said.

The [Naracoorte] News Q&A with Peter Anderson:

The [Naracoorte] News: Can you tell us a bit about your karate journey — how and when did it all begin?

Peter: I started karate in 2006 after quite a bit of “pressure” from some other friends who had recently started training in Naracoorte and once I got started, I just couldn’t stop.

The [Naracoorte] News: How did the opportunity to become a judge at the World Karate Championships come about?

Peter: I’ve been judging at the other regional, state, and national events over the last few years and really enjoy the challenge that comes with learning more while expanding my knowledge and training. When the world tournament was announced last year, they also announced the criteria for selection of both fighters and officials for the event, so I spoke to our local SA branch chief about what was required and tried to do everything I needed to be eligible for selection.

The [Naracoorte] News: What was your reaction when you received the official confirmation?

Peter: I was just really excited to be selected but also a little nervous at the same time, given it’s such a big event. Having said that, we’ve always been told by our Sensei’s (teachers of martial arts) that nerves are just a sign of how much something means to you.

The [Naracoorte] News: How significant is this selection for you personally — and what does representing Naracoorte on the world stage mean to you?

Peter: It’s a huge step in my karate journey and I’m really honoured to be able to be a part of it.

The [Naracoorte] News: What can you tell us about the event in Japan — when and where it’s happening, and what your judging role will involve?

Peter: The IKO Matsushima World Tournament is being held in Maebashi, Japan on the 29th & 30th of November. Each match requires four corner judges (what I have been selected for) and a centre referee as well as lots of other officials to make it happen.

The [Naracoorte] News: Are you the only judge from Australia, and how were you chosen?

Peter: No, there is an Australian team going which is made up of fighters, branch chiefs, officials and coaches. I was lucky enough to be selected as a judge by our SA branch chief, Bradley Wagner, who is also going as an official representative. We actually have someone from each category representing our SA branch at the world tournament this time which doesn’t happen very often so I’m really proud to say I am part of the team.

The [Naracoorte] News: What are you most looking forward to about judging at such a prestigious world competition?

Peter: I am just excited to be a part of a big global event and honoured to be able to represent our local club, branch and country.

The [Naracoorte] News: What message does your selection send to local karate students, aspirants, and young athletes in Naracoorte?

Peter: Perseverance and hard work pays off but you have to be willing to do the work. We often tell our students the harder you have to work for it, the more it ends up meaning to you.

The [Naracoorte] News: Who has been your biggest influence or mentor in your karate journey?

Peter: All of my Sensei’s, past and present, have had a big impact on my karate journey in some way, but Hanshi John Taylor always told us “there is no secret, just hard work” which has always stuck with me over the years.

This article appeared in The Naracoorte News, 29 October 2025.