STATE GRADING INFORMATION AND DOCUMENTATION

Grading date and Awards Dinner is 21 November 2026.

Award dinner tickets must be booked by 7th November.
Book here- https://events.humanitix.com/2026-awards-dinner
 

The Ultimate Test. The Ultimate Brotherhood.
 

The Victorian BJMA State Grading 2026
 

This isn't just an event. It is the absolute pinnacle of the Bob Jones Martial Arts calendar.
 

On this day, hundreds of martial artists from every corner of the state step onto a single floor to immerse themselves in the raw physical, spiritual, and mental crucible of the SENJO State Grading.

Every single person on that mat is fighting a battle. For some, it’s the quiet triumph of conquering raw nerves after months of gruelling preparation. For others, it’s the culmination of years of unyielding discipline as they reach for the coveted BLACK BELT.

​

The Journey to 5th Degree

At the apex of this year's event, we will bear witness to true martial mastery. After more than 20 years of relentless study, sacrifice, and physical toil —Matthew Mellington and Steven Ryan— will step up to face the ultimate test as they attempt their 5th Degree Black Belt.

​

A Symphony of Battle: The Sensory Experience

The energy of the State Grading floor is a living, breathing thing that evolves with every passing hour:

• The Senjo (Opening Ceremony): A solemn, powerful moment of respect. The lull before the storm.

• The First Gradings (Black Belt and 2nd Degree):  Loud, explosive, and action-packed. The room erupts with the sound of high-skill combinations, devastating pad work, and intense sparring.

• The Next Phase (1st Degree): The chaos settles into a deeply quiet, introspective focus where mental fortitude is tested to its absolute limits.

• The 3rd Degree Grading: A whirlwind of kinetic energy as bodies are hurled across the room in a showcase of high-impact throws and stopping power

• The 4th Degree Grading: A display of intense concentration and lethal mastery as the Katana and traditional weapons are drawn, culminating in a precision, multiple-attacker scenario.

• The 5th Degree grading: Pure physical mastery. A definitive exhibition of technique, power, and spirit against an opponent attacking from all 8 angles.

• The Closing Ceremony: The final roar. A time of shared victory, celebration, and awards of well-earned success.

 

One Tribe. A Wall of Support.

​

Whether you are stepping onto the mat to test your limits or standing tall to cheer on your pack, every single BJMA and Zen Do Kai member (regardless of rank) is required to wear their official uniform.
 

Be there for the Senjo, form the Wall of Support that carries your clubmates through the fire, and stand proud for the closing ceremony. We stand together. We finish together.

​

⚠️ CRITICAL COMPLIANCE NOTE: To protect our tribe, all Black Belts and above (18+) must have a valid Working With Children Check registered with BJMA. Absolutely no exceptions—if you aren't registered, you will not be permitted to wear your uniform or step onto the grading floor.

​

Book here - https://events.humanitix.com/2026-state-zen-do-kai-grading-and-senjo