Business Details
42 Years
experience
Your Trusted Martial Arts Training in Birkdale, QLD
Black Crane Kung Fu has been dedicated to providing safe, accessible, and effective martial arts training since 1984. Founded by SiGung Neal Gilding, our school specialises in traditional Kung Fu, Tai Chi, and martial arts weaponry, blending ancient Chinese philosophy with modern self-defence techniques. Our instructors, accredited by the Australian Sports Commission, undergo rigorous training in leadership, safety, and teaching methodology to ensure high-quality tuition. With over 50 years of combined experience, our team fosters discipline, self-confidence, and physical fitness in a welcoming environment.We offer structured classes for all ages and abilities, focusing on natural body movements that require no physical strength. Our curriculum includes chi kung, iron palm training, and self-defence techniques, alongside cultural and social activities through our free Social Club. We prioritise transparency, with all registration and insurance fees included in our pricing, and provide financial hardship support to ensure accessibility. Our school motto, Noy Sing, embodies principles of patience, perseverance, and humility, guiding both martial arts practice and daily life.
Services
Kung Fu
Tai Chi
Martial Arts Weapons
Self-Defence
Chi Kung
Tsuan Sue
Chin Na
Iron Palm
Vibrating Palm
Internal Martial Arts
Details
- Year established: 1984
Highlights and features
- 50 years of combined experience in martial arts instruction
- Accredited instructors with national coaching certifications
- Family discounts for households with three or more members
- Structured classes balancing physical, mental, and cultural development
- Financial hardship support for ongoing accessibility
Associations and certifications
- Australian Kung Fu Wu Shu Federation
- Australian Sports Commission
- Blue Card (child-related employment)
- Senior First Aid Certificate
What people say
Highly recommended
Great instructors
Friendly informative instructors
Diverse style
Effective self-defence
Services
Kung Fu
Traditional Kung Fu training at Black Crane focuses on fluid movements, self-defence, and physical conditioning. Our curriculum blends ancient Chinese techniques with modern applications, suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Students develop discipline, coordination, and strength through structured drills and partner exercises.
Tai Chi
Tai Chi and chi kung classes emphasize slow, controlled movements and breathing techniques to enhance mental clarity and physical health. These practices improve balance, reduce stress, and promote internal energy flow, making them ideal for relaxation and longevity.
Self-Defence
Self-defence programs teach practical techniques for real-world scenarios, including disarming attackers and escaping holds. Training incorporates situational awareness and confidence-building exercises, ensuring students can protect themselves effectively in high-pressure situations.
Martial Arts Weapons
Weapons training covers traditional tools like swords, staffs, and nunchaku, focusing on precision, control, and historical context. Students learn safe handling techniques while improving agility and coordination through dynamic partner drills and forms practice.
Social Club
The Black Crane Social Club organises cultural and recreational activities, including film nights, BBQs, and Chinese New Year celebrations. These events foster camaraderie among members, promoting social interaction and cultural appreciation beyond regular training sessions.
People
SiGung Neal Gilding
Founder & Head Instructor
With over 50 years of martial arts experience, SiGung Neal Gilding established Black Crane Kung Fu in 1984. He specialises in traditional Kung Fu and Tai Chi, mentoring instructors and students in technical excellence and philosophical principles.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We teach traditional Kung Fu, Tai Chi, martial arts weaponry, and self-defence techniques rooted in Chinese philosophy and combat principles.
Are classes suitable for beginners?
Yes! Our structured curriculum accommodates all skill levels, with graded instruction ensuring accessibility for newcomers and advanced practitioners alike.
Do you offer family discounts?
Families with three or more members receive discounted training and grading fees for monthly members.
What qualifications do instructors hold?
All instructors have national coaching accreditation, senior first aid certification, and undergo regular advanced training in teaching techniques and safety.
What should I wear to my first class?
Beginners can wear casual sportswear; official training uniforms are available for purchase once you commit to regular classes.
Videos
Reviews (6)
Josh Dyrsdale
Nov 02, 2020
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Awesome group. Extreemly friendly and fun learning environment for anyone wanting to improve on fitness and self defence skills.
Chris Windle
Dec 07, 2016
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Excellent school with great instructors who are very patient and knowledgeable on this great style of kung fu. Highly recommended for beginners.
Harrison Berg
Nov 20, 2015
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Been training here for over 5 years now, currently training to open my own black crane school. This style is for anyone any size, age or skill and can be used to defend against any size, age or skill. This style uses movement and body mechanics which makes it hard for anyone to be up against. If you are looking for a good kung fu school for defence against anyone, any size then this is the school for you.
Will Harris
Aug 26, 2015
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Being a bigger gentleman I always thought I wouldn't be able to do any form of Kung fu due to my size, how wrong I was!! Not only has Black Crane Kung fu increased my flexibility, agility, reflexes & confidence, it is so much fun as well!!! All of the instructors are fantastic & go the extra mile to help which I really needed to begin with. I can highly recommend Black Crane Kung fu for men & women of any size, background & skill level. :)
Michael Chess
Jul 12, 2014
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From my experience this style is extremely fast, agile, and very effective/practical kung fu. As a result from this i found it to be devastatingly powerful. From observation it was suitable for all people (body shapes/gender/fitness etc). I have learnt so much from this school and could not write a kind enough praise to do it the justice it deserves. It has changed my way of life in every aspect and has given me wisdom & power for body, mind and spirit.
Nick Smith
Apr 24, 2014
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Most in depth all round style that practices traditional ancient martial arts, and can still be applied to modern day self defence. The sifu and instructors have a very vast knowledge of the style, the history and most other styles. Highly recommended for anyone seeking a style that teaches all concepts of fighting.
