Matt Bright

Senior Instructor

Matt began his Arakan journey in 2010. Matt had spent the years prior learning boxing before he was introduced to Arakan. He soon fell in love with how dynamic Arakan is, learning to defend himself and loved ones, and learning to move his body dynamically. Through Arakan, Matt’s training went to a whole other level.

Matt’s size, combined with his agility, speed and dynamic movement makes him a formidable martial artist. Matt demonstrates that big guys can be adaptable and athletic. He loves teaching his students how to gain speed, power, agility through correct body mechanics and momentum, demonstrating that you don’t need size or power to be able to protect yourself or loved ones fast and effectively.

Matt enjoys spending time with his family and friends, playing golf and tennis when he is not training or teaching. He attributes his greatest Arakan achievement to date is grading his Orange Belt and teaching Arakan to others.

Student Testimonials

Learning Arakan and becoming a part of this wonderful community of people was one of the best things that I have ever done. When I first learned about Arakan, I had just moved to a new city and was on my own for the first time. I hated feeling so unsure and scared that I jumped at the opportunity to learn some self defence, even I had no idea at the time what Arakan was all about. What I found was even better than I'd hoped. Everyone who's ever watched an action movie and thought "I wish I could do that" would love to learn this awe inspiring martial art. It's the traditional martial arts mentality of power without violent aggression, knowledge and respect without the ego and one-up-man-ship of other modern martial arts.The people involved feel like a giant family, always supportive and encouraging, with the only real competition being against your past self. The structure of Arakan is based on real life scenarios, making this training relevant for everyone and so adaptable that anyone can learn it. From grandmothers to children, people with disabilities and those with permanent injuries - all are welcome and all can learn this art. From learning awareness of your surroundings and the energy of the people around it is possible to avoid fights altogether. In those times when a fight is unavoidable Arakan has an answer that will allow you to get home safely. The style is wonderfully practical and the techniques are perfect for compensating size and strength differences. As a below average height female I can say this is doubly reassuring! Trained by the Master Rob Kyaw, the instructors are all wonderful people with a genuine love for the art and a great passion for helping their students. My personal instructor Matt Bright has helped me through my initial fears, boosted my confidence and nursed me through depression to the point that I consider him to be my big brother. Everyone I have met through Arakan is as proud of others achievements as their own. I have never met a more supportive and welcoming group and I feel absolutely blessed that I have the opportunity to learn this wonderful art from such amazing people.

Jess Whitelaw

Matt is an excellent Instructor. As well as teaching me Arakan, he gets me on a personal level. His patience and dedication to teach is admirable. 

Ty Orchard

Its pretty hard to fault Matt in his approach to and training of Arakan. I only wish I could have met him and starting training earlier!

Chris Opferkuch

I started training late in life after many serious injuries. My health and strength have improved solely because Matt encourages me to conquer each small milestone and build on it each lesson. He is always fun and respectful. 

Nerida Marshall

Matt has become a key part  of Ben's life. There have been times Ben has chosen to discuss with Matt, issues at school and Matt has taken the time to pass this on to me and work on solutions for Ben. Matt is patient with Ben and enthusiastic even when it's hard work! This enthusiasm is evident with both Junior and Adult members. It has been a pleasure to see Matt grow and develop over the last few years, grading his Orange Belt, dealing with a grump 7 year old and working to get Ben through his Junior Grading. Thank you for being a part of our lives!

Claire Courts, mother of Ben

Matt is always enthusiastic and motivated and his energy lifts others. It is clear he loves what he does. He makes training enjoyable but knows how to push the boundaries.

James Courts

Matt is patient and has the ability to explain things clearly. He has excellent verbal and physical communication. He is clearly educated and well trained. Shows compounded knowledge of the human anatomy and functioning. He has a willingness to assist and respond appropriately to my weaknesses. Overall Matt is a great guy and an excellent Instructor. 

Scott Elliott

Matt provides a balanced approach to skills, fitness, knowledge and discipline with translates into a strong base to start my Arakan journey. He is a great bloke that can teach adults and children of all ages.

Matt Fitch