Stars and Stories

Laura Morison Australian and Oceania Taekwondo Champion at Pinnacle Martial Arts Marrickville Inner West Sydney for kids teens and adults

Laura Morison Australian and Oceania Taekwondo Champion.

Laura Morison’s extraordinary journey stands as a shining example of what can be achieved through dedication, discipline, expert coaching, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Since beginning her Taekwondo training as a young child in 2007 and joining Pinnacle Taekwondo Martial Arts Sydney in 2009, Laura has transformed into one of Australia’s most accomplished and respected martial artists.

Under the world-class guidance of Grand Master Dr Hassan Iskandar OAM and International Master & Elite Coach Kedar Iskandar, Laura developed the technical skill, championship mindset, and leadership qualities that would propel her to the highest levels of competition. Her family’s commitment to travelling across Sydney to train at Pinnacle Martial Arts reflects the academy’s reputation as one of Australia’s premier centres for elite Taekwondo excellence and character development.

Through years of relentless training, Laura earned her prestigious 3rd Dan Kukkiwon Black Belt while building an outstanding competition record. She achieved gold medal success at local, regional, state, national, Oceania, and international championships, proudly representing Australia on the world stage. Her performances consistently demonstrated the discipline, courage, sportsmanship, and determination that define a true champion.

Laura’s achievements were further recognised when she was inducted into the Official World Taekwondo Hall of Fame as a recipient of the prestigious Youth Excellence Award, an honour reserved for exceptional young martial artists who have made a significant impact within the global Taekwondo community.

Beyond her medals and titles, Laura’s success reflects the proven philosophy of Pinnacle Taekwondo Martial Arts Sydney—developing champions in life as well as champions in sport. Through a unique combination of physical training, mental resilience, leadership development, and traditional martial arts values, Laura has grown into an inspiring role model for young athletes across Australia.

Today, Laura Morison represents the very best of Pinnacle Taekwondo Martial Arts: excellence, integrity, leadership, and the belief that with expert guidance and relentless determination, extraordinary achievements become possible.

Bassam Hames Kara-Hassan is a shining example of dedication, discipline, and excellence.

As the proud recipient of the Rainbow Crossings Young Champion Award, Bassam has shown remarkable commitment to his Taekwondo journey at Pinnacle Taekwondo Martial Arts Sydney, inspiring everyone around him with his focus, perseverance, and champion mindset.

We are also proud of Bassam Hames for winning the 2022 and 2023 NSW Champion titles, as well as becoming an Australian Taekwondo Champion through outstanding performances. His success reflects not only his hard work, but also the strength of the Pinnacle community and coaching culture. From training floor to competition arena, Bassam continues to grow as a talented athlete, a respectful role model, and a young leader with a bright future ahead.

Sam Iskandar: Australian Champion 2024 and 2025

Sam Iskandar is a true champion and a proud representative of Pinnacle Martial Arts Sydney. With 20 gold medals and zero losses across national, state, regional, and local competition, Sam has set an extraordinary standard of dedication, discipline, and excellence.

His achievements as Australian Champion in Brisbane 2024 and Adelaide 2025 reflect not only his natural talent, but also the relentless work ethic and championship mindset that define his journey.

At ASMA 2026, Sam once again proved his greatness by competing with a Red Belt rank in the Black Belt Division against two top-tier black belts. He won every round by 12-point margins in both fights, securing gold in a remarkable display of technical skill, confidence, and composure under pressure. This was more than a victory — it was a statement of excellence and a powerful example of what can be achieved through commitment and belief.

Sam’s success is a reflection of years of hard work, elite coaching, and the strong support of the Pinnacle Taekwondo Martial Arts Academy. His journey continues to inspire every student who steps onto the mat, showing that with focus, discipline, and perseverance, outstanding achievements are within reach.

Bassam Hames Kara-Hassan is a shining example of dedication, discipline, and excellence.

As the proud recipient of the Rainbow Crossings Young Champion Award, Bassam has shown remarkable commitment to his Taekwondo journey at Pinnacle Taekwondo Martial Arts Sydney, inspiring everyone around him with his focus, perseverance, and champion mindset.

 

Olivia Tarlamis Australian Taekwondo Champion at the Top Martial Arts Academy in Sydney's Inner West Marrickville

Olivia Tarlamis: Australian Taekwondo Champion 

Determined. Resilient. An Inspirational Role Model. 🏆✨

Meet Olivia Tarlamis is an outstanding example of what happens when passion meets world-class coaching! Training at Pinnacle Taekwondo Martial Arts in Sydney, Olivia has bridged the gap between two demanding worlds, excelling as both an Australian Taekwondo Champion (Black Belt Gold Medalist) and a two-time Dancer of the Year. 🥋🩰

Under the expert guidance of Grand Master Dr Hassan Iskandar, International Master Elite Coach Kedar Iskandar, and Elite Coach Christian Tarlamis, Olivia has used Taekwondo to sharpen her focus, precision, and athletic performance—attributes that directly fuel her success in dance.

At Pinnacle Taekwondo Martial Arts in Sydney, we don’t just teach martial arts; we build strong, confident, and capable individuals ready to conquer any stage in life.

Strong bodies. Focused minds. Unstoppable character.

Dimitri Disakis 2024 Australian Taekwondo Champion at Pinnacle Taekwondo Martial Arts in Marrickville Inner West Sydney

Dimitri Dasakis: 2024 Australian Champion

A Champion Who Leads by Example

At just 11 years old, Dimitri Dasakis is proving that true champions are not always the loudest in the room. They are the athletes who train with purpose, work consistently and remain committed when nobody is watching.

 

Smart, humble and naturally shy, Dimitri has dedicated the past several years to the sport he loves, Taekwondo. Every training session, challenge and competition has helped shape him into the exceptional athlete and person he is today.

Guided and mentored by Grandmaster Dr Hassan Iskandar OAM and Elite Coach Christian Tarlamis, Dimitri continues to develop his technique, discipline, confidence and competitive mindset under the direction of highly experienced coaches.

Through respect, consistency and an unwavering commitment to improvement, Dimitri has achieved numerous local and regional victories, NSW State Titles and the remarkable honour of becoming a 2024 National Champion.

However, his greatest achievement cannot be measured by medals alone. Dimitri is a well-mannered Taekwondo athlete and dedicated martial artist who leads by example. His quiet determination, respectful attitude and refusal to give up inspire everyone around him.

Dimitri reminds us that success begins with believing in yourself, giving your best every day and continuing forward, especially when the journey becomes difficult.

His story is a powerful example of what can be achieved when natural talent is supported by dedicated training, expert coaching and a never-give-up attitude.

Rosa Li Australian Taekwondo Champion at the to Martial Arts Academy in Sydney Pinnacle Taekwondo Martial Arts in Sydney's Inner West Marrickville

Rosa Li – Australian Taekwondo Champion | Future Medical Leader | Pinnacle Taekwondo Martial Arts Sydney

Rosa Li’s remarkable journey is a powerful example of how elite martial arts training can shape champions both on and off the competition floor. As an Australian Taekwondo Champion, academic high achiever, and future medical professional, Rosa’s success reflects the values, discipline, and leadership developed through years of dedicated training at Pinnacle Taekwondo Martial Arts Sydney.

Under the expert guidance of Grand Master Dr Hassan Iskandar OAM and International Master & Elite Coach Kedar Iskandar, Rosa developed into an outstanding athlete known for her determination, resilience, and championship mindset. Training at Pinnacle Taekwondo Martial Arts in Marrickville and Chester Hill, she mastered the technical, tactical, physical, and mental aspects of elite Taekwondo, earning Gold Medals at Local, State, and National Championships while proudly representing Australia at prestigious international events, including the Korean Open, Australian Open, and Commonwealth Championship selections.

Beyond competition success, Rosa embraced every challenge as an opportunity for growth. Through intense training, she learned to push beyond her limits, develop unwavering self-confidence, and build the resilience required to perform at the highest level. Her experiences competing and training alongside athletes from South Korea, China, Jordan, Uzbekistan, and around the world broadened her perspective and inspired a lifelong passion for learning and leadership.

The lessons Rosa learned through Taekwondo became the foundation for her academic excellence. The focus, perseverance, discipline, and work ethic instilled through martial arts helped her achieve the outstanding ATAR required to gain entry into Medicine at Monash University. Today, she is pursuing her vision of becoming a leader in Global Health, committed to improving healthcare outcomes and making a positive impact on communities worldwide.

Rosa’s story perfectly embodies the Pinnacle Taekwondo Martial Arts philosophy—developing champions in sport, education, leadership, and life. Her achievements demonstrate how world-class coaching, strong values, and relentless dedication can unlock extraordinary potential. Today, Rosa Li remains an inspiring role model for young athletes across Sydney, proving that the skills learned through Taekwondo can create success far beyond the martial arts arena and empower individuals to achieve greatness in every aspect of life.

Mary Cham Taekwondo Champion at Sydney's Top Martial Arts Academy Pinnacle Martial Arts Marrickville

Mary Cham – 3rd Dan Kukkiwon Black Belt | Champion Athlete | Pinnacle Taekwondo Martial Arts Sydney

Mary Cham’s inspiring martial arts journey is a testament to determination, resilience, and the transformative power of world-class Taekwondo training. As a highly respected 3rd Dan Kukkiwon Black Belt, accomplished competitor, and long-standing member of the Pinnacle Taekwondo Martial Arts family, Mary has become an outstanding role model for aspiring martial artists throughout Sydney.

Mary began her journey at Pinnacle Taekwondo Martial Arts in Chester Hill as a dedicated Red Belt with a clear vision—to achieve excellence and earn one of the most prestigious recognitions in the martial arts world. Through years of disciplined training under the guidance of Grand Master Dr Hassan Iskandar OAM, International Master & Elite Coach Kedar Iskandar, and the Pinnacle coaching team, Mary transformed that vision into reality, proudly earning her internationally recognised 3rd Dan Kukkiwon Black Belt from the World Taekwondo Headquarters in South Korea.

Throughout her Taekwondo career, Mary consistently demonstrated exceptional skill, determination, and sportsmanship. Her impressive achievements include success at Local, School, State, and National Championships, where she established herself as one of Pinnacle’s most respected competitors. While injury prevented her from pursuing international representation, her dedication and perseverance throughout every challenge exemplified the true spirit of a martial artist.

Mary’s technical excellence in Taekwondo, practical self-defence skills, and outstanding martial arts ability have earned admiration from coaches, competitors, and fellow students alike. More importantly, her humility, leadership, and commitment to continuous improvement have made her a valued mentor and inspiration within the Pinnacle community.

Her success reflects the Pinnacle Taekwondo Martial Arts philosophy of developing champions both on and off the mat. Through expert coaching, structured training, and a strong emphasis on respect, discipline, confidence, and resilience, Mary has achieved far more than belts and medals—she has developed the character and leadership qualities that will benefit her for life.

Today, Mary Cham proudly represents the high standards of Pinnacle Taekwondo Martial Arts Sydney. Her journey demonstrates that with dedication, expert instruction, and a supportive martial arts family, extraordinary achievements are possible. She remains a shining example of excellence, inspiring the next generation of students at Pinnacle Martial Arts in Marrickville, Chester Hill, and across Sydney to pursue their goals with confidence, determination, and unwavering commitment.

Fawaz Madrajat Australian Taekwondo Champion at Pinnacle Taekwondo Martial Arts in Penrith West Sydney

Fawaz Madrajat: 2025 NSW & Australian Taekwondo Champion.

Fawaz Madrajat is a force of nature driven by an uncompromising pursuit of excellence. As a reigning Australian and NSW State Champion, Fawaz has carved his name into the record books through relentless discipline and an iron-clad work ethic. His journey, honored with the prestigious Ropes Crossing Young Achievers Award, stands as a testament to the power of unwavering commitment.

For Fawaz, every medal symbolizes years of sacrifice and a burning hunger for growth. He approaches the mat not merely to compete, but to master himself. True champions are defined by their response to adversity; while the 2025 National Championships offered a challenging lesson, Fawaz channeled that experience into renewed focus. He embodies the indomitable spirit of Taekwondo, serving as a beacon for the next generation at Pinnacle. Fawaz proves that greatness is forged in character, inspiring us all to chase our potential with an unbreakable will to succeed.

Mikele Chironi Australian Taekwondo Champion at Pinnacle Martial Arts in Sydney's Inner West Sydney

Mikele Chironi NSW & Australian Champion 2025.

Mikele Chironi is an emerging talent in the world of Taekwondo, building an impressive competition record through dedication, discipline, and determination. With a total of 16 medals, including 11 gold, 4 silver, and 1 bronze, and national champion 2025 blue belt division.

Mikele has established himself as one of the promising young athletes in the sport. Every competition has been an opportunity for Mikele to demonstrate his technical ability, speed, and fighting spirit. His remarkable record of 11 gold medals reflects consistent excellence and a commitment to performing at the highest level. The four silver medals highlight his ability to compete against strong opponents, while his bronze medal showcases resilience and perseverance in challenging tournaments. Mikele was awarded Best Male Kyorugi – Court 3 Adidas Combat League Australia Tournament, an outstanding recognition of skill, determination, and excellence in sparring performance during the competition. Mikele fought hard winning gold as a blue belt in his first head kick tournament in red belt division. Mikele continues to represent Pinnacle Martial Arts Academy with pride, earning recognition for his sportsmanship, focus, and determination further adding to his growing list of achievements. Beyond winning medals, Mikele’s journey is a testament to the values of taekwondo—respect, self-discipline, perseverance, and integrity. Through consistent training and a strong work ethic, he continues to develop as both an athlete and a role model for aspiring martial artists. As his career progresses, Mikele Chironi is well-positioned for even greater success. With an outstanding medal tally of 11 gold, 4 silver, and 1 bronze, his future in competitive taekwondo looks exceptionally bright, and he remains focused on achieving new milestones at state, national, and international competitions.

James Tarlamis 2 Times Australian Champion , multi times NSW Taekwondo Champion from Pinnacle Taekwondo Martial Arts Sydney

Forged in Discipline, Crowned in Gold: The Unstoppable Rise of Two-Time Australian Champion James Tarlamis

James Tarlamis stands as a phenomenal example of what dedicated training and high-performance coaching can produce. Initially joining Pinnacle Taekwondo Martial Arts Academy in Marrickville for standard fitness, motor skill development, and cross-training, James steadily transformed into one of the most decorated young athletes in Australian Taekwondo.

His athletic journey is defined by a series of standout victories on both state and national stages. James earned back-to-back national titles, winning gold medals at the 2016 and 2017 Australian Taekwondo Championships in Victoria within the Black Belt division. Before capturing those back-to-back national titles, he laid the foundation for his national success by securing many NSW State Titles.

At the state level, James has consistently proven his elite standing by capturing multiple Gold Medals at the NSW State Taekwondo Championships. His remarkable achievements across Olympic-style sparring and high-level competition reflect not only his sharp technical precision and agility, but also the world-class guidance provided by the team at Pinnacle Taekwondo Martial Arts Sydney. Through relentless commitment and focused discipline, James continues to set a benchmark of excellence for aspiring martial artists across Australia.

Frieda Nusinovitsch NSW Taekwondo Champion at Pinnacle Taekwondo Martial Arts in Marrickville Inner West Sydney

Freida Nusinovitsch Undefeated NSW Taekwondo Champion 

Freida Nusinovitsch is just 10 years old, standing at the beginning of a long but certain journey to the top. Her heart beats to a single rhythm: world champion, then Olympian. From the moment she first tied her belt at Pinnacle Taekwondo in Marrickville, Sydney’s Inner West became her forge. Every kick, every spar, every drop of sweat is a promise to herself and to the green and gold she dreams of wearing on the world’s biggest stages.

 

Undefeated and unyielding, Freida carries the spirit of her home mats into every round. She knows the World Taekwondo Championships podium is not just a dream, it is a destination. Beyond it lies the Olympics, where she will stand as Australia’s warrior, showing the globe the grit, power, and heart born in the Inner West.

Under the guidance of Grandmaster Dr Hassan Iskandar OAM and Elite Coach Christian Tarlamis, Freida has already begun to hone not just technique, but character. At Pinnacle Taekwondo Martial Arts, known as the Home of Champions, she trains with a purpose that transcends medals. She fights for every young athlete who dares to believe that greatness is possible, no matter where they start.

Though only 10, Freida steps forward not just as a competitor, but as a symbol. A symbol of Sydney’s strength, of Australia’s spirit, and of the unbreakable will of a champion who refuses to settle for anything less than glory.

INTERESTED IN OUR CLASS?