Sifu George Michielsen began his martial arts journey at the age of 17 under the guidance of Vince and Dave Lacey, pioneers of Buk Sing Choy Lay Fut in Australia. From the beginning, George stood out — not just for his dedication on the training floor, but for his hunger for authentic knowledge. Driven by a deep curiosity and respect for traditional Chinese martial arts, he trained relentlessly, absorbing every lesson with the humility and intensity that would come to define him. But it wasn’t enough to simply learn the movements, he wanted to understand the roots, the philosophy, the spirit behind the art.
That quest eventually led him to Hong Kong, where he became a direct disciple of Grandmaster Kong Hing, son of Master Kong On and one of the highest-ranking exponents of Buk Sing Choy Lay Fut. At a time when Westerners were rarely accepted into the inner circle of Chinese martial arts, Sifu George earned his place not through bravado, but through quiet persistence, deep respect, and unwavering discipline. He lived and trained with masters across China, Hong Kong, and Malaysia, studying old forms, healing methods, and rare internal practices — all in an effort to preserve the knowledge that was vanishing as generations passed.
Sifu George opened his own school in 1987, first in Perth city centre, then later in the coastal town of Lancelin. In 1995, the Academy found its permanent home in Balcatta, Western Australia. Western Australia. What started as a modest training space soon became one of the most respected martial arts academies in the Southern Hemisphere. A recognised master of Choy Lay Fut, Chen-style Tai Chi, and Lohan Qigong, Sifu George has continued to teach not just fighting forms, but a complete system of physical, mental, and spiritual development. His vision has always remained clear: to preserve the traditional arts in their full and unfiltered form, and to pass them on with integrity and heart.
Alongside him in this journey is his wife, Simo Serena Michielsen, who has played a quiet yet monumental role in shaping the school’s programs, systems, and community culture. From painting walls and laying mats in the early days, to building leadership pathways and grading structures, her influence runs deep. Their children — Tarm, Sydel, and Aden — were raised on the training floor, steeped in tradition from an early age. Together, the Michielsen family has created a living lineage, a sanctuary for ancient knowledge, and a community that honours the past while preparing the next generation to carry it forward.
