Black Belt - 6th Dan Founder & Chief Instructor, Red Croc Martial Arts
Overview
Lachlan Cooper is the founder and Chief Instructor of Red Croc Martial Arts, holding the rank of 6th Degree Black Belt. He brings together nearly four decades of martial arts experience with over 20 years of military service in the Australian Army.
Military Service
Cooper enlisted in the Australian Army in 2000, beginning as an Infantry soldier with 3RAR (Parachute Battalion). Between 2005 and 2010, he took a service break to complete carpentry training and work as a Correctional Officer. Upon re-enlisting, he served with the 2nd Cavalry Regiment as an Armoured Vehicle Driver and later transferred to the Royal Australian Corps of Military Police, where he achieved the rank of Sergeant. His operational deployments included East Timor, Afghanistan, Malaysia, and Singapore.
Martial Arts Qualifications
- 6th Degree Black Belt in United Tae Kwon Do
- 1st Degree, KEF-IC Army Combatives
- Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Blue Belt
- Krav Maga Instructor (KMG)
International Recognition
His contributions have earned significant honours:
- Budoka of the Year - Australasian Martial Arts Hall of Fame (2010)
- World Karate Hall of Fame induction (2010)
- Lifetime Achievement Award - Australasian Martial Arts Hall of Fame (2025)
Educational Credentials
Cooper holds diplomas in Leadership and Management, and Government, and is currently pursuing a Diploma in Sports Coaching. Additional certifications include Certificate IV in Investigations and Certificate III in Carpentry.
Philosophy
Lachlan operates Red Croc Martial Arts on the principle of "Success Through Failure", emphasising resilience, practical self-defence, leadership development, and community building.
Qualifications & Recognition
