It is with sadness I report that Jim Stackpoole shihan lost his fight against lymphoma on Thursday.
Jim was a giant in the Queensland Jujutsu and Judo communities, with his influence and instruction touching many in this State and beyond. He was for many years the Queensland State representative for the Australian Jujitsu Federation, a frequent officiator at Judo Queensland events and central to the running of nationally-recognised jujutsu instructor accreditation courses.
Stackpoole shihan was critical to the foundation of our Club. He provided support to me when I first attempted to start jujutsu classes in Toowoomba, giving me a fair hearing against the false accusations made by the head of the previous organisation I had been a member of. He was the first to reach out to me from the jujutsu community in Queensland and to invite me to his School’s open events. He always encouraged me to continue practising, teaching and promoting jujutsu and the other martial arts I have been involved with.
Jim is survived by his wife Meladee, his children Steffi-Louise, Chris, Randal, and Amanda, and grandchildren Katie and Brody. His funeral will be held at 11:00 am Wednesday 17th August at Victory Centre, 32 Carseldine Road Bridgeman Downs.