It is with great sadness that I acknowledge the passing of Steve Foster, on 4 June 2026.
Steve was one of the founding members of Tasmanian Kendo and played an important role in establishing and nurturing our kendo community. I had the privilege of training alongside Steve for many years and came to know him not only as a dedicated kendoka, but also as a valued friend and mentor within our dojo.
His commitment to kendo, his knowledge, and his quiet presence left a lasting impression on all who trained with him. Steve’s contribution to Tasmanian Kendo will not be forgotten, and his absence will be deeply felt by our kendo community.
The accompanying photograph was taken at the 2000 Australian Kendo Championships in Canberra, a memory from a time when many of us had the honour of sharing the shinai and the dojo floor with him.
Steve will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
Steve Lockwood