Our Story
ABOUT
US
Cairns • Innisfail
More Than A Gym
The M A Connection is a martial arts academy based in Far North Queensland, with locations in Cairns (Stratford) and Innisfail. We specialise in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, and MMA — offering programs for kids as young as 4 right through to adults of all experience levels.
Founded by Garrett and Jeska Maunder, we've built a community where beginners train alongside seasoned competitors, where kids develop discipline and confidence, and where every member is treated like family.
With 12 BJJ Black Belts on our coaching team, we bring world-class experience to every session — whether you're training for fitness, self-defence, or competition.
Top 1% of Australian Businesses
AWARD WINNING
WHAT WE STAND FOR
Respect
On and off the mats, we treat everyone with respect. Our gym is a safe space where people of all backgrounds come together. Rooted in the traditions of martial arts — humility, self-control, and compassion.
Discipline
Martial arts demands consistency and effort. We build habits that carry over into every area of life — work, school, and relationships. Show up, put in the work, and the results follow.
Community
We're a family. Our members support each other, push each other, and celebrate each other's wins — big and small. The most common feedback from parents: their child has grown in self-confidence and character.
Beyond the Mats
GIVING BACK
The Sonny Dare Scholarship
Junior — Awarded Annually
In memory of Sonny Dare, who passed away in early 2018 at just three years old. Sonny was the son of Far North Queensland Senior Constable Ben Dare and his wife Emma, who trained at The M A Connection. Each year, this scholarship supports a junior member in their martial arts journey — keeping Sonny's spirit alive on the mats.
The Dylan Owen Scholarship
Adult — Awarded Annually
In memory of Senior Constable Dylan Owen, a dedicated police officer and BJJ purple belt who passed away in 2018 at the age of 44. Dylan was a valued member of our community and is remembered for his commitment to his family, his service, and his love of jiu-jitsu. This annual scholarship supports an adult member in continuing their martial arts path.
Conservation & Community
Monthly Supporter
Since 2019, we've been proud monthly donors to WWF Australia, supporting wildlife conservation and environmental protection. From 2016 to 2019, we supported Mission Australia. Giving back to the broader community is part of who we are.
16 Strong
MEET THE TEAM
Garrett Maunder
Head Coach & Owner
Co-founder of The M A Connection. Runs both Cairns and Innisfail — coaching BJJ & Muay Thai, athlete development, competition coaching, member onboarding, and business operations.
Jeska Maunder
Owner & Junior Muay Thai Coach
Brown Belt in BJJ. Graduate Diploma of Education with 18+ years teaching experience. Delivers the Cairns Junior Muay Thai program, handles member enquiries across both locations, and runs admin operations.
Cairns Coaches
Coach "Snook" Kuamala
Head Muay Thai Coach — Cairns & Innisfail
From Thailand with over 100 fights. Brings authentic Thai technique and championship-level experience to every class.
Pedro Vasquez
BJJ Coach — Cairns
Teaches kids and adults BJJ classes.
James Richardson
Muay Thai Coach — Cairns
Adults Muay Thai coaching.
Martin Bogner
BJJ Coach — Cairns
Runs Beginners BJJ and the 4:30pm BJJ classes.
Todd Gill
BJJ Coach — Cairns
BJJ Black Belt. Runs the 5:30am adults BJJ on Thursday and Friday.
Dan Hannagan
Strength Coach — Cairns
Runs the 6am strength classes.
Kiri Bradley
Muay Thai Coach — Cairns
Over 30 fights — the most accomplished female Muay Thai fighter in Cairns. Leads dedicated women's sessions.
Konrad Borowiecki
Muay Thai & Boxing Coach — Cairns
Loves coaching the fighters. Muay Thai and boxing specialist.
Adrian Pancirov
Junior BJJ Coach — Cairns
Coaches the junior BJJ program.
Innisfail Coaches
Daryl Mayocchi
Coach — Innisfail
Former owner of the Innisfail academy. Experienced coach and mentor.
Kyle Mayocchi
Coach — Innisfail
Pro MMA athlete and coach at the Innisfail location.
Brodie Mayocchi
Coach — Innisfail
Pro MMA athlete. Currently training at City Kickboxing in New Zealand.
Front Desk & Recovery
Harrison Carter-Brown
Front Desk — Cairns
Handles new sign-ups and front desk operations at the Cairns location.
Neo (Naoki Tani)
Remedial Massage — Nu Remedial Massage
Professional remedial massage therapist specialising in sports recovery, injury rehabilitation, and stress relief. Available for bookings on-site.
OUR LOCATIONS
Cairns (Stratford)
- ●12 Magazine Street, Stratford QLD 4870
- ●0408 799 828
- ●Mon–Thu: 5:30–7am, 9–10:30am, 3–7pm
- ●Fri: 5:30–7am, 9–10:30am, 4–7pm
- ●Sat: 9am – 11am
Innisfail
- ●2 Michael Street, Innisfail QLD 4860
- ●0408 799 828
- ●Mon–Fri: 3:30pm – 6:30pm
Ready to Join the Family?
Start your membership with 2 weeks free. No experience required — just show up and we'll take care of the rest.
Claim Your 2 Weeks Free