Welcome to Jiu-Jitsu Lawson
Who we are and why you should join us
At Jiu-Jitsu Lawson, we believe Jiu-Jitsu is for EVERYONE, regardless of age, gender, athleticism, or ability. We are proud to say that we are continuing the legacy of Grand Master Hélio Gracie, who believed jiu-jitsu should empower the weak to be able to defend against the strong. This is why we offer structured martial arts curriculums specific to the self-defence needs for any demographic or skill level, with programs created for beginner adults, women, and children.
We take pride in creating a safe, comfortable, and welcoming learning environment for all students and family members in Lawson. We are passionate about what we do because we believe confident humans make kinder humans.
Welcome to the family
Jiu-Jitsu Lawson is a family-oriented establishment, and inside our training centre we have a nurturing community of instructors and students. Whether it’s teaching you how to tie your first jiu-jitsu belt, or guiding you through your first technique, our priority is to make you feel at home from the moment you walk into our training centre.
If you have any questions before you walk in, please call our number below. We welcome all enquiries.
Lisa Altavilla
Lisa Altavilla a Brown belt is the Head instructor at Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Lawson, where she finds immense joy in helping individuals build confidence, foster meaningful connections, and develop essential self-defense techniques. Her teaching philosophy revolves around community spirit and holistic personal growth, with a strong emphasis on self-confidence, assertiveness, and overall well-being. Lisa creates a welcoming, supportive, and safe environment for all her students, ensuring that everyone feels empowered in their learning journey
Family is at the heart of everything Lisa does. As a mother of three, she is proud to have her children actively involved in the family business, making the gym a true community-centered space where family values thrive.
Lisa was introduced to Jiu-Jitsu in the Blue Mountains by Chris Traish and here she fell in love with Martial arts. Her passion and dedication led her to Los Angeles, where she continued her education under Gracie University under the guidance of Ryron Gracie and Rener Gracie. Throughout her travels, she has had the privilege of training with renowned instructors like Chris Haueter yearly and attending seminars & visiting Gyms worldwide LA, Hawaii and soon South Africa .
A perpetual student herself, Lisa’s goal is to keep learning and evolving both in her personal Jiu-Jitsu practice and her teaching methods. Her passion for growth, community, and family remains at the core of her role as a leader and mentor at Jiu-Jitsu Lawson.
Kobi Altavilla
Kobi Altavilla has grown up immersed in the world of Jiu-Jitsu and is deeply passionate about sharing the art and philosophy of martial arts with others. His dedication to the practice and his calm, approachable demeanor make him an excellent mentor for younger students and a source of inspiration for more mature members of the community.
Kobi has had the opportunity to travel and train alongside his mother, Lisa, at some of the most renowned Jiu-Jitsu academies, including Gracie University in Torrance and Beverly Hills, as well as in Hawaii. He’s also had the privilege of privates and seminars with Chris Haueter, and fellow legends across the globe, further enriching his knowledge and skills.
By day, Kobi works as an apprentice carpenter, but his evenings are dedicated to teaching classes. His commitment to constantly improving as both a student and an instructor is evident in his detailed approach and driven mindset. Kobi's Jiu-Jitsu style is characterized by a relaxed, flowing technique that emphasizes safety, fun, and precision. He is always learning and remains a dedicated student at heart, focused on becoming the best instructor he can be.
Chris Hauter - CombatBase
“Think Street. Train Sport. Practice Art”
We are proud to be affiliated with Chris Haueter, a true pioneer in the global Jiu-Jitsu community and one of the first Americans to receive a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. A member of the original “Dirty Dozen,” Chris is known not only for his technical mastery but also for his innovative approach to teaching and his deep respect for the art's roots.
Chris is the founder of Combat Base , a system grounded in the fundamentals of control, leverage, and adaptability. His philosophy—“Think street, train sport, practice art”—perfectly aligns with our mission to build confident, capable, and connected students.
Over the years, we’ve had the honour of hosting Chris here in Australia and training with him in Los Angeles. His guidance and mentorship continue to shape our programs, culture, and commitment to practical self-defense for all.
We’re excited to grow under his leadership and bring the Combat Base approach to the Blue Mountains and beyond.
Chris Haueter, creator of Combat Base and 6th degree black belt under Master Rigan Machado & Personal student of Rickson Gracie.
