Gibson, who is the head instructor at Mt Barker Goju-Kai Karate Club under Brian Mackie, has been placed in the past three years at national level, but went one better back in August when he defeated 2015 champion Michael Viola, of Victoria, to be crowned victor.
Representing the WA Karate Federation, Gibson powered through his opponents to reach the final and was thrilled to win after a silver medal in 2013 and bronze efforts in 2014 and 2015.
“There is no seeding or ranking, so you could play anyone,” Gibson said.
“I had a really good run — it all went well. I had a good timeslot and good referees.
“There is a lot of travel up and down the highway to train once you make the State team, so it’s been rewarding.”
The 51-year-old now has his sights on competing at the senior world championships in Canada next year.
He won the State title back in March and then had a clean-sweep in all the lead-up competitions on his way to the national crown.