The Australian boating industry has lost one of its most influential pioneers with the passing of Bruce Steber on Friday, 3 October. Over a remarkable career spanning nearly 80 years, Bruce left an indelible mark on boatbuilding in New South Wales and across the nation.
Bruce’s career began in the early 1940s as an apprentice to W. Douglas at Dee Why, before establishing his own business in Narrabeen, producing small timber skiffs and clinker plywood boats. In 1957, he became one of the first Australian boatbuilders to embrace fibreglass, a bold move that helped define modern production methods. His company, Stebercraft, expanded rapidly through the 1960s, establishing a national distributor network and opening large facilities in Narrabeen and Brookvale.
In 1973, Bruce and his wife Beryl relocated the business to Taree, laying the foundation for what would become Steber International. By the late 1970s, the company had transitioned from small boats into larger recreational and commercial vessels, delivering more than 500 craft ranging from 32 to 60 feet to owners worldwide. Steber boats went on to win multiple industry accolades, including Australian Boat of the Year for both the Steber 52’ and 43’ Motor Cruisers.
Beyond business, Bruce contributed enormously to the boating community. He was a founding member of the Boating Industry Association, established the Northern Waters Outboard Cruising Club, trained generations of apprentices, and supported countless community programs.
Even into his nineties, Bruce could be found in the factory, still “messing about with boats.” His passion, vision and commitment to quality leave behind a legacy that will endure for generations.
A non-attendance cremation will take place with a family reflection later the riverbanks of the Manning River.
Fair winds and following seas.
RIP Bruce.
