Leading Australian boat manufacturer, Steber International, is creating plenty of waves as it embraces the latest cutting edge marine power technology.

From winning awards to government visits, Steber’s are at the forefront of developing electric and hydrogen power hybrid options for a range of commercial and recreational vessels.

Inspection of the latest prototypes was a highlight of a recent visit to Steber’s Taree factory by Member for Myall Lakes, Steve Bromhead, accompanied by NSW Minister for Water, Property and Housing, Melinda Pavey.

Also present were Paul Reynolds, General Manager Technology; Steve Mitchell, Engineering Manager CSM; Ben Semple, Product Engineer and Dmitry Miller, Production Manager, Power Systems representing Ampcontrol. Associate Professor Galina Mirzaeva from the School of Engineering (Electrical and Computer Engineering), University of Newcastle was also in attendance. Ampcontrol and the university partnered with Steber’s to win the Collaboration Partnership Award at the 2021 Hunter Manufacturing Award announced last week.

The award was jointly presented to Steber International, Ampcontrol and the University of Newcastle for the design, manufacture and successful testing of a 22ft electric hybrid vessel.

The partnership has now agreed to develop a full size (38ft) vessel.

Commenting on these latest developments, Steber general manager, Alan Steber said: “While we have been manufacturing boats for almost 80 years, we have always kept one eye on the future”.

“Hybrid power sources for marine applications are being developed across the globe. We are proudly playing our part, working in partnership with industry leaders and innovators in Regional NSW”.

Alan was also able to announce the signing of an agreement between Steber and Zodiac Milpro Australia (ZMA) to manufacture under licence, Zodiac Rigid Hull Inflatable Boats (RHIBs).

The 9.2m Zodiacs are provided to police, navy and rescue organisations with future strategic direction to advance products and services further into military and professional sectors.

Steber International expect to commence manufacture of the Zodiac fibreglass hull and other components prior to Christmas.

The agreement follows closely on the heels of a similar arrangement with Northern Beaches Marine, Sydney,  to produce the Sea Devil range of pleasure boats.

Steber International has further diversified its manufacturing base, producing eco-toilets and a range of UVC sterilising equipment for various medical service providers.

Mr Steber said: “With the influx of new work, job opportunities in carpentry, fibreglass laminators and shipwrights apprentices are currently on the table”.

“Further Defence projects are expected next year along with another big joint venture for export to East Timor”.

PICTURED: Alan Steber (centre) with Galina Mirzaeva, Paul Reynolds, Steve Mitchell, Steve Bromhead and Melinda Pavey at the Steber International factory, Taree, NSW.