Steve Bates

Steve Bates brings more than 36 years of frontline service as a firefighter and Superintendent with the Queensland Fire Department—one of Australia’s busiest emergency services. Throughout his career, he led major operations, managed complex incident command centres, and deployed interstate during large scale disasters.

Recently retired, Steve now channels his extraordinary real‑world experiences into insightful, uplifting presentations. His warm, humorous, and engaging style resonates strongly with audiences, blending memorable storytelling with practical wisdom on resilience, leadership, human behaviour, and navigating life’s unexpected moments. Whether delivering personal reflections, or sharing lessons from high‑pressure situations, Steve creates inspiring, entertaining sessions that leave cruise‑ship guests feeling enriched, energised, and deeply connected.

Recent Experience

Keynote Speaker – Queensland Fire Department Safety Symposium (2025)

Delivered a powerful keynote to interstate and international colleagues on operational learnings and new safety initiatives following a fatal structural fire investigation he led.

Toastmasters International – Award Winning Speaker

Winner of multiple contests, including the 2025 Area 20 Speech Contest with his acclaimed presentation ‘The Self-Worth Folder.’

Master of Ceremonies – Firefighter Memorial Service

Served as MC for the remembrance service honouring fallen firefighter Izzy Nash, demonstrating professionalism, composure, and compassionate leadership.

Destination:

Picton, Wellington & Christchurch: Coastal Gems
Join a lively look at Picton, Wellington and Christchurch — three vibrant New Zealand destinations full of scenery, stories and character. Discover coastal beauty, Māori heritage, quirky culture and unforgettable experiences.

Dunedin: Scottish Spirit on NZ’s South Coast
Explore Dunedin’s Scottish heritage, dramatic coastlines, wildlife wonders and elegant architecture. Discover penguin colonies, Victorian charm and the stories that shaped this unique southern city.

Fiordland: New Zealand’s Majestic Wilderness
Take a lively look at Fiordland’s towering cliffs, deep fjords, waterfalls and wildlife. Discover Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound and the dramatic landscapes that make this region one of New Zealand’s greatest natural treasures.

Greece: Discovering the Heart of Greece
Join a captivating, story-driven look at Greece’s ancient history and vibrant culture, with practical insights, memorable stories, and a touch of humour to enrich your time ashore. Step into the cradle of Western civilisation as this session brings Greece to life through fascinating stories of gods, philosophers, and everyday traditions.

Italy: Passion, Pasta & Timeless Beauty
Join a lively, story-filled journey through Italy’s culture, cuisine, and timeless charm, with practical insights, travel tips, and a touch of humour to help you embrace la dolce vita. From ancient ruins to unforgettable meals, explore Italian culture, food, and lifestyle with insider tips to experience Italy like a local.

Malta: Small Island, Big Story
An engaging, story-driven look at Malta’s rich history and unique culture, uncovering the stories behind this remarkable island nation. From ancient fortresses to modern life, discover what makes Malta a truly memorable port of call with fascinating stories and helpful insights.

Mediterranean Moments That Matter
An inspiring, practical session on making the most of your Mediterranean journey, with smart tips, cultural insights, and a touch of humour to help you explore with confidence. Gain simple planning strategies to help make every moment ashore count.

Japan: Tradition Meets Tomorrow
An engaging, story-driven look at Japan’s unique blend of tradition and modern life. With practical insights and cultural etiquette tips, learn how to navigate customs, connect with locals, and make the most of your time in port.

Street Food to Fine Dining
A lively, flavour-filled journey through the food cultures of Japan and South Korea, sharing must-try dishes, dining customs, and the stories behind the cuisine. Discover the region’s incredible food culture and dining etiquette delivered with warmth and insight.

How South Korea Became a Global Cultural Power
An engaging, story-driven look at South Korea’s rise from rich tradition to global cultural influence, exploring its history, innovation, and worldwide impact. Discover how this dynamic nation evolved, blending tradition with cutting-edge technology.

Dublin: Tales, Traditions and Good Craic
A lively, story-packed journey through Dublin’s history, humour and highlights. From Vikings to Guinness, Georgian elegance to modern craic, this talk gives you everything you need to explore Ireland’s capital with confidence and curiosity.

Liverpool: Docks, Beatles & Big Personality
A story-packed look at Liverpool’s music, maritime heritage and famous humour. From the Mersey to The Beatles and iconic docks, this engaging talk brings the city’s character to life, serving as the perfect warm-up for your day ashore.

Shetland Islands: Wild and Wonderful
A lively look at the Shetland Islands’ dramatic landscapes, Viking heritage, wildlife wonders and warm island culture. Explore rugged cliffs, Shetland ponies and seabird colonies while uncovering the stories that shaped life at Britain’s northern edge.

The North Sea: Storms, Stories & Seafaring Life
A vivid journey across the North Sea’s dramatic world of storms, sailors and seafaring heritage. Discover the Vikings, fishing fleets, oil rigs and wildlife that shaped this powerful stretch of water and the life along its shores. 

Enrichment:

Resilience: How Ordinary People Cope With Extraordinary Events

A powerful exploration of emotional strength, recovery, and perspective shaped through decades of frontline emergency experience.

Ports of Destiny: How This Region’s History Shaped the World

An engaging journey through the significant events, people, and turning points that shaped each port. Blends storytelling, history, and human behaviour to give guests a deeper appreciation of their destination.

Fire, Fear, and the Human Mind: What Emergencies Teach Us About Ourselves

A fascinating look at human behaviour under stress, revealing what large‑scale emergencies can teach us about decision‑making, courage, and the human brain.

Lithium-ion Batteries: Saviour of Mankind or Villain?

A clear, myth‑busting look at lithium‑ion battery technology—its risks, realities, and the truth behind the headlines—presented by someone who has managed these incidents firsthand.

Speak with Confidence: How Anyone Can Master the Art of Public Speaking

A practical, entertaining session drawing on decades of leadership, training, and Toastmasters success. Guests learn accessible techniques for managing nerves, structuring ideas, and speaking with clarity and impact.