AuthorDon Stein AMPublication Year2013Published byFairfield City CouncilDescriptionA Remarkable Story of Resilience, Leadership, and Generosity
Fire in the Belly is a moving and meticulously told account of Don Stein’s extraordinary life—a story that resonates deeply with the spirit of Australian grit, integrity, and quiet achievement. At its heart, this book is a celebration of a man who rose from modest beginnings to become a respected leader in industry and a generous pillar of the community.
Born during the Great Depression and raised on a poultry farm in New South Wales, Don’s early values—honesty, integrity, respect, and trust—were instilled by his parents and became the foundation of his life and work. Starting as a fitter machinist, he rose through the ranks in major engineering firms before taking the bold step of starting his own company in an era with no roadmaps for business success.
Despite being ousted from the very company he built, Don showed remarkable resilience by starting over and achieving even greater success with Don Stein Plant Hire. His commitment to the industry went far beyond his business—he was a founding force in key industry bodies, a trailblazer in regulatory reform, and a staunch advocate for fairness and transparency.
What truly sets Don apart, however, is his enduring commitment to philanthropy. He gave back quietly but consistently, supporting Rotary, the Microsearch Foundation, and many other causes. His service and influence were eventually recognised when he was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia and became the inaugural inductee into the Earthmover and Civil Contractor Hall of Fame.
Fire in the Belly is more than a biography—it’s an inspiring testament to resilience, loyalty, and the enduring power of principle-driven leadership. Don Stein’s life serves as a powerful reminder that true greatness often comes not with fanfare, but through humility, hard work, and the relentless drive to make a difference.Copyright Owner(s)Don SteinAccessAccess open for research. Written permission required for personal copies and public use.
Don Stein AM, Fire in the Belly. Fairfield City Heritage Collection, accessed 28/10/2026, https://heritagecollection.fairfieldcity.nsw.gov.au/nodes/view/6620
