Who was Steve Irwin?
Steve Irwin was an Australian wildlife expert, conservationist and television personality known worldwide as the Crocodile Hunter. His enthusiasm and catchphrase Crikey made him one of Australia's most famous people. He died in 2006.
Irwin was born in Victoria in 1962 and grew up in Queensland, where his parents ran a reptile park. As a young man, he caught and relocated crocodiles in northern Queensland for a government program.
His television series, The Crocodile Hunter, began in the 1990s and was broadcast in many countries. Viewers loved his energetic style as he handled snakes, crocodiles and other animals.
Conservation legacy
Irwin and his wife, Terri, ran Australia Zoo on the Sunshine Coast. They bought land for conservation and founded Wildlife Warriors, a charity supporting wildlife protection.
On 4 September 2006, Irwin died after being struck in the chest by a stingray barb while filming off the Great Barrier Reef. His death shocked fans around the world, and a public memorial service was held at Australia Zoo.
His children, Bindi and Robert, continue his work in conservation and television. Steve Irwin Day is held each year on 15 November.
Did You Know?
A turtle species, Elseya irwini, was named after Steve Irwin.