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The World Mourns The Death of Steve Irwin, The Beloved Crocodile Hunter |
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Written by D.L. McCracken
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Monday, 04 September 2006 |
 As the rest of the world learns of the tragic death of Steve Irwin, tributes are pouring in from throughout Australia expressing grief, disbelief and sadness for the sudden loss of the extremely well-loved Australian icon dubbed The Crocodile Hunter.
While filming for a Discovery Kids show developed for his daughter, 44 year-old Irwin who was snorkling with a camerman in shallow waters in northern Queensland was stung by a stingray. Reports indicate that Irwin was positioned directly above the ray when it stabbed the croc hunter in the chest. The attack was unprovoked. Paramedics had to be flown to the site of the accident but were unable to revive the much loved naturalist.
Irwin's TV show, The Crocodile Hunter went on the air in 1992 and because of his unique and exuberant style, Irwin and his show became an instant hit in Australia and eventually at points across the globe. The hyperactive defender of crocodiles utilized several Australian phrases and words that became synonymous with Irwin the most famous mild expletive being, "Crikey!".
Irwin who married an American woman Terri, have devoted themselves to their Australia Zoo on the continent's Sunshine Coast throughout their marriage. They have two children, Bindi Sue (Steve named his daughter after his favourite croc and favourite dog) and Bob Clarence.
The Croc hunter's unrelenting love of wildlife (especially his beloved crocs) and conservation eventually led to the formation of The Steve Irwin Conservation Foundation (Wildlife Warriors Worldwide) and International Crocodile Rescue. Earlier this year Irwin hinted that he was considering opening a second Australian Zoo in Las Vegas and possibly more in other countries.
Tributes are declaring Irwin "a great adventurer" who "lived life to the fullest" and a great loss to Australia and the world. Australia Zoo in a released statement said, [Steve Irwin was] a great wildlife icon, a passionate conservationist and one of the proudest dads on the planet.
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