The Last Crocodile Hunter

As another Steve Irwin Day rolled past on November 15th I found myself a little more appreciative of the beloved Crocodile Hunter.

I practically grew up at Australia Zoo, it was my backyard. I have very early memories of Steve feeding the crocs and falling in love with his passion and enthusiasm for wildlife. I thought I was going to grow up and marry him. I think that's just what it's like when you look up to someone and have so much respect for what they're doing at such a young age.

Because of Dad's close working relationship with the Irwin's through his role in the ANZ, were lucky enough to go to the premiere of "Collision Course" and I distinctly remember talking to Steve. I was probably only five at the time but having the opportunity to interact with your very first hero is something pretty special.

I can recall sitting around the TV every Sunday night and watching his documentaries. It didn't matter if I was at home or at a sleep over, every Australian household was the same.

The day Steve died sent shock waves around the world but I still don't feel like he's gone. I was in primary school and Mum had come to collect Jacinta and I. I remember seeing kids crying and Mum swiftly taking us to the car and turning off the radio. As we drove past the Zoo I saw a dozen camera crews and just knew something wasn't right. Mum sat us down and calmly explained that Steve was dead. She and Jacinta burst into tears but I just went numb. Being in grade four and having never experienced someone dying meant this was a complete shock and I didn't quite know what to do.

Dad had been working at the Zoo for just five months and it just felt like a nightmare. I remember feeling physically sick. One night we went down and signed one of his khaki shirts. There were camera crews everywhere and it was just an out pour of grief. The whole world was mourning his loss.

To this day I'm still fixated when Steve's voice comes booming through the TV at work. I must have seen his DVD's a hundred times over but he's just so very engaging. His passion was second-to-none and he had such a special way of speaking to you through the camera.

As I write this I have just turned the final page in Bob Irwin's memoir and I have to admit it was quite the tear jerker.

Bob's book is a truly incredible read and really gave me the opportunity to reflect on my experiences with Steve. Although there were only a handful of occasions they are something very special.

The commitment Bob has shown to wildlife since losing his son is an absolute credit to him. He has continued his legacy in his own way and remained true to his beliefs.

I can only hope I apply the same level of passion and determination in my own life and can create something that I am also proud of.

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