The family of the late wildlife advocate Steve Irwin has shared emotional tributes marking 20 years since his death. Known globally as The Crocodile Hunter,
the Australian zookeeper and television presenter passed away following a fatal encounter with a stingray in September 2006 at the age of 44 while filming a documentary in Queensland, Australia.
Family Honors Steve Irwin Two Decades After His Death
His wife, Terri Irwin, and their two children, Bindi and Robert, reflected on his life, his enduring mission, and the personal grief that has accompanied them over the past two decades. Bindi Irwin, who was only eight years old when she lost her father, posted a message and a video clip on Instagram, writing: Twenty years ago, today, the world lost the most passionate and dedicated wildlife conservationist. Our family lost our superhero. My mum lost the love of her life; my brother and I lost the greatest dad.
Bindi also opened up about the lasting nature of bereavement, noting: Grief never truly leaves us; we walk alongside it every day. Where there is enormous grief, there is even greater love.
She added that while she previously believed her father’s primary impact was wildlife conservation, she realized that his legacy is love. For our planet and for each other.
Terri and Robert Irwin Share Personal Remembrances
Terri Irwin, owner of Australia Zoo, looked back on her final weeks spent with her husband during a family crocodile research expedition. Writing on Instagram, Terri shared that after 20 years, grief still walks with me like my shadow.
Recalling those final moments, Terri noted that the family spent time building swings and climbing trees, remarking that time slowed down.
She added: I believe that all of us, every one of us, gets to say goodbye. We just may not know that we’re saying it. Hold every moment dear with the ones you love. Until we meet again.
Steve and Terri took over management of the park in 1992 after meeting a year earlier, eventually renaming it Australia Zoo. Their children have continued that conservation work alongside Terri.
Robert Irwin, who was two years old when his father died, posted a photo of himself as a baby with Steve alongside the caption, Your legacy is forever.
In his own tribute, Robert thanked his father for showing him and the world what it is to truly live,
and for teaching him to lead with empathy, to treat every living being how you’d wish to be treated, and to be passionate in everything you do.
Introducing a New Generation to ‘Grandpa Crocodile’
Bindi Irwin’s five-year-old daughter, Grace Warrior Irwin Powell—whose middle name honors Steve’s role as a wildlife warrior—maintains a connection to her grandfather despite never meeting him. Bindi revealed that Grace watches her grandfather’s documentaries every morning.
She feels utterly loved by her ‘grandpa crocodile’ without ever having met him,
Bindi shared on Instagram, describing her father as the family’s guardian angel. Bindi expressed confidence that her father’s impact would endure across future generations, stating, My dad left a lasting impact so poignant that it will ripple out for generations to come. I believe with my whole heart that his love will live on forever.
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