“The global response to the loss of Steve Irwin and the public outpouring of empathy has been overwhelming,” said an Australia Zoo spokesperson. “This is not just a loss for us, but for a planet full of people who loved him so well, and for the world’s precious wildlife that he laid his life on the line to protect.”
“Steve was a true original; he brought energy and passion to everything he did. Whether it was performing groundbreaking crocodile research on board his vessel Croc One, filming wildlife documentaries or simply celebrating his children’s birthdays, he didn’t do anything by half.
Casey Roff agrees whole heartedly with this statement, with the 13 year old sleeping outside Australia Zoo to ensure he was one of the ticket holders for the tribute to someone he will always remember as a hero.
“We were number 155 and I knew then we would get a ticket,” said Casey. It was a wet night but there was no way I was going to leave. It was all worth it. It was sad but incredible - just like him. Steve was so cool.”
Steve Irwin was a hard-core Wildlife Warrior and dedicated family man. He did for conservation and education what no one had ever done before. He brought wildlife conservation right into people’s living rooms and created a whole new generation of Wildlife Warriors, just like Casey.
The exceptional life Steve led is a testament to his respect for all creatures great and small, his passion for wildlife matched only by his passion for family life. May we all continue to share, learn and be inspired by this great Australian.