09/04/2026
20 years ago today, I remember exactly where I was when I found out that Steve Irwin had died... I remember the disbelief. It didn’t seem possible that someone who had been such a constant presence in the lives of Australians could suddenly be gone.
Steve didn’t just teach us about wildlife. He taught us to love it fiercely and protect it passionately. And beyond the khaki and the crocodiles, he was most proud of being a dad to his beautiful kids, Bindi Irwin and Robert Irwin.
Twenty years on, his legacy is everywhere. It lives on through his remarkable wife Terri Irwin, through Bindi and Chandler, Robert, his gorgeous granddaughter Grace, and through the incredible conservation work at Australia Zoo. I was quite emotional earlier this year visiting Australia Zoo with my own kids, seeing the amazing work they all continue to do, all honouring Steve and the mission he cared so deeply about. We still feel the loss, but we also see the continuing impact of his life in every rescue, every habitat protected, every animal saved and every child inspired, like my own.
Steve, Australia sees your family as our own. We grieve with them and celebrate their successes collectively, but even then, our pride pales in comparison to how unbelievably proud you would be of your wife and kids. Of everything they have built, everything they have continued, and the beautiful family that has grown from the one you loved so fiercely.
If Steve meant something to you too, perhaps today is a beautiful day to honour him by supporting the conservation work he dedicated his life to. A donation to Australia Zoo Wildlife Warriors is one small way to help continue the mission he cared about so deeply.
Twenty years feels impossible… Crikey… we all miss you, Steve. You were truly one of the best.
