Steve Irwin – “Crikey, mate!”
He didn’t just love animals — he lived for them.
Milestones of a Wildlife Legend: The Life of Steve Irwin.
- 1962 - Stephen Robert Irwin, later known to the world as Steve Irwin, is born on February 22nd in Essendon, Victoria, Australia.
- 1970 - The Irwin family moves to Queensland and opens the Beerwah Reptile and Fauna Park (later known as Australia Zoo).
- 1973 - At just 9 years old, Steve catches his first venomous snake — a Common Brown.
- 1979 - Steve graduates from Caloundra State High School and begins working full-time with reptiles at the family zoo.
- 1991 - Takes over the family zoo from his parents, Bob and Lyn Irwin, and later meets Terri Raines, an American naturalist visiting Australia.
- 1992 - Steve marries Terri Raines on June 4th. The couple then films their honeymoon capturing crocodiles, which becomes the first episode of The Crocodile Hunter.
- 1996 - The Crocodile Hunter TV show officially premieres on Australian TV and quickly gains international fame for its daring wildlife interactions.
- 1998 - Steve and Terri's daughter, Bindi Sue Irwin, is born on July 24th.
- 2001 - Appears in the film Dr. Dolittle 2, boosting his presence in pop culture.
- 2002 - Stars in his first feature film, The Crocodile Hunter: Collision Course, and receives the Centenary Medal in recognition of his contributions to Australian society and wildlife conservation.
- 2003 - Steve and Terri's son, Robert Clarence Irwin, is born on December 1st.
- 2004 - Named Queensland Australian of the Year.
- 2006 - September 4th: Steve tragically passes after being stung in the chest by a stingray while filming Ocean’s Deadliest, sparking global mourning and heartfelt tributes.
Want to dive deeper into Steve Irwin’s incredible life? Check out his detailed biography on Wikipedia.
Carrying the Torch: Steve Irwin’s Enduring Legacy.
- Terri Irwin’s Leadership at Australia Zoo
Terri continues to lead Australia Zoo, expanding its conservation programs and preserving Steve’s legacy.
- Australia Zoo’s Conservation Commitment
Australia Zoo remains dedicated to wildlife conservation with ongoing rescue missions, breeding programs, and educational outreach.
- Bindi Irwin: A Conservation Leader
Bindi has become a prominent wildlife advocate, continuing her father’s conservation work and inspiring a new generation.
- Robert Irwin: Continuing the Mission
Robert follows in his father’s footsteps, advocating for wildlife and raising awareness through his photography and media presence.
- Wildlife Warriors: A Global Movement
The Wildlife Warriors initiative continues Steve’s mission to protect wildlife, with supporters globally involved in conservation efforts.
- Steve Irwin Day: Honoring His Legacy
Every year on November 15th, Steve Irwin Day celebrates Steve’s contributions to conservation and raises funds for wildlife protection.
- Public Honors and Recognition
Steve Irwin’s legacy is honored globally, with statues, awards, and tributes ensuring his conservation efforts are never forgotten.
Want to experience the Irwin family's mission firsthand? Visit the official Australia Zoo website to learn more and get involved!
I have no fear of losing my life - if I have to save a koala or a crocodile or a kangaroo or a snake, mate, I will save it.– Steve Irwin