Bindi Irwin, the Australian conservationist and daughter of the late Crocodile Hunter, marked the 20th anniversary of her father’s death with an emotional tribute that reaffirms his legacy as both a champion for wildlife and a source of unconditional love.
Steve Irwin died on 4 September 2006, aged 44, when a stingray pierced his chest during a documentary shoot at the Great Barrier Reef. His death left the Irwin family devastated, but also inspired their continued work at Australia Zoo.
In a recent Instagram post, Bindi described her dad as a “superhero” and reflected on the shared grief that has followed the family for two decades. “I always thought that my dad’s legacy is wildlife conservation; it turns out, his legacy is love. For our planet and for each other,” she wrote.
The family’s grief continues to shape their lives. Bindi’s mother, Terri, and her younger brother, Robert, are also mournful. Bindi wrote, “My mum lost the love of her life; my brother and I lost the greatest dad. Grief never truly leaves us; we walk alongside it every day.”
In another touching note, Bindi shared how her five‑year‑old daughter keeps her father alive in their lives. “She watches his documentaries every morning. She feels utterly loved by her ‘grandpa crocodile’ without ever having met him.”
The Irwins have continued to run Australia Zoo, a place that remains a living tribute to Steve’s passion for education and conservation. “My dad left a lasting impact so poignant that it will ripple out for generations to come,” Bindi wrote, underscoring the enduring resonance of his life and work.
Behind the scenes, Steve’s wife Terri took to social media to commemorate his death, sharing stories of Bindi’s birth and recalling the first moment her parents names “Bindi” came to life. “I was flabbergasted and it was then that her name evolved. I’ve gone, ‘Bindi!’ after my favourite crocodile, Bindi,” Steve’s voice, captured in a post‑humor interview, reminded fans of his playful spirit.
Robert Irwin posted a photo of a young Steve holding him, captioned “Your legacy is forever,” adding to the family’s chorus of tribute.
The anniversary also drew attention to the family’s recent achievements, including Robert’s recent win in a dance competition that commemorates Bindi’s earlier success.
