Tribute to Stephen Robert Irwin- a.k.a. “The Crocodile Hunter” (22 February, 1962- 4 September, 2006)
On the 4th of September, 2006, the whole world was treated to the sad news of the loss of an illustrious personality, a widlife expert, a renowned environmentalist and gifted conservationist, Stephen Robert Irwin. Between 1996 and 2007, he attained global recognition through his television documentary series, ‘The Crocodile Hunter’ which he co- hosted with his wife Terri, Croc Files (1999-2001). The Crocodile Hunter Diaries (2002-2006) and New Breed Vets (2005).
From a very young age, Steve Irwin developed great conservation skills being a son of Bob and Lyn Irwin, the founder of Beerwah Reptiles Park established on 1.6 hectare of land . At the age of niine, he had mastered the technique of crocodile restraint by jumping on its back during the expeditions embarked upon by his father aimed at reduction of crocodile hunting by relocating the animals to less populated areas or sanctuaries including the Beerwark Park.
Irwin’s significant contributions also included establishment of large private wildlife refuges in Australia and founded an international organization named wildlife warriors worldwide to promote wild life conservation, education and research.
Stephen Robert Irwin used his life to emphasize the importance of protecting threatened and endangered species of all kinds.
Sadly, on September 2006, while on a documentary project- Ocean’s Deadliest near Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, he swam over a venomous bull sting ray in shallow water, inadvertently provoking the animal to attack. He was stung in the chest and immediately went into cardiac arrest and he was pronounced dead almost immediately.
Fortuitously, Irwin’s daughter, Bindi Irwin has continued to sustain the legacy of his late father, carrying- on the legacies of his father and grandfather.
The Society for Animal Rights Protection draws inspiration from the life and times of this committed promoter of Animal Rights and Welfare. We shall continue to lift the banner to the highest pedestal.
Stephen Robert Irwin, rest in peace!