BEERWAH, Australia – “Crocodile Hunter” Steve Irwin was remembered early today for his “great zest for life” at a public memorial service for the beloved conservationist and entertainer.
“We have lost a friend, a champion,” actor Russell Crowe said in a recorded tribute. “It will take some time to adjust to that.”
Prime Minister John Howard, among the 5,000 in attendance at the Australia Zoo for the ceremony, remembered Irwin for his love of Australia.
“Steve Irwin touched the hearts of Australians and touched the hearts of millions around the world in a very special way,” said Howard. “He did that because he had that quality of being genuine, of being authentic, of being unconditional and having a great zest for life.
“Throughout his all-too-short life he demonstrated a love for the two things that ought to matter more to all of us than anything else – his love of his family and his love of his country.”
There was one empty seat at Irwin’s personal stadium – the one set aside for the late and hugely popular “Crocodile Hunter” himself. On the stage sat Irwin’s widow, American-born Terri, and their two children, Bindi, 8, and Bob, 2 – all dressed in Irwin’s favored khaki outfit. It was their first public appearance since Irwin’s death.
A exuberant television entertainer and conservationist, Irwin, 44, died Sept. 4 when the barb from a stingray pierced his chest while he was filming for a TV show on the Great Barrier Reef. His family held a private funeral service for him on Sept. 9 at Australia Zoo.
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
