Steve Irwin’s son and daughter pay tribute to ‘extraordinary dad’ 16 years after his death

Virgin Radio

5 Sep 2022, 15:36

It's hard to believe it's the 16th anniversary of awesome Aussie conservationist Steve Irwin. The Crocodile Hunter's children have paid tribute to their remarkable father 16 years after his passing – which happened to fall on Father’s Day in Australia.

Irwin’s daughter, Bindi, shared a tear-jerking photograph of her with her zookeeper dad, who died during filming in September 2006, aged 44. The epic animal lover was pierced in the chest by a short-tail stingray in the Great Barrier Reef.

Daughter Bindi, who was just 8-years-old when she lost her dad, wrote: “Grandpa Crocodile, I know you would’ve been the most incredible grandfather because you were such an extraordinary dad. Thank you for being an amazing guardian angel for Grace.”

Their child, Grace, was born in March 2021 and her middle name 'Warrior' is in honour of her late dad.

“Our graceful warrior is the most beautiful light,” Bindi wrote after giving birth.

"Grace is named after my great-grandmother, and relatives in Chandler’s family dating back to the 1700s.

“Her middle names, Warrior Irwin, are a tribute to my dad and his legacy as the most incredible Wildlife Warrior. Her last name is Powell, and she already has such a kind soul just like her dad.”

Irwin’s son, Robert, also marked the day and wrote: “It’s Father’s Day today in Australia, and I am sending my love to those who are missing their dad today.

“I cherish all the good times with my dad and feel grateful to be able to keep his memory and legacy alive.”

We're tearing up, too.