Irwin’s children both posted about The Crocodile Hunter. Bindi Irwin, 22, shared a photo of her and her father, writing: “You’re always in my heart.”
Irwin’s younger son, Robert, 16, shared a picture of himself posing with a crocodile, writing about new methods for researching the reptiles. He wrote that the work he’s been doing would certainly make his father proud. “Using state of the art solar tracking technology we’re learning so much about these remarkable animals—continuing Dad’s mission for croc conservation,” he wrote.
Irwin’s widow Terri also posted a touching tribute to her late husband. “This is a particularly poignant moment in time for me. Today marks 14 years since I lost Steve, after 14 wonderful years of marriage. I feel that I have a choice: celebrate love or struggle with grief. I choose love,” she wrote.
On Thursday, Terri Irwin also posted pictures reflecting on filming prior to the couple’s daughter being born and celebrated the fact that her daughter and husband are expecting their first child.
Bindi Irwin quote-tweeted her mother, thanking her and her father for including her in their adventures. “It means the world that you and Dad included me on every incredible wildlife adventure (even before I was born),” she wrote.
Steve Irwin died in 2006, while filming a documentary in Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. His chest was penetrated by a stingray in deep water, piercing his heart. The documentary Ocean’s Deadliest was released in the months following Irwin’s death. His family have since carried on his legacy of wildlife conservation and education.
Fans on Twitter shared their own tributes and memories of Irwin on the anniversary of his death. Meanwhile, Animal Planet and 60 Minutes Australia both shared archival footage of The Crocodile Hunter. Animal Planet also noted that Irwin’s death falls on National Wildlife Day, which was established in 2005.
In the clip Animal Planet shared, Irwin spoke about his work paving the way for his children. “When they’re ready to run up our mission, I’ll gladly step aside, and I guarantee you it’ll be the proudest moment of my life,” he said. “My job will be done, then and only then, will I know that I have achieved my ultimate goal, to be able to stand aside and let them run up my mission.”
A contact for the Irwin family did not respond to Newsweek’s emailed request for comment in time for publication.
