From emotional dance floor dedications to continuing groundbreaking conservation work, Bindi and Robert Irwin consistently honor their late father, the beloved ‘Crocodile Hunter’ Steve Irwin, ensuring his passion for wildlife and family lives on for new generations.
The legacy of Steve Irwin, the charismatic and passionate wildlife conservationist known worldwide as ‘The Crocodile Hunter,’ continues to echo through the dedicated work and heartfelt tributes of his children, Bindi Irwin and Robert Irwin. Steve tragically passed away at the age of 44 in September 2006 after being pierced by a stingray barb, leaving behind a profound impact and a family determined to carry his torch. Though Bindi was only 8 and Robert just 2 at the time, their lives have been a testament to their father’s enduring spirit.
Bindi Irwin’s Deeply Personal Tributes
Bindi Irwin has often spoken about her father’s influence, weaving his memory into many pivotal moments of her life and career. One of her most memorable tributes came during her time on Dancing With the Stars in 2015. Bindi dedicated a powerful and emotional routine to her father, captivating audiences and judges alike. “What shaped me the most would probably be when my dad passed away,” she revealed in a pre-taped segment before the performance, “For the rest of my life, I’ll kind of feel like he’s going to come home.” The performance, which brought many to tears, showcased her profound love and grief. E! Online noted that “there was not a dry eye in the room” during this tearful dedication.
Her father’s presence has guided her even in everyday milestones. In March 2016, Bindi proudly announced receiving her driver’s license after taking the test in her dad’s old truck. “It was wonderful to take my test in St George and pass the first time and in my Dad’s giant old ute!” she shared via Instagram. The choice of vehicle was a touching nod to the man who instilled in her a love for the outdoors and adventure.
Bindi’s most cherished tribute is arguably her daughter, Grace Warrior Irwin Powell, born in March 2021. The middle name, Warrior, directly references her father’s term “Wildlife Warrior,” a moniker for those who protect nature. Bindi explained that her dad “was the first person to create the term ‘Wildlife Warrior,'” and that being one means “to stand up and speak for those who cannot speak for themselves.” She often shares how she introduces Grace to her “Grandpa Crocodile” through old documentaries, wishing her dad could hug her beautiful girl, knowing he’s her guardian angel, as reported by Us Weekly.
Robert Irwin: Following in Fearless Footsteps
Despite his young age at his father’s passing, Robert Irwin has grown into a remarkable wildlife photographer and conservationist, mirroring his dad’s adventurous spirit. Robert has continued Steve’s vital crocodile research at the Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve, using the same capture methods his father created. In September 2020, he shared via Instagram that they had tagged 213 crocodiles in their study, ensuring his dad’s mission for croc conservation continues with state-of-the-art solar tracking technology.
One particularly touching story from Robert involved his father’s old motorcycle. In February 2021, Robert revealed he had fixed up the bike, which held “so many memories of Dad’s old motorbike — hanging on to the front with Bindi as we’d ride around the zoo with Dad.” He now uses it for morning park checks at Australia Zoo, feeling lucky to continue this daily ritual. Robert made a further tribute to his dad on Dancing With the Stars season 34 premiere on September 16, 2025. His “Born to Be Wild” dance with partner Witney Carson included several nods to Steve and the Australia Zoo, featuring a khaki uniform, howler monkey sound effects, and Robert mimicking his father’s signature pose of throwing his fists up in the air.
Another profound moment for Robert occurred in October 2023 when the Elseya irwini, or Irwin’s turtle—a rare freshwater species his father discovered in 1990—was bred in a zoo for the first time. Robert shared an emotional TikTok video, describing the experience as “just so surreal” and noting how proud his dad would be.
A Family United in Conservation and Remembrance
Both Bindi and Robert frequently use social media to share their memories and reinforce their commitment to their father’s cause. On Steve Irwin Day, celebrated annually on November 15, they post poignant tributes. In 2021, Bindi wrote, “Your legacy will live on forever. I love you for even longer,” while Robert expressed, “It means the world to see so many people sharing stories and memories of how my dad changed their lives and inspired them. It is the honor of my life to get to continue his mission.”
The entire Irwin family, including their mother Terri Irwin, continues to run the Australia Zoo, which Steve’s parents started in the 1970s. They are also deeply involved with Wildlife Warriors, an animal conservation group founded by Steve and Terri. Every project, every animal encounter, and every educational program at the zoo serves as a living tribute to Steve’s lifelong dedication to the natural world. From incorporating khaki into Bindi’s wedding in 2020 to celebrating Steve’s birthdays with documentaries and hikes, their actions speak volumes about their commitment to his memory.
The emotional connection the Irwin children share with their father is palpable in every tribute they offer. From Bindi’s heartfelt words on her father’s 63rd birthday in February 2025 – “To the world, you will forever be remembered as the greatest Wildlife Warrior. To me, you’ll always be the most incredible dad and now our family’s guiding light” – to Robert’s reflection on his 21st birthday about carrying his dad’s memory despite someone missing, their dedication is unwavering. The widespread fan admiration for Steve continues to be a driving force, with countless individuals sharing stories of how he inspired them to care for animals and the environment.
The Irwin family’s ongoing efforts ensure that Steve Irwin’s message of passion and enthusiasm for conservation remains as vibrant and impactful as ever. They have not only preserved his legacy but have also expanded upon it, inspiring a new generation of wildlife warriors across the globe. Their tributes, both public and deeply personal, serve as a constant reminder of the extraordinary man who taught the world to appreciate and protect our planet’s incredible creatures.
