"Love lives on": Touching Irwin tributes on 18th anniversary of Steve's death
<p>Terri Irwin has paid a touching tribute to her late husband, Steve Irwin, on the 18th anniversary of his passing, stirring emotions among fans worldwide.</p>
<p>In a poignant Instagram post, Terri, 59, shared a nostalgic photo of the couple, embraced warmly in front of Cradle Mountain in Tasmania. Accompanying the image was the simple yet profound caption, âLove lives on,â followed by a red heart emoji. The tribute evoked an outpouring of support and love from fans and followers, many of whom expressed the lasting impact the Irwin family has had on their lives.</p>
<p>One fan wrote, âThank you for sharing that love with us. I grew up to never settle for less,â while another reflected, âHe was my idol growing up... Itâs crazy to think itâs been 18 years since that tragic day. Long live the crocodile king.â Even singer-songwriter Amy Shark commented, âThis is just beautiful.â</p>
<p>This tribute follows Terriâs Father's Day post, where she shared touching side-by-side photos of Steve and their son Robert, both holding large native lizards. âSteve had so much love for Robert and Bindi. He was the best dad,â she wrote. âI know he would be proud of the way they have continued his message and mission for conservation.â</p>
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<p>Steve Irwin, known globally as âThe Crocodile Hunter", tragically died at age 44 on September 4, 2006, after being pierced in the chest by a stingray while filming a documentary off the coast of Queensland. His death left an indelible mark on fans worldwide, but his legacy has been passionately carried on by his family.</p>
<p>His daughter, Bindi, also shared a heartfelt tribute to her father, posting a throwback photo of Steve handling a crocodile. She reflected on the honour of continuing his work, writing, âYour legacy lives on in our family, our team, Australia Zoo, Wildlife Warriors, and The Crocodile Hunter Lodge. Hope to make you proud.â</p>
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<p>The Irwin familyâs commitment to wildlife conservation has only strengthened in the years since Steveâs passing. Australia Zoo, originally built by Steveâs father, Bob Irwin, in 1970, has flourished under their stewardship. The family continues Steveâs mission through their wildlife reality series, <em>Crikey! Itâs the Irwins</em>, which debuted in 2018 and remains popular on Animal Planet.</p>
<p>Fans around the world continue to honour Steveâs memory, with many sharing their admiration on social media. One fan wrote, âI am so thankful that a piece of Steve really did live on in you guys. Outstanding in your own right and amazing to see,â while another commented, âAmazing how Steve changed the way we viewed wildlife in Australia.â</p>
<p>Steve Irwinâs influence on wildlife conservation, his pioneering television work, and his legacy of love and adventure live on, continuing to inspire millions worldwide. His familyâs unwavering dedication ensures that his passion for nature and animals will never be forgotten.</p>
<p><em>Image: Instagram</em></p>