I’ve just finished my mountaineering holiday in the Alps. But, before I talk about that, there is something much more important, and tragic, that needs to be discussed. To my horror, I discovered that, upon checking my e-mail in Chamonix, Steve Irwin, the greatest Australian who ever lived, is dead. If it weren’t for the fact that tomorrow I need to re-enter Australia, I’d tear up my passport right now, because, as of now, being Australian no longer has any meaning. Several years ago there was some controversy surrounding Steve, as to whether he should be named Australian of the year or not. Steve Irwin is not only Australian of the year, but the Australian of every year. Steve Irwin defines what it means to be Australian. Without Steve Irwin, the term ‘Australian’ is without definition. This is a tragic day for all mankind. There will never be another such person as great as Steve Irwin.
Steve Irwin, 1962 – 2006
A week before Steves tragic death no one gave a Rats’. Mention his name and a barrage of derisive comment was most likely. Mostly concerning his loud “Ocker” language and of course the baby and the croc incident. Gee how the fickle public changes. As for the comment “There will never be another such person as great as Steve Irwin” surely you jest. Never? Thats a hell of a long time. As a nation we all can strive to do better. Even when Steve has set the bar so high. Ya think?