Bob Irwin’s new memoir includes a never-before-seen letter from 32-year-old Steve
BOB IRWIN, FATHER of the late Steve Irwin, has shared an intimate letter written by a 32-year-old Steve to his parents. The letter was misplaced at the time and remained unopened until after Steve’s tragic death in 2006, at the age of 44.
The letter, which will be published in Bob Irwin’s memoir, The Last Crocodile Hunter: A Father And Son Legacy on 26 October, provides an intimate insight into Steve’s relationship with his mum and dad before his untimely death in an accident during filming – 10 years ago this Sunday, which also happens to be Father’s Day.
Bob says he found the letter unopened in its envelope when it slipped from a book during his research for his new book, which is co-authored by Amanda French.
Steve Irwin with daughter Bindi (now 18 years old) at Uluru, NT. Bindi was eight years old when her father died in an accident with a sting ray during filming. (Image: Australia Zoo/Getty Images)
The letter (pictured, top) reads:
Dear Mum & Dad,
Probably one of the most unfortunate things in a bloke’s life is that it takes over 30 years to realise how essential you have been to build my character, my ethics and, most importantly, my HAPPINESS.
At 32, I am finally starting to figure it out. In good times and in bad, you were there. Your strength and endurance to raise me will not go unrewarded. My love for you is my strength!
For the rest of my life I will reflect on the unbelievably GREAT times we’ve shared and will continue to share.
You’re my best friends!
Thank you,
Steve
A decade after his death, Steve’s legacy continues to be nurtured by his family, including wife Terri and two children Bindi and Robert, who run Australia Zoo in Queensland, including the Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve named in Steve’s honour in Cape York.
