Goodbye to Steve Irwin

Steve Irwin "The Crocodile Hunter" was fatally wounded by a sting ray on the Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Australia on Monday. My family and I have enjoyed his TV shows for many years.

When friends of ours were here visiting from Australia, I asked them about Steve Irwin. My impression was that they were not fond of the idea of him being the unofficial ambassador for Australia. I don't remember their exact words but kind of a looney character describes their opinion of him. And I understand their embarrassment.

But, first of all, I never thought that Irwin represented all Australians in profession or personality. Like all nations, I don't think Australia is a nation of crocodile hunters/wrestlers. Nor, do I think that most Australians are wild and wacky. And there are plenty of other Australian ambassadors here in the states who are well known: Nicole Kidman, Hugh Jackman, and Paul Hogan. (I wanted to use Russell Crowe but he's had some anger management problems lately.)

My heart goes out to Irwin's children and wife. They have some difficult times ahead of them. My fondness for Australians and Australia is as strong as ever. And I am glad that I invited Steve Irwin into my living room: he was a an entertaining guest that I didn't want to leave.

You can read more about Steve Irwin's life and career at:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steve_Irwin#Family

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Conversation overhead tonight between two crocodiles in an Australian swamp:
"Hey Freddy, didja hear about Steve-o."
"No, Malcolm. Tell me."
"He's gone, mate."
"Gone? Gone?"
"Yes."
"Crikey!"
"He was a battler. He was. A cobber to all of us crocs."
"I hear ya."
"The world is a much more dangerous place now."
"It is. G'night, Malcolm."
"G'night, Freddy."

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If you want to hear or read how Australians feel about Steve Irwin's death go to:

Australian Internet Radio Stations:
http://www.3aw.com.au/main_index.shtml

http://www.2gb.com/

Australian Internet Newspapers:
http://www.smh.com.au/index.html

http://www.news.com.au/dailytelegraph/