I was up late and saw the breaking news about Steve Irwin's unfortunate death. Irwin had a mixed public image, but his expertise and message were not those of anthropomorphising bear lover or hiker who got stuck between a rock and a hard place. Steve may have been 'pushing the envelope' and paid the ultimate price. Details are still few. But this is a sad reminder that anyone who participates in this beautifull world must pair that with a modicum of caution and planning.G'Day Steve, hope your on a even grander walkabout.

Steve Irwin? Isn't that the austrailian guy that handles crocodiles and such? His wife's name is Terry? Are we talking about the same man here, Chris? Blimey!

Steve was filming on the Great Barrier reef and was stung near his heart by a stingray.

Jeez, I'm sorry to hear that.
Buy he died while doing what he loved, I guess <img src="/images/graemlins/frown.gif" alt="" />

It's a bit Ironic. I've read that he's only the second known victem in Australia, and that a stinray rather tries to escape than to go into a confrontation. So it's not the most dangerous species wich he encountered..

I allways enjoyed his shows and it's too bad this has happened. It must also be verry tough for his family

Great bloke,
RIP steve.

I always expected the Silly Sod to be eaten by a Croc. He was one of those blokes who always knew exactly what he was doing. Even when it looked bloody dangerious to the rest of us.
Spare a thought for his missus and the kids.

Sad news indeed...

Sure, he pushed things, but always delivered a message of respect for animals and let his audience know that they should be given space.

"The Crocodile Hunter" did a wonderful thing bringing the idea of conservation to a whole new generation in a new way, one that kept them interested. He probably did the same for some people of older generations as well.

Godspeed Mr. Irwin, and best wishes to his wife and kids!

Truly ironic way to go...according to some online news, it's actually very unlikely that someone will die from a stingray encounter...they say it's because the barb pierced his heart.

To quote from "Highlander": I have something to say...it's better to burn out, than to fade away!

Truly sad he was taken from us so soon, but as others have said, he died doing what he loved. When it's my time to go, may I be so fortunate.

A toast to you Steve...a truly great spirit!

I was suprised when I heard about it. I always figured he'd be eaten.