Childhood and Education Journey of Steve Irwin in Timeline

An overview of the childhood and early education of Steve Irwin, highlighting the experiences that shaped the journey.

Steve Irwin, "the Crocodile Hunter," was an influential Australian zookeeper, conservationist, and television personality. He gained worldwide fame through his enthusiastic wildlife documentaries, particularly 'The Crocodile Hunter', educating the public about animals and conservation. Irwin owned and operated Australia Zoo, which became a leading center for wildlife conservation and research. His energetic and passionate approach to wildlife resonated with audiences globally, contributing significantly to raising awareness about environmental issues. Irwin died in 2006 after being pierced in the chest by a stingray barb while filming a documentary, leaving behind a lasting legacy in wildlife conservation and education.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Legacy & Impact

1939: Bob Irwin's birth

In 1939, Bob Irwin, Steve Irwin's father, was born. He was a plumber and amateur herpetologist.

February 1962: Stephen Robert Irwin's birth

In February 1962, Stephen Robert Irwin was born to Lynn and Bob Irwin in Upper Ferntree Gully, Melbourne. He developed an early interest in reptiles.

1970: Move to the Sunshine Coast

In 1970, Steve Irwin moved with his parents to the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, where he attended Landsborough State School and Caloundra State High School. His parents later started the Queensland Reptile and Fauna Park.

1991: Meeting Terri Raines

In 1991, Steve Irwin met Terri Raines at Australia Zoo, where she was visiting wildlife rehabilitation facilities. They fell in love at first sight.

June 1992: Marriage to Terri Raines

On 4 June 1992, Steve Irwin married Terri Raines in Eugene, Oregon.

1997: Discovery of Irwin's Turtle

In 1997, Steve Irwin, while on a fishing trip along the coast of Queensland with his father, discovered a new species of turtle. Herpetologist John Cann later named it Irwin's turtle (Elseya irwini) to honor Steve Irwin's discovery.

July 1998: Birth of Bindi Sue Irwin

On 24 July 1998, Steve and Terri Irwin's daughter, Bindi Sue Irwin, was born.

1999: Watching the Rugby World Cup Final

In 1999, a behind-the-scenes episode of The Crocodile Hunter showed Steve Irwin and his crew watching the Wallabies defeat France in the Rugby World Cup Final.

February 2000: Death of Lyn Irwin

On 11 February 2000, Steve Irwin's mother, Lyn Irwin, died in a car accident.

2000: Death of Lynn Irwin

In 2000, Steve Irwin's mother, Lynn Irwin, passed away.

November 2003: Search for missing scuba divers

In November 2003, while filming off the coast of Baja California, Steve Irwin and his crew suspended operations to aid in the search for two missing scuba divers. Irwin's team helped locate one of the divers, Scott Jones, alive. The other diver, Katie Vrooman, was found dead.