Terri Irwin has paid a heartfelt tribute to her late husband, the iconic Steve Irwin, by sharing never-before-seen images from the family's private photo album. The nostalgic post offers a glimpse into the Irwin family's deep, decades-long bond with their wildlife.
A Feathered Family Member Takes Centre Stage
On Monday, Terri posted two throwback pictures featuring Occa, a sulphur-crested cockatoo, who has been a cherished part of the Australia Zoo family for over half a century. One photograph captures a young Bindi Irwin with the beloved bird, while a particularly poignant second image shows Steve himself cradling Occa during the peak of his conservation work.
In her caption, Terri revealed a remarkable fact about their feathered friend: Occa is well into his 50s and could live to be 80. This highlights the incredible timeline this bird has shared with the Irwin family, witnessing generations of their dedication.
Steve Irwin's Legacy Lives On Through His Family
The story of Occa beautifully symbolises the enduring nature of Steve Irwin's mission. The cockatoo, who the family rescued 20 years ago, now brings joy to the youngest Irwin, Bindi's daughter Grace. "Every time he talks to her, she beams with happiness," Bindi said in a previous post from April 2022.
Since Steve's tragic death in September 2006, his family has remained unwavering in continuing his life's work. His simple, powerful goal was to make people fall in love with wildlife and protect it for future generations. That infectious enthusiasm, from wrangling crocodiles to handling millipedes, continues to inspire globally through his children.
Robert Irwin Carries the Torch on the World Stage
Robert Irwin, Steve's son, has become an international ambassador for conservation. The 22-year-old recently won the US version of Dancing With The Stars in November, using the platform to honour his father at every turn. "I represent my dad, his message and what he stood for... He's my hero," Robert has said.
Currently in South Africa filming I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out Of Here!, Robert proved that caring for animals is always his priority. In a video shared last Friday, he documented rescuing a chameleon from a busy road, carefully relocating it to a tree and explaining how its colours reflected its mood from stressed to relaxed.
From operating Australia Zoo and their wildlife foundation to global media appearances, the Irwin family ensures that Steve's influence remains the heartbeat of everything they do. The story of Occa the cockatoo is just one feather in the cap of their extraordinary, ongoing legacy.
