Steve Irwin’s death yesterday has had a strange effect on people all over the world. Many of us who did not know him personally, are devastated by the news and are in a state of disbelief.

Steve’s Australia Zoo in Queensland is truly a world class tourist attraction. The attention to detail and the level of service is very impressive. As soon as people arrive they sense that they are about to experience something very special. And walking through the zoo, you get the feeling that Steve and his wife Terri have spared no expense to make sure their animals are nurtured and well cared for.

In early 2004, I was very fortunate to see Steve in action with his family at the Australia Zoo. Steve was entertaining, charismatic and very passionate about his family, his wildlife, his country and the environment. During the show he announced that he had made a mistake taking his little baby boy into the crocodile enclosure the day before and that he was very sorry the incident had occured. For many of us in the audience, we were surprised that a well known celebrity was willing to make himself so vulnerable by delivering a heartfelt apology in front of hundreds of people. He won my respect and admiration on that day and I think the biggest impression he made with many of us was his courage expressing his emotions and standing by his personal values around his family.

Steve Irwin led by example. An ambassador for wildlife, the environment and a true leader and role model for the travel and tourism industry. He was an inspiration to many people around the world and a fine example of a person who followed his heart and lived his life to the fullest. Steve Irwin - “simply the best.”

Our sympathy and best wishes to his family.

To contribute to Steve’s conservation charity Wildlife Warriors Worldwide go to www.wildlifewarriors.org.au.