Australian PM pays tribute to 'Croc Hunter' Irwin

Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin was a unique character who brought joy to millions of people around the world, Australia’s visibly upset prime minister said today.

“I am quite shocked and distressed at Steve Irwin’s sudden, untimely and freakish death,” Prime Minister John Howard said after police confirmed the media personality and environmentalist had been killed by a stingray’s barb to his heart while diving off Queensland state.

“He was a wonderful character. He was a passionate environmentalist. He brought joy and entertainment and excitement to millions of people,” Howard said in Canberra.

“He was a one-off character.”

“I really do feel Australia has lost a wonderful and colourful son,” he added.

Australian leaders paid tribute and expressed grief at the loss of the dynamic personality. Howard said he knew the Irwin family and had visited Irwin’s Australia Zoo in Queensland on several occasions.

There was no difference between Irwin’s enthusiastic public persona and the private man. “He was the genuine article,” Howard said.