Terri Irwin
DOB: 1964, June 20
R/S: Wife
Every inch of this man, every movement and word exuded his passion for the crocodilians he passed among. I couldn’t help but notice that he never tried to big note himself. He was there to make sure his audience admired the crocs, not himself. – Terri Irwin (Steve & Me).
Who is she?
Prior to marrying the Crocodile Hunter, Terri was also exposed to nature through her father bringing back injured animals to rehabilitate. She pioneered Cougar Country, a rehabilitative centre for injured predatory mammals such as foxes and of course cougars. Cougar Country is responsible for handling over 300 animals a year. A chance visit to a Australian rehabilitation facility was where she met Steve for the first time.
Married to Steve in 1992, even after his death, she kept his dream alive by running the zoo he left behind. Faithfully staying at the Australian Zoo even through lawsuits and debt, she has stayed steadfast to Steve’s goal to spread awareness for Australia’s wildlife. Leaving her birthplace in Eugene, United States of America, Terri never wavered in her dedication towards Steve or the wildlife. She is truly a model wife and mother for her children.
What does she support?
All of Australia Zoo’s efforts.
Sea Shepherd Conservation Society: protect marine wildlife from illegal fishing, whaling and seal hunting.
Awards
2006
Honorary member of the Order of Australia
Ernst & Young Northern Region Social Entrepreneur of the Year
2007
Queensland Telstra Business Women’s Award
2014
Finalist for Australian of the Year
InStyle Australia Women of Style Environmental Award
2015
Excellence in Women’s Leadership in Queensland
Honorary Doctor of Science degree from The University of Queensland (for her work in conservation and support of high-quality research)