You know what they say: you can take the girl outta khaki, but you can’t take khaki outta the girl.
Recently, Bindi Irwin, the daughter of the late crocodile hunter, Steve Irwin, has made a name for herself.
After campaigning for animal rights alongside her family since her childhood, the 17-year-old made a surprising career swap when she announced she would be appearing on the US Dancing With The Stars.
Since then, Bindi has gone from strength to strength, constantly knocking her weekly dances out of the park, and now, after weeks of hard work (and a few bumps along the way), the little girl from down under has found herself the winner!
As she celebrates her 18th birthday, we take a look back at her evolution, from khaki to sequins, from snakes to salsa and from jungle girl to dancing queen.
Posting this lovely snap to her Instagram last month, Bindi titled it, “I love you so much.
And miss you every day.”
Bindi, born ‘Bindi Sue’, is Steve and Terri’s first child.
“Here’s a #flashback to a 6 year old Bindi helping Dad and the croc boys secure a beautiful and giant salt water crocodile. In Far North Queensland, carrying my Dad’s knife belt, these were the best days. Please note two things about me – I was so little, the belt had no hope of fitting..so I had to carry it on my shoulder! Also, my epic star hat, because you have to have style when you’re catching crocs!”
She spent her childhood travelling Australia with her family.
And it became clear early that she had picked up her dad’s knack for handling animals!
After her father passed away, Bindi continued to help and promote Zoos and wildlife conservatories across Australia.
Bindi became famous for her adorable pigtails and khaki clothing.
Her father’s carefree and laid-back spirit was obviously passed down to Bindi.
With mum, Terri, and brother, Bob.
Bindi and her family were part of Oprah’s ‘Outback Adventure’.
And before long, she was growing up!
Bindi and Bob at the Kids’ Choice Awards in 2011.
She has no problems cuddling up to creepy crawlies!
And she’s still rocking her khaki.
Looking very ladylike and grown up last year.
With a tiger cub, via her Instagram.
She got it from her dad! Via Bindi’s Instagram
For her premiere on Dancing With The Stars, Bindi got very glammed up!
Since swapping out her khakis for dance gear, Bindi has become very comfortable in sequins and feathers.
Dancing one of her famed routines.
Dancing up a storm with her partner, Derek Hough.
Rocking a stylish look!
But she’s still her father’s daughter! Bindi regularly brings her creepy crawlies to the studio with her.
Good luck today Bindi!