Bob Irwin’s new autobiography is set to be released next month and the father of the late Steve Irwin has released some details about the making of the book.
Ahead of Father’s Day this weekend, Bob has released a previously unopened letter from Steve which he only discovered while researching the book, when it slipped from another book he was reading.
Dear Mum & Dad,
Probably one of the most unfortunate things in a bloke’s life is that it takes over 30 years to realise how essential you have been to build my character, my ethics and, most importantly, my HAPPINESS.
At 32, I am finally starting to figure it out. In good times and in bad, you were there. Your strength and endurance to raise me will not go unrewarded. My love for you is my strength!
For the rest of my life I will reflect on the unbelievably GREAT times we’ve shared and will continue to share.
You’re my best friends!
Thank you,
Steve
Bob with Steve’s family at the unveiling of his memorial statue at Australia Zoo
“Working on this book, I have been constantly reminded of Steve’s boundless energy, infectious humour and unrestrained passion for wildlife in our far too short a time together. But he is still here, still with me and I am able to gain strength from him. What he stood for and what he was able to achieve means just as much now as when he was here in the physical world,” Bob said.
“There are so many people who have been inspired by Steve Irwin. I am really, really proud of that. I hope that sharing these stories can be a pertinent reminder of the enormity of his legacy, a legacy that has not only taught us the importance of reconnecting with our environment but to be passionate in doing so.”
The Last Crocodile Hunter: A Father and Son Legacy is out in October.
