I read the news today, oh boy..."

Steve we’ll miss you.
Commiserations to your wife & children.

On Line Opinion sub-leases our offices from a blokey firm of surveyors, not noted for sentimentality, or necessarily preserving wildlife. Yet Irwin's death has affected everyone. Even me, and I thought that he promoted an Australia I wasn't particularly keen to be part of.

It's like the Diana phenomenon. I'd hesitate to call him beautiful, but he was vital and infectious, and while he might have been irritating to have around, the sunlight's been turned down several million watts now he's dead, and it sends a shiver of my own mortality up my own spine.

Steve taught us just what a positive outlook can achieve.

I watched him with a kinder eye on Denton last night. I realise, too late, just how much he contributed to the well being of the environment - well, I've learnt a lesson and will strive not to be so judgemental.

We have lost a true individual. Let us continue his good work and be a little kinder to all creatures great and small.

Steve Irwen's work is a treasure for many generations to come. His legend will live on and his name will have world recognition now for the parents who's children have admired Steve's life with the wild for the past decades. As I feel the sadness well up inside and my tears begin to flow, I know I am in vast company with all (young and old) who had the fortune of viewing him in thier homes. Steve was a messenger -- we the intepreters from his magical shared perspective. Thank you, thank you, thank you. Amen

I am approaching 44 myself. Steve Irwin has convinced me by every day living his life to the full to do more with my life. You never know when your time is up. His untimely death has given me a swift kick. I am grateful to him. All of Australia will watch over Terri, Bindi and Bob. Rest in Peace Mate.

Thank you and God Bless you Steve. I will never forget you.
Rest in peace.

Kay