gemfyre | The late breaking news

So Steve is dead. And just last week I was considering getting in contact with Rhyllis about getting in contact with him about possibly working at Australia Zoo.

When you work in close proximity with wild animals - especially dangerous ones, generally you're someone who is well aware of the risks - which I have no doubt Steve was. You're also aware that they are still wild animals and completely unpredictable. I bet he knew that too. He was doing what he was passionate about and a freak accident happened. I hear he copped the stingray barb to the heart, and that explains why he is dead and not just in hospital. I believe he has been bitten by venemous snakes previously and survived.

So, the man was a bit of an idiot but I think that was mostly show to get Americans interested. In Australia we've had the more subdued Malcom Douglas for almost half a century sending similar messages about the outback, wild animals, and especially crocodiles. Malcom is now in his 70s and still going strong.

I tell you what, I would much rather die from a stingray barb to the heart (or in my preference, being mauled by a wild tiger) than die in a car accident or in an old people's home.

Hopefully his wife and kids continue spreading his message - but maybe not so idiotically.

EDIT : I also hope his estate will continue buying chunks of bushland to preserve as wilderness. I think that was my favourite of Steve Irwin's habits.