Bindi Irwin Honors Her Dad in Sweet 18th Birthday Throwback Post
When "Crocodile Hunter" Steve Irwin tragically lost his life in 2006, our hearts broke for the family he left behind, particularly his daughter Bindi Irwin (who was just 8 years old at the time). But there's no question that his legacy of generosity and joy lives on! As a recent Instagram post celebrating her 18th birthday proves, her father's spirit is alive and well in Bindi -- and she'll never let the world forget everything he did for animals and people alike.
Bindi, a passionate animal rights activist, environmental conservationist, and Dancing with the Stars champion, kicked off her 18th year in style at the Australia Zoo (where else?!) surrounded by family; her boyfriend, Chandler Powell; and, of course, plenty of animals. Still, the one person missing from the party -- her dad, Steve -- was clearly on her mind, and she devoted her birthday Instagram post (and adorable throwback photo) to his memory:
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So incredibly sweet!! I can't even imagine how proud her mother, Terri, must be, and of course, how proud Steve would be today. For parents, the thought of something happening to take us away from our kids is one of the most terrifying things to contemplate: How would they fare in the world without us? Would they remember how much we loved them? But Bindi is living proof that an early foundation in love and loyalty is something kids carry with them forever, that the bond between parent and child can never be broken.
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When you consider everything Bindi has been through and the fact that she's just 18 years old, her commitment, focus, and positivity are nothing short of astonishing. Steve Irwin was fearless, selfless, and full of life -- qualities his daughter has clearly inherited in spades. Happy birthday, Bindi!
Image via Splash News