Crikey, We値l Miss You Mate
Sea Shepherd Salutes the Crocodile Hunter
Commentary by Captain Paul Watson
Last year I was supposed to meet up with Steve Irwin in Sydney, but we both got side tracked with our schedules and regrettably, it did not happen.
He did communicate with us to lend his support to our efforts to stop illegal Japanese whaling in the waters of the Australian Antarctic Territory.
I do regret having not met him. He was probably the most visible international voice for wild animals and wilderness since Captain Jacques Cousteau.
Steve had his own unique way of speaking up for the animals. He was courageous, resourceful, energetic, controversial and flamboyant. Kids loved him, the media loved him, hell, even old John Howard loved him. He was one of the most beloved faces of Australia around the world.
Steve died doing what Steve loved to do. Those who dismissed his bravado as an act can now realize that he did indeed take risks. His life was about taking risks and his fearlessness was a vehicle that sent a message, especially to young people. He used the skills and talent he was born with to do exactly what those gifts were meant to do.
Steve was first and foremost a communicator and he was a great wildlife conservationist.
The Crocodile Hunter who did not actually hunt crocs instead lived to protect them will be sorely missed by millions of inspired children, and he will be missed by my crew and I.
Crikey Steve, You were great, Mate, and you have left us with a legacy that we shall never forget and a reminder that one person can make a real difference in the world.
Our condolences to his wife Terri and his eight year old daughter and baby boy.
We weep with Australia for his loss.
Captain Paul Watson
Founder and President of the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society (1977-
Co-Founder - The Greenpeace Foundation (1972)
Co-Founder - Greenpeace International (1979)
Director of the Sierra Club USA (2003-2006)
Director - The Farley Mowat Institute
Director - www.harpseals.org
"Sail forth - steer for the deep waters only,
Reckless O soul, exploring, I with thee and thou with me,
For we are bound where mariner has not yet dared to go,
And we will risk the ship, ourselves and all."
- Walt Whitman
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