Steve Irwin's whale dream is born
Christine Sams | June 24, 2007
TERRI, Bindi and Bob Irwin launched a boat in the name of Steve Irwin yesterday as part of Australia Zoo's expansion into whale watching.
The khaki-clad Irwins joined more than 150 guests in Mooloolaba for the launch of Steve's Whale One, a boat designed for daily whale-watching cruises off the coast of Queensland.
Australia Zoo's expeditions into the ocean had been planned while Irwin was alive, because he was passionate about people taking a closer look at the natural environment.
The boat's skipper, Alan Short, said it was an honour to be conducting whale-watching cruises in Irwin's name.
"For me, it's such a privilege, because Steve was someone to look up to," he said.
Bindi and Bob enjoyed the chance to mingle with the crowd yesterday.
"They had a great day with all the other kids," a spokeswoman for Australia Zoo said.
The Irwins are spending an extended time at home in Queensland, but have been kept busy with public appearances.
Terri, Bindi and Bob met with the Dalai Lama during his visit to Australia, with Bindi introducing the spiritual leader to her favourite koala.