Huge public send-off for Irwin

More than 5,000 people crowded into the Crocoseum at Steve Irwin's zoo yesterday (September 19th) to bid farewell to a national hero.

Australia's prime minister, John Howard, led the tributes with a short speech about Irwin teaching people how to love animals great and small.

Russell Crowe also led a short tribute, applauding Irwin's humble nature and his ability to touch others all over the world.

The ceremony lasted for around an hour and a number of fitting tributes to Irwin were carried out in a truly Australian fashion: a pick-up truck carrying Irwin's camping gear and his favourite surf board slowly drove past the audience with a guard of honour from the zoo.

In addition, a floral tribute which spelt out the wildlife expert's catchphrase "crikey" was positioned in the centre of the Crocoseum.

Irwin's daughter Bindi provided the most touching moment of the ceremony when she gave a short speech about her father.

"I have the best daddy in the whole world and I will miss him every day," she proclaimed. "When I see a crocodile, I will always think of him."

Irwin died when a stingray's barb flicked up and pierced his chest while filming a documentary for his daughter's TV show.

The ceremony was broadcast on national television as well as on screens close to the Queensland zoo.