Terri mentors rangers
3:00p.m. 2nd September 2009


Ranger David Claudie with Australia Zoo owner Terri Irwin. Photo: Courtesy Australia Zoo.
Photo Gallery: Steve Irwin memories

In so many ways, Steve Irwin was larger than life. But it was his passion for wildlife and his love for his family that will ensure he is not forgotten.

Terri Irwin has taken over the role of mentoring and training of indigenous rangers, a task previously conducted by her late husband, Steve.

After returning from an annual crocodile research trip, Terri said the work was an important part of Australia Zoo’s commitment to Cape York’s indigenous people.

Special : Remembering Steve Irwin “We caught 31 crocs up at the reserve this year, using all of Steve’s capture-and-release techniques,” Terri said.

“It is so special and important for us to pass this knowledge on to those around us and we are honoured to share this with the northern Kaanju people.

“We also visited schools in Weipa, Mapoon and Napranum so that Bindi and Robert could share and learn from local children.’’

The head ranger on the reserve, Barry Lyon, said Zoo staff and the rangers were learning from the experience.

“It really is a two way relationship. We do our best to impart the western science we have learned, but in return we learn so much about Aboriginal culture, and the indigenous perspective,” he said.