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BRISBANE - Australians have a greater understanding of the richness of the natural environment thanks to Steve Irwin, Labor's environment spokesman Peter Garrett says.
As the first anniversary of the Crocodile Hunter's death approaches, conservationists and animal lovers have begun to reflect on his legacy.
September 4 marks a year since a stingray speared its barb into Irwin's chest while he was snorkelling on Batt Reef near Port Douglas, in north Queensland.
Mr Garrett said Irwin's work would benefit generations.
"Steve Irwin left a legacy for many, many Australians of a greater understanding and awareness of the richness of our natural environment, and the importance of looking after it for decades to come," he said.
The Wilderness Society has also paid tribute to Irwin's ability to take a conservation message to a broad audience.
Spokeswoman Virginia Young said Irwin was accessible to many more people than conservation groups could reach.
"The fact that he made Australia's wilderness and nature accessible to a wide audience of Australians ... is a critical thing for helping Australians actually protect their own," she said.
"Unless you understand and love what we have then you'll never protect it.
"Steve Irwin played a really important role in helping Australians understand and love their own country."
RSPCA Queensland spokesman Michael Beatty said animal lovers the world over were missing Irwin.
"He was a modern-day Noah and should be acknowledged as such," he said.
"Whether he was speaking to global leaders or ordinary Australians, Steve Irwin told it like it was.
"His death truly was a tragedy. Wildlife lost its most vocal champion."
Mr Beatty said Irwin's great gift was the way he inspired children.
"Although his contribution to conservation is acknowledged and applauded today, his ultimate legacy may not be truly realised for decades," Mr Beatty said.
"The youth that he inspired worldwide will be the ones calling the shots in tomorrow's society. That has to bode well for the future."
- AAP
