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The loss of a charismatic man
9 September 2006
Steve Irwin’s death has provided feelings that cover the emotional spectrum, from his dad’s ‘best mate’, an ‘ordinary man’, to Germaine Greer’s clinical detachment.
In life, as in death, this larger than life man was loved, and not hated, but embarrassed some Australians.
Yet, no-one who really knew him could but have admired him. The outpouring of grief worldwide has clearly indicated how inestimable his impact was on the lives of people from every walk of life.
He was, as his father said, an ordinary bloke, yet he was also a global citizen, a man whose behaviours and views registered with and fascinated, hundreds of millions of people.
I was told by a disoriented airport cleaner of his death. Leaving the airport I saw his ‘Crikey’ ad. On the radio there was coverage from a world interested in Australia. Then there was the print and television coverage, incessant and gigantic relative to the rest of the news. No more political snatches, but extensive coverage of disbelief, and comment from children to world leaders, unparalleled since Princess Diana. This could be no ‘ordinary man’.
I can remember him coming to the University in 2000 for an honorary award at Graduation. He was so proud, as at that stage, he felt he was minimally recognised on the Sunshine Coast.
I remember him punching the air and whooping in Steve-style after he received the award and as he strode the stage in his khakis.
I have seen his work first hand. I have valued his care for the University’s injured kangaroos. I have valued his and Terri’s links with the University.
His loss is of inestimable significance. He may once have been the ‘man in the street’, but he soared above that in his life because of his environmental cause, personally pursued.
I extend my deepest sympathies, on behalf of everyone at the University to Steve’s entire family and close friends. He was a charismatic and influential man who has made his mark on a generation.
Professor Paul Thomas is Vice-Chancellor of University of the Sunshine Coast