This cache is a tribute to Steve Irwin (1962-2006), a.k.a. The
Crocodile Hunter. Steve was an Australian Conservationist and
television personality best known for his show "The Crocodile
Hunter" which aired on Animal Planet. Together with his wife, he
also co-owned and operated Australia Zoo in Beerwah,
Queensland.
Steve died on September 4, 2006 after being pierced in the heart
by a stingray barb while snorkeling at the Great Barrier Reef. He
may have accidentally cornered the animal between himself and a
cameraman, causing it to become defensive. Steve is survived by his
wife, Terri, and two children, Bindi and Robert.
Some people have criticized Steve for what they believe is a
reckless and sensational approach to nature television. Yes, he did
take risks and was very hands-on with the animals he encountered.
However, Steve's methods supported his main mission which was to
educate us about conservation. I believe Steve knew that preaching
conservation and environmentalism to the "Nintendo Generation"
required a different approach. Steve's adventures on Animal Planet
brought hours of fun and education to me and my family. The day of
his death was a very sad one for me.
I can think of no better place for a tribute cache than the
Outdoor Discovery Center (ODC), a 120 acre nature preserve
dedicated to conservation and education. Since Steve traveled the
world in his quest to educate us, a Travel Bug (TB) cache seemed
appropriate. Steve believed in the preservation of species, so I
have made a TB nursery to protect the little TBs from the larger
predators. This cache can only hold small TBs and coins. Please
limit contents to these items only. I ask two things: 1) leave at
least 1 TB or coin in the cache at any time, and 2) when you log
your find, mention your favorite memory of Steve.
Both stages were placed with the permission and approval of the
ODC staff. Not only did the staff allow the cache, but they
encouraged the placement of it to provide another outdoor
recreational opportunity to the public and to bring people to the
ODC. The cache is in an area that the ODC staff is not worried
about from an ecological standpoint, so you are free to roam this
area. There are some old paths that will help you get around.
Beware of holes and stumps. This area used to be a Christmas tree
farm and the remnants of this activity are still present.
More information about the ODC can be found at
http://www.outdoordiscoverycenter.org.