TV’s Crocodile Hunter and owner of Australia Zoo on the Sunshine Coast, Steve Irwin, was killed today (4 September) while filming for his daughter’s new series off the Great Barrier Reef.

Irwin died after being wounded by a stingray barb to his heart. Although emergency services rushed to his aid, he was pronounced dead at 12 noon, an hour after being stabbed.

Earlier this year, the Australian icon was recognised for his contribution to the country’s tourism industry with a Services to Inbound Tourism Award.

His producer and closest friend, John Stainton said: “The world has lost a great wildlife icon, a passionate conservationist and one of the proudest dads on the planet.

“He died doing what he loves best and left this world in a happy and peaceful state of mind. Crocs Rule!”