Steve Irwin Day should be public holiday

ORGANISERS hope an official day of celebration for Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin will become a public holiday.

The first annual Steve Irwin Day, on November 15, will attract the interest of millions of people worldwide.

Irwin family spokesman John Stainton told The Sunday Mail yesterday that thousands of fans of the late Wildlife Warrior were expected to join festivities at Australia Zoo on the Sunshine Coast.

Mr Stainton encouraged all Australians to take a day off for Steve and do something in his memory.

He said those who decided to go to work should wear khaki.

The Crocodile Hunter died, aged 44, when a stingray's barb pierced his chest while snorkeling at Batt Reef in north Queensland on September 4 last year.

Mr Stainton said the official anniversary of the tragedy would be a "private, low-key affair" for Terri Irwin, family and friends.

The Sunday Mail understands Steve Irwin Day will include a concert featuring international stars at Australia Zoo.

Other events, including a surfing contest and golf day, may also be held.

Mr Stainton said he hoped the event would one day become a public holiday.

"A special day where everyone goes out to plant trees or do something Steve would have loved," he said.

Premier Peter Beattie said there were no immediate plans to make November 15 a public holiday.

"Steve was a pretty down-to-earth bloke and I doubt he would have wanted too much fuss," Mr Beattie said.

News Limited