Bob Irwin facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Bob Irwin
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|---|---|
| Born |
Robert Eric Irwin
8 June 1939 Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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| Occupation | Conservationist, former zookeeper, animal naturalist |
| Years active | 1970–2018 |
| Spouse(s) |
Lyn Hakainsson
(died 2000)Judy Irwin
(m. 2004) |
| Children | 3, including Steve |
| Relatives |
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Robert Eric Irwin, born on June 8, 1939, is an Australian expert in nature and animals. He is a dedicated animal conservationist and used to be a zookeeper. He is especially known for his work with powerful animals and reptiles.
Bob Irwin started the Queensland Reptile and Fauna Park. This park is now famous as Australia Zoo. He is also the father of the well-known television personality, Steve Irwin.
Contents
Early Life and Beginnings
Robert Irwin was born in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. Before he became known for his animal work, he was a plumber. He also spent time building sheds and houses.
Starting a Career in Conservation
Bob Irwin's journey in animal conservation began in 1970. He moved his family from Essendon to Queensland.
In Queensland, he bought a piece of land. It was about 4 acres (1.6 hectares) in size. On this land, he built a special place for wildlife. This place became the Beerwah Reptile Park.
Bob Irwin also worked at Ironbark Station. He later left that job. He moved to a new property that was much larger. This property was surrounded by forests and a national park. Here, he continued the important conservation work that his son, Steve, was also passionate about.
In 2016, Bob Irwin released a book. It was called The Last Crocodile Hunter: A Father and Son Legacy. The book shares stories about his life and his work.
Bob Irwin's Family Life
Bob Irwin was married to Lyn Hakainsson. She was a maternity nurse. They had three children together. Their first daughter, Joy, was born in 1960. Their son, Steve, was born in 1962. Their second daughter, Mandy, was born in 1966. Sadly, Lyn passed away in 2000.
Bob Irwin later married Judy. In 2008, he was named Queensland's Grandfather of the Year. Bob and Judy live on a property near Kingaroy. From there, Bob continued to support wildlife and environmental protection. He did this through his foundation, the Bob Irwin Wildlife & Conservation Foundation Inc.
Later Years and Retirement
In March 2008, Bob Irwin announced that he had left Australia Zoo.
In 2011, Bob Irwin took part in protests. He was against the building of a gas pipeline. He felt strongly about protecting the environment.
In June 2018, Bob Irwin announced his retirement. His foundation also paused its work. This meant they would not be operating for a while.
