Prince William has rained praise on the late Steve Irwin, describing the conservationist as a “wildlife warrior”.
The Prince of Wales, 43, spoke via a recorded message to welcome guests to the Steve Irwin gala, which took place in Brisbane, Australia.
Mr Irwin died on September 4, 2006, at the age of 44 after being pierced in the chest by a short-tailed stingray’s barb while filming a documentary on the Great Barrier Reef.
The prince recording was played at the event that will “honour the life and legacy of a true wildlife warrior, Steve Irwin”.
Prince William rained praise on the late ‘wildlife warrior’ Steve Irwin
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GETTY / PAWilliam said: “Steve’s mission in life was to safeguard life on our planet, and tonight’s event is all about carrying forward that dedication to conservation and the natural world.”
The future king used part of his message to warn about the impact of climate change.
He noted: “Today, over eight billion people share Earth with a vast array of fauna, flora, and precious ecosystems.
“We are approaching a defining moment, as temperatures rise, animals and plants face extinction, water resources diminish, and waste accumulates.
The Prince of Wales said: ‘Steve’s mission in life was to safeguard life on our planet’.
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GETTY“These tipping points could reshape life on Earth unless we take collective action now.
“Steve Irwin was dedicated to conservation, he advocated for wildlife and wild places across the globe, dreamed of clean air, abundant, healthy oceans and a stable climate for future generations.”
The prince then credited Mr Irwin’s family, who continue his work, saying he was “delighted” his son, Robert, is an ambassador for the EarthShot prize.
William even commented on Robert and his professional partner Witney Carson’s recent Dancing With The Stars win, a decade after his older sister Bindi won the same honour.
Prince William has a good friendship with Steve Irwin’s son, Robert
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GETTYHe said: “We couldn’t have asked for a more passionate and committed ambassador in Robert, and he’s not a bad dancer either.
“That clearly runs in the family too.”
The prince and his wife Princess Kate shared a message following Robert’s win, commenting: “Congratulations Robert and Witney!”
Before the victory, William connected via a video link to offer encouragement to the 21-year-old.
During the pre-recorded segment, the prince playfully addressed the young Australian competitor, referring to him as “twinkle toes” whilst expressing his support for Mr Irwin’s dancing journey.
William’s surprise cameo occurred during a special episode celebrating the ABC programme’s two decades on air.
“We’re missing you, Robert. Whilst your ‘twinkle toes’ are going off elsewhere, I need you down here,” William said during the video call.
He also addressed dancing partner, Witney Carson McAllister, saying: “Witney, you need to get him in as much glitter as you can. You guys have got a seriously good chance of winning it.”
Ms Carson appeared visibly moved by the royal interaction, exclaiming: “I can’t believe he just said my name.”