Prince William at Steve Irwin Gala: The royal paid tribute to the Crocodile Hunter with a special message

Prince William honoured the late Steve Irwin with a heartfelt tribute, making a surprise appearance at an event celebrating the Australian legend’s legacy.

Guests gathered in Brisbane on Saturday for the annual Steve Irwin Gala, an event dedicated to recognising the work being done by Wildlife Warriors Worldwide — the non-profit founded by Steve and Terri Irwin.

The Prince of Wales, who has long championed environmental protection through his Earthshot initiative, joined celebrities, friends and the Irwin family in celebrating Steve’s life.

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William opened the evening with a special message via video.

“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 Prince of Wales said.

“He advocated for wildlife and wild places across the globe, dreamed of clean air, abundant, healthy oceans and a stable climate for the future generations.”

William added “today his family continue this work towards these critical goals”, speaking fondly about his friend and Steve’s son, Robert Irwin.

Prince William appeared via video at the Steve Irwin Gala. Credit: InstagramBindi and Robert proudly continue their father’s work today. Credit: AAPThe Irwin family continue their conservation work in Steve’s honour through the Wildlife Warriors Worldwide. Credit: Instagram

Robert also serves as an ambassador for the Earthshot Prize — the organisation William founded to “spotlight and champion the most innovative solutions to the world’s greatest environmental challenges”.

“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 royal joked, referencing Robert’s Dancing With The Stars win.

Before Robert and his DWTS partner Witney Carson took home the Mirrorball Trophy on November 25, Prince William made a surprise cameo on the show to support Robert, who couldn’t attend the Earthshot Prize ceremony in Brazil this year.

Robert Irwin and Prince William enjoy a friendly relationship based on their shared passion for environmental conservation. Credit: Getty

In his video message at the gala, William also highlighted their shared values.

“Both the Earthshot Prize and Wildlife Warriors share a powerful mission to protect and restore our planet and give hope for the next generation.

“We recognise the importance of collaboration, innovation and action to create a brighter future.

“By supporting these vital efforts and working collectively, we can all play a part in creating lasting positive change for the planet.

“Never before has it been so important for every single one of us to make environmentally conscious decisions and prioritise our natural world to be wildlife warriors.”

Bindi and her husband Chandler attended the gala in Brisbane. Credit: InstagramThe event was held to honour the life and legacy of the late Crocodile Hunter. Credit: Instagram

The Steve Irwin Gala is a celebration of the life and legacy of the original wildlife warrior himself.

Held annually in Brisbane and Las Vegas, the event honour Steve’s larger-than-life personality, his boundless enthusiasm and his extraordinary passion for wildlife.