Robert Irwin talks wildlife, the ocean, and his dad, Steve Irwin

Robert Irwin has opened up about what matters most to him and how he feels about following in his dad, Steve Irwin’s, footsteps. Watch the video.

He’s the spitting image of his father, and if this newly released video is anything to go by, Robert Irwin is firmly following in the footsteps of the late, great, Steve Irwin.

The young Irwin, who speaks with the same inflections and enthusiasm as his much-loved dad, describes his passion for wildlife and the ocean, as well as his love of photography.

Ahead of the release of the video as part of a partnership with Hard Yakka, the 18-year-old took part in an exclusive Q&A, sharing what drives him, the importance of carrying on his father’s legacy and his love of khakis.

Robert Irwin is the spitting image of his dad, Steve Irwin. Picture: Supplied

DESCRIBE THE PLACE YOU FEEL MOST AT HOME

I’ve always been about the ocean from a really, really young age. It has always been my dad who had that strong connection to the sea. So now I feel very lucky I get to follow in those footsteps. I still use some of his old surf boards. I get out there every morning into the water. I am definitely most at home when I’m next to the ocean.

WHAT IS MOST IMPORTANT TO ROBERT IRWIN

For me, wildlife is the biggest part of my life. Living in a zoo I have always had such a strong connection to wildlife. It’s my passion, not just what I do, it’s who I am. So, it becomes all about giving everything hundred per cent. Having that passion and enthusiasm for what you do is so important.

BUT YOUR INSTAGRAM IS ALL ABOUT PHOTOGRAPHY

Photography is something is so much more than just documenting an image simply to remember a moment. I have found it to be my own individual way to push a conservation message and continue a mission that my dad originally started. I feel so lucky I get to be around animals every day, do what I love to do, and feel that great connection to legacy. Imagery is a powerful way to share this. So, crocodiles – You guys make it look so easy!

Anyone who says, going in and feeding a crocodile is a ‘walk in the park’ is definitely kidding themselves. They are a true apex predator. So, I feel a great responsibility – just as dad did – to show the awe-inspiring side to these misunderstood animals.

Robert Irwin is passionate about the ocean, just like his dad. Picture: Supplied

DON’T YOU EVER GET SCARED?

It’s okay if it’s a little scary, it’s how you respond to that fear. You gotta have the right people around you, and you’ve got to be willing to put in the hard yards every single day. It’s Hard Yakka, and you’ve got to put in the hard work if you wanna get back what you want to achieve in this life.

SO, WHAT’S WITH ALL THE HARD YAKKA?

I’ve been wearing Hard Yakka for as long as I can remember. No matter what the adventure is, it’s had my back. Quite literally. I’ve been dressed up for magazine photo shoots before, but this is what I’m truly comfortable in day-to-day. And this partnership is helping to fund important conservation efforts at Australia Zoo. So, I’ll be in my khakis, doing the hard yakka with even more resources to support our wonderful animals.

Originally published as Robert Irwin talks wildlife, the ocean, and his dad, Steve Irwin