In Tribute....

It was with tears in my eyes that I read John Stainton's tribute to Steve Irwin in today's paper. To those who are not aware, Stainton was Irwin's mate and manager. They were close friends for over 15 years.

Wednesday looms. It is going to be a sad day...but mingled with the sorrow will be a celebration of a life not wasted. Steve Irwin fitted into each moment of his life more than most of us do in a lifetime.

I know when John Williamson sings "True Blue", I won't be able to stop my tears from flowing. That song has always been a favourite of mine. It epitomises Aussie mateship and our ways, which, to some may appear weird. I hope we never lose 'the Aussie way/spirit".

I remember when I first bought the cassette way back in the late eighties, I was living at Yorkey's Knob, in the northern beaches area of Cairns. It was shortly after I left Hinchinbrook Island. My now late brother was visiting me. The night of the day I'd purchased the cassette we curled up on the floor of my unit each resting on large over-sized cushions (I still have them) sharing a few drinks together. The more drinks we shared the more I kept playing "True Blue". I can still hear my brother 'going off' at me (good-naturedly, for a change!) for playing it over and over!

Steve Irwin certainly has left his imprint on us all.