Call for Steve Irwin to appear on Australian currency

Call for Steve Irwin to appear on Australian currency
Call for Steve Irwin to appear on Australian currency




He's a national hero in Australia - and now thousands of people are calling for Steve Irwin to feature on the country's currency.

A man named Kyle Ryan started a petition to put the late conservationist on Australian money, and it's already garnered over 20,000 votes.

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On 4 September, it was 10 years since Steve was killed by a stingray while filming a wildlife documentary in Queensland called Ocean's Deadliest.

Speaking to the BBC, Kyle said: "We started this petition because the newer generation barely knows who is representing our currency.

"We believed that having a childhood icon and conservationist like Steve would be a great idea for his 10th anniversary."


Call for Steve Irwin to appear on Australian currency
Call for Steve Irwin to appear on Australian currency



The petition, launched on change.org, reads: "It's about time we payed our respects to the all time greatest Australian bloke, Steve Irwin. Let's make a change for something in the history of our country.

"It's been ten years without the Aussie icon and although he's been recognised in many ways I'd imagine we could all support the idea of going one step further (well deserved).

"With a list a mile long of all the good Steve had accomplished in our world let's show our appreciation to a great true blue Australian by putting Stephen 'Steve' Irwin on our country's currency.

"Only everyone's support can make this happen!"

Back in 2009, the Royal Australian Mint did honour Steve for "the integral role that [he] played in wildlife conservation as well as his positive influence on Australian culture" by producing a special release commemorative collectible coin featuring his image.

According to the Telegraph, Royal Australian Mint chief executive Ross MacDiarmid said: "This petition has further highlighted the passion throughout a sub-section of the Australian community to recognise Mr Irwin and we invite those who are leading the cause to familiarise themselves with our coin theme policy (as published on our website) and submit a written proposal to us directly for consideration."







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