Sweet sixteen! Terri Irwin marks Robert’s birthday with unseen photo of Steve

It has been more than 13 years since Steve Irwin passed away but his family often pay tribute to the late Crocodile Hunter, sharing photos and sweet memories of the iconic Aussie on social media.

Now, on the occasion of son Robert’s 16th birthday, Steve’s widow Terri Irwin has shared a sweet never-before-seen photograph of the wildlife fanatic with a young Robert on Twitter on Sunday.

Marking the momentous birthday, Terri praised her youngest child and said her late husband “would be so proud” of the teenager who has grown up to follow in his parents’ footsteps, working at Australia Zoo and forging a career of his own as a wildlife photographer.

“Happy 16th birthday, @RobertIrwin,” she wrote. “Your dad would be so proud of you. He has loved you since the moment you were born.”

Happy 16th birthday, @RobertIrwin. Your dad would be so proud of you. He has loved you since the moment you were born. pic.twitter.com/FhwnQRJtA7

— Terri Irwin (@TerriIrwin) November 30, 2019

The sweet photograph shared by Terri showed Steve cradling his newborn son and appeared to have been taken just days after Robert was born on December 1 2003, with a Christmas tree visible in the background.

Fans were quick to comment on the sentimental photo, with one person writing: “Ok Terri-this picture took me out-I’m smiling and crying at the same time. You are such a strong beautiful woman and are doing an incredible job with your family. Blessings for a happy and healthy holiday season!”

Another said: “He honours Steve in everything he does, he’s just incredible and I know Steve is so proud of him. Happy Birthday, Robert! You’re so strong, caring and talented. You never fail to inspire me. I hope you have the best day ever, you deserve it.”

While a third commented: “Don’t know why but seeing this photo just made me cry. Happy Birthday Robert. Your father lives in you and through all you do. What a legacy you are all treasuring and passing forward. Your family and the love you share with all of us is inspiring.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/B5gFBjjBeGK/

Robert’s sister Bindi, 21, also paid tribute to her brother on social media and shared a series of photographs on Instagram yesterday, alongside a heartfelt caption.

Bindi, who recently celebrated her 21st birthday and engagement to long-term boyfriend Chandler Powell , wrote: “Happy 16th Birthday to the cutest ducky I’ve ever known! Robert, one of the best parts of my life is getting to be your sister. Thank you for being such a wonderful light in my life. You’re amazing and I love you!”

One photograph shared by Bindi showed Robert as a toddler dressed in an adorable yellow duck costume, while another showed the blonde bub with his mum Terri who is holding a reptile up to the youngster’s face.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B5iHIKbhiY9/

Bindi added: “It’s incredible that Robert is sixteen now, time sure does fly.”

Steve tragically died in September 2006 when Robert was just two years old. The popular TV presenter and wildlife warrior passed away after his heart was pierced by a sting ray barb whilst filming for documentary Ocean’s Deadliest at Batt Reef near Port Douglas in Far North Queensland.