For the past 21 years Bindi Irwin, followed by younger brother Robert, has grown up in the spotlight, watched eagerly by Australians as she reached each of life’s milestones – and now the young conservationist has shared another special moment with fans, revealing she is engaged to boyfriend Chandler Powell.
The daughter of Steve and Terri Irwin shared the exciting news on social media on Wednesday evening, revealing her boyfriend of six years had gotten down on one knee as she marked her 21st birthday among family and friends at Australia Zoo.
“On my birthday I said ‘yes’ and ‘forever’ to the love of my life,” she wrote on Instagram, alongside a stunning series of photos from the proposal.
She continued: “Chandler, close to 6 years ago I fell in love with you and every day since has been a whirlwind of adventure and true happiness.
“I’m so looking forwarding to spending our forever together as your wife. Here’s to a lifetime of friendship, purpose and unconditional love. — Now let’s get married already!”
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Chandler, 22, who is originally from Florida, USA, got down on one knee at Australia Zoo where the young couple met and work.
Following the proposal, Bindi shared several photographs from the “whirlwind” day on social media, showing off her stunning diamond ring in one close-up shot which features a large oval stone set on a dazzling diamond band.
In another image the delighted couple can be seen embracing as Bindi smiles widely at the camera, with her leg popped in the air as Chandler nuzzles his face into her neck.
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Bindi’s brother Robert also shared a sweet tribute to the happy couple, writing: “I am beyond happy for you two. You are true soulmates and have always been so completely perfect for each other. Love you both and congratulations.”
To which his sister replied: “Love you!! Thank you for sharing this day with us.”
And the Australia Zoo team also shared an emotional tribute to the couple, revealing they met at the zoo when Bindi was holding one of the echidnas.
“Today, their love has bloomed & they are an extraordinary Wildlife Warriors team,” the comment said. “Chandler proposed on Bindi’s birthday right here at #AustraliaZoo. This is such a wonderful time for our entire zoo family.”
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Fans also flooded the newly engaged couple with messages, with many telling the young bride-to-be how delighted her late father would be with the news.
One person wrote: “I know your Dad is smiling down on you with happy tears in his eyes. Congratulations.” Another said: “Congrats. If Steve were here right now, he’d be so proud.”
While a third commented: “Congratulations! I’m soooo happy and I know that your Dad is up above celebrating with his enthusiasm that the whole world knows.”
Another wrote: “Congratulations!! Life is wonderful when you find your soul mate!! Wishing you many years of happiness!! You two make a beautiful couple!!”