The late Steve Irwin, donned by many as the epitome of the ‘Aussie bloke’, will be emblazoned in our hearts, and now potentially in our pockets, forever.
Last week, just days after the 10th anniversary of the Crocodile Hunter’s death, a fan of Irwin’s started a petition to have his face replace appear on future Australian banknotes. At the time of writing, the petition has received over 5,500 signatures, and is gaining more every hour.
“It’s about time we paid our respects to the all time greatest Australian bloke, Steve Irwin,” says the petition’s creator Kyle Ryan.
“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).”
And it’s not just the die-hard Irwin fans that are getting involved. As 7 News reports, The Chief Executive of the Royal Australian Mint, Mr Ross MacDiarmid, says, “The Royal Australian Mint has acknowledged the integral role that Mr Irwin played in wildlife conservation as well as his positive influence on Australian culture by producing a special release commemorative collectible coin in 2009.
“Should there be another proposal for a dedicated coin, the public are invited to submit a written proposal.”
And the support for the Crocodile Hunter has also previously extended to Melbourne artist Aaron Tyler, who last year mocked up some banknote designs called ‘Straya-Cash’, in which Steve Irwin was featured on one of the notes. Catch those creations in the video below.
