Late naturalist STEVE IRWIN has been hailed as a "hero" by his eight-year-old daughter at a moving memorial service at Australia Zoo today (20SEP06).
More than 50,000 fans packed out Irwin's Crocoseum at the Queensland animal park to pay their last respects to the CROCODILE HUNTER star, who was killed by a stingray earlier this month (04SEP06).
The one-hour ceremony, which was broadcast live across the globe, saw daughter BINDI joined by a host of celebrities, politicians and family members who also delivered emotional eulogies.
Bindi said, "My daddy was my hero - he was always there for me when I needed him.
"He listened to me and taught me so many things, but most of all he was fun.
"I know that Daddy had an important job. He was working to change the world so everyone would love wildlife like he did." Hollywood stars RUSSELL CROWE, CAMERON DIAZ, JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE and KEVIN COSTNER also paid tribute to Irwin via video messages.
Crowe said, "I know as humble as you always were, you would still be pleased to know that the world sends its love and people all over the planet have been grieving." Australian folk singer JOHN WILLIAMSON led mourners and a khaki-clad choir in a rousing rendition of Irwin's favorite songs, including Australian hit TRUE BLUE.
As a final tribute, Australia Zoo employees spelled out Irwin's catchphrase "Crikey" in yellow flowers as his truck was driven from the Crocoseum for the last time.