Hi Everyone Heres a article from the Australia Zoo website about the Queensland Tourism Awards 2006 Sorry if a similar article has already been posted.

November 2006

Tourism industry honours our Steve
Sunshine Coast Daily

By Damian Bathersby

RECOGNITION of Steve Irwin’s contribution to the tourism industry provided an emotional highlight of the 2006 Queensland Tourism Awards last night.

But tourism minister Margaret Keech revealed the award, which she presented to Steve’s widow Terri, was planned well before his tragic death in September.

Sunshine Coast operators again fared well at the awards but it was Steve’s posthumous award for Outstanding Contribution to Tourism which proved most emotional for the 1200 tourist industry leaders who were treated to an audio-visual tribute to his work.

“We decided many months ago to recognise Steve with this special award to express the gratitude of the Queensland tourism industry for his tremendous support, enthusiasm and success in attracting visitors from around the world to visit our state,” Ms Keech said.

“We have invited Terri to accept the ward on his behalf and we hope that she, the Irwin family and all the staff at Australia Zoo will share our pride in paying this special tribute.”

Terri last night received a standing ovation but broke down during her speech.

“I can assure you Steve’s work will be carried on with more determination than ever by the Irwin family and all at Australia Zoo…,” she said