Yesterday Steve Irwin was killed by a stingray off the coast of Queensland filming a documentary. He was swimming in shallow waters and startled the 'ray, which instinctively struck at him. The 'rays tail barb hit Irwin right in the heart, and he was pronounced dead at the end of a mad rush back to shore.

Only weeks ago he was asked what he wanted on his business card, he replied "Steve Irwin, Wildlife Warrior", which could now end up on his tombstone instead.

The poor bugger... I met him once at Australia Zoo, a bit over the top, but a bloody good bloke. What you see on the cameras is exactly how he was off film, passionate in everything he did.

My heart goes out to his family, especially his kids. At least they will always have plenty of video footage to remember him by, and any happy footage from the doco he was out filming will be especially dear to them.

Today Queensland's premier Peter Beattie offered the Irwin family a State funeral for Steve. Should they accept, I can only begin to imagine the size of the turn out. I know I'll be there if its anywhere in South East Queensland.

At least his death would have been quick and he did not have to suffer... one news article here in Aus likened the hit he took to being run through the heart with a bayonet. The initial shock would have knocked him unconcious instantly, letting him go painlessly in his sleep.

Heard Alex Lloyd - "Amazing" played on the radio in tribute to him last night... heartwrenching stuff. I actually started crying.

RIP Steve, you will be dearly missed.