Fans mark Steve Irwin death date

Fans have marked a year since Steve Irwin's death at his family's zoo in Australia.

The celebrity "crocodile hunter" and conservationist died on September 4 when a stingray pierced his heart with its barb.

On Tuesday hundreds of fans gathered at Australia Zoo, Queensland, and laid wreaths, plants and signs in tribute.

The zoo held no official events and his wife Terri has named November 15 as an official commemorative day for Steve. She has called on people to wear Steve's trademark khaki-coloured shirts on the day.

She spent the anniversary in private in the US with their daughter Bindi, nine, and three-year-old son Bob.

Peter Beattie, Queensland Premier, took the anniversary to renew his tribute to the star. Speaking in the state's parliament he said: "The spirit of Steve Irwin lives on in many ways.

"I again pay tribute to his energy, joy and commitment to conservation and wildlife, and acknowledge all those who continue his work today."