Celebrity Bindi Irwin's Emotional Tribute to Father Steve on 9th Anniversary of His Death The 17-year-old took to Instagram on Sunday By People Staff Published on September 7, 2015 11:00 PM Share Tweet Pin Email Photo: Justin Sullivan/Getty; Getty Bindi Irwin has paid a loving tribute to her late father, Australian wildlife expert Steve Irwin. Irwin’s father died in 2006 when she was just 8, after he was stung by a stingray while filming a documentary at Batt Reef. The 17-year-old – who is competing in this year’s Dancing with the Stars posted a throwback picture of her dad on Sunday [Father’s Day in Australia, Steve died just days before on Sept. 4]. “Thinking about home today,” she wrote. “Father’s Day is today in Australia and everyone is celebrating at Australia Zoo. It’s such a special time of year, I hope everyone who comes to the zoo today is able to enjoy it with our gorgeous animals. No matter where I am in the world, this day means such a lot to me. My heart forever lives @AustraliaZoo – just like Dad’s always did.” RELATED VIDEO: Bindi Irwin’s Emotional Tribute to Father Steve on 9th Anniversary of His Death Irwin will be taking to the dance floor with Derek Hough on Dancing with the Stars and the 30-year-old choreographer has already praised his celebrity partner.