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There was worldwide shock today over the death of Australian naturalist and wildlife filmmaker Steve Irwin.

The man known as the 'Crocodile Hunter' died after his chest was punctured by a stingray barb while diving off Australia's northeast coast.

Leading the tributes from around the world was Australian Prime Minister John Howard, who said he was shocked and distressed at the death.

"Australia has lost a wonderful and colourful son. He was a wonderful character. He was a passionate environmentalist. He brought joy and entertainment and excitement to millions of people, particularly to children, and it's such a terrible loss," said the Prime Minister.

The 44-year-old colourful personality was filming a documentary about the Great Barrier Reef when tragedy struck.

According to friend and colleague John Stainton Irwin swam too close to the ray while he was diving off his boat Croc One near Batt Reef, northeast of Port Douglas.

"He came on top of the stingray and the stingray's barb went up and into his chest and put a hole into his heart," Mr Stainton, who was on board Irwin's boat at the time, told news media.

Mr Irwin won a global television following for his dare-devil antics which saw him go face-to-face with deadly creatures such as crocodiles and poisonous snakes on camera.

He was known for uttering the word "Crikey" when confronted with a particularly deadly animal.

His showmanship and fearless approach help bring wildlife to a younger audience.

But he also triggered outrage and criticism in 2004 when he held up his then one-month-old baby while feeding a snapping crocodile at his Australian zoo.

He is survived by his American wife Terri, their daughter Bindi Sue, eight, and two-year-old son Bob.

- September , 2006