CROCODILE Hunter Steve Irwin died five years ago today and the loss of his star power and his millions is being felt at the zoo he helped found on the Sunshine Coast.


Takings at Australia Zoo plummeted since his death, with analysts estimating the zoo's annual profit from gate takings and merchandise have fallen to $3.5 million from income of about $70 million, which is poured back into the zoo and conservation.
Its wildlife hospital charity has been handed a three-year, $150,000 lifeline from the regional council.
Irwin's widow, Terri, attributes the slump to the economic climate and has sold properties, cut back on staff and postponed some expansion plans.

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