A public memorial service was held Wednesday at the Australian Zoo in eastern Australia for the popular TV host and conservationist Crocodile Hunter Steven Irwin.

Forty-four-year-old Irwin died on September 4th when a stingray barb pierced his chest while he was filming a TV show on the Great Barrier Reef.

About 5,000 people, including Irwin's family members, Hollywood celebrities and friends, attended the service.

Australian Prime Minister John Howard was the first to speak.

"Steve Irwin touched the hearts of Australians and touched the hearts of millions around the world. He did that because he had that quality of being genuine, of being authentic, of being unconditional, of having a great zest for life."

Irwin's widow and their two children also sat on the stage.

Bindi Irwin, Steve's daughter, had this to say about her dad's legacy.

"I had the best Daddy in the whole world, and I will miss him every day. Whenever I see a crocodile, I will always think of him. And I know that Daddy made this zoo, so everyone could come and learn to love all the animals. Daddy made this place his whole life. Now it's our turn to help. Daddy, thank you."