Ten years ago today, Australian icon Steve ‘Crocodile Hunter’ Irwin was killed when a stingray barb pierced his chest.

On the anniversary of his death – which also happens to fall on Father’s Day this year – Bindi Irwin has paid tribute to her late father in an emotional Instagram post.

Image via Instagram.

"You'll be my hero for my entire existence," she wrote alongside an image of her father holding her into the air for the camera.

"I love you more than words can describe."

Bindi - who turned 18 in July - regularly posts throwback pictures of her father for her fans, sharing that he inspired her love of animals and wildlife conservation.

Many others have posted tributes to the Australian icon, with #SteveIrwin trending on Twitter Australia-wide.

RIP, 10 Years, of my childhood superhero. When he died, a piece of my heart broke. #SteveIrwin

— timey wimey mak (@doctordameron) September 4, 2016

@BindiIrwin @BobIrwinFund @BrandShambles Bindi your dad taught millions not to be afraid of the deadly, but to revere them #SteveIrwin????????????????????

— Sheldon Ang (@ang_sheldon) September 4, 2016