Crikey and khaki... the catchphrase and clothing made famous by the man they called the Crocodile Hunter.

Steve Irwin was renowned for his love of wildlife. An all-action, adrenaline-fuelled, modern-day Paul Hogan who wrestled 9ft crocs and dodged the bite of venomous snakes - seemingly for fun. While most wildlife experts share their knowledge from behind the lens Steve got up close and personal. This trademark, thrill-seeking persona may have put his life in danger numerous times but his infectious personality and enthusiasm endeared him to millions.

Steve achieved worldwide fame from his documentary series, The Crocodile Hunter, which he co-hosted with wife Terri. The pair were also partners in ownership and operation of Australia Zoo - a wildlife sanctuary on the Sunshine Coast established by Steve's parents in the 70s.

Committed to the survival of all wildlife and their habitats he suffered bites from crocs, creepy crawlies and other critters during his career. In September 2006 he lost his life in the line of duty, after he was pierced in the chest by a stingray spine while filming at the Great Barrier Reef just off the coast of Port Douglas, Queensland.

An Australian icon and international celebrity, Steve was an inspiration to animal lovers all over the world and his untimely death sparked widespread mourning. Just over a year on fans are being encouraged to salute Steve Irwin and celebrate his life and achievements by, wait for it wearing khaki to work and organising backyard campouts.

November 15 has been designated Steve Irwin Day. Representing the many things Steve was passionate about - family, wildlife, conservation and fun - this annual celebration will attempt to raise money for Australia Zoo's Wildlife Warrior's fund, a charity set up by Steve and his wife to support the protection of injured, threatened or endangered wildlife.

It might be a little cold to be digging out the camping equipment this side of the equator but local wildlife enthusiasts can join in the international Khaki fundraising campaign at the Oceanarium next weekend, which is holding a special Steve Irwin event and collecting donations to support the Wildlife Warrior Fund. Activities on the 17 and 18 November include daily crocodile and stingray presentations and Liberty's, the Ringwood-based raptor and reptile centre, will also be slithering down to Pier Approach with a selection of snakes including one of the deadliest predators in the world, the python.

Oceanarium aquarist Sarah Flooks explains more behind the thinking for Steve Irwin weekend at the Oceanarium: "Steve Irwin is a massive inspiration for the team of aquarists here. We all regard him as a hero and believe it is important to celebrate his life and work, setting up Wildlife Warriors to encourage people to look after the wildlife around them.

"As an aquarium, the Oceanarium does look after some of the groups of creatures which Steve was passionate about, such as some reptiles, sharks and the sting rays which he was filming when he died. The commemorative weekend falls on Steve's birthday date, November 15, so this is a perfect weekend to remember him and all the great things he has done on behalf of the creatures he championed."

So why not don your khakis and dig out your cork hats and join in the celebration of an exceptional character and some amazing creatures? As Steve used to say: "Crocs rule!"

For more information visit steveirwinday.org or ocean arium.co.uk.