Bob and Lyn Irwin founded the Queensland Reptile and Fauna Park. They were dedicated to caring for injured or orphaned wildlife, specializing in reptiles. It started as a small family-run operation with a focus on reptile conservation.

Over the years, Bob and Lyn worked tirelessly to expand and improve the park. They gradually added more animals and developed educational programs to promote wildlife conservation awareness. Bob's expertise in handling and caring for reptiles was essential to this development.

Steve Irwin became increasingly involved in the running of the park. His enthusiasm, charisma, and natural connection with animals quickly became an asset to the family business. He assisted his father with the day-to-day operations.

The park began to transition into what would become Australia Zoo, reflecting the family's growing ambitions for wildlife conservation and education. Steve's increasing prominence as a wildlife personality played a key role in this transformation.