Wildlife conservationist Robert Irwin, son of the late “Crocodile Hunter” Steve Irwin, has publicly apologized after unintentionally leaving a restaurant in Coffs Harbour without paying for his meal.
The 21-year-old shared the embarrassing moment in a lighthearted Instagram video, telling his 7.6 million followers about the incident that took place during his road trip along Australia’s East Coast.
“Hi guys, Robert here. So I have a funny story,” he began. “I stopped in at Coffs Harbour, a beautiful coastal town in northern NSW, for some dinner at this awesome place called the Jetty Pavilion.”
According to Robert, he placed an order for a salad, but was quickly surrounded by fans asking for photos. After posing for selfies and chatting with them, he picked up his food and left—completely forgetting to pay.
“They got the salad out super quick, and I made sure to say hi to absolutely everyone,” he said. “But the next morning, I woke up and thought—‘Wait, I never paid for my salad.’ I just did a full-on dine and dash without even realising it. I felt awful.”
Irwin said he immediately contacted the restaurant to make things right. However, the staff graciously declined his offer to pay and instead asked him to leave a kind review online.
“So I want to make it right and support this amazing local business. If you’re in Coffs Harbour, definitely check them out,” he urged. “Today is not the day I begin my life of crime. As much as the tabloids would love that, it’s not happening!”
The Jetty Pavilion later responded with appreciation on their own social media, thanking Irwin for visiting and sharing a laugh over the harmless mistake.
Robert, who has followed in his father’s footsteps alongside his sister Bindi as a zookeeper and conservationist, continues to be a beloved public figure in Australia and abroad. His candid apology only added to his reputation for humility and good humor.
Steve Irwin passed away in 2006 after a stingray attack. Robert was just two years old at the time.
