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Chandler training to be the next Steve

He was destined to follow in Steve Irwin’s footsteps when he first started dating Bindi two years ago.

Chandler Powell met The Crocodile Hunter’s 18-year-old daughter at Australia Zoo in 2014, and since, the pair have blossomed into incredible wildlife warriors.

Bindi's boyfriend Chandler set to be the next Steve Irwin. Photo: Instagram
Bindi's boyfriend Chandler set to be the next Steve Irwin. Photo: Instagram

And while Bindi has long been the face of Australia Zoo, according to New Idea, It seems we’re going to be seeing a lot more of Chandler.

“He is being trained to take over the conservation side of the park,” zoo employees were reportedly quoted as saying.

“He is being trained to take over the conservation side of the park.
“He is being trained to take over the conservation side of the park.

Bindi and mum Terri think the Florida-born 20-year-old is ''so much like Steve.”

“He’s enthusiastic and not afraid to get his hands dirty, just like Steve was,” one employee told the mag. “It's a miracle they've found each other.”

Bindi and Chandler have some big shoes to fill. Photo: Getty Images
Bindi and Chandler have some big shoes to fill. Photo: Getty Images

Chandler, a Global Ambassador for the Irwin family's Wildlife Warriors program, has embraced his new life with open arms and has done an incredible job of honouring Steve’s legacy.

“He's breathed new life into Australia Zoo. He loves the marsupials, but can't wait until he's experienced enough to handle the snakes and crocs by himself,” the source added.

The Australia Zoo Ambassador’s Instagram account is riddled with photos of him and Bindi beaming smiles in their khaki uniforms next to a range of wildlife animals.

From selfies with rescued kookaburras to him feeding giraffes, cuddles with Komodo Dragons and pythons to photos of him wrapped around giant crocs - Chandler no doubt has the skills and passion to become the next Steve.

“He’s enthusiastic and not afraid to get his hands dirty, just like Steve was.
“He’s enthusiastic and not afraid to get his hands dirty, just like Steve was.

Steve died in September 2006 while filming an ocean documentary, after the then 44-year-old conservationist was stung in the chest by a stingray barb.

NI reported in January that Chandler's wakeboard career had taken off and required him to be all over the world, which meant he and Bindi’s plans to move in together on the Sunshine Coast were “shattered.”

Bindi and Chandler have been dating for two years. Photo: Getty Images
Bindi and Chandler have been dating for two years. Photo: Getty Images

But new reports claim Chandler has moved into Bindi's compound at Australia Zoo.

“[It’s] their own private love nest,” another source told the mag. “Bindi loves taking him out to the croc ponds to teach him what her dad taught her.”

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While Bindi denied that the pair were getting engaged, telling Today Extra: “I'm very lucky. I have a wonderful boyfriend. We're just enjoying our time together. No wedding bells just yet. We’re having fun.”

We’re still hanging out for their animal-themed wedding at Australia Zoo.

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