Steve Irwin honoured with 'Queensland Great' posthumous award

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has presented Steve Irwin's widow and children with a Queensland Greats award for his contribution to the state.

File image of the late Steve Irwin with a nine-foot female alligator and his wife Terri. Source: AP

Steve Irwin has been honoured with a posthumous award for his contribution to wildlife conservation in Queensland.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk presented his children, Bindi and Robert, and widow Terri with a Queensland Greats award on Saturday night.

"It was a great loss to our state and country when Steve unexpectedly passed away in 2006, so it is only deserving Steve is recognised for his exceptional impact on Queensland," Ms Palaszczuk said.

Irwin grew up on his parents' wildlife park at Beerwah, taking over the site in 1992 alongside his wife and rebranding it Australia Zoo.

The zoo was now was one of the state's most iconic tourist destinations, Ms Palaszczuk said.

The "Crocodile Hunter" was recognised in a special posthumous category to celebrate the 15th anniversary of the awards.

So far, 75 people and 10 institutions have been honoured by the Queensland Greats initiative for making a significant contribution to the state.

Other 2015 recipients include Wotif.com co-founder Andrew Brice, artist Robert MacPherson and rural advocate Pat Fennell.