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Robert Irwin is taking on a new “passion project” on the heels of his Dancing with the Stars victory.
The wildlife conservationist, 22, took to Instagram on Tuesday, Dec. 2, to announce that he’s “heading back home” to work with the Crocodile Hunter Lodge at the Australia Zoo, which opened in 2022.
“It has been quite the passion project that we’ve been working on,” he said as video and images of the lodge were shown. He added that the venue is “a way to really properly welcome everyone to our home.”
Expressing gratitude for the “incredible” support he’s received in the U.S., Irwin said it’s been “really cool to see” people now visiting the Australia Zoo.
“Honestly, we wanted to create something so that everybody could have a proper home away from home when you visit us,” he added.
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The luxurorious lodge is nestled in the Australian Zoo, where visitors can overlook the bushland and native wildlife. The lodge was developed to honor Steve’s legacy and love for animals.
Terri Irwin, 61, previously told PEOPLE that Steve Irwin had planned accommodations for guests to experience Australian wildlife in this intimate way.
Bindi Irwin Instagram
Along with rustic cabins, the lodge boasts lush gardens, the Warrior Restaurant, an outdoor dining area and an infinity pool, all amid a multi-species habitat. Each guest will receive unlimited entry to the Australian Zoo as well as free breakfast.
The lodge is eco-friendly, as recycled materials were used in its construction, continuing Steve’s mission of leading conservation efforts around the world.
“You’re fully immersing yourself, here at the lodge, with everything that the zoo is about,” Irwin said in his video on Tuesday. “Not only having a one-on-one experience with wildlife but also giving back to wildlife conservation. At the end of the day, that’s what we’re all about.”
“I hope that you all come and visit me at home sometime soon,” he concluded.
