Can you believe she's only nine?

Bindi Irwin celebrated her ninth birthday yesterday at Australia Zoo (go the sunny coast!) and joining her to celebrate were her "besties", Jess and Lisa Origliasso from The Veronicas. It was certainly a larger event than any regular girl's ninth birthday, with all children under 14 years of age given free entry to the zoo, and a free concert in the Crocasseum!

Funnily enough, Lisa's boyfriend, Dean Geyer also joined in on the action.

Being that it's still less than 12 months since her father's death, it would have been a sad time for little Bindi too. Critics have always questioned Bindi's life in the spotlight, and her quick return to the promotional trail following Steve's death. Now that her TV show is airing on the ABC, including scenes of her with Steve, they're at it again.

Do you think it's wrong that a nine year old conducts herself as an adult and takes on adult responsibilities with such ease? Has she really been able to have a normal childhood? We have to remember the Irwin's live on site at the zoo and that Bindi has always been home schooled by Terri. She's always been in the spotlight due to her famous father, and she has always wanted to be involved.

Steve was her idol, so it's natural she wants to continue his legacy. The sad thing is that now, a selection of the beaming Australia Zoo signs that line the highway from Brisbane to the coast, feature young Bindi in place of her dad. In fact, I believe the TV commercials now include a bubbly Bindi coaxing viewers to "come to my Australia Zoo!"

She may be different to other "normal" nine year old girls but do you think it's really doing any long term damage? She still loves tween mags like Total Girl and listens to normal tween music like The Veronicas. She's still got her wholesome pigtails and there's no signs of her turning into a wild party girl. I think comparisons with Bindi and other Hollywood child stars is a bit of stretch. If you've ever visited the zoo, you'll know how far removed it is from a "Hollywood" lifestyle.

I'd love to hear your comments!

Notes on Glossy Paper