Terri Irwin and Tim Dormer's secret romance

Terri and Tim during their recent crocodile hunting mission in Cape York. Photo: Instagram

Her beau might be 20 years younger and wild at heart, but it seems Terri Irwin isn’t letting a hefty age difference get in the way of true love.

The 50-year-old and last year’s Big Brother winner Tim Dormer have spent a lot of time together lately – and romance is on the cards, say insiders.

It’s believed sparks first flew when Terri invited 30-year-old Tim on a three-day crocodile-hunting mission to Cape York in August.

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Since then, the pair have been in constant contact and have enjoyed several quiet dates alone, and also with Terri’s kids Bindi and Robert.

"They make each other laugh and love spending time together," says a source close to Tim.

"They have so much in common. Tim really admires her and is in awe of the work she does – and, frankly, he doesn’t mind an older lady!"

Their growing affection was on display recently at the Steve Irwin Gala Dinner, where they only had eyes for each other.

RELATED: Bindi Irwin: Wildlife Warrior all grown up

Guests noted that once the formalities were over, they were glued to one another’s side – and Tim was only too happy to wrap his arm tenderly around Terri’s waist as they posed for photos on the red carpet.

"They’re taking it slowly but they want to see how things develop," says the source.

"He’s already great friends with Bindi, he has just blended into the family – they’re even talking of spending time over Christmas together."

To read all about Terri & Tim's budding new relationship, pick up this week's New Idea, on sale now!

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