Superstar Paul McCartney is set to perform in Australia in early 2002.
McCartney announced his plans for a global jaunt yesterday, making it his first real outing since 1993's Off The Ground world tour, which started in Melbourne.
Sources from McCartney's US record company said the pop star will make it Down Under either later this year or early 2002.
The revelation comes cautious optimism that Australia is back in the good books in terms of attracting international acts to tour.
McCartney releases his new studio album in September.
"I think it is very likely that I might tour around then," he said.
"I like to go out on the road with a new album, and I'm very excited by this one."
McCartney's tour would reportedly comprise impromptu shows in smaller venues and stadium dates.
Promoter Paul Dainty, who organised McCartney's 1993 tour, could not be reached for comment yesterday.