THE youngest Aussie band to turn 10 years old, in 2011 The Cat Empire, celebrate the 10th anniversary of their first show together.

In an industry where few bands survive beyond the first album, if that, 10 years is a big achievement.

Considering they are still all under the age of 30, and have consolidated themselves as a world class touring act, it’s outstanding.

To celebrate, the band is undertaking a world tour, and Europe is the next stop.

“We feel incredibly grateful to the fans who supported in the early days, and have continued to support as our career gained momentum. It’s important to get to all of them this year to celebrate. Europe – you’re next.”

The first Australian tours were undertaken in a convoy of cars handed down from parents, or borrowed from friends, sleeping on the floors of friends of friends, and putting up their own posters at each stop.

Word quickly spread about this young band and by the time they signed their first record deal they were packing out concert halls.

It wasn’t long until the rest of the world heard about The Empire, and an international army of supporters formed. The band members credit their Australian fans and international backpackers in Australia for marketing them overseas.

The band has now sold more than a million albums and DVDs.

The Empire appear at the 02 Academy, Bournemouth on Tuesday October 18; tickets on sale now.