Midnight Oil To Re-Unite? 'Watch This Space' Says Garrett

A little more fuel has been added to the fire that is the increasingly constant rumours of a Midnight Oil reformation in the near future this morning.

In an interview with the ABC's ABC News Breakfast program this morning, Peter Garrett – who was appearing on the program in his capacity as School Education Minister – fielded a question about the possibility of the Midnight Oil frontman getting back on stage.

The program's Michael Rowland spoke with Mr Garrett about a recent survey that raised great concern about the effectiveness of our country's National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) program, but seemingly couldn't resist a quick music related aside towards the interview's conclusion.

“We've been covering the big entertainment on News Breakfast this morning, and that is the Rolling Stones - as we go to air - back on stage to mark their fiftieth anniversary. Does this show there's life yet for old rockers?” Rowland asked.

“Well, you've got to hand it to them. I mean when it comes to longevity, I guess, there's something happening there, and they, obviously, still enjoy playing together. I mean I find it a little staggering, even though, of course, I've been up on stage only a couple of years ago. And I'm not that much younger than Mick. But anyway, good luck to them.

Rowland pressed the issue a little more, eliciting a cryptic response from Mr Garrett that is bound to have Oils fans all across the world holding out a little more hope.

“You've got ten years on Mick. There's life yet, Peter Garrett, for the old band,” he said.

“Well, who knows? Watch this space,” Garrett responded.

Whether it was just a throw-away comment or an indication that a reunion is on the cards remains to be seen.

There has been a renewed interest in the legendary Aussie rockers in the past few weeks with the release of a new compilation called Essential Oils and the 30th anniversary of their much-adored 1982 LP 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1.

Speaking with The Australian this month, drummer Rob Hirst admitted he would welcome a reunion of the band and feels as if it's more than a slight possibility.

"I have a sneaking feeling we might do it one day," he said. "I hope it doesn't take another natural disaster for it to happen.

"It would be nice if it were under less traumatic circumstances. I think we're all still match fit and musically curious."

Read our recent chat with Hirst here.