By Patrick Avenell

Apple has refused to confirm that 19 June is the opening date for their new Sydney store. Some are convinced, though, with fans already making travel plans.

The Sydney Morning Herald is reporting 19 June 2008 as the official opening date of Apple’s first Southern Hemisphere store. A cerulean blue banner is now stretched over the three storey high building at the corner of George and King Streets – it reads: “Drop in soon. Apple Store, Sydney” (sic).

The Herald also quotes well known Apple blogger Garry Allen, who has observed that in the US, the banner has generally indicated that the store will open within the next 30 days. Allen is reportedly flying to Australia for the opening, which he believes will be at 6pm, and expects a large crowd of Sydneysiders to turn out for the event.

Apple Australia’s PR manager Fiona Martin refused to confirm this date. “No date has been announced, this is purely a rumour,” said Martin.

When asked if Apple would announce the date in time for hardcore fans to arrange travel plans to the event, Martin refused to speculate, saying, “when an announcement is made, you’ll know.”