Aussie 'Idol' star Harding heads for Iraq

Australian Idol star Lee Harding is to entertain the Aussie troops in Iraq.

The singer is en route to the war-torn country with his band Bedrock, comedian Clint Paddison and country music singers Nicki Gillis and Stacey Morris for a two-week tour.

"It's one of those opportunities you wouldn't get in normal life and I am so, so thankful I get to do it," the 23-year-old told the AAP. "I have never been overseas and my first time is to do this. It's very exciting."