Elton John shares rare photos of his sons in Australia - and they're growing up so fast!

Sir Elton John and David Furnish's two sons have remained largely out of the spotlight, with the singer asking for fans to respect his private life ... until now.

Taking to Instagram to farewell Australia after wrapping up his Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour, the proud dad gave fans a rare glimpse of Zachary, nine, and Elijah, seven, enjoying their time down under.

The collection of photos shows the young boys fishing, stroking a kangaroo, riding scooters, and enjoying surf lessons at Australia's Bondi Beach – each concentrating as they rode surfboards.

Alongside the photos, the 72-year-old performer thanked Australia saying: "Australia, you have stolen our family's heart. We've been residents here since the end of November and we are sad to say good-bye.

"We want to say huge thank-you to EVERYONE who has welcomed our family so warmly. From the waves at Bondi Beach to the breathtaking beauty of the Great Barrier Reef, our sons have learned so much about this beautiful country.

"It's been the trip of a lifetime and an experience we will treasure and never forget.

"The fans at every show have been AMAZING and the teams at all the local venues have been brilliant.

"Huge thanks to everyone at Bondi Nippers for teaching the boys about water safety and rescue. Even bigger thanks to the extraordinary team who helped run our home so smoothly."

The Oscar-winner went on: "Thanks also to the Australian press for respecting our family's privacy - which allowed our sons to freely explore Australia's treasures without distraction.

"Au revoir from the Furnish-John Family. We can’t wait to come back!"

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Elton and David, whom he legally married in 2014, have previously revealed that they would have loved another child but that the 'Rocketman' hitmaker thinks he's too old now.

Elton became a first-time dad at the age of 61 when Zachary was born via surrogate in December 2010.

Elijah was born to the same mother in January 2013.