World number one Tiger Woods is being overshadowed by defending champion Rod Pampling in the early stages of the first round of the JB Were Australian Masters at Kingston Heath.

Pampling, the defending champion, is on top of the leaderboard at two-under after birdies on the 11th and 12th holes. Woods is one-under the card after a birdie on 12 while fellow playing partner, Aussie veteran Craig Parry, is even.

The 10th fairway, where Woods began his round today, was packed with spectators keen to get a glimpse of Tiger in his first Australian tournament appearance in more than 10 years.

Up to 8000 people are attempting to follow Woods' group this morning, with theage.com.au reporter Thomas Hunter saying most were lucky to see one Woods shot per hole before moving to the next hole.

"People have climbed into the low branches of trees to get a view of the 13th green," Hunter said.

Thousands of people are still pouring into Kingston Heath in a bid to see Woods in action.

Woods, Pampling and Parry all made par on the 13th hole.

Find live updates on our sister site, theage.com.au throughout the morning.