We sniffed out seven indie record stores on the Sunny Coast for World Record Day on April 20. Whether you’re an expert crate digger or just wanting a trip down memory lane, these stores are sure to have your next fresh spin.
Wax Espresso, Maroochydore
Serving up the best crop of vinyl to grommets, big kahunas, and anyone seeking a delicious brew with their disco wheel, this beachside record store fills with washed-up surfers, slick skaters, and beatnik musos and artists. Owner Mark (pictured with Phil Jamieson of Grinspoon), and his award-winning barista wife Cara, have an emphasis on inclusivity, offering a nurturing and supportive community hub where everyone is welcome. Mark is also an organiser of epic local record fairs. Be sure to check out their new and vintage records, with specialty coffee and tasty treats, including vegan and gluten-free.
BackBeat Records, Nambour
BackBeat believes in the power of music. This record haven is an institution and has been selling retro records, T-shirts, DVDs, cassette tapes, CDs, and books, to culture-seeking locals for almost 30 years. They value the feeling of picking out a record and taking the time to appreciate every song. Turning a passion for music into a business, these guys are specialists in the game. If you share a passion for the industry, pop in to see their extensive record collection and chat with the helpful staff.
Bad Habit Records, Nambour
Run by mates with a bad habit of collecting, Phil and Aaron are huge supporters of the Sunny Coast alternative music scene. With an epic online store, they offer music, merch, collectables, vintage toys, skateboards, and of course big fat juicy vinyl. Only new to the brick-and-mortar scene, this weekend Bad Habit celebrates their first birthday with loads happening at various Nambour hangouts.
Red Door Records, Caloundra
Another great record store keeping old-skewl music alive, Red Door carries mostly original pressings and some new releases. They also buy and sell, promising to pay a fair price for your precious collection. With a huge selection, time will melt away here so be sure to patch a stop watch. And they only take cash, so don’t forget a padded wallet too, you’ll need it.
Groovy Records, Maleny
This groovy record store goes well beyond the vinyl, with old-school CDs, vintage posters, players, cassettes, and more. Whether it’s a genuine 1980s Jane Fonda workout record or a rare Blondie clear records, this wicked record store in the hinterland promises to deliver music how it’s meant to be listened to.
Maleny Country Antiques & Collectables, Maleny
If you’re road tripping the Sunshine Coast hinterland, be sure to stop in here for a trip to yesteryear. This gorgeous old shack is filled to the brim with antiques, including vintage vinyl. John is a serious record collector who brings a surprisingly impressive collection to his antique centre. You might end up with a special new tea cup to complement your new wheels of the ye olde music kind.
The Local, Peregian Beach
This free-spirited concept store stocks an eclectic mix of apparel, homewares, and new vinyl. With a sister store in Byron Bay, The Local offers a chillout space to listen to vinyl, check out new skating goods, buy gifts for your faves, or treat yourself to some funky new threads. These dudes are passionate about supporting Australian-owned brands and ethically made products that inspire a feeling of play, warmth, and affection for the good old days, through retro-inspired wares and sound waves.
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