Reef Beats Opens Its Musical Doors!

Recently opened Reef Beats is set to make its musical mark in Airlie Beach. Bringing a unique vibe to the Whitsunday Shopping Centre, owner Steve Payne says he is excited to be back.

After leaving Perth in 2001, Steve moved to Airlie Beach and set up a record shop, after stumbling across the place on a tour up the east coast of Australia back when he was a youngster. Steve retold his time in Airlie Beach over 16 years and emphasised how the town was “Rockin’24/7.” Due to Cyclone Debbie, however, Steve was devastatingly forced to shut his beloved record store and decided to head to South Australia.

Steve returned to Airlie Beach in July this year and with him came the idea for Reef Beats, a record store with a huge range of over 5000 vinyl records, CDs, DVDs, T-shirts, guitars, drums accessories, strings and collectables. At his opening, Steve emphasised that it was great to see all his old friends, and the word had got around that he was back in town.

Reef Beats has a deep catalogue of mainly retro items, although he added that he does not neglect the newer music likeTaylor Swift when stocking his store. His best sellers are old-school vinyl’s which make around 40% of the turnover. You can also get your hands on some custom orders at Reef Beats, and Steve is always open to hear any requests you may have.

Steve mentioned that his time at Whitsunday Plaza has been fantastic, especially in terms of relaxation. He values the area's great vibe and praised the excellent management. He also highlighted the beautiful location and appreciated the added benefit of easy parking.

Steve encourages all to come in and take a look at his diverse range of stock and enjoy the vibe of a retro music store whilst being greeted with a smile. He ensures that you will “walk out with a smile and feeling great.”

Back in the day, Steve would compete with bigger stores who were stocking vinyls, now he is a unique force in the Whitsundays, but has maintained the same charm.

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Looking for a rare vinyl? Steve’s speciality is custom orders for his clients.