‘Keep it going’: Local retro store up for grabs

This unique retro store, hidden off the Esplanade, is up for sale and the owner’s hoping it goes into the hands of someone who will keep it running.

This unique retro store, hidden off the Esplanade, is up for sale and the owner’s hoping it goes into the hands of someone who will keep it running. Picture: Isabella Magee

The retro store on Queens Road, just up the road from the Beach House Hotel corner, is filled with nostalgic classics.

Now, it could be yours.

Cool Rock’n Records, at 8b Queens Road in Scarness, is up for sale.

But, owner Ken Jarratt, has a particular sort of person he’d like to take over the shop space.

It’s almost like walking back through time! Picture: Isabella Magee

“I would like to see it handed over to someone else and keep it going,” Ken told the Chronicle.

“It’s a unique thing, there is a lot of people who are interested in this stuff and it’s the only store in Hervey Bay like it.

“I’d like to sell the business to someone who will keep it running.”

The store stemmed from a pop-up shop, an initiative to sell some collectables Ken had. Picture: Isabella Magee

After opening a pop-up store in December 2017, to be rid of a few too many collectables Ken had personally stored up, Cool Rock’n Records was formed.

“I didn't expect it to keep going on, if anything, I was just expecting to sell all my stuff but it’s really grown,” Ken said.

Focusing on retro-vinyls – “older stuff” than reissued vinyls – the hidden flashback also carries CDs, DVDs, boardgames and other hard to find collectables.

Picture: Isabella Magee

However, with Ken needing a quick-sale, he’s losing hope the business will carry on without him.

“It’s already been up for about a month, I don’t want to have to just sell it to anyone,” he said.

“The sale of the business will include all my stock, fit out, signage, stationery and business name, too.”

If you’re interested in Cool Rock’n Records, contact Ken on 0404 461 261.