St Marys Sound Centre – a haven for music lovers for decades – has closed its doors.
The shop has been a beloved institution on Queen Street but owner Neil Palmer’s ill health has forced him to close.
Palmer bought St Marys Sound Centre on a whim several years ago from former owners Steve and Cherry but is now closing the well-loved shop down.
The store thrived in its prime as Australia’s premier country music store but when Palmer bought it, he brought a different vibe to the store including riding the resurgence of vinyl record sales.
In a sign in the window of the store Palmer shared a farewell to his customers.
“To all my loyal customers it’s with great regret and sadness that I will be closing down as of 31.08.24 due to health issues,” the sign said.
“I’ve had the best time here over the last eight years and met some great people.
“Thank you for everything. I will miss you all.”
Fans of the shop expressed their sadness on social media.
“It is sad to hear the news that it is closing. I have been a customer for many years and have always relied on knowing that what I am looking for can be found or ordered,” Colin Fitzpatrick said.
“Decades ago that was the only place I could get country music,” Michelle Heiler-Norton said.
“Always great service for myself. Another place closing sadly.”
The store now sits abandoned with all stock removed.
Emily Chate
Emily Chate joined The Western Weekender in 2024, and covers local news - primarily courts and politics. A graduate of the University of Wollongong, Emily has contributed to The Daily Telegraph and worked as a freelance journalist.