The definitive visual reference to Australian Beatles records, labels, pressings and manufacturing history.
1584
LABEL IMAGES
791
UNIQUE LABEL PAIRS
EXPLORE THE ARCHIVE
LPs
1963–1970
LPs
1971–1990
EPs
Singles
Discography
ABOUT THE ARCHIVE
I Am The Platypus is the largest and most comprehensive online archive of Australian Beatles records, created for collectors, researchers and anyone interested in the story behind the records.

The archive primarily documents the period of Australian vinyl manufacture from 1963 to 1990, covering local releases, label and sleeve variations, and the people and processes behind their production. The accompanying discographies continue to 2000, covering the final decade of recognisably Australian releases before international distribution effectively replaced separate local issues.

Its research draws on original EMI (Australia) Acceptance Sheets, tape boxes, company documentation and ephemera, complemented by the recollections and knowledge of EMI and music-industry employees who were there. By bringing these sources together, the archive helps readers identify and understand their records while preserving the story of how Beatles recordings were manufactured, marketed and sold in Australia.
LATEST UPDATES

October 2026
New website launched!
A completely redesigned archive with revised and expanded content.

WHAT YOU'LL FIND

 

Focusing on Australian Beatles records from 1963 to 1990, the archive documents LPs, EPs and singles as well as other formats, with particular attention to:

 

  • Label variations
  • Matrix and mastering information
  • Pressing variations
  • Release dates and catalogue details
  • Packaging and artwork
  • The stories and history behind the releases
FROM SOMEONE WHO WAS THERE

I have now read through your Beatles Australia online pages. Congratulations on such an achievement—I even learnt a few things as well!

I thought your piece on the 8-track cartridge was excellent, and the details are as I remember them. There were a couple of very minor details that you could have added, but they really are of no major consequence. It’s great to have the information available for posterity.

Geoff Weule
Former Head of A&R, EMI (Australia)
JOIN THE COMMUNITY

Join our companion Facebook group, Australian Beatles Records, Cassettes, Cartridges and Reels.

Share your collection — whether rare or common — ask questions about Australian Beatles releases, contribute information, or provide feedback and suggestions for the archive.

Solo Beatles releases and questions are also very welcome.