Good luck with the Alvey mate. Being a Queenslander, I grew up with one in my hand. I think I was born with it as an extension. Seriously, they are the greatest bit of fishing gear you can get your hands on.
Advantages and disadvantages----
1--Uncomplicated and industructable. In todays world where things are sold with complications as a plus, The Alvey rules. Not effected by salt, sand, rough handling, or lack of use. Easy to oil-grease, and easy to use.
2--Provided it is filled with the right Dia. of line, nothing will outcast an Alvey,---and Birdsnests---forget about it.
Go on line and see how to cast, and for tailor off the beach, you will be casting beyond the breakers where the big ones are.

3--Line control--Yue can feed the line through your fingers when you wisk to let a little out or pull a little in,WITHOUT ANY JERK ON THE LINE. Most important when bottom fishing.

4 --I still use the big snapper reels on stubbie boat rods in depths to 50 Fms. The drags are great, and if set right, the fish once hooked is a goner. Again when going over rock, reef , or undulating ground, the ability to let out or bring in a little line to keep the bait in the proximity to the bottom whilst still having control of the tension on the line---cannot be beaten.
5---Great with braid in deep water. No friction, except for the rod runners.
Disadvantages.
1---Heavy. Can be exhausting after a long day moving around on a boat, especially if you're working hard,
2--Will not retrieve as quickly as some high geared o/heads.
3-- Will not run out as quickly as some o/heads, but can be helped by spinning the reel. Again hard work. You can control the line as it reaches the bottom, so not missing bights.
Have a number of different reels in my boat, for different purposes and depthe of water, but the Alveys have caught more, and caused me less grief than any of them.
Tight lines,
John Cav.