Selling an American Dream: Australia's Greek Café

I remember Parry’s…it was the place to be

Hurstville Museum & Gallery would like to thank everyone who responded to a public call out for memories of Parry’s milk bars in the local area. We had an overwhelming response from the community, which demonstrates the significance of milk bars as part of people’s social and daily life.

A snapshot of the many great stories, and some of the photos and memorabilia we received, are on display in the Local Studies cabinet at Hurstville Library until 28 September 2014.

Here is a sneak peak of the display!

 

Ron Heffernan still remembers how Mr Parry would toss the milkshake in an arc from the metal container in one hand into the glass in his other hand without spilling a single drop. It was like a performance and people would love to watch him do it.

Customers enjoying a milk shake at Parry’s in Caringbah, Easter, 1970s.

The shop was initially set up by Jim Parry (Panaretos) in 1958. In 1968, the two brothers, Peter and Bill Cassimatis and their families, took over and ran the business for the next 35 years.

Images courtesy of the Cassimatis family.

Also, don’t forget to visit the exhibition at Hurstville Museum & Gallery:

Selling an American Dream: Australia’s Greek Café, a touring exhibition from the “In their own Image: Greek-Australians” National Project, Macquarie University, Sydney.

On display until 28 September 2014.

Join us and celebrate Greek culture with musical and dance performances on our Greek Culture Sunday

Date: Sunday 21 September 2014

Time: 2.00pm – 4.30pm

Cost: Free!

Bookings not essential, but desired: (02) 9330 6444 or www.trybooking.com/FCHA