Authors of “Greek Cafes And Milk Bars of Australia” to speak at NSW Seniors Festival

·

Documentary photographer Effy Alexakis and writer Leonard Janiszewski will be hosting two talks titled “Greek Cafes & Milk Bars of Australia” at the NSW seniors festival in Sydney during February.

Alexakis and Janiszewski will be discussing their book “Greek Cafes & Milk Bars of Australia,” as well as answering questions and discussing Australia’s rich history of Greek cafes and milk bars.

Taking Readers Through Memory Lane

Alexakis and Janiszewski’s book was first published on 30 March 2016 and captures the rich history of Greek cafes and milk bars that were once scattered across the country, acting as a staple in peoples lives at the time.

The book combines Effy Alexakis stunning photography and ability to re-ignite the past with historic images from family albums, combined with Leonard Janiszewski’s ability to interview and tell the stories of the workers and owners of these memorable stores.

The national publication brings together over 30 years of research culled from travels within four continents, selected from over 1,800 interviews and innumerable contemporary and historical photographs. Hundreds of Australia’s Greek cafés and milk bars are referenced within the book’s 256 pages.

The publication is also a companion to the highly-popular and critically applauded touring exhibition Selling an American Dream: Australia’s Greek Café.

Below is a short description of the novel:

Nostalgic trip to the days when the Greek Cafe was the gathering place for every town and suburb. Effy Alexakis’s evocative photos are paired with marvellous images from family albums. The cafes and the people behind them, showing decor, milkshakes, sundaes and innovative sweets were combined in a unique and special Australian experience. The authors have travelled Australia, Greece, Egypt and the USA, tracking down cafes, milk bars and their forerunners overseas.

Event Details

WHAT: Author Talk – Greek Cafes and Milk Bars of Australia by Effy Alexakis and Leonard Janiszewski.

WHEN:

Thursday 13 February – Bankstown Library and Knowledge Centre

Friday 21 February – Campsie Library and Knowledge Centre

TIME: 10-11.30am

More information on the event can be found HERE

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Latest News

From Dark Athens to Dark Salonica: Arthur Antonopoulos explores the city beneath

Following Dark Athens, Antonopoulos’ latest work shifts north, into a city he describes as carrying a distinctly haunting energy.

From yiayia’s garden to Australian bookshelves: Anthony Savas and Elias Anargyros launch Australia’s first plantable children’s books

Two long-time friends are putting Adelaide on the map with a national first: plantable children’s books with characters that grow into real vegetables.

Greece ranks among top solo travel destinations for 2026

Solo travel is no longer a niche choice but a defining trend in global tourism, and Greece has earned a spot in the world’s top destinations.

New safety net for housing: A path to stability for vulnerable borrowers in Greece

A new mechanism is set to offer a lifeline to thousands of households who risk losing-or have already lost-their primary residence.

The beginning of the Triodion: A journey toward Lent

The Triodion marks the beginning of a significant spiritual and cultural period in the Orthodox Church, officially starting on February 1.

You May Also Like

Maria Sakkari rallies Greek diaspora support ahead of United Cup return

Maria Sakkari shared her enthusiasm for representing Greece in Australia at the United Cup and appealed directly to diaspora supporters.

Hellenic Museum Ladies’ Society to celebrate International Women’s Day

The Hellenic Museum Ladies' Society is celebrating International Women's Day this year with an event at the Museum on March 11 from 1 - 3pm.

US President marks Greece’s National Day at White House alongside Hollywood stars

US President Joe Biden hosted the traditional Greek Independence Day reception at the White House on Wednesday night.