A heritage-listed Maroubra property built in the mid-1930s for Greek Australian milk bar pioneer Mick Adams (Joachim Tavarlidis) has hit the market for the first time since its construction.
According to realestate.com.au, the two-level residence at 3/730 Anzac Parade – known as Bettina and recognisable by its clock tower and Italianate terrazzo design – was originally commissioned for Adams, who founded the world’s first milk bar, the Black & White 4d, in Martin Place in 1932.
Historians note the venue drew about 27,000 customers a week in its first year and sparked a global milk bar boom.
The Maroubra property, which carries a $1.8 million price guide, is being sold by Adams’ grandchildren, Michael Gerondis and his sister. Gerondis said the home was gifted to his mother as a wedding present and remained in family hands until her passing last year.
After acquiring it from other family members, they undertook a major renovation to preserve its strong heritage character.
Once home to various local businesses, the building was restored and converted into three terraces, during which original features were unearthed — including untouched 1937 newspaper and lino beneath a kitchen carpet, revealing pristine floorboards “never walked on.”
The renovation reinstated the long-silent clock, restored terrazzo staircases, upgraded services, and replaced the asbestos roof with colour-matched Colorbond, while keeping most of the original fabric intact.
Gerondis praised the structure’s durability, calling it “practically bombproof,” with vast warehouse-style spaces that once even served as a “man cave” complete with a pinball machine and basketball court.
Source: Realestate.com.au.
