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Jim’s Dairy Delites: Newcastle’s Historic Milk Bar SOLD and Undergoing Restoration

today4 October 2024

Background


Newcastle’s much-loved Milk Bar, Jim’s Dairy Delites is currently closed for major renovations. The milk bar, which dates back to 1957, has long been a cornerstone of the Hamilton community, known for its classic Australian milk bar charm, including its famous Blue Heaven milkshakes.

Locals have confirmed that the shop, located on the corner of Tudor and Webster Streets, was recently sold and is undergoing renovations under new ownership​. The store’s closure last week included the giveaway of its remaining milk and ice cream stock, further signalling that big changes are on the way.

Jim’s Dairy Delites has an extensive history that resonates deeply with the Newcastle community. In its heyday, it was known for its wide selection of ice creams, milkshakes, and sandwiches, offering over 80 different sandwich fillings in the 1960s.

Its most famous creation, the Blue Heaven milkshake, had a secret recipe that involved cola syrup, blue colouring, and a third, undisclosed ingredient. Mervyn Roberts, who took over the business in the early 1960s, safeguarded the recipe closely, contributing to the milkshake’s legendary status​.

David French, a former employee, recalled his time working for Robert Jamieson before the business was sold. He hoped the milk bar retains original recipes, including the famous chocolate syrup, which was made in large batches using traditional methods.

Stay tuned for updates on the progress and the much-anticipated reopening of this historic Newcastle milk bar!

Check this article again later, we’ll try to contact the new owners and post updates here.

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Mervyn Roberts and daughter Annette Roberts, 2014
Previous Owner Mervyn Roberts and daughter Annette Roberts, 2014

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Last Renovation

For more history behind Jims, visit Hidden Hamilton – Jims Dairy Delite

Written by: Newy Staff


Newy 87.8 FM is an FM radio station established in 2014 targeting Classic Hits music enthusiasts across Newcastle and The Central Coast, Australia. The station plays 60s 70s and 80s music. The station can be streamed online via this website or smart phone apps such as Tunein. In 2024 we opened a local newsroom dedicated to publishing Newcastle News.

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