Historical information

The milk shaker machine was used in milk bars during the 1940's and 1950's often using fresh milk from the local diaries. Modern machines are more compact with a variety of different settings and the ability to blend a variety of food including fruit and vegetables as well as liquids.

Significance

Vera Drummond worked in the Tawonga Milk Bar where she used the Milk Shaker machine. The premises were leased out until it finally closed. The Milk Shaker machine was then lent to the Tawonga cafe which was situated opposite the Tawonga Hotel on the Kiewa Valley Highway near Mountain Creek Road. When the cafe owner bought their own milk shaker machine the original was returned to Vera who lived at the Tawonga Post Office. The milk shakes were made with fresh real milk direct from the diary and enjoyed by Vera's grandchildren and great grandchildren especially on summer holidays.

Physical description

This set consists of: 1 stainless steel milkshake blender with black electric cord attached; 3 moulded glasses with vertical grooves; 4 aluminium mixing beakers also with vertical grooves; 3 long handle stainless steel mixing spoons; 1 stainless steel swivel stick. The blender is heavy with an enclosed cylinder at the top containing the motor with a rotating mixer hanging below it. This is supported by a long vertical enclosed cylinder attached to a base where the electric cord is placed. This cylinder has parts attached to hold the beakers during mixing.

Inscriptions & markings

On the cylinder with the motor - "Type D3; No. 1675; Volt 230; Watt 40; RPM A; ACDC; (the letter) R (with) G (in the top) (and) E (between the 'feet') Reg. Des.No. 24264/65
Spoons: 2 rows of embossed writing on handle end but illegible