Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my recent visit at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I found behind its walls was disturbing and far below any standard .
The Condition of the Premises : Unhygienic and Neglected
From the moment I stepped inside , it was immediately obvious that sanitation was not a priority at this venue. The surfaces were tacky , and a foul smell of uncleaned spills and uncleaned toilets filled the entire establishment . With a smell of a mixture of ammonia , a rotting odor and sickness . The serving zone , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and litter that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The restroom was in even more deplorable shape —overflowing , with a snapped lever and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. After reading through multiple accounts and speaking with locals , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this bar is a recurring complaint. Many patrons have reported observing cockroaches darting across the counter and traces of mice in the bar and house area . For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the integrity of the food and drinks .
The Owners’ Conduct : Claims of Inappropriate Actions
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its operators . check here The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a high-profile job as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I noticed how distressed several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I dug deeper , I was appalled to find accusations against him involving misconduct , with multiple women accusing him of harassing them digitally. Described as excessively forward and violating, his behavior has created an hostile atmosphere for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a unsettling figure a post than a friendly owner .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Complicit or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-manager and frequently seen supervising the venue. Rather than addressing the issue to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. This complicity adds a alarming layer to the already toxic atmosphere at the establishment.