Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , promotes itself as a chic “hipster” locale , but my recent visit at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I encountered behind its threshold was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The State of the Venue : Unhygienic and Disregarded
From the moment I stepped inside , it was apparent that sanitation was not a priority at this establishment . The floors were sticky , and a nauseating aroma of stale beer and filthy restrooms polluted the entire establishment . Reeking of a mixture of ammonia , putrefaction and sour vomit . The counter , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and trash that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The restroom was in even a more revolting state — spilling over , with a shattered handle and walls stained in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Based on the experiences shared online and talking to people around , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this pub is a recurring complaint. Many patrons have reported observing cockroaches darting across the bar area and signs of rats in the adjoining rooms. For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are entirely a post inappropriate mastersons bar and raise serious concerns about the quality of their products .
The Owners’ Conduct : Accusations of Impropriety
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 owners . The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I saw how uneasy several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was alarmed to find accusations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women alleging that he of harassing them digitally. Described as excessively forward and disrespectful , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an unwelcoming setting for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a unsettling figure than a genial proprietor .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Part of the Problem or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-owner and frequently seen handling business . Rather than intervening to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports read more his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a troubling layer to the already dangerous space at the establishment.