Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my recent visit at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I experienced behind its entrance was shocking and unacceptable on multiple levels .
The State of Affairs: Filthy and Abandoned
From the moment I walked in , it was clear that upkeep was not a priority at Masterson’s . The ground was covered in grime , and a overpowering stench of decaying beverages and filthy restrooms suffused the entire venue . Reeking of a mixture of excrement , putrefaction and sickness . The serving zone , which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and refuse that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The restroom was in even more deplorable shape — backed up, with a snapped lever and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. From reading other reviews and conversing with residents , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this bar is a well-known flaw . Many patrons have reported seeing bugs darting across the serving surface and proof of vermin in the basement . For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the integrity of their offerings.
Management’s Behavior : Claims of Inappropriate Actions
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I became aware of how uneasy several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was stunned to find allegations against him involving misconduct , with multiple women alleging that he of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as uncomfortably pushy and disrespectful , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an unsafe environment for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a unsettling figure than a amiable manager.
The Role of the Staff : Contributing or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-owner and frequently seen handling business . Rather than addressing the issue to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a disturbing layer to the already toxic atmosphere mastersons bar at the bar .