Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my latest trip at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I encountered behind its doors was appalling and beyond comprehension .
Cleanliness Issues : Unhygienic and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was clear that sanitation was not a priority at this bar . The floorboards were filthy, and a overpowering stench of uncleaned spills and uncleaned toilets polluted the entire bar . Reeking of a mixture of human waste, putrefaction and sickness . The main bar, which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and litter that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The bathroom was in even a truly awful state—overflowing , with a broken handle and walls stained in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this pub is a persistent problem . Many visitors have reported observing cockroaches darting across bar mastersons the counter and traces of mice in the storage spaces . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the integrity of their products .
Unprofessional Behavior: Allegations of Inappropriate Actions
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this establishment something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I saw how uncomfortable several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was alarmed to find numerous complaints against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women reporting interactions of distributing inappropriate messages . Described as disturbingly assertive and inappropriate , his behavior has created an hostile atmosphere for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a predatory presence than a friendly owner .
Employee Actions : Complicit or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a fantastic read a co-operator and frequently seen supervising the venue. Rather than addressing the issue to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Her inaction adds a alarming layer to the already poisoned setting at this pub .