Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I experienced behind its doors was appalling and beyond comprehension .
Cleanliness Issues : Squalid and Neglected
From the moment I stepped inside , it was clear that sanitation was not a priority at Masterson’s . The floors were sticky , and a pungent odor of uncleaned spills and uncleaned toilets polluted the entire venue . Reeking of a mixture of urine , a rotting odor and a sickly smell. The main bar, which should be the focal point of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and refuse that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The bathroom was in even a more revolting state —overflowing , with a snapped lever and walls stained in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. After reading through multiple accounts and speaking with locals , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a persistent problem . Many here patrons have reported witnessing insects darting across the serving surface and traces of mice in the adjoining rooms. For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of the food and drinks .
Management’s Behavior : Reports of Impropriety
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this establishment one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I saw how tense several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was horrified to find reports against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women accusing him of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as uncomfortably pushy and boundary-crossing , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an unsafe environment for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a unsettling figure than a welcoming host .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Contributing or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen managing operations . Instead of taking action to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a alarming layer to the already unhealthy environment at the bar .