Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my most recent experience at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I discovered behind its doors was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The Condition of the Premises : Squalid and Abandoned
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was apparent that cleanliness was not a priority at Masterson’s . The surfaces were tacky , and a foul smell of old alcohol and filthy restrooms suffused the entire pub. With a smell of a mixture of human waste, a rotting odor and a sickly smell. The main bar, which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and debris that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The lavatory was in even a more revolting state — backed up, with a shattered handle and walls stained in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. After reading through multiple accounts and conversing with residents , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this bar is a long-standing issue . Many visitors have reported witnessing insects darting across the drink station and proof of vermin in the adjoining rooms. For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the additional reading safety of the food and drinks .
Unprofessional Behavior: Allegations of Inappropriate Actions
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I noticed how uncomfortable several here women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was horrified to find reports against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women accusing him of sending indecent material . Described as excessively forward and boundary-crossing , his actions has created an intimidating space for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a sweating predator than a amiable manager.
The Staff’s Responsibility : Contributing or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen supervising the venue. Instead of stepping in to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Her inaction adds a troubling layer to the already unhealthy environment at the establishment.