Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my recent visit at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I found behind its doors was disturbing and far below any standard .
The Condition of the Premises : Grimy and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I entered , it was apparent that cleanliness was not a priority at Masterson’s . The ground was covered in grime , and a pungent odor of stale beer and filthy restrooms filled the entire bar . Reeking of a mixture of ammonia , old age and sickness . The main bar, which should be the focal point of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and refuse that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The lavatory was in even a truly awful state— clogged , with a shattered handle and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. Based on the experiences shared online and speaking with locals , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a well-known flaw . Many customers have reported seeing bugs darting across the serving surface and traces of mice in the bar and house area . For a business that caters to patrons, these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the quality of anything they serve .
Misconduct by Ownership : Accusations of Inappropriate Actions
However, as appalling 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 operators . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector browse website is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I became aware of how uneasy several women seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was alarmed to find allegations against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women citing incidents of sending indecent material . Described as excessively forward and violating, his actions has created an unwelcoming setting for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a predatory presence than a amiable manager.
Employee Actions : Part of the Problem or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-owner and frequently seen supervising the venue. Instead of stepping in to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Her inaction adds a alarming layer to the already poisoned setting at Masterson’s .