Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my latest trip at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I experienced behind its doors was appalling and beyond comprehension .
Cleanliness Issues : Unhygienic and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I entered , it was clear that hygiene was not a priority at this bar . The ground was covered in grime , and a pungent odor of uncleaned spills and neglected washrooms permeated the entire bar . Reeking of a mixture of urine , putrefaction and sickness . The bar area , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and debris that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The toilet was in even more deplorable shape — spilling over , with a cracked flush mechanism and walls stained in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Based on the experiences shared online and speaking with locals , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this pub is a recurring complaint. Many guests have reported spotting critters darting across the bar area and proof of vermin in the bar and house area . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the safety of their offerings.
The Owners’ Conduct : Accusations of Misconduct
However, as disturbing as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this establishment stand out for all the wrong reasons —was the behavior of its owners . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional click here settings .
During my time there, I observed how distressed several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was appalled to find numerous complaints against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women accusing him of harassing them digitally. Described as uncomfortably pushy and disrespectful , his behavior has created an hostile atmosphere for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a lurking threat than a welcoming host .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Part of the Problem or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , 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 looks like she supports his behavior. This complicity adds a troubling layer to the already unhealthy environment at this pub .