Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my most recent experience at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I found behind its threshold was disturbing and far below any standard .
The Condition of the Premises : Unhygienic and Disregarded
From the moment I walked in , it was apparent that sanitation was not a priority at this bar . The floorboards were filthy, and a pungent odor of stale beer and filthy restrooms filled the entire pub. With a smell of a mixture of excrement , decay and sour vomit . The counter , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and litter that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The toilet was in even worse condition — spilling over , with a shattered handle and walls covered in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Based on the experiences shared online and speaking with locals , it seems that get more info the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this bar is a well-known flaw . Many guests have reported seeing bugs darting across the serving surface and evidence of rodent infestations in the basement . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are utterly disgraceful and raise serious concerns about the safety of their products .
Misconduct by Ownership here : Allegations of Misconduct
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 managers. a fantastic read The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the professional sphere is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I observed how distressed several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was appalled to find numerous complaints against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women accusing him of harassing them digitally. Described as overly aggressive and boundary-crossing , his behavior has created an intimidating space for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like that of a sweating predator than a genial proprietor .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Part of the Problem or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Mrs. McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather than intervening to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to accept his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a alarming layer to the already toxic atmosphere at the establishment.