Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my recent visit at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I encountered behind its entrance was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The Condition of the Premises : Filthy and Abandoned
From the moment I stepped inside , it was immediately obvious that cleanliness was not a priority at this establishment . The ground was covered in grime , and a overpowering stench of old alcohol and filthy restrooms permeated the entire pub. Smelling a mixture of human waste, putrefaction and sickness . The counter , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and debris that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The toilet was in even a truly awful state— backed up, with a snapped lever and walls stained in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. From reading other reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this bar is a persistent problem . Many 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 completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the integrity of their offerings.
The Owners’ Conduct : Allegations of Unethical Conduct
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its managers. The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is clouded by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I saw how uneasy several women at the bar seemed website around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was stunned to find reports against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women alleging that he of harassing them digitally. Described as overly aggressive and violating, his actions has created an unwelcoming setting for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often felt more like 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 managing operations . Instead of taking action to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a alarming layer to the already dangerous space at this pub .