Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my most recent experience at this establishment resulted in an experience I’d rather forget . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I encountered behind its entrance was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
Cleanliness Issues : Filthy and Abandoned
From the moment I entered , it was immediately obvious that upkeep was not a priority at Masterson’s . The surfaces were tacky , and a overpowering stench of stale beer and filthy restrooms suffused the entire bar . Emitting a scent of a mixture of excrement , putrefaction and sour vomit . The main bar, which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was cluttered with dirty glasses and refuse that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The toilet was in even a more revolting state —overflowing , with a broken handle and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. Based on the experiences shared online and talking to people around , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a persistent problem . Many customers have reported spotting critters darting across the bar area 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 offerings.
Unprofessional Behavior: Claims of Inappropriate Actions
However, as dreadful 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 owners . The bar is run by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a professional role as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is tarnished by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I became aware of how uncomfortable several women at the bar seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was alarmed to find allegations against him involving sexual harassment additional info , with multiple women accusing him of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as disturbingly assertive and violating, his actions has created an unwelcoming setting for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a predatory presence than a genial proprietor .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Complicit or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, check here. Gillian McKenzie , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen managing check here operations . Instead of stepping in to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. This complicity adds a chilling layer to the already dangerous space at the bar .