Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I discovered behind its doors was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The State of the Venue : Squalid and Disregarded
From the moment I walked in , 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 filthy restrooms permeated the entire venue . With a smell of a mixture of human waste, old age and sickness . The bar area , which should be the focal point of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and debris that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The restroom was in even worse condition — spilling over , with a shattered handle and walls covered in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. From reading other reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this so-called establishment is a recurring complaint. Many patrons have reported seeing bugs darting across the serving surface and proof of vermin in the adjoining rooms. For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the quality of anything they serve .
Management’s Behavior : Claims of Unethical Conduct
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at the bar one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I became aware of how uncomfortable several women seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was alarmed to find reports against him involving misconduct , with multiple women accusing him of sending indecent material . Described as excessively forward and boundary-crossing , his actions has created an hostile atmosphere for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a lurking threat than a genial proprietor .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Complicit or Weak?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a mastersons bar co-manager and frequently seen handling business . Instead of stepping in to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a disturbing layer to the already dangerous space at the establishment.