Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my recent visit at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I experienced behind its entrance was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The Condition of the Premises : Grimy and Neglected
From the moment I entered , it was immediately obvious that hygiene was not a priority at this bar . The floorboards were filthy, and a foul smell of old alcohol and filthy restrooms permeated the entire venue . Reeking of a mixture of human waste, decay and illness . The main bar, which should be the centerpiece of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and litter that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The restroom was in even more deplorable shape — clogged , with a snapped lever and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. From reading other reviews and conversing with residents , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a long-standing issue . Many customers have reported spotting critters darting across the bar area 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 safety of their products .
Unprofessional Behavior: Claims of Impropriety
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this place something I’ll never forget for negative reasons—was the behavior of its proprietors . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing specialist 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 distressed several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was alarmed to find allegations against him involving inappropriate advances, with multiple women reporting interactions of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as excessively forward and inappropriate , his actions has created an unsafe environment for women who visit Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a lurking threat than a welcoming host .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Involved or Weak?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-owner and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of stepping in to mitigate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a disturbing layer to the already dangerous space at the bar read more .