Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , nestled in the bustling area of Moonee Ponds , brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my unfortunate encounter at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may appear inviting from the outside , what I discovered behind its threshold was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The Condition of the Premises : Unhygienic and Disregarded
From the moment I stepped inside , it was clear that upkeep was not a priority at this establishment . The ground was covered in grime , and a foul smell of stale beer and dirty bathrooms permeated the entire establishment . Emitting a scent of a mixture of excrement , a rotting odor and illness . The counter , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and refuse that looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks . The bathroom was in even a truly awful state— backed up, with a snapped lever and walls covered in what I can only assume was human excrement .
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. After reading through multiple read more accounts and speaking with locals , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at this pub is a long-standing issue . Many patrons have reported seeing bugs darting across the serving surface and proof of vermin in the basement . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of their products .
Unprofessional Behavior: Allegations 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 advice managers. The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a financial oversight professional at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his private dealings and professional settings .
During my time there, I observed how distressed several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was horrified to find accusations against him involving misconduct , with multiple women citing incidents of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as excessively forward advice and inappropriate , his actions has created an hostile atmosphere for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a sweating predator than a welcoming host .
The Staff’s Responsibility : Involved or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-manager and frequently seen handling business . Rather than addressing the issue to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a troubling layer to the already poisoned setting at this pub .