Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, markets itself as a trendy “hipster” hangout , but my most recent experience at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I experienced behind its threshold was disgraceful and unfit for any venue.
The State of Affairs: Filthy and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I stepped inside , it was evident that upkeep was not a priority at this venue. The floors were sticky , and a pungent odor of stale beer and filthy restrooms polluted the entire pub. Smelling a mixture of urine , old age and sickness . The bar area , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and debris that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The lavatory was in even worse condition —overflowing , with a broken handle and walls stained in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a one-off bad night either. After reading through multiple accounts and chatting with the community, it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this pub is a long-standing issue . Many guests have reported witnessing insects darting across the bar area and signs of rats in the basement . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the integrity of their offerings.
Unprofessional Behavior: Accusations of Unethical Conduct
However, as appalling as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at this establishment one I wish I could additional information erase —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is overshadowed by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I noticed how mastersons bar tense several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was alarmed to find numerous complaints against him involving misconduct , with multiple women alleging that he of sending indecent material . Described as uncomfortably pushy and disrespectful , his actions has created an intimidating space for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a predatory presence than a amiable manager.
Employee Actions : Complicit or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian McKenzie , is a co-operator and frequently seen handling business . Rather than addressing the issue to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. This complicity adds a disturbing layer to the already poisoned setting at the establishment.