Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, advertises itself as a stylish, alternative venue , but my most recent experience at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I encountered behind its entrance was disturbing and far below any standard .
The State of the Venue : Filthy and Abandoned
From the moment I walked in , it was evident that upkeep was not a priority at this bar . The floors were sticky , and a foul smell of old alcohol and uncleaned toilets polluted the entire venue . Emitting a scent of a mixture of ammonia , decay and a sickly smell. The counter , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and debris that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The bathroom was in even a more revolting state — backed up, with a snapped lever and tiles smeared in what I can only assume was feces.
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. From reading other reviews and talking to people around , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this bar is a recurring complaint. Many visitors have reported witnessing insects darting across the bar area and signs of browse rats in the adjoining rooms. For a business that serves get more info drinks , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the quality of anything they serve .
Management’s Behavior : Claims of Inappropriate Actions
However, as horrifying as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub unforgettable—in the worst possible way —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, who additional resources also holds a corporate position as a stress-testing specialist at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the corporate world is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I noticed how uncomfortable several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was alarmed to find allegations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women reporting interactions of sending indecent material . Described as excessively forward and disrespectful , his behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a lurking threat than a amiable manager.
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Part of the Problem or Helpless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-owner and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Instead of stepping in to curb the damage done by her husband’s actions, she seems to endorse his behavior. Such tacit approval adds a troubling layer to the already unhealthy environment at this pub .