Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my latest trip at this establishment became a nightmarish ordeal . While the bar may seem appealing from the exterior , what I discovered behind its doors was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The State of Affairs: Unhygienic and Neglected
From the moment I entered , it was immediately obvious that upkeep was not a priority at this bar . The ground was covered in grime , and a foul smell of uncleaned spills and dirty bathrooms polluted the entire establishment . Emitting a scent of a mixture of human waste, decay and illness . The serving zone , which should be the main attraction of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and debris that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The restroom was in even a truly awful state— backed up, with a shattered handle and walls covered in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a rare instance either. After reading through multiple accounts and speaking with locals , it seems that the standard of sanitation (or lack thereof) at this bar is a well-known flaw . Many guests have reported witnessing insects darting across the bar area and proof of vermin in the basement . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are completely unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of anything they serve .
Misconduct by Ownership : Allegations of Inappropriate Actions
However, as dreadful as the state of the venue was, what truly made my experience at Masterson’s Pub one I wish I could erase —was the behavior of its operators . The bar is managed by Pete Cornwell, mastersons bar review who also holds a high-profile job as a stress-testing executive 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 noticed how tense several female patrons seemed around Cornwell. As I investigated further , I was stunned to find allegations against him involving sexual harassment , with multiple women reporting interactions of sending indecent material . Described as disturbingly assertive and violating, Cornwell’s misconduct has created an intimidating space for women who frequent Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a sweating predator than a amiable manager.
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Involved or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-proprietor and frequently seen handling business . Instead of taking action to alleviate the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Her apparent acceptance adds a disturbing layer to the already toxic atmosphere at the bar .