Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , located in the heart of Moonee Ponds , brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my recent visit at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I experienced behind its walls was appalling and beyond comprehension .
Cleanliness Issues : Grimy and Neglected
From the moment I walked in , it was immediately obvious that hygiene was not a priority at this bar . The floors were sticky , and a foul smell of uncleaned spills and uncleaned toilets suffused the entire venue . Reeking of a mixture of excrement , old age and a sickly smell. The counter , which should be the focal point of any pub, was piled high with used mugs and debris that looked like it hadn’t been touched in ages . The bathroom was in even a truly awful state—overflowing , with a cracked flush mechanism and surfaces marked in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and conversing with residents , it seems that the level of hygiene (or lack thereof) at this pub is a well-known flaw . Many guests have reported witnessing insects darting across the counter and traces of mice in the bar and house area . For a business that serves drinks , these issues are entirely inappropriate and raise serious concerns about the sanitation of the food and drinks .
Management’s Behavior : Claims of Impropriety
However, as disturbing 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 managers. The bar is operated by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a risk manager at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his interactions at the pub and beyond .
During my time there, I observed how uncomfortable several female guests seemed around Cornwell. As I asked around, I was alarmed to find reports against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women alleging that he of sending indecent material . Described as overly aggressive and violating, his behavior has created an unwelcoming setting for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often appeared as that of a predatory presence than a welcoming host .
The Role of the Staff : Involved or Helpless ?
Pete’s additional info wife, Gillian McKenzie , check out this information is a co-owner and frequently seen supervising the venue. Rather than intervening to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she looks like she supports his behavior. Her inaction adds a disturbing layer to the already poisoned setting at Masterson’s .