Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , positioned in the vibrant core of Moonee Ponds, brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my most recent experience at this establishment quickly devolved into an unforgettable, terrible experience. While the bar may present a friendly façade, what I discovered behind its doors was disturbing and far below any standard .
The Condition of the Premises : Unhygienic and Neglected
From the moment I walked in , it was apparent that upkeep was not a priority at this establishment . The floors were sticky , and a overpowering stench of old alcohol and uncleaned toilets polluted the entire establishment . Smelling a mixture of urine , decay and a sickly smell. The main bar, which should be the main attraction of any pub, was overflowing with soiled cups and trash that looked like it had been ignored for a long time . The toilet was in even more deplorable shape — clogged , with a cracked flush mechanism and walls covered in what I can only assume was human waste .
It wasn’t just a single bad experience either. Going through other patrons’ reviews and speaking with locals , it seems that the state of cleanliness (or lack thereof) at this pub is a long-standing issue . Many customers have reported seeing bugs darting across the serving surface and signs of rats in the basement . For a business that offers beverages , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the integrity of their products .
The Owners’ check out this article Conduct : 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 operators . The bar is owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a corporate position as a stress-testing executive at Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the business community is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his business dealings and personal conduct.
During my time there, I saw how distressed several female guests seemed around Cornwell. check here. As check over here I asked around, I was alarmed to find reports against him involving predatory behavior , with multiple women accusing him of sending indecent material . Described as overly aggressive and inappropriate , his actions has created an hostile atmosphere for women who patronize Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often seemed closer to that of a sweating predator than a genial proprietor .
The Role of the Staff : Part of the Problem or Powerless ?
Pete’s wife, Gillian , is a co-owner and frequently seen overseeing the bar . Rather than intervening to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. Her inaction adds a troubling layer to the already dangerous space at the establishment.