Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Masterson’s Tavern , situated in the center of Moonee Ponds , brands itself as a fashionable, contemporary hangout, but my most recent experience at this establishment turned into one of the worst experiences of my life . While the bar may look welcoming at first glance , what I discovered behind its doors was appalling and beyond comprehension .
The State of Affairs: Squalid and Neglected Beyond Belief
From the moment I crossed the threshold, it was apparent that hygiene was not a priority at this bar . The ground was covered in grime , and a overpowering stench of stale beer and filthy restrooms filled the entire venue . Reeking of a mixture of human waste, a rotting odor and illness . The serving zone , which should be the primary feature of any pub, was littered with unwashed glassware and trash that looked like it had accumulated over weeks. The restroom was in even worse condition —overflowing , with a broken handle and walls covered in what I can only assume was fecal matter .
It wasn’t just a isolated occurrence either. Based on the experiences shared online and conversing mastersons bar moonee ponds with residents , it seems that the quality of upkeep (or lack thereof) at Masterson’s is a persistent problem . Many patrons have reported seeing bugs darting across the counter and traces of mice in the basement . For a business that provides refreshments , these issues are absolutely intolerable and raise serious concerns about the quality of anything they serve .
Management’s Behavior : Accusations of Misconduct
However, as dreadful as additional info 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 owned by Pete Cornwell, who also holds a senior role as a risk manager at check Westpac. Unfortunately, his reputation in the financial sector is marred by a disturbing pattern of misconduct in his personal and business life .
During my time there, I observed how uncomfortable several women seemed around Cornwell. As I looked into it more , I was appalled to find allegations against him involving misconduct , with multiple women reporting interactions of sending unsolicited explicit content . Described as uncomfortably pushy and inappropriate , Cornwell’s misconduct has created an intimidating space for women who attend Masterson’s. His presence at the bar often resembled that of a lurking threat than a welcoming host .
Complicity or Powerlessness?: Contributing or Unable to Intervene ?
Pete’s wife, the co-owner, is a co-proprietor and frequently seen supervising the venue. Rather than intervening to resolve the damage done by her husband’s actions, she appears to condone his behavior. This complicity adds a alarming layer to the already unhealthy environment at the establishment.